Tuffy Security Products Console Safe – Keyed Lock – Compatible with FJ Cruiser (2007–2014)

PERFECT ARMREST/CONSOLE FOR FJ CRUISER! As a big guy, I found myself using the passenger armrest more naturally than the driver side armrest in the FJ, and was more accustomed to a bench seat (truck) console armrest for slouching ... I wasn't looking for a big lockable security console, just a comfortable armrest really, so tried a cheap eBay 'strap a wider armrest between two skinny armrests' as a solution initially -- but the straps broke upon installation attempt (waste of 12 bucks). Believe all the hype! This console/armrest insert is a perfect fit for the FJ console! The armrest is comfortable (and more natural for me than the fold-down factory armrests), and as the other reviews attest: this thing is a hefty and secure beast! I opted for the Tuffy 7-1/2" Gas Spring after reading several reviews about how heavy the lid was ... word of note: you can totally use the measurements sent with the spring with ONE major exception: find and use a flat/open nut (or two) rather than the delivered round-covered nut for the bottom spring pin on the outside of the box!! Everything was looking good with the measurements and the round-covered nut at first, but when I went to close the lid for the first time, the lip of the lid caught on the round-nut that was sticking out, preventing the lid from being closed. As an alternative, find some flat-open nuts [likely lying around] and experiment just a bit with the spacing of the bottom pin and nut so that the lid will close completely. This will save you several headaches of drilling and re-drilling and the lid not closing. At the end of the day, the spring makes the lid opening and closing a breeze (and may save a finger or two in the long run)! And yes, you will need to remove the passenger side armrest permanently (note: both will initially need to be removed for installation, but the driver side armrest can be reinstalled after the console installation). Another note here: check to see if you have a square or circular hole on the armrest before ordering the plastic hole cover part -- there is a difference, and it's worth taking a couple minutes to make sure you order the right one. If you don't opt for the gas spring, the installation is truly a matter of taking off the armrests, dropping the console in place, replacing 2 bolts (a 3rd bolt is also an option if you want to get super-secure, but also requires careful drilling -- which I did not opt for in my case), and then reinstalling the driver armrest if desired [replace armrest with applicable square or circle armrest hole cover]. For my drilling/measuring exercises it was a couple hours (doh!), but could literally take 10-15 min in the simplest case (no gas spring). There are all kinds of web pages out there with part numbers and such, and pictures and diagrams and all that ... (Google is your friend!) I'm just here to pile on with what a GREAT addition it is, and how relatively simple the installation can be. Super pleased with this GREAT product!! Even though it was a bit pricey, totally worth it in how great it fits and feels!!

Installation couldn't be easier. I was a little concerned at first since I didn't have a long extension for my socket. This turned out not to be a concern as a 3/8' socket wrench fit perfectly. Simply remove the two existing screws, insert the console, and add the two replacement screws. The optional third, more secure screw, is a good idea, just to make sure what you put in there stays in there in the event of a break in. It does take a little more work than the other two as you have to drill a new hole and you must be careful not to drill through to far as there are cables underneath that you do not want to damage. This unit does not work with the passenger arm rest, but replaces it quite nicely and is comfortable for the passengers. This works with the drivers side armrest assuming you have the seat raised up a bit. The FJ's drivers seat adjusts vertically. If you have it lowered to the lowest position, and have an armrest, this console will not fit properly and the armrest will rub. If you raise it up a bit, it works perfectly. I have not found it to be inconvenient to have the seat raised a bit. I highly recommend this console. I went with a different one first, and I regret that decision. I should have just purchased this one instead. If you are on the fence, just do it. You will not be disappointed. Do use caution, if the lid slams shut with your hand/fingers in there, you will not be having a good day. They do make a gas strut that may help hold it open and prevent slamming, but I do not have that yet.

FJ Cruiser's are notorious for having a really lackluster center console. There's just not a lot of storage room and there's no way to secure any valuables. Enter the Tuffy Security Console Insert. It's big, it's bad, and it's extremely durable. It's also likely to break your fingers if the top cover ever comes crashing down on them. I know you might think that's hyperbole, and trust me, so did I...until I got the unit in my hands and realized that it's completely feasible. Example: Someone in the backseat accidentally closing the cover or bumping into it while your hands are still not clear. But, if you're not clumsy, or you don't have children, it's hard not to recommend this great addition. FJs are a ton of fun to modify and customize and this unit is in the Top 10 of must-haves. Seriously. It's that good. My advice: use the 3rd bolt as it will provide further stability to the unit. Some videos online will show you that you technically don't need to, but I think it's worth the extra effort.

Pros; Sturdy, does the job Cons; can't believe that a company that put such effort into construction could not go one step further and install gas support/gradual shut on an obvious safety hazard(I have a severly bruised thumb to prove it). You could at least offer one of these as an add on. Poor concern for customer safety of your product.

The vault is well-built and was simple to install. It locks up tight, and no one is going to get into it without the proper tools and time. I'm very happy with the product! My only complaint is being told 3 different days that it was going to be delivered. What a hassle!! I had to have a family member stay at my house and wait for the delivery because I had to give them a security code and couldn't be there myself. Amazon sucks for working people. I repeat, what a hassle!

This was a game changer for me. I am 6'-4 and using the built in arm rest sucks. This puts a comfy arm rest in the perfect location. It also gives you way more storage than just the factory pocket. Only complaint is the the high price but it should last forever!

excellant, 08 fj fit perfect