Car Locksmith Prices 2026: What You Should Pay for Auto Lockouts
A car lockout should cost $50–$150. Key replacement runs $150–$400. If you were quoted something dramatically different, here's what you need to know before you call — or before you pay.
Car Lockout
$50–$150
Key Replacement
$150–$400
Transponder Key
$200–$450
Ignition Repair
$125–$275
Automotive Locksmith Service Prices
All prices below are national averages and include service call fee plus labour. Parts and keys are additional where noted. Prices in high cost-of-living cities (New York, San Francisco, Seattle) typically run 15–30% higher.
What Affects the Price of a Car Locksmith?
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Vehicle make and model: European luxury vehicles (BMW, Mercedes, Audi) require proprietary programming tools and often cost 30–50% more than standard domestic vehicles. Some models require dealer-only access for key programming.
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Key type: A standard metal key is cheap to cut ($50–$80). A transponder key with a chip adds $100–$200 for programming. A proximity/smart key is the most expensive category ($200–$500) and requires specialised equipment.
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Year of vehicle: Vehicles built after 2000 almost universally have transponder keys or key fobs. Pre-2000 vehicles typically just need a key cut — dramatically cheaper at $30–$80.
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Time of day: After-hours automotive locksmith calls add a $25–$75 surcharge on top of standard rates. A $100 lockout at noon may cost $150–$175 at midnight.
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Your location: Urban areas and high cost-of-living cities run 15–30% above national averages. Rural areas may see higher prices due to travel time surcharges.
Car Locksmith Prices by City
Prices in major cities adjusted for local cost of living. Click any city to find verified local locksmiths.
Locked Out of Your Car? Do This First.
Many people call a locksmith before checking whether roadside assistance would cover the cost. Here's the right sequence.
1
Stay calm and check all doors
Walk around the vehicle and try every door handle, including the trunk or hatch. Also check if any windows are cracked enough to reach the lock.
2
Call roadside assistance first
Check if you have AAA, insurance roadside coverage, or a credit card with auto assistance benefits. These services typically cover lockouts at no out-of-pocket cost.
3
Search for a local locksmith with reviews
If you need to pay, search Google Maps for locksmiths near you and prioritize results with 20+ reviews, a physical local address, and photo evidence of real jobs.
4
Get a total price commitment by phone
Before anyone comes out, ask: 'What is your total price to open my car, including the service call fee?' A legitimate locksmith will give you a price range — $50–$150 is normal. Hang up if they won't quote.
5
Confirm the price again on arrival
When the locksmith arrives, confirm the quoted price before they touch your car. If the price has jumped significantly, you are entitled to refuse service and call someone else.
6
Pay by card and get a receipt
Always pay by credit or debit card rather than cash — this gives you recourse if the service was fraudulent or the price was misrepresented. Request an itemised receipt.
Find Car Locksmiths in Your City:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a car lockout cost?
A standard car lockout costs $50–$150, with a national average of $110. The price depends on your vehicle type, location, and time of day. Older vehicles with simpler locking mechanisms are at the low end; newer models with advanced electronics or difficult-to-access door mechanisms can push toward $150.
How much does car key replacement cost?
Car key replacement ranges from $150–$400 depending on whether your key has a transponder chip and whether programming is required. A basic key without a chip costs $50–$100 to cut. A standard transponder key runs $150–$250. Smart keys and key fobs that require dealership-level programming can cost $250–$400.
How much does transponder key programming cost?
Transponder key programming typically costs $200–$450, which usually includes cutting the key blank and programming it to your vehicle's ECU. The wide range is driven by vehicle make and model — a basic Honda or Toyota transponder runs around $150–$200 total, while a BMW or Mercedes key can reach $350–$450 due to proprietary programming requirements.
How much does ignition repair or replacement cost?
Ignition switch repair or replacement runs $125–$275 for most vehicles. Replacement includes removing the old ignition cylinder, installing a new one, and re-keying it to your existing keys. Labour typically takes 1–2 hours. Certain vehicles (particularly some GM and Honda models) have documented ignition issues and may require parts that are harder to source.
Can a locksmith make a car key without the original?
Yes — an automotive locksmith can cut and program a new key from your VIN (vehicle identification number) and the lock cylinders. This process (called key origination) typically costs $200–$400 and takes 30–90 minutes. Bring proof of ownership and your ID. This is generally cheaper than a dealership replacement, which often runs $300–$600.
Is it cheaper to go to a locksmith or a dealership for car keys?
An automotive locksmith is almost always cheaper than a dealership for key replacement. Locksmiths typically charge $150–$350; dealerships frequently charge $300–$600 for the same service. The tradeoff is that some high-security systems (particularly newer European vehicles) may require manufacturer-specific equipment that only a dealership has.
What should I do if I'm locked out of my car right now?
First, check if any other door or window is unlocked. Call your insurance company or roadside assistance (AAA, State Farm, GEICO, and most major insurers include lockout coverage) before calling a locksmith — it may be free. If you must call a locksmith, ask for a total price including the service call fee before they come out, and don't let them start work until you've agreed on the price.
What are the signs of an automotive locksmith scam?
Common red flags: prices that jump dramatically from the phone quote once they arrive; insisting drilling is the only option (it almost never is for a lockout); arriving in an unmarked van with no company branding; demanding cash only; refusing to provide a license number in states that require one. Legitimate automotive locksmiths can usually open a car door without drilling in under 10 minutes.