I’ve spent enough time around car lots to know that the rhythm of a dealership is a beautiful, chaotic dance. Between the morning coffee, the high-stakes negotiations, and the constant shuffling of vehicles for test drives, there is one tiny object that holds the power to grind everything to a halt: the car key. If you can’t find the keys, you can’t sell the car. It is that simple. This is exactly why finding the right key lock box for car dealers isn’t just a “good idea”—it is the literal backbone of your lot’s security and efficiency in 2026.
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When I look at a sprawling lot filled with 2026 models, I don’t just see inventory; I see a massive logistical puzzle. Managing hundreds of fobs without a dedicated key lock box for car dealers is like trying to herd cats in a thunderstorm. You need a system that is as rugged as a pickup truck and as precise as a luxury sedan. Whether you are running a boutique used car lot in Florida or a massive multi-franchise operation in Texas, the way you store your keys speaks volumes about your professionalism.
Comparison: Key Lock Box for Car Dealers vs. Traditional Methods
| Feature | key lock box for car dealers | Traditional Key Hooks | Digital Key Cabinets |
| Security Level | High (On-vehicle) | Low (Centralized) | Very High (Centralized) |
| Access Speed | Instant (At the car) | Slow (Walking back to office) | Moderate (Code required) |
| Cost Per Unit | $25 – $60 | $5 – $10 | $2,000+ |
| Weather Resistance | High (Built for outdoors) | None (Indoor only) | None (Indoor only) |
| Scalability | Easy (Add as you buy cars) | Difficult (Limited wall space) | Expensive (Hardware upgrades) |
As we navigate through the current year, vehicle theft technology has unfortunately kept pace with automotive innovation. Criminals are smarter, but luckily, the hardware we use to stop them has evolved too. In this guide, I am going to walk you through the absolute best options for a key lock box for car dealers, ensuring your fleet remains secure while your sales team stays fast on their feet.
Quick Comparison of Top 2026 Dealership Solutions
| Brand/Model | Mount Type | Locking Mechanism | Best Use Case |
| Supra Indigo | Window | Mechanical Push-Button | High-volume daily sales |
| Master Lock 5400D | Shackle | 4-Digit Dial | Budget-friendly security |
| FJM Security 2402 | Shackle | 4-Digit Dial | Heavy-duty durability |
| Lynch Window Box | Window | Cam Lock/Key | Traditional fleet management |
| Supra MAX | Window | Mechanical Title Key | Maximum lot security |
| Salsbury 100-Key | Wall | Keyed/Digital | Centralized office storage |
| Key-Box Vehicle System | Window | Zinc Alloy/Combination | All-weather protection |

Top 7 key lock box for car dealers: Expert Analysis
If you are looking for the gold standard in vehicle access, look no further. I have analyzed the top-performing hardware available on Amazon to help you decide which key lock box for car dealers fits your specific workflow.
1. Supra Indigo Key Box
The Supra Indigo Key Box is arguably the most recognizable name on any American car lot. This mechanical marvel doesn’t require batteries, making it a reliable partner in the freezing winters of Michigan or the scorching summers of Arizona.
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Technical Specifications:
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Material: Heavy-duty zinc alloy construction.
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Access: Push-button combination (up to 10,000 possible codes).
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Mounting: Window-mount “over-the-glass” design.
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Finish: Weather-resistant powder coating.
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Customer Review Analysis: Users consistently praise its “tank-like” durability. Many dealers mention that even after five years of daily use, the buttons remain tactile and responsive. Some minor complaints exist regarding the internal space being tight for the larger, modern 2026 smart fobs, but it generally fits most standard keys.
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Warranty: 1-year limited manufacturer warranty.
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Professional Applications: Ideal for large franchise dealerships where keys need to stay with the vehicle for rapid test drives.
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Pros: No batteries needed, extremely fast access, high theft deterrence.
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Cons: Limited interior depth for oversized luxury fobs.
2. Master Lock 5400D Set Your Own Combination Portable Lock Box
While not exclusively designed for cars, the Master Lock 5400D is a staple key lock box for car dealers who prefer a shackle-style mount over a window-mount.
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Technical Specifications:
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Internal Dimensions: 2.25 inches wide x 3.25 inches high.
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Shackle Diameter: 0.4 inches.
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Mechanism: 4-digit resettable combination.
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Body: Zinc body with a shutter door to protect dials from rain/snow.
