Locked Keys in Car? Edmonton Car Lockout Help Guide
If you’ve got locked keys in your car in Edmonton, a professional auto lockout service can unlock your door in 10–20 minutes without damage. Cost: $65–$95 for most vehicles. No tow required.
Edmonton Towing provides 24/7 car lockout help across the entire city — we arrive in 20–40 minutes with the tools to open any make and model.
It’s one of the most frustrating moments a driver can experience. You shut the car door, reach for your pocket — and realize your keys are sitting on the passenger seat. Or locked in the trunk. Or dangling from the ignition behind a door that just locked itself.
A car lockout can happen to anyone, anywhere — a West Edmonton Mall parking lot, a quiet street in Strathcona, a work parking garage Downtown, or the highway shoulder on the Henday. And in Edmonton, it gets worse in winter when you’re locked out in -30°C weather.
This guide covers exactly what to do when you have locked keys in your car, the cost of a car locksmith in Edmonton, which methods work (and which damage your vehicle), and how to prevent it from happening again.
What to Do Immediately When You’re Locked Out
Your first instinct might be to panic or try to force the door open. Don’t. Here’s the right sequence of steps the moment you realize you’re locked out:
Stay calm and verify the situation. Check every door — including the trunk and hatchback. Try every handle. On some vehicles, not all doors lock simultaneously.
Check for a spare key. Do you have one in your wallet, purse, or with someone nearby? Many drivers keep a spare at home — if you’re close, a ride home might be faster and free.
Try your vehicle’s smart features. Many 2015+ vehicles have a phone app (myChevrolet, FordPass, Toyota Connected, etc.) that can unlock doors remotely. OnStar and similar services can also unlock remotely over the phone.
If none of those work — call a professional. Contact Edmonton Towing’s car unlocking service at (780) 652-0521. A technician arrives with the proper tools to open your vehicle without damage.
If a child or pet is locked inside — call 911 immediately. This is a medical emergency in any weather. Do not wait for a locksmith. Emergency responders will break the window if necessary.
⚠️ Child or Pet Locked in a Hot or Cold Car?
In Edmonton’s summers, a car’s interior can reach 65°C+ within 30 minutes. In winter, a running car can fill with exhaust or the child can be exposed to extreme cold if the engine shuts off. Call 911 first. Under Alberta’s Good Samaritan protections, bystanders who break a window to rescue a child or animal in immediate danger are generally protected from liability.
How Much Does a Car Lockout Service Cost in Edmonton?
The cost of a car locksmith in Edmonton depends on the type of vehicle, the locking mechanism, and the time of day. Here’s what you can expect to pay:
💡 Cost-Saving Tip
A car lockout service ($65–$95) is just an unlock — no key replacement needed. If your keys are inside the car, you only need the door opened. This is far cheaper than calling a locksmith to make a new key ($150–$400+). Always clarify over the phone: “I need an unlock, not a new key.”
How Professionals Unlock a Car Without Damage
A trained car locksmith or lockout technician uses specialized tools designed to open your car without scratching the paint, bending the frame, or damaging the lock mechanism. Here are the most common professional methods:
🔧 Slim Jim / Long-Reach Tool
A thin, flat metal strip is carefully slid between the window and weatherstripping to reach the lock mechanism or interior door handle. This classic technique works on many older vehicles (pre-2010) with manual lock rods. It requires skill — done incorrectly, it can damage wiring or airbag sensors inside the door panel.
🪄 Air Wedge + Long-Reach Rod
The most common modern method. A small inflatable bladder (air wedge) is inserted at the top corner of the door frame and gently inflated to create a tiny gap — just enough to slide a long rod through to press the unlock button or pull the interior handle. This works on virtually every vehicle and leaves zero damage when done properly.
🔑 Lock Pick / Decoder Tools
For vehicles with traditional keyed locks, a trained locksmith can pick or decode the lock cylinder to open the door. This is common for fleet vehicles and older models with wafer-tumbler locks.
📱 Electronic / OBD Programming
Some newer luxury vehicles with fully electronic locks may require a locksmith with diagnostic equipment to communicate with the car’s computer and trigger the unlock. This is more common with BMW, Mercedes, and newer Tesla models.
⚠️ Methods That Can Damage Your Car
Avoid these DIY methods — they frequently cause expensive damage:
- Wire coat hanger: Scratches paint, bends weatherstripping, can trigger airbags on modern cars
- Screwdriver in the door gap: Warps the frame permanently — a $500–$1,500 repair
- Tennis ball trick: A viral myth — this does not work on any modern vehicle
- Breaking a window: Costs $200–$600 to replace and leaves glass throughout the interior
A professional unlock ($65–$95) is always cheaper than repairing DIY damage ($200–$1,500).
