If you’re stuck in a situation where you need to call a locksmith, you probably have a good idea of how much the service will cost. Locksmiths are generally licensed only in 15 states. Make sure to ask for their license to be safe. Unlicensed locksmiths often use bait and switch tactics to get you to pay more than you expected. You can also risk damaging your car if you hire someone unlicensed.
The cost of having a locksmith unlock your car is usually between $50 and $100, depending on the difficulty of the lock. Rekeying your car’s locks is not a simple DIY job, and it can take a few trials to get it right. Residential locksmiths, however, offer a variety of services. The cost of each service depends on the type of locksmith, the car’s make and model, and the complexity of the job.
Professional locksmiths own the tools necessary to make new keys and program new remotes. Not all remotes need professional programming, and most newer models of vehicles do not have this option. Even though some people prefer to take their cars to the dealership for programming, automotive locksmiths offer better quality and cheaper rates than dealerships. You can even take your car to a locksmith for your car’s key programming if you do not have the time or money to replace it yourself.
While the police will sometimes unlock cars for free, it is generally not a good idea to call them unless you are in a true emergency. Besides, if you are locked out during business hours, the police will be able to unlock your car for free. However, if your situation is truly emergency, you should call 9-1-1 or the police and they will help you with the task.
When it comes to locksmith prices, you can’t beat the convenience of not having to wait on a call center for hours. A locksmith can easily unlock your car door at a fraction of the cost. This makes the service even more affordable compared to other services. You can call five or more locksmiths and ask each one for a quote based on the reason you need help. If you need to have a new key cut, you can get a cheaper locksmith by comparing prices.
If you are unable to replace your keys, you should also check your car’s transponder if the keys do not have transponders. Most vehicles now have keyless entry and auto locksmiths can program your transponder keys. This service will be a little more expensive if the transponder malfunctions. However, it is worth the cost as a locksmith can give you access to your car without any damage.
For some people, it is best to have a spare set of keys. Duplicating a spare house key can cost as little as $1 to $10. However, if your car has a transponder key, you’ll need to shell out $75-$400 to have it duplicated. If you’re worried about the cost, you can even borrow a slim jim from the gas station.