What to do when you're locked out of your car

If you're locked out of your vehicle, your first move should be to call a locksmith or roadside information service — they can open the door without damaging it. If you have roadside coverage through your insurance, auto club membership, or a credit card, that service is usually free or low-cost and arrives within an hour. A professional locksmith typically charges $50 to $150 depending on your location and the time of day, and they carry the tools needed to open most vehicle locks without harm.

Before you pay for a locksmith, check whether someone you know has a spare key and can reach you. If you have a family member or trusted friend nearby with your spare, that's the fastest and cheapest option. Some people also keep a spare key in a magnetic lockbox hidden under the vehicle, though this only helps if you installed one before getting locked out.

Key Takeaways

  • Roadside information through your insurance, auto club, or credit card often covers lockout calls at no cost or low cost.
  • A professional locksmith is the safest way to open your door without damage, and costs typically range from $50 to $150.
  • Calling someone with a spare key is free if they can reach you quickly.
  • Attempting to open the door yourself with tools risks damaging the lock, window, or door frame and may void your warranty.
  • Modern vehicles with keyless entry systems sometimes have emergency unlock procedures in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website.

When roadside information is your best option

Roadside information services exist specifically for lockouts and are often included in coverage you already pay for. Check your auto insurance policy, membership with AAA or similar auto clubs, or the benefits of a premium credit card — many include roadside service at no extra charge. When you call, have your vehicle identification number (VIN) and location ready, and the service will dispatch a locksmith to you.

The main advantage is that you don't pay out of pocket at the time of service, and the dispatcher can tell you how long the wait will be. Response times vary by location but typically range from 30 minutes to an hour in urban areas and longer in rural regions. If you don't have roadside coverage, you can purchase a one-time service call, though this costs more than an annual membership would.

Hiring a locksmith directly

If you don't have roadside coverage, calling a local locksmith is straightforward. Search online for "automotive locksmith near me" or ask for recommendations from friends or your mechanic. When you call, tell them you're locked out of your vehicle and ask for a quote — prices vary by location, time of day, and vehicle type, but $50 to $150 is typical for a standard lockout.

Locksmiths who work on vehicles carry specialized tools designed to open car doors without damaging the lock mechanism or paint. They can usually open most vehicles within 15 to 30 minutes once they arrive. Ask whether they accept payment by card or cash, and confirm whether the quote includes the service call or if there are additional fees.

Why DIY door opening usually isn't worth it

You may have seen videos of people using wire hangers, slim jims, or other tools to open car doors themselves. While it's technically possible, the risks usually outweigh the savings. Forcing a tool into the door frame can crack the weatherstripping, bend the lock cylinder, or damage the window regulator — repairs that cost $200 to $500 and are often not covered by warranty if you caused the damage.

Modern vehicles have more complex locking systems than older cars, making DIY attempts even riskier. Many newer cars have sensors that detect forced entry and may trigger the alarm or disable other systems. If you damage the door or lock, you'll end up paying far more than a locksmith would have charged.

What to do if there's a child or pet in the car

If a child or pet is locked in the vehicle, call 911 when ready rather than waiting for a locksmith. Police and fire departments have tools to open vehicles quickly in emergencies and will prioritize a call involving a person or animal in danger. They can often arrive faster than a locksmith and will not charge you.

While waiting for emergency services, try to keep the child or pet calm and visible. If it's hot outside, crack a window if you can do so safely from outside the vehicle, or move the car to shade if you have access to the keys. Do not leave a child or pet unattended in a locked vehicle for any longer than necessary.

Keyless entry systems and emergency unlock procedures

If your vehicle has a keyless entry system (push-button start or key fob), some manufacturers include an emergency unlock procedure in the owner's manual or on their website. For example, some vehicles allow you to unlock the door by pressing a specific button sequence on the door handle or using the mobile app associated with your vehicle. Check your vehicle's manual or the manufacturer's website to see if this option exists for your model.

If you have a mobile app connected to your vehicle (such as OnStar, FordPass, or BMW Connected), you may be able to unlock the door remotely through the app. This works only if your phone is connected to the internet and your account is current. This is often faster than calling a locksmith and costs nothing if you already subscribe to the service.

Preventing lockouts in the future

The easiest way to handle a lockout is to avoid one. Keep a spare key in a find location separate from your vehicle — not in a magnetic box under the car, where a thief could find it, but with a trusted friend or family member, or in a safe at home. Some people keep a spare in their wallet or purse, though this means carrying an extra key every day.

If you have a keyless entry system, keep your key fob with you at all times and replace the battery when it starts to weaken — a dying battery can prevent the fob from working even when you're close to the car. Consider enrolling in roadside information through your insurance or an auto club so that if a lockout does happen, the cost is covered or minimal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a locksmith charge for a car lockout?

Most automotive locksmiths charge between $50 and $150 for a standard lockout, depending on your location, the time of day, and your vehicle type. Calls during evenings, weekends, or holidays may cost more. If you have roadside coverage through insurance or an auto club, the cost is usually covered.

Can I unlock my car with a wire hanger or slim jim?

While it's possible, it risks damaging the door frame, lock mechanism, or window regulator — repairs that cost $200 to $500. Modern vehicles have more complex locks that are harder to open without the right tools. A locksmith is safer and often not much more expensive.

What if my spare key is in the car with me?

If your spare is locked inside, you'll need a locksmith or roadside information to open the door. This is why it's important to keep a spare key outside the vehicle, with a trusted person, or at home. Some people also use a lockbox or hide a spare in a find location.

Does car insurance cover lockout calls?

Many insurance policies include roadside information that covers lockouts at no cost or a small fee per call. Check your policy documents or call your insurance company to confirm. Auto club memberships like AAA and premium credit cards often include this benefit as well.

Can I unlock my car using my phone?

If your vehicle has a connected mobile app (OnStar, FordPass, BMW Connected, etc.), you may be able to unlock it remotely. This works only if your phone has internet access and your account is active. Check your vehicle's manual or the manufacturer's website to see if this feature is available for your model.