How Much Cost Can a Locksmith Unlock Car? 

If you’re locked out of your car, you may want to know how much a locksmith can cost you. There are a variety of lockout solutions on the market, and the best one for you will depend on the size of your car, your budget and how quickly you can get to a locksmith. In general, it’s best to call the closest locksmith to you, and you might be able to save half the tow bill if you have a spare key to give to the tech. 

(Looking for Missoula Locksmith Service? Contact us today!)

The best time to make a phone call for a locksmith is during their normal business hours. This way, they will be able to assess the situation and provide you with a quote. Depending on the service, you could be paying up to $150 for a standard car lockout. You can also expect to pay more if the problem is more than a simple lockout, or you’re out of town. 

While you’re at it, it’s worth considering the cost of a duplicate car key. Generally, you can have a locksmith cut a key for around $10. You’ll have to pay more if you need a transponder or smart-lock solution. However, a duplication of a conventional key can run around $200. Luckily, most car companies will be able to provide you with a spare key when you buy a new vehicle. 

If you don’t have a spare, you’ll have to have your locks changed. The average cost is between $50 and $150, depending on the type of work and how difficult it is. Of course, the cost of a lock change will vary depending on the manufacturer and model of the car. It may even be cheaper to have your keys rekeyed than it is to buy a new set of keys. 

If you need a full replacement, you’ll be looking at an estimate of $400 or more. On the other hand, a smart-lock solution can open your car from the comfort of your phone. That said, it’s worth noting that a lot of these systems require you to put down a deposit before you can use them. 

The biggest cost factor is how far the technician has to travel to get to your location. While this isn’t always an issue, you might find yourself paying for extra miles if the problem is more than a drive away. Other factors to consider are the cost of emergency roadside assistance. Depending on your insurance provider, you could be covered for up to $150 for a mobile locksmith to unlock your vehicle. Additionally, if you don’t have roadside assistance, you’ll have to call a company like this on your own. And, if you don’t have a spare key, it’s a good idea to get a few friends or family members to help pick up your keys. 

Overall, the cost of a lockout is a lot less expensive than you might think. Considering that the average price of a replacement car key is between $50 and $150, the money you spend on getting a professional to unlock your car may well be worth the money.