Guys,

For those who have limited time and are unable to peruse the archives, just a quick post to apprise you about a security product marketed as a Console Vault.

I ordered my Console Vault from the company's website and paid $254 for it. I went with the combination lock model rather than the key-lock model. The combination lock model allows you to leave the Vault in an "unlocked" state so that you can freely access your gun (or other belongings) in a hurry, if need be. You can also do this with the key-lock model, but to do so you have to leave the key in the key hole. The combination lock model also allows you to program your own 3-digit combination code. A side benefit of this is that 15 years later, I might just start to remember my 3-digit wedding anniversary date.

The Console Vault fits seamlessly into the front console and bolts into place in a matter of minutes. All you need to do is remove the two OEM bolts that hold the console in place: set the Vault into the console, aligning the two holes in the bottom of the Vault such that you will be able to re-insert and tighten down the two longer bolts that are supplied with the Console Vault. Total time to remove the Console Vault from its shipping box, reprogram the combination code, and bolt the Console Vault into place...ten minutes!

About a year ago I absentmindedly left a $500 (hiking) GPS unit in the "locked" console of my Wrangler when I took it to my dealer for service. Because I had no way to prove that someone at the dealer took it, suffice to say, that service visit cost me an additional $500 that I wasn't counting on ("Stealership", indeed!)

The Console Vault appears to be very well made. Though few safes are truly 100 percent secure, this one would definitely takes some effort to get in to. Probably enough to persuade an amateur thief (or dealership thief) to move onto another vehicle.

My impression, FWIW...

How about a quick shot of the installed product to go with the review I may need to add this to my xmas list.

Okki

I love mine, although it has developed one hell of a rattle that I cannot seem to get rid of

Okki,

I have my hands full at home right now with a new pup and a wife who is recovering from a recent surgery, but I'll make an effort to post a couple photos tonight.

I should also mention that the Console Vault also allows full access to the power outlet plug located in the console. It does appear however that the Console Vault makes it difficult to use the designated coin storage slot in the console. No big loss, all things considered.

Brock,

I was wondering if rattling would occur at some point. Would a few thin pieces of closed-cell foam padding (or something similar) strategically placed between the Console Vault and the console itself alleviate the dreaded rattling noise?

Nope, that is not where it rattles unfortunately. It seems to be rattling at the lid.

I second this! I just received mine last week and I have been very impressed. I have a lot more peace of mind knowing it's there...wish I had known about it earlier on my prior 4Runners.

One thing I'd also like to call out is to put your insurance/registration in there as well. In our area it has become popular for thieves to break in, find your home address and then break into your home since it's likely you aren't there.

Been there, done that ConsoleVault thread

I've been quite pleased with my console vault. Lots of things other than guns one might want to lockup.




You can fit a few small things on top of it and still close it. I keep a work badge and a few pens in that space.

I removed that metal doodad as I could not see it performing any useful service. Mine also rattles. I will be trying a bit of velcro on the Glock - umm, I mean tissue holder to compress the lid when closed.

So philly, you can still fit your.... "tissue" in the lid? I'm looking to fit a G26 in there for xmas. The vault would be for storage in the work parking lot.

Okki

^ Yep, still fits.

It appears that there are springs on the vault, how strong are they?

Strong enough.

The one I had in my Tundra rattled at the lid, as well. So I just dropped a piece of foam on top of it, to press it into place when the console was closed.