Q.) My keys are locked in the car and I don’t have a spare key. How much does it usually cost to get my car door unlocked?
A.) The price for car lockout service varies and depends on a few things:
- Type of car
- Hour of the day
- Your location
- The service you use(Emergency locksmith, towing service, insurance, etc)
Generally speaking, during regular business hours the price ranges between $40-$100.
However, after business hours, on holidays, etc the price can go up to $200.
In addition, for high-end cars such as BMW, Mercedes, Jaguar, etc the price can be even higher.
Now, let’s go over your options and specific price for each option:
Automotive locksmith:
The safe way to go. Locksmiths are very experienced and professional when it comes to unlocking cars. Therefore, you can be pretty sure the won’t damage your car while unlocking it.
The price usually is a bit more expansive than the other options – about $80 to unlock a car during business hours.
Towing service:
Tow trucks drivers usually carry car unlocking tools in their truck. However, not all of them are experienced in unlocking cars and therefore you may risk damaging your car. The price, however, is a bit cheaper than an automotive locksmith and usually cost about $60.
Police:
The police may be able to unlock your car for you. However, they probably let you sign a waiver, just in case they damage the car which may happen as they are not experienced in unlocking cars.
in addition, there is no fee for unlocking your car by the police but once again, it really depends if they do offer such service and on their availability.
Q.) I am locked out of my car. Who do I call to unlock my car door?
You have a few options:
- Call an automotive locksmith – Most automotive locksmiths offer 24 Hr. emergency car lockout services.
- Towing service – Tow truck drivers usually carry unlocking tools and can unlock your car for you.
- AAA, Onstar or insurance – Depends on the type of insurance you have, you may be eligible for a free emergency roadside assistance which may include free car lockout service.
- Police – They may open the car for you for free depends on their availability.
Q.) Can AAA unlock my car?
A.) In short, yes. AAA, as well as other emergency roadside assistance companies, usually cover car lockout services for their members. However, it depends on the type of membership you have.
In addition, in cases where you are located outside their service area, or they don’t have an available technician, they may send an automotive locksmith to you and reimburse for the charge. Therefore, make sure you keep the invoice.
Q.) Will the police unlock my car for me? I locked my keys in my trunk and wanted to know if the cops can come and open my car door.
A.) Emergency services such as the police may open the car for you, depends on the type of car, their availability and the state you are located. They may make you sign a waiver before they do.
However, keep in mind that most police officers are not as professional and experienced in unlocking car as automotive locksmiths and therefore be aware that they may damage the door.