Car Locksmith vs. Towing Company for a Lockout: Which to Call?
When you’re locked out, you have two main options: call a dedicated car locksmith or a towing company that offers lockout service. Here’s how they compare:
🔑 Dedicated Locksmith
- ✅ Specialized in lock/key problems
- ✅ Can cut new keys on-site
- ✅ Can reprogram transponder keys
- ❌ Often higher call-out fees ($100+)
- ❌ Limited hours — many close by 6 PM
- ❌ Can’t help if the car also needs a tow
- ❌ Longer wait times (often 45–90 min)
Best for: Lost keys, broken locks, key programming
🚛 Towing Company (with lockout service)
- ✅ 24/7 availability — nights, weekends, holidays
- ✅ Faster response (20–40 min in Edmonton)
- ✅ Lower cost for simple unlocks ($65–$95)
- ✅ Can also boost battery or change tire
- ✅ Can tow the vehicle if another issue exists
- ❌ Cannot cut new keys
- ❌ Cannot reprogram key fobs
Best for: Keys locked inside the car (the most common scenario)
For the most common car lockout situation — keys visible inside the car — a towing company with lockout service is faster and cheaper. If you’ve actually lost your keys and need a replacement cut and programmed, a full-service locksmith is the right call.
Locked Out in Edmonton? We’re On Our Way.
24/7 car lockout service • 20–40 min response • Damage-free entry
Common Car Lockout Scenarios in Edmonton
Not every lockout is the same. Here are the situations we see most often — and how each one is handled:
🔑 Keys on the seat or dashboard — The classic. Your keys are visible through the window, the doors are locked, and you just need someone to pop the lock. This is the fastest and cheapest fix: air wedge + long-reach rod, 5–10 minutes on-site. Cost: $65–$85.
🧳 Keys locked in the trunk — If the trunk release inside the cabin doesn’t work (or the cabin is also locked), the technician first unlocks a door, then uses the interior trunk release or rear seat pass-through. Slightly more involved but still quick. Cost: $75–$110.
🔑 Key fob battery died — Your proximity key won’t unlock the doors because the battery is dead. Most fobs have a hidden physical key blade inside — a technician can show you how to use it and get you back in immediately. Some may carry replacement batteries too.
❄️ Lock frozen shut (Edmonton winter special) — In extreme cold, the lock mechanism itself freezes, or the door seal bonds shut with ice. A technician uses lock de-icer and careful force to open the door without damaging the seal. This is extremely common from November through March.
🔓 Child accidentally locked the doors — Toddlers hit the lock button while you’re loading groceries. If the child is distressed or the car is running, call 911 first. If the child is calm and the car is off in moderate weather, a lockout technician can respond quickly.
💥 Key broke in the lock — Turning a frozen lock too hard can snap the key. A technician extracts the broken piece and unlocks the door. You’ll need a replacement key afterward — a dealership or locksmith can cut one. Cost: $75–$150 for extraction only.
Why Lockouts Are More Dangerous in Edmonton Winters
A car lockout in July is an inconvenience. A car lockout in January can be a safety emergency.
When temperatures drop to -20°C or below, being locked outside your vehicle without proper winter gear puts you at risk of frostbite (exposed skin can freeze in under 10 minutes at -25°C with wind chill) and hypothermia. This is especially dangerous in parking lots far from buildings, on highway shoulders, or in the evening when temperatures drop rapidly.
If you’re locked out in extreme cold, go inside the nearest building while you wait for help. If there’s no building nearby, call (780) 652-0521 and stay on the phone — we can prioritize cold-weather lockouts. Also see our guides on winter emergency kits and what to do during a winter car breakdown.
Can Your Car’s App Unlock the Door Remotely?
Many newer vehicles include connected-car apps that can unlock your doors from your phone — sometimes saving you a service call entirely. Here are the most common systems available on vehicles in Edmonton:
If you haven’t already, download your vehicle’s app and set it up before you need it. A 2-minute setup today could save you $65 and 40 minutes next time you lock your keys in the car.
How to Prevent Getting Locked Out of Your Car
After you’ve experienced one car lockout, you’ll never want it to happen again. These habits dramatically reduce the chance:
🔑 Get a Spare Key Made
A basic spare key costs $5–$15 at a hardware store. A transponder key costs $50–$200 at a dealer. Either way, it’s far cheaper than a single lockout call. Keep the spare in your wallet, at home, or with someone you trust.
📱 Set Up Your Car’s App
If your vehicle has a connected app with remote unlock, set it up now. Test it once to make sure it works. This turns a potential emergency into a 10-second fix.
