One of the best features about a Jeep is the openness. The tradeoff comes with security.
If you don’t want to be anxious about leaving something of value, it’s time to get a lockbox.
Thankfully there are a wide range of options, so let’s take a look at how to get your Jeep secured.
Let’s look at the 4 best lock boxes for Jeep Wrangler JKs:
1. Tuffy Deluxe Security Deck Enclosure
Model fit: 2011+ Jeep Wrangler JK
In one word, innovative. If you are hauling a lot of stuff that you want to keep secure, this is the best way to do it.
Volume wise, no lockbox can compare.
You get to turn your back compartment into a trunk essentially. But, it does come with a price. You pay a bit more for the Tuffy Security Deck. It has patents pending for its design, and there is really nothing like it available currently.
The finish is a smooth black powdercoat, and it fits well enough to make your newly secured compartment waterproof. We saw one parent able to fit a stroller underneath. So it’s pretty decent in terms of volume.
How’s installation? Easy. Just roll it on and lock it in and you’re good to go. Our only complaints are that it comes in just one color and the rollers are plastic. For how much it costs, we would expect metal parts throughout.
2. Bestop Under Seat Lock Box
Model fit: 2007-2018 Jeep JK(Doesn’t fit 2011-2018 Jeep JK 2 Door Models)
Also fits: 1997-2006 Jeep TJ
This 16 gauge carbon steel lockbox is the best selling in its category for Jeep JK owners. With a heavy duty construction and easy installation, its got a lot going for it.
However, it doesn’t fit all models. Make sure to double check with the compatibility for your Jeep.
It uses your factory seat hinge bolts to install, just bolt it on and you’re good to go. While in theory that sounds easy, you may need an impact wrench to get your bolts off. Some Jeep owners had more trouble than others.
The limited-warranty is for one year. It also comes with two keys and the finish is powder coating.
How much storage space does it have? 16 inches in length and 5 3/4 inches across with nearly 3 inches in height. It’s enough to fit your phone, wallet and other potentially valuable items in.
Some lockboxes affect your seats functionality, this does not. You’ll be able to adjust yourself with no impediments.
3. Hitchsafe Key Vault
Model fit: Anything with a 2 inch hitch receiver
The Hitchsafe Key Vault is awesome. It’s the perfect size for anyone who wants a place for a spare key, credit card, or some money.
But, instead of hiding it in your wheel well, you’re able to set a combination. And it comes with a cover, so even if someone is smart enough to pop that off, they would still need the combination.
Set it to any combination you wish. It’s a spring loaded compartment so when you enter your code, it pops out giving you the goods. If you go ahead and purchase this, a tip is to seal anything you have in a plastic bag.
Jeep owners tend to get wet, so that’s the working solution that keeps things dry. To reset the combo there is a “reset screw” on the side of the unit. Dial your combination before turning this to 90 degrees and you’re good to go.
This unit has a one-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
4. Tuffy Budget Insert, Jeep Center Console Lock Box
Model fit: 2011+ Jeep Jk Wrangler
The Tuffy Budget insert is a good option for Jeep JK owners if you’re looking for a secure option in your center console.
It comes with 4 screws to install, but what we recommend is going all the way and using lag bolts.
If you’re going through the trouble of installing a lock box insert, might as well make sure it’s sturdy. You will lose storage space in your center console but that’s to be expected. There is a great video I’ll link below showing exactly how to install this in your Jeep. If you go to 2:30 in the video, you will see the installation.
How good is the storage space? The box measures 14 x 11 x 9 inches. Some owners use it for handguns among other things. So it has plenty of room for medium to small sized valuables.
Which lockbox can I use as a gun safe?
Jeep owners have used all of these lock boxes as gun safes(minus the hitch). Of course it’s ideal to lay your gun flat, which isn’t possible with the center console. But, you also want it quick to access.
If we were to choose a gun safe out of the options, the tradeoff for the Tuffy center console would be worth it.
What's the best way to secure my Jeep?
If you’re planning on taking any valuables with you and you don’t have a way to properly secure them, then hopefully you have a hard top. If you don’t, the best way to secure your Jeep is not to bring anything you’d be afraid of losing unfortunately.
Jeeps are awesome in their design and how open it is. But, unfortunately not all humans are awesome. If you’ve ever had anything stolen from you, the pain is real.
Conclusion
What’s our pick for the best lock box for your Jeep? Well, we have two winners and they depend on the capacity you’re looking for. If you’re looking for something small, the Hitch Lock is a front-runner.
It’s relatively cheap(compared to other boxes), low profile, and has a good build quality. If you’re looking for something with a bit more room, then go with the Bestop Under Seat Lock box.
Even if it’s a pain to get your seat bolts out, it will be worth it to have something so securely fastened with a decent amount of space. It isn’t too pricey either. Many options seem to be.
One thing to watch out for when ordering your lock box is fit. Some are fine on 4 door models, but not 2 door. So double and triple check if it works for you. Whatever you end up choosing, let us know. We’re always interested to hear how these things worked for our readers!