How Much Does an Auto Locksmith Cost?

how much does an auto locksmith cost

You may be wondering: how much does an auto locksmith cost? You have probably seen the ads, but how much does a car key extraction really cost? Well, it depends. Car key extraction can cost anywhere from $50 to $200. You can call a local locksmith if you get locked out of your car and have no way to open the door. They can get you back in your car by unlocking the door for you, without damaging the lock. They will also inspect the lock and make recommendations on how to avoid future problems.

The answer will depend on the car’s lock and the locksmith’s distance from your location. After-hours locksmith services are normally twice as expensive as standard hours, and they typically charge $75-150 per hour. Even if you have a warranty on your car, it can still be risky to drive it if you’ve locked the keys inside. If you’ve never locked your keys in your car, you might want to consider getting roadside assistance. Many plans cover the roadside assistance services, which can be invaluable.

If you’re locked out of your car, don’t try to pick the lock with a coat hanger – you’ll probably damage it worse than if you just tried to open it. In addition to causing more damage, you’ll be out of luck if you don’t have roadside assistance or insurance. Not to mention, you’ll end up paying a locksmith’s fee in the long run!

Another common problem involving keys is a broken ignition. Whether the keys have been stolen or lost, a locksmith can help you get back in your car. A locksmith can repair a broken electronic keypad as well as a new key. This can save you from spending hundreds of dollars at a car dealership. A broken ignition requires more work than a simple rekey. Your auto locksmith will need to rearrange the internal components of the ignition cylinder to get it back to normal working order.

Before hiring a locksmith, make sure they are licensed and insured in your state. Check to see if they have any online reviews, and never sign a blank invoice. Explain your situation to them as thoroughly as possible, and ask them if they’ve ever worked on similar problems or installed similar systems before. Getting recommendations from friends or the hardware store is also a good idea. Be sure that they are insured and have their own I.D. when they arrive.

You can save money by getting your key fob reprogrammed, or re-programming your existing key. You may even be able to save a few bucks by getting it done yourself. A locksmith will usually charge less for this service than a car dealership. However, if you are trying to avoid paying thousands for a transponder key replacement, you should go with a locksmith instead.