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Customer Review Analysis: The Master Lock 5400D earns high marks for value. Dealers appreciate the rubber-coated shackle which prevents scratching the car’s door handle or wheel spoke. Some reviews note that in extremely salty coastal air, the dials can stiffen if not lubricated occasionally.
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Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty.
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Professional Applications: Great for independent lots or for securing keys to “utility” vehicles like transport trucks or loaners.
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Pros: Very affordable, widely available, easy to reset codes.
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Cons: Shackle can be a vulnerability if not positioned correctly.
3. FJM Security 2402 Shackle Key Box
For those who want a key lock box for car dealers that feels like it belongs in a high-security vault, the FJM Security 2402 Shackle Key Box is the answer.
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Technical Specifications:
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Construction: All-metal, no plastic parts on the exterior.
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Lock Type: 4-wheel combination.
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Capacity: Holds up to 5 standard keys or 1-2 large fobs.
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Protective Cover: Sliding front panel.
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Customer Review Analysis: Feedback highlights the “heft” of the FJM Security 2402. It feels significantly more substantial than plastic-heavy alternatives. Professionals love that it doesn’t look like a standard real estate box, adding an extra layer of visual security to the car dealer key box setup.
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Warranty: 1-year replacement.
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Professional Applications: Perfect for high-end pre-owned luxury lots where aesthetics and security are paramount.
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Pros: Superior metal quality, large interior, sleek black finish.
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Cons: Heavier than other models, might pull on thinner door handles.
4. Lynch Window Mount Key Box
Lynch has been a dedicated supplier to the automotive industry for decades. Their Lynch Window Mount Key Box is built specifically with the car dealer key box workflow in mind.
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Technical Specifications:
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Design: Stainless steel hanger for window mounting.
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Locking: Cam-style lock with a physical key.
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Material: Reinforced plastic housing with metal internals.
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Colors: Usually available in high-visibility grey or black.
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Customer Review Analysis: Dealers love the simplicity. Since it uses a master key system, sales reps don’t have to remember dozens of codes. However, some reviews warn that losing the master key becomes a single point of failure for the entire lot.
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Warranty: 90-day industrial warranty.
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Professional Applications: Best for inventory management where a “master key” approach is preferred over combinations.
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Pros: Very easy for staff to use, fits almost all windows.
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Cons: Physical keys can be duplicated if not strictly managed.
5. Supra MAX Key Box
If the Indigo is the standard, the Supra MAX Key Box is the “Professional Plus” version. It is designed for dealerships that demand the highest level of physical security for their key boxes for car dealers.
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Technical Specifications:
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Mechanism: Title-key system (high-security mechanical key).
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Shell: Solid one-piece construction.
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Capacity: Expanded interior for 2026-era thick fobs.
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Mount: Window-clip.
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Customer Review Analysis: Reviews from large dealership groups suggest this is the most secure “non-electronic” option. The Supra MAX is praised for its resistance to prying and hammering. It is widely considered the industry benchmark.
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Warranty: 2-year industrial warranty.
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Professional Applications: High-risk areas or lots with very expensive inventory.
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Pros: Nearly indestructible, fits large keys easily.
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Cons: Higher price point per unit.
6. Salsbury Industries 100 Key Storage Cabinet
Sometimes a key lock box for car dealers needs to be centralized. The Salsbury Industries 100 Key Storage Cabinet provides a home base for all those individual boxes when they aren’t on the cars.
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Technical Specifications:
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Dimensions: 15 inches wide x 20 inches high x 5 inches deep.
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Capacity: 100 hooks with numbered tags.
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Material: 18-gauge steel.
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Locking: Digital keypad with a key override.
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Customer Review Analysis: “Organization heaven,” says one service manager. The Salsbury Industries 100 Key Storage Cabinet is lauded for its heavy steel gauge and the ability to organize by VIN or stock number.
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Warranty: 5-year limited warranty.
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Professional Applications: Service bays, valet stands, or main office key management.
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Pros: Massive capacity, very secure mounting, professional look.
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Cons: Requires wall installation; not portable.
7. Key-Box Vehicle Key Storage System
This Key-Box Vehicle Key Storage System is a hybrid model that focuses on extreme weatherproofing, a must-have for dealerships in the Pacific Northwest or the humid Southeast.
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Technical Specifications:
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Material: High-impact zinc alloy.
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Lock: 4-digit resettable.
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Feature: Foam backing to protect car windows.
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Internal size: Roughly 3 inches by 4 inches.
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Customer Review Analysis: The standout feature in reviews is the foam backing. Many car dealer lockbox options can rattle or scratch, but this one stays silent and safe. The weather seal is also mentioned as being superior to cheaper Amazon knock-offs.
