Is it expensive to have your car unlocked by a locksmith?

If you’ve ever locked your keys in your car, you know how stressful the situation is. If you don’t have a spare key nearby, you are going to need to call a professional. How much will a locksmith charge to unlock your car? And is this going to cost you a lot of money?

This guide will show you the typical cost of a locksmith entering your car. Also, we will discuss other services that locksmiths offer and what you should do in such a dire situation. 

How much does a locksmith cost to unlock a car?

A locksmith will need to be called to unlock your car. The price range can vary depending on many factors. It all depends on when it is and how old your vehicle is. 

You might not have to pay for roadside assistance if you already have it. However, you might have to pay a higher fee for locksmith emergency services. Extra fees will be charged if the locksmith is required to replace the lock, change the ignition, or rekey the lock. 

Locksmith Services and their Average Costs

1. Normal Business Hours/Unlock the Car Door

The best time to get locked out of your car is during the locksmith’s normal business hours. During this time, you won’t have any extra charges applied to your bill. 

A locksmith can unlock your doors for as low as $75-150. It all depends on where the locksmith lives and how hard it is for them to gain entry.

2. Lock the car door/After hours

All of us know these unpleasant events don't always happen in the best times. If you happen to be one of these people, it is likely that you will end up spending more.

Some locksmiths charge a flat rate for after-hours work. You should be aware that other companies might double your price. 

3. The Car can be rekeyed

If you have lost your key, what do you do? If you don’t have a spare, you have to have the car rekeyed.

This could cost as little as $50 depending on what model it is. But, it is possible to spend up to $300. 

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4. Change locks

It is possible to pay more for new locks. You could spend anywhere between $200 and $600. 

You would not change the locks of your car. It’s always a good idea if someone has keys to the vehicle that you are worried about. 

5. Rekey Ignition

It is necessary to replace the ignition key if it becomes worn. To have it done by a dealer, you may need to pay more.

Consider the advantages of hiring a locksmith instead. This route will save you $50-$20.

6. Replace your Keypad

Today’s cars have a keypad on the side that lets you in the vehicle without a key. However, these parts aren’t indestructible and can break over time.

You might be surprised at how much you can save on a keypad replacement. You should expect to pay less than $400 on average. 

7. New Keys

If you’ve lost your keys and you need new ones, the price can be all over the board. You might be able to get your traditional keys for as low as $5-$25. 

Modern cars have transponder keys that contain chips. They can become extremely expensive to replace. 

RELATED: I Lost My Car Keys & Have No Spare (What To Do?)

What do you do if keys are locked inside a car?

1. Dial 911

It is important that everyone is safe. If there’s a pet or child locked in the car, you don’t have time to wait for a locksmith, especially if the weather is hot. 

You should instead call 911 immediately for help. In an emergency, the police will often be able to unlock your car's door. They will not unlock your car if it isn't an emergency. 

2. Make a call to your family with a spare

Do you know of anyone who has a spare key they could give to? If so, a quick call home might be all that’s needed.

It’s also smart to keep a spare key somewhere. If you don’t have it on you, see if you can find someone to retrieve it. 

3. Roadside Assistance

Pre-owned as well as new vehicles often come with roadside coverage. You can also pay an additional fee through AAA, your warranty provider, or insurance company.

Roadside assistance may allow you to access your car for no cost. There might be an additional deductible or limit to the number of calls that you are allowed to make. It’s important to know all of this information upfront. 

4. Call the Locksmith

If there’s no free way to get around the difficulty, you are stuck calling a locksmith. Your best bet is to call the one that’s closest to you, so you won’t be charged for the additional mileage.

It's tempting to make a few calls and try to find the best price. While a few calls might be okay, it’s not going to be wise to waste a lot of time finding the deepest bargain. Time is of the essence when you can’t get into your vehicle. 

5. Get Into Car

All that’s left to do at this point is wait for your locksmith to arrive. No matter what situation it is, your locksmith can get you into the vehicle.

They will need to verify that you are the owner of your car. Otherwise, they aren’t going to turn keys over to you. 

READ MORE: What is the best way to start a car without a key? (& Without Keyless Key)

Keep your vehicle safe

Have a spare

A spare key is the best way to avoid being locked out. Keep one in your pocket or wallet. If all else fails you can purchase a box that will be hidden on your vehicle.

A spare key can be left with your loved ones if you don't have any other options. They can usually bring the key to you, rather than you calling a locksmith.

Make a wise decision when buying a car

Many of today’s cars come with features that prevent this situation from happening. It is important that the car refuses to unlock when you have the key in it. Another option is to get one that has a keypad, which allows you access the car without needing the key.

Today’s cars with telematics systems will also make it easy to get inside. Whether you have the Mercedes-Benz system, Hyundai’s Blue Link system or the GM OnStar technology, you can call for support if you get locked out. Once you have proven ownership, the representative will remotely unlock your vehicle door. 

There are apps that can be used with these systems. The app may allow you to open the door yourself, if installed. Check the specs of the car to see what’s offered before you buy it.