I was on my way home, and saw this cool GX so took a pic at the stop light
anyone know what gen is this? looks like the 1st

 

thats a second gen lx 👍

 

LINK: https://www.consolevault.com/lexus-g...9-current.html

I've given this a lot of thought because in the Toyota dealership where I got my previous Tacoma, they offered a safe to be installed in center consoles of 4Runners and Tundras as a dealership-installed option. Ironically, they're a dealership with a 30.06 and a 30.07 sign outside, close to the bottom of the glass, near the ground, not eye level... but we won't get into that. So, whenever I had to go get my Tacoma serviced, I was kind of left with only one option which was to key-lock my "goods" in the glove box so that I can wait inside in the waiting area. I never felt comfortable doing this, but what else could I do? Of the 4-5 times I've been there, I've accidentally carried inside once and another time by taking a risk getting kicked out if found out. I didn't see the sign the first time I went there (that was to get the truck) and the first time I took it for service because I hadn't thought of locking it in the glove box then.

Has anyone here tried the solution linked above? Does anyone have an alternative solution? Please share.

(For those that don't know about "30.06" and "30.07" here in TX, it means no concealed carry or open carry, respectively, inside the building there the sign is posted.)

 

Yes, I have installed a Console Vault in several Jeep’s. Highly recommend as a way to secure your “goods”.

 

Thanks for the recommendation! I didn't know if they were worth the money or not. I also understand this is for temporary storage, which is all I'll need (i.e., a run to the post office or my kids' school).

 

I get around the storage choices by simply always having it stored on my person. If you're doing it right, who would know? Shy of a federal building or school (or the equivalent more serious places), this is my stance.

Lots of potential for angry/disgruntled folks at dealerships, I wouldn't be comfortable waiting around during service without it, especially knowing it was so close by (sitting in the truck somewhere) yet inaccessible if needed. Thankfully, we don't get too many businesses requiring this in Colorado...except movie theaters. We can even carry into liquor stores, bars (if not drinking), etc.

That said, if your intent is simply semi-secure storage, then I don't see why locked in the glove box isn't an adequate (and free) option.

You can also use a small pelican/apache case with a lock on it that's hard bolted to something in the cargo space or the like, would be notably cheaper than the vault. I carry a small sized pelican case with a basic combo lock for the off chance I cross into an area that I HAVE to secure it. The box isn't mounted permanently though, so someone could walk off with it, just not get into it on site easily. Haven't used it once.

 

It's the same for us here in TX. Like you, I prefer it on me and no one would ever be able to guess unless they knew me. It was just the timing and the circumstances that made me leave it locked in the glove box. As for having a safe, it's for the reasons I mentioned above which you reiterated. I never know when I need to drop off a package or something and it's better that my vehicle has such a storage than not.

On the topic of lock boxes, I do have one but it's a Plano one that's not very sturdy. I have a metal one but it can't fit my holster in it. Perhaps I should explore such options before committing to Console Vault. So, thank you for the idea!

 

My main complaint with the center console vault is I use that space for lots of other things and giving it up completely would be a notable hassle for me…never mind that I think they’re a bit pricey for what they are…but I’m also a bit cheap.

If you’re like minded and can spare space elsewhere, there’s a few options. The Apache cases from Harbor Freight are good value and should fit the goods and holster, with padding and are rigid, trying to be like a pelican case.

I’ve ran the slim boxes that slide under the seats and have a cable that wraps around a seat mount (I think it was a “life proof” vault?) but again, just never used it and accidentally forgot it in the Tacoma when I sold it because I forgot it was there. They won’t often fit a holster item if the holster is any more than a thin basic one. My appendix carry holster plus extra mag one definitely wouldn’t have fit.

 

I think it is a great idea. We talked about it a couple of years ago too: Console Vault

 

I have a similar set up, using a T1C Axis Elite. Like you, I'm on the cheap side, too. I'd rather not spend if I can have a free/cheaper solution.

I'll keep searching for a box that fits my needs.

 

I searched these forums for such a thread and couldn't find it. My searching skills probably just suck. Thanks, though. I'll look through that thread.

 

Like you, I like to keep my banana hidden when I don't need it next to me. Personally, I found that finding a trim panel that removes easily is the best option. Console vaults just invite prying eyes, and any novice lock picker can defeat them if someone does break in.

But a thief, or curious mind, is not going to start mindlessly putting off trim panels for the hell of it. I keep my banana underneath the trunk liner in my Miata when I need to hide it. You'd never know it's there until I pulled it out. You really wouldn't have to worry about it, unless the car gets stolen and sent to a chop shop. But you'd have a whole new set of problems by then.