Leaving Key in Hitch Receiver

Probably a dumb question, but I will go ahead and ask. Thinking about permanently storing my spare key in the hitch receiver with one of those hitch receiver combination locks. I have the M/T so it's a regular key, but has remote lock/unlock buttons and some kind of chip in it for the immobilizer I assume. What I'm wondering is if being stored in outdoor temperatures/humidity 365 days a year could do any damage to the electronics inside the key. I live in Texas so I see lows of around 20F and highs of 100F+. Figured I'd go ahead and ask the dumb question before I pull the trigger on the combination lock. Should be fine right?

 

I have one but I don't leave it in there permanently. Also the fob won't fit but the key (the one that slides into the fob) does. I use it all the time when surfing and one of the most useful accessories I purchased for the truck

 

I’ve thought about this too over time. The mechanics rusting and corroding. Then again I have locks on my fences that are still fine over years. Idk

 

I don't have the "fob" by the way. I have the regular key.

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/introducing-the-hitch-vault.567438/

 

That one looks nicer than the one I was looking at. Thanks for sharing.

 

I have a spare key just to lock/ unlock the tailgate.

This key also works to lock/unlock the door and glove box.

Maybe key this type of key in the hitch, and your spare key/ fob in a hidden location inside the locked cab?

 

anyone remember these? lol

 

That's not a bad idea as an added layer of security. But I would still have the question of whether it is ok to leave my key with electronics in it in my truck 365 days a year with the extreme temperatures. I could always put it in a vacuum sealed bag to fight moisture, but still curious about temperatures. And again I don't have a fob.

 

I've busted a few reciever locks off roading.. and keys are expensive

 

The difference between those, is that padlocks are coated in a finish that protects them from the elements. While a keyfob has electonics.

 

Not sure about the temperature question.

The cold will be the same whether in the hitch or cab, but heat build up in the cab during hot weather might be a concern.

I have an SR5, so I have the same key as you- I call it a "fob" since the electronic lock unlock feature- one of the good things about the SR/ SR5 and MT trucks is the actual key/ ignition imo.

 

Just a thought. Maybe vacuum seal the key in a bag? I know lots of people have them for kitchen stuff.
Should keep any moisture out.

 

Yes, I did mention I could vacuum seal the key in a bag. Still hoping someone can answer the temperature question though.

 

Taking the battery out might seem overkill, but having the battery in the "fob" at high temperatures might be the problem.

Keep a new, fresh unopened battery in the console and the battery free key hidden well away might be the ticket.

 

Pretty sure if you looked hard enough you could find a couple of those in the garage with old house keys in em that have been forgotten about.

 

you can still find these in wheel wells of old cars. especially the ones driven by old men in hats.

 

I actually helped out an older guy get one from his Tacoma not long ago.

Old guy in my apt complex has a pretty clean 1st gen and he keeps the hide-a-key in the frame somewhere. Pretty sure his son has a 2nd gen, too.

 

Just put some fishing line on it and drop in the gas filler neck. No one will look there

 

Hey thanks for the mention! We’re having a SEMA sale on now at Hitchvault.ca

if you use the code “SEMA” you’ll get $10 off.

Check it out!!