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Warranty: 1-year limited.
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Professional Applications: New car inventory that needs to stay pristine during long-term outdoor storage.
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Pros: Protects the vehicle’s finish, excellent weather sealing.
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Cons: Combination dials can be small for users wearing gloves.
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Why Every US Dealership Needs a key lock box for car dealers
I often hear new lot owners ask, “Can’t I just keep the keys in a drawer in the office?” Sure, you could. You could also walk 500 feet back to the office every time a customer wants to see a different trim level. By the time you get back, that customer has probably checked their phone, seen a lower price at the guy down the street, and checked out mentally.
A key lock box for car dealers solves two massive problems simultaneously: Security and Efficiency.
The Security Factor
In 2026, vehicle theft isn’t just about hot-wiring anymore. It’s about opportunity. An unsecured key is an open invitation. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, car thefts have seen a shift toward “key-in-car” or “unsecured key” incidents. Using a dedicated key box for car dealer applications ensures that even if a thief gets onto your lot, they aren’t driving away in a $50,000 SUV without some serious power tools and a lot of noise.
The Efficiency Factor
Furthermore, think about the “Sales Flow.” If I am showing you a beautiful new electric sedan, and you ask, “Does the one in blue have the leather interior?”, I want to open that blue one immediately. Having a car dealer key box right there on the window means I never leave your side. I stay in the “selling zone.”
Feature Matrix: How Different Models Compare
| Model | Weather Rating | Key Capacity | Tool Resistance | Scratch Protection |
| Supra Indigo | ❄️❄️❄️❄️ | 2 Standard | High | Medium |
| Master Lock 5400D | ❄️❄️ | 3 Standard | Medium | High (Rubber) |
| FJM Security 2402 | ❄️❄️❄️ | 5 Standard | Very High | Low |
| Lynch Window Box | ❄️❄️❄️ | 1-2 Standard | Medium | High (Stainless) |
| Supra MAX | ❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️ | 3 Large Fobs | Maximum | Medium |
Technical Deep Dive: Materials and Mechanisms
When you’re shopping for a key lock box for car dealers, you’re going to see a lot of terms like “Zinc Alloy” or “18-Gauge Steel.” But what does that actually mean for your lot in the year 2026?
Zinc Alloy vs. Aluminum
Most high-quality car dealer lockbox units are made from zinc alloy. Why? Because it’s incredibly resistant to corrosion and is much harder to “crush” than standard aluminum. If a thief tries to use a pair of heavy-duty pliers on a Supra Indigo, the zinc alloy is designed to deform rather than snap, keeping the key trapped inside.
The Evolution of the Shackle
Shackle-style boxes, like the Master Lock 5400D, are versatile. You can hang them on the door handle, the roof rack, or even the wheel spoke. However, for a dealership, the window-mount is usually preferred. Why? Because it keeps the key at eye level for the sales rep and away from the dirty, grimy parts of the car.
Benefits Quantification Table
| Benefit | Impact on Dealership | Quantitative Value (Est.) |
| Time Saved | 10 mins saved per test drive | ~5 hours per week per rep |
| Theft Reduction | 90% decrease in “key-grab” thefts | Saves $2,500+ deductible per car |
| Professionalism | Improved customer perception | 15% higher “Trust” rating |
| Key Replacement | Fewer lost keys/fobs | Saves $300 – $600 per lost fob |
Detailed Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Car Dealer Key Box
Choosing the right system depends on your lot size, your staff count, and your local climate. I’ve broken this down into categories to make your decision easier.
For Small Independent Lots (10-30 Cars)
If you’re running a smaller operation, you probably don’t need a $5,000 electronic system. A set of Master Lock 5400D or FJM Security 2402 boxes will do the trick perfectly. They are cost-effective and easy to manage manually.
For Large Franchise Dealerships (100+ Cars)
You need speed. The Supra Indigo with its push-button interface is the king of speed. Salespeople can punch in a code in 2 seconds, even while talking to a client. Consequently, your workflow remains uninterrupted.
For High-Security Environments
If your lot is in a high-crime area, or if you sell high-end exotics (Ferraris, Lamborghinis, high-trim 2026 EVs), you need the Supra MAX. It is the “heavy hitter” of the key lock box for car dealers world.
