What to do when you're locked out of your car
If you're locked out of your car, your fastest option is usually to call a locksmith or roadside information service. A locksmith can open most cars in 15 to 30 minutes and typically charges $50 to $150 depending on your location and the car's lock type. If you have roadside information through your insurance, auto club membership, or car manufacturer, that service is often free or covered by your membership fee — call the number on your membership card or insurance documents first.
Your second option is to call a family member or trusted person who has a spare key and can bring it to you. This takes longer but costs nothing. Your third option, if you have roadside information, is to wait for their service — most arrive within 30 to 60 minutes in urban areas, longer in rural ones.
Do not attempt to break into your own car. Forcing a window, door, or lock can damage the vehicle and may trigger an alarm or attract police attention. Some cars also have anti-theft systems that lock the steering wheel or disable the ignition if forced entry is detected.
Key Takeaways
- A locksmith is the fastest paid option and typically costs $50 to $150, with arrival times of 15 to 30 minutes in most areas.
- Roadside information through your insurance, auto club, or car manufacturer often covers lockouts at no extra cost — check your membership card or policy documents for the phone number.
- Having a spare key with a trusted family member or friend is the cheapest long-term solution and takes only as long as they need to reach you.
- Attempting to force your car open yourself risks damage to the vehicle and may trigger alarms or anti-theft systems.
Roadside information programs and what they cover
Most roadside information programs cover lockouts as a standard service. AAA membership includes lockout service at no additional charge; members call 1-800-AAA-HELP and are typically served within 30 to 60 minutes depending on location. Better World Club offers similar coverage. Many auto insurance companies bundle roadside information into their policies — check your policy documents or call your insurer's customer service line to confirm whether lockouts are covered and what the process is.
Car manufacturers also offer roadside information. GM OnStar, Ford Roadside information, Toyota Roadside information, and similar programs through other brands often include lockout service. If you bought your car new, check your owner's manual or the manufacturer's website for the phone number and coverage details.
Roadside information programs typically dispatch a locksmith to your location rather than sending their own technician. You usually pay nothing out of pocket, though some programs may have a small per-incident fee or an annual membership cost. The locksmith will open your car without damaging it if possible, though some older or unusual locks may require a different approach.
Hiring a locksmith directly
If you don't have roadside information, calling a locksmith is the most straightforward option. Search online for "locksmith near me" or "car locksmith [your city]" to find local services. Call at least two locksmiths to compare prices before committing — rates vary significantly by location and by the type of lock on your car.
When you call, tell the locksmith your car's year, make, and model, and your location. Ask for an estimate and how long arrival will take. Reputable locksmiths will give you a price range before they arrive. Be cautious of locksmiths who quote unusually low prices or refuse to give an estimate — some use low quotes to lure customers, then charge much higher rates once they arrive.
Payment is typically cash or card on arrival. Ask whether the locksmith accepts both before they come. Some locksmiths may ask for a deposit or credit card information over the phone to hold the appointment, especially during busy times.
Spare keys and prevention
The cheapest way to handle a lockout is to prevent it. Keep a spare key with a trusted family member, friend, or colleague who lives or works near you. This costs nothing and eliminates the wait time and expense of a locksmith or roadside service. Update that person if you move or change jobs so they remain nearby.
Some people hide a spare key in a magnetic box under the car, but this is risky — thieves know these hiding spots. A better approach is to keep a spare in your home, office, or with someone you trust. If you travel frequently, consider keeping a spare in your wallet or bag, though this increases the risk of losing it.
If you lose your car keys entirely and don't have a spare, a locksmith or car dealership can make new keys. A dealership typically charges more ($150 to $300 or higher) but can reprogram electronic key fobs if your car uses them. A locksmith can often cut a mechanical key for less but may not be able to program modern fobs — ask before you hire them.
What happens if you're locked out with the engine running
If your engine is running when you lock yourself out, the situation is more urgent but still manageable. Do not attempt to break a window or force the door — this risks injury and damage. Call a locksmith or roadside information when ready and tell them the engine is running. They will still open the car the same way, but knowing the engine is on helps them prioritize your call.
If your car has a remote start feature, you may be able to turn off the engine using your key fob or a mobile app, depending on your car's make and model. Check your owner's manual or call the manufacturer's customer service line to see whether this is possible. Some newer cars allow you to lock and unlock doors through a mobile app — if yours does, you can unlock it yourself without waiting for a locksmith.
Lockouts in extreme weather or with children or pets in the car
If a child or pet is locked in the car, especially in hot or cold weather, call 911 when ready. Police and fire departments have tools to open cars quickly and will prioritize this type of emergency. Do not wait for a locksmith in this situation — the risk to the child or animal is too high.
In hot weather, a car's interior temperature can become dangerous within 15 to 20 minutes, especially for young children and pets. In cold weather, the risk is slower but still serious. If you see a child or pet locked in a car and the owner is not present, call 911 rather than attempting to open the car yourself.
If you are locked out in extreme heat or cold and cannot reach help quickly, stay in a safe location and call for information. Do not attempt to force your way into the car if you are in danger from weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a locksmith charge for a car lockout?
Most locksmiths charge $50 to $150 for a car lockout, depending on your location, the time of day, and your car's lock type. Prices are higher in major cities and for after-hours service. Always ask for an estimate before the locksmith arrives.
Will a locksmith damage my car when opening it?
A professional locksmith uses tools designed to open cars without damage. However, some older cars or unusual lock types may require methods that leave minor marks. Ask the locksmith about potential damage before they begin work.
Can I unlock my car using my phone?
Some newer cars with mobile apps or remote access features allow you to unlock the doors through your phone. Check your car's manual or the manufacturer's website to see if your model has this feature. If it does, you can unlock the car yourself without calling a locksmith.
What should I do if I'm locked out at night or in an unsafe area?
Call roadside information or a locksmith and stay in a well-lit, populated area if possible. If you feel unsafe, call police for information. Do not attempt to open the car yourself or accept help from strangers.
Is roadside information worth the cost?
If you already have roadside information through your insurance or auto club, lockouts are usually covered at no extra charge. If you don't have it, a single locksmith call ($50 to $150) typically costs less than an annual roadside information membership ($50 to $200 per year), but membership covers other emergencies like towing, fuel delivery, and jump-starts.