You are out with your car, and the worst thing happens, suddenly you realize the car is locked, and the key is inside! These are the times when you might call yourself stupid, but we have all been there, and that’s why locksmiths are here to get you out of this trouble.
So, before you call an emergency locksmith, how much does it cost for locksmith to unlock car? Typically, a Car Locksmith Service in Broward costs between $75 and $250. However, the cost might vary depending on your situation, location, type of car, and other factors.
Wondering how much you should spend during a car lockout situation? Read on to know!
How Much Does It Cost To Get Car Door Unlocked?
A car lockout service helps when you’re out of the car with your keys inside. Most companies charge approximately $75 to $250 to help you regain access to the vehicle.
Car locksmiths arrive on emergency calls wherever you are, and help you get inside the car using their specialized tools. However, the price you need to pay may vary depending on factors like the time of day, location, and urgency of the request.
Emergency Lockout (After Hours)
If you are locked out of the car after regular business hours, emergency lockout services can help you. These services work during nights, weekends, or holidays.
Most locksmiths offer 24/7 emergency service, but may require a higher charge. The emergency lockout services usually charge $100–$250 more than typical prices.
Other Services That Locksmiths Provide
Locksmiths don’t only help when you are locked out of the car, but they also come in handy in other situations, like if you have lost your car keys. Some of the typical services are:
Key Duplication (Standard Key)
This is one of the most basic services that locksmiths provide. They duplicate your original key so you can have a spare key ready for emergencies. However, sometimes if you lose your key, they can also use their tools to give you a new key to enter the vehicle.
Transponder Key Programming
Modern vehicles with transponder keys require you to hire a locksmith to integrate the embedded chip in the key so it can communicate with your car. So, if you own a modern vehicle, the locksmith will help you program the key with their specialized diagnostic equipment. As a result, the key will be able to sync with your vehicle’s computer so you can get inside the car.
Smart Key Replacement
Locksmiths also help in creating wireless smart keys. They program the key fob so it can connect with your car’s security system. Therefore, as they provide same-day smart key replacement using OEM or compatible aftermarket fobs, you can enter your vehicle quite fast.
Ignition Repair or Replacement
Using worn-out keys, damaged ignition switches, or even internal mechanical failure can cause ignition issues. In such a case, a car locksmith will help you to repair or replace the existing ignition system.
How Does The Time Of Day Affect Locksmith Pricing?
As we already shared, different factors affect the locksmith pricing. Let’s say you’re out of the car in the middle of the night. The locksmith will surely charge extra because it’s outside of usual business hours.
Emergency/after-hours unlock may cost you $100 – $300 or more than the standard pricing. Also, during evenings, weekends, or holidays, you might need to pay an extra 30–50% price increase compared to standard weekday rates.
Other Factors That Affect Locksmith Costs
In addition to the time of day, you need to consider other factors that affect your locksmith’s pricing. Therefore, here is an overview that might help you to estimate:
Service Type
Like every other service, the type of service you’re asking for will require you to pay different rates. Easy tasks like key duplication cost as little as $5–$20, while difficult services can reach $400 or more. See the breakdown below;
| House Lockout | $50–$150 |
| Car Lockout | $75–$250 |
| Rekeying Locks: | $50–$130 (plus $10–$25 per lock cylinder) |
| Broken Key Extraction | $50–$200 |
| Installing Electronic Locks | $50–$500 |
Location
Your location matters in determining the cost of the locksmith, especially when you need an emergency service. If you are in a rural area, the locksmith may charge more to reach you due to the distance and limited availability.
Car Type
Different types of cars require different unlocking systems; therefore, the charge you need to pay to the locksmith may vary depending on your vehicle. Luxury, newer, or complex vehicles demand specialized supplies, raising the cost.
Luxury vehicles often come with advanced security systems like transponder keys, high-tech locks, or keyless entry systems.
Therefore, only specialized tools can bypass these systems. Besides, you can’t enter the vehicle if you’re locked out unless an expert locksmith helps you in here. Older Cars with simple locks may cost you less since these are easier to unlock.
Urgency
If you are stuck in a situation where you need immediate support from the locksmith, you may need to call for emergency help. Therefore, immediate assistance, especially during off-hours, is typically charged more.
The same goes for weekends and holidays when there is little availability of locksmiths around. However, standard services may cost you way less than urgent ones.
Locksmith’s Experience Level
For modern vehicles, you will often require someone who knows how to handle complex lock systems. Therefore, in such a case, you need to pay extra for the experience. However, for simpler tasks, newbie locksmiths may not charge too much.
Usage of Specialized Equipment
Tasks that require the locksmith to use advanced tools and gear might be more expensive (e.g., programming car key fobs, or to combine lock). Also, some locksmiths provide security assessments and recommendations, which may add to the overall cost.
Can I Unlock My Car Myself?
When people ask how to unlock car with keys inside, they often think that this might be an easy task and they might be able to unlock it by themselves. However, attempting to do so might pose some serious risks of damage. Also, some sensitive systems may be hampered if you have a modern car.
Mishandling or manhandling the car locks may also affect your ability to claim a warranty from the car company. So, the best thing to do when you’re locked out is to visit a professional locksmith who can assist.
Bottom Line
So, now that you understand how much does it cost for locksmith to unlock car, you know that the prices are quite affordable. Therefore, if you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to unlock your car, don’t attempt it by yourself. Call a professional, and get yourself out of the trouble fast!