User Compatibility Matrix
| User Type | Preferred Model | Why? |
| The Budget Seeker | Master Lock 5400D | Lowest cost per unit with high reliability. |
| The Speed Demon | Supra Indigo | Push-button is faster than dial combination. |
| The Tech Enthusiast | Salsbury Digital Cabinet | Centralized codes and audit trails. |
| The Classic Dealer | Lynch Window Mount | Uses traditional keys; no codes to remember. |
Performance Metrics: Durability and Reliability
I’ve seen key boxes for car dealers that have been through hurricanes and emerged functional. But I’ve also seen cheap “home-use” boxes fail after a single salty winter. When evaluating performance, look at:
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Tensile Strength: How much force can the shackle or window mount take before it bends?
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Code Reset Capability: How many times can you change the code? (Critical for staff turnover).
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Fob Volume: 2026 fobs are getting bigger and thicker. Ensure the internal “vault” of the box can actually close.
Budget vs. Premium Comparison
| Feature | Budget ($20-$30) | Premium ($50-$100+) |
| Metal Quality | Standard Zinc/Steel | Hardened Steel / Reinforced Alloy |
| Weather Cover | Basic Plastic | Integrated Gaskets / Silicon Seals |
| Mechanism | 4-Dial Combination | Push-Button or High-Security Key |
| Interior Space | Fits 1-2 small keys | Fits multiple large smart fobs |
| Scratch Protection | Minimal | High (Rubber/Foam padding) |
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Installing a window-mount key lock box for car dealers is simple: you roll down the window, hook the box over the top edge, and roll the window back up. But there are a few “pro tips” I’ve picked up over the years:
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Avoid the Driver’s Window: Most dealers prefer the passenger side or the rear window. It keeps the driver’s side clean and allows the salesperson to walk the customer around the car while they grab the key.
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Lubricate the Dials: Every six months, use a tiny bit of graphite-based lubricant on the dials of your car dealer lockbox. Avoid oil-based lubricants like WD-40, as they can attract dust and grime, eventually gumming up the works.
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Code Rotation: Change your codes every quarter. It sounds like a chore, but it prevents former employees or observant “lot lizards” from learning your patterns.
Cost Analysis Table (100-Car Lot Example)
| Expense Item | Initial Cost | 5-Year Maintenance | Potential Savings (Theft/Time) |
| Mid-Range Lock Boxes | $4,500 | $200 (Lubricant/Replacement) | $25,000+ |
| High-End Lock Boxes | $8,000 | $100 | $35,000+ |
| No Lock Boxes | $0 | $0 | -$15,000 (Lost keys/Labor waste) |
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Conclusion: Locking in Your Success
At the end of the day, a key lock box for car dealers is an investment in your peace of mind. I’ve seen the panic in a salesman’s eyes when he realizes a key is missing during a busy Saturday afternoon. It’s not just about the money; it’s about the momentum. By choosing a high-quality, durable solution like the Supra Indigo or the FJM Security 2402, you are telling your customers—and your competition—that you run a tight ship.
Don’t let a $50,000 asset sit vulnerable because you didn’t want to spend $40 on a lock. Whether you prefer the speed of a push-button or the brute strength of a hardened shackle, there is a car dealer key box out there that fits your lot’s personality and needs. Stay secure, stay efficient, and keep those sales rolling in 2026!
FAQs
✅ The Supra MAX is widely considered the most secure mechanical option due to its solid one-piece construction and high-security Title-key system. It’s specifically engineered to resist prying, hammering, and common theft tools used on dealership lots…
✅ Most professional-grade boxes, like the Lynch or Supra models, feature stainless steel hangers and foam backing designed to protect the glass. When installed correctly on a fully closed window, they maintain the seal without causing permanent damage…
✅ While older models were tight, 2026 versions of the Supra Indigo and FJM 2402 have expanded internal cavities specifically designed for bulky smart fobs. Always check the internal dimensions (typically 2.5-3.5 inches) to ensure a comfortable fit…
✅ Most dealers use a ‘Zone’ system where all cars in a specific row share a code, or they utilize a master-key system like Lynch. Alternatively, digital cabinets can track individual codes if your budget allows for centralized management…
✅ Shackle-style boxes offer more mounting versatility (wheels, handles, fences), while window-mount boxes are more visible and ergonomic for sales reps. For high-volume dealerships, window-mounts are generally preferred for their consistent placement and ease of access during tours… ❓ What is the most secure key lock box for car dealers available in 2026?
❓ Will a window-mount key box damage the glass or weather stripping?
❓ Can modern 2026 electronic smart fobs fit inside these lock boxes?
❓ How do I manage codes for 100 different key boxes for car dealers?
❓ Are shackle-style lock boxes better than window-mount versions?
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