How much do locksmiths charge for a car lockout?
The charge for a car lockout is something I never thought about until it happened to me. One cold morning, I was rushing to get to work. I locked my front door, walked to my car, and reached into my pocket. But my keys weren’t there. I looked through the car window and saw them sitting on the seat. And I had locked them inside!
I felt stuck and didn’t know what to do. I quickly searched for an Auto Locksmith Near Me, hoping someone could help fast. A trusted locksmith showed up quickly and used special tools to open my door without breaking anything. He said it was a Car Lockout Service, and I was thankful it didn’t take long. That day, I learned what locksmiths charge for a car lockout, and here, I’ll share what I found out and helpful tips in case this happens to you.
What Is the Average Charge for a Car Lockout?
A car lockout service helps you get back into your car when locked out. A locksmith is a trained professional who can open car doors safely without breaking anything.
Locksmiths can help with:
- Getting keys out of a locked car
- Opening a trunk if your keys are inside
- Helping with car doors that won’t unlock
- Fixing or replacing broken car keys
Most locksmiths can come to your location; many work 24/7, even on weekends and holidays.
How Much Do Locksmiths Charge for a Car Lockout?
The average charge for a car lockout is between $75 and $150. Some simple jobs may cost less, and emergency jobs can cost more. Here’s a quick look at what you might pay:
Type of Service Estimated Cost
Regular daytime lockout $75 – $100
Night or weekend service $100 – $150
Emergency or holiday service $150 – $250
Unlocking high-tech cars $120 – $250+
Prices can increase if the locksmith has to drive far, your car has a smart lock, or the job takes longer than usual.
What Can Increase the Charge for a Car Lockout?
Let’s look at the main things that can change how much locksmiths charge for a car lockout:
1. Time of Day
If you call during the day (business hours), it will cost less. If you call late at night or on a weekend, it may cost more.
2. Where You Are
If you’re in a city, prices may be higher. If you’re far away or in the countryside, the locksmith may charge more for gas and travel time.
3. Type of Car
Newer cars with smart locks or keyless entry systems are harder to open. These take more time and tools, so they cost more.
4. Emergency Service
If you’re in a hurry—like if a child or pet is locked inside, the job may be treated as an emergency, which often costs more.
Are There Any Hidden Fees?
Some companies advertise very cheap prices—like $20 or $30. But when the locksmith arrives, they may add extra charges you didn’t know about. This is called a bait-and-switch scam, and it’s not fair.
Before you say yes, always ask for the full price, including any extra travel, time, or car type fees. A good locksmith will tell you the total cost before starting the job.
Is Calling a Locksmith Worth It?
Yes, calling a locksmith is often the best way to handle a car lockout. While it may cost money, it’s better than trying to open the car yourself and possibly damaging the door, window, or lock.
Locksmiths are trained to:
- Unlock your car safely
- Avoid breaking or damaging parts
- Work fast, especially in emergencies
- Help with both old and new car models
Trying to open your car with a hanger or a stick might cause damage that costs more to fix than hiring a locksmith.
Will Insurance or Roadside Help Cover It?
In many cases, yes. Before you pay out of pocket, check if any of these services can help:
- Car insurance: Some policies include lockout service.
- AAA or other memberships: These often include roadside assistance.
- Credit card companies: Some cards offer roadside help for free.
If you have one of these, you might not have to pay the full charge for a car lockout, or it might even be free.
How to Save Money on Car Lockout Services
Nobody wants to pay more than they have to. Here are some ways to keep your costs down:
1. Ask for the Full Price First
When you call, ask:
“What will the total charge for a car lockout be?”
Make sure the price includes all fees.
2. Call During the Day
If you’re not in an emergency, wait until business hours to avoid extra night or weekend fees.
3. Keep a Spare Key
Keep an extra key at home, in your wallet, or with someone you trust. Some people hide a spare key in a small magnetic box under the car.
4. Use Roadside Help
If you have coverage from your car insurance or a membership plan, use it before calling a locksmith directly.
5. Compare a Few Companies
If you have time, call two or three locksmiths and compare their prices and reviews.
How to Choose the Right Locksmith
You want someone honest and skilled who won’t overcharge you. Here’s how to find a good locksmith:
- Choose someone licensed and insured
- Look for good Google or Yelp reviews
- Ask for a written estimate
- Make sure they arrive in a marked vehicle
- Don’t trust prices that sound too good to be true
A professional locksmith will explain everything clearly and treat you with respect.
Summary
The charge for a car lockout can cost between $75 and $150, depending on the time, location, and your type of car. In comparison, this can seem like a lot, calling a locksmith is the safest and fastest way to get back into your car without causing damage. To avoid overpaying, always ask for the full price before agreeing to the job. Use insurance or roadside help when you can, and keep a spare key handy just in case.
Being locked out is never fun, but knowing what to expect and who to call can make the situation easier to handle.
Read also Lock Replacement Services in London – N1 Locksmiths