🧲 Magnetic Key Box
A small magnetic box attached to an inconspicuous spot under your vehicle can hold a spare key. Available at any auto parts store for $5–$10. Just make sure it’s well hidden.
🧠 Build a Key-Check Habit
Before closing any car door, tap your pocket or purse. Make it automatic — like checking for your phone. This simple habit eliminates 90% of lockouts.
❄️ Prevent Frozen Locks
Keep a small bottle of lock de-icer in your jacket pocket (not in the car) during Edmonton winters. Spraying the keyhole before attempting to insert the key prevents breakage. WD-40 also works as a preventive measure.
📞 Save an Emergency Number
Save (780) 652-0521 in your phone now under “Towing / Lockout.” Searching for help in a panic leads to rushed, expensive choices. Having a number ready puts you in control.
Where We Provide Car Lockout Service in Edmonton
Edmonton Towing’s auto lockout service covers every neighbourhood, highway, and parking lot in the Edmonton metro area. We regularly respond to lockouts in:
We also serve parking garages, shopping centres, and commercial properties. See our full Edmonton service area map for coverage details, or read about how our Edmonton car unlock service works.
What About Scam Locksmith Operations?
Unfortunately, the locksmith industry has a well-documented problem with scam operators, including in Edmonton. Here’s how these scams typically work and how to protect yourself:
🚩 Red Flags of a Locksmith Scam
- Quote of $15–$35 over the phone that becomes $200–$400 once they arrive — classic bait-and-switch
- Unmarked vehicle — no company name, license number, or branding on the van
- Insisting the lock must be drilled — creating unnecessary damage to charge for a lock replacement
- Cash-only payment and no receipt — legitimate companies accept cards and provide invoices
- No verifiable business address — if you Google their name and only find paid ads, be cautious
- Cannot provide a business licence number when asked
To protect yourself: always get a total price quote before dispatch, choose companies with verified Google reviews and a physical address, and never let anyone drill your lock without a clear explanation of why other methods won’t work. According to Alberta Consumer Protection, you can report businesses that use deceptive pricing practices.
Other Roadside Issues We Can Help With
Locked out of your car and also dealing with a dead battery? Need a tire changed after getting back in? Edmonton Towing handles multiple roadside issues in a single visit:
- Battery boost / jump start — $50–$85
- Flat tire change — $55–$85
- General roadside assistance — from $50
- Flatbed towing — if your vehicle also needs transport
- Breakdown towing — for cars that won’t start after unlocking
Bundling services in a single call is more efficient and often cheaper than calling two different providers. Just describe everything you need when you call.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Lockouts in Edmonton
How much does it cost to unlock a car in Edmonton?
A standard car lockout service in Edmonton costs $65–$95 for most vehicles. High-security or luxury vehicles may cost $85–$130. After-hours service (late night) may include a surcharge of $15–$25 with some providers.
How long does it take to unlock a locked car?
Once the technician arrives, most car doors can be unlocked in 5–15 minutes. Add 20–40 minutes for arrival time in Edmonton, and you’re looking at 25–55 minutes total from your initial call.
Will unlocking my car damage it?
No — a professional technician using proper tools (air wedge, long-reach tool, or lock picks) will not damage your vehicle. These methods are specifically designed for damage-free entry. DIY methods like coat hangers or screwdrivers, however, frequently cause scratches, dents, and door frame damage.
Should I call a locksmith or a towing company for a lockout?
If your keys are locked inside the car, a towing company with lockout service is usually faster and cheaper ($65–$95) than a dedicated locksmith. If you’ve lost your keys entirely and need a new one cut and programmed, a full-service locksmith or dealership is the better option.
My key fob battery is dead — how do I get into my car?
Most key fobs have a hidden physical key blade inside the fob housing. Look for a small button or sliding mechanism on the fob — the blade is usually tucked inside. Use it on the driver’s door lock (there may be a cover over the keyhole on some models). If you can’t find it, a lockout technician can help.
Can I unlock my car with my phone?
Yes — if your vehicle has a connected-car app like FordPass, myChevrolet, Toyota Connected, or Bluelink, and you’ve already set up the app with remote access enabled. You can unlock the doors remotely from your phone in seconds. This feature must be set up in advance.
What if my car lock is frozen in winter?
Frozen locks are extremely common in Edmonton winters. Try a commercial lock de-icer spray (keep one in your pocket, not the car). You can also try gently warming the key with a lighter before inserting it. Never pour boiling water on the lock — it can crack the mechanism and refreeze immediately. If the lock is frozen solid, call for professional help.
Does insurance