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LocksmithRates Independent locksmith pricing & how-to

Cost to Get Into a Locked Car

Updated 2026 Independent estimate

A man standing beside his locked car in a wet parking lot at dusk, phone to his ear

A car lockout typically costs $50–$300, with most people paying around $100 for a daytime locksmith. After-hours and dealer service cost more, while AAA membership or an insurance roadside add-on can make it free. Here is what to expect — and how to avoid overpaying.

Typical range $50–$300
Most people pay $100

Price breakdown

Car lockout cost by scenario (US, 2026)

  • Standard daytime car lockout (business hours, M–F) Locksmith

    Most common scenario; mechanic-style slim-jim or air-wedge unlock. Includes trip fee in most quotes.

    $65–$150
  • After-hours / overnight car lockout (10 PM – 6 AM) Locksmith

    Night surcharge of $25–$75+ stacked on top of base rate; some operators double the daytime price.

    $100–$250
  • Weekend or holiday car lockout Locksmith

    Typical weekend premium $25–$75 above weekday rate; holidays can approach after-hours high-end.

    $100–$200
  • Trip / service-call fee component Locksmith

    Flat fee charged just for dispatch/arrival, separate from labor in some markets; usually bundled into the quoted price elsewhere.

    $25–$75
  • Roadside assistance via AAA (Classic membership) Roadside

    Lockout covered up to $50 reimbursement with Classic tier ($65/yr membership). Plus tier covers up to $100. Up to 4 calls/year.

    $0–$50
  • Roadside assistance via auto insurance add-on Roadside

    Many insurers (State Farm, GEICO, Allstate, etc.) include lockout under roadside add-on for $10–$20/yr; lockout itself costs $0 at time of service.

    Free
  • Car dealership lockout service Dealer

    Dealers charge roughly 30–50% more than independent locksmiths; also require vehicle tow if off-site, adding cost.

    $150–$300
  • Luxury / high-security vehicle lockout (push-button ignition, encrypted systems) Locksmith

    Modern smart-key vehicles may require specialized tools; 30–60% premium over standard-key vehicles.

    $150–$300

Never pay for a lockout again

A spare key you can reach costs a fraction of one call-out.

Lucky Line Extra Large Magnetic Key Hider (91201) product image
Spare key on the car

Lucky Line Extra Large Magnetic Key Hider (91201)

$6.91 as of Oct 12, 2026 09:00 UTC

Holds a spare key or small fob and attaches magnetically to a steel surface under the car. The extra-large size takes bigger keys.

Check price on Amazon
Master Lock 5400 Portable Key Lock Box product image
Spare key at home

Master Lock 5400 Portable Key Lock Box

$30.98 as of Oct 12, 2026 09:00 UTC

Hangs on a door knob or railing with a set-your-own combination, so anyone you trust can get the spare without a key.

Check price on Amazon
Apple AirTag product image
Find misplaced keys

Apple AirTag

$29.00 as of Oct 12, 2026 09:00 UTC

If the keys are lost rather than locked in, Find My shows where they are before you call anyone.

Check price on Amazon

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What affects the price

Frequently asked questions

Is being locked out of your car ever free?
Yes. If you have AAA, most lockouts are covered (Classic reimburses up to ~$50, higher tiers more). Many auto-insurance roadside add-ons cover it at $0, and a lot of new vehicles include complimentary roadside assistance for the first few years.
How much does a locksmith charge to unlock a car?
A standard daytime call runs $65–$150 including the trip fee. After 10pm, on weekends, or on holidays, expect $100–$250 as the night and weekend surcharges stack on top of the base rate.
Who do I call if I locked my keys in the car?
In order of cost: your AAA membership or insurance roadside line (often free), then a local automotive locksmith. Call the dealer only as a last resort — they charge the most, $150–$300. If anyone is in danger, call 911.
Will a locksmith damage my car getting in?
A trained locksmith uses an air wedge and a long-reach tool designed not to mark the paint or interior. Damage is rare with a pro; it is far more likely with DIY coat-hanger attempts.

Related

Sources

Prices are independent estimates compiled from the sources above and updated for 2026. Actual quotes vary by location, vehicle, and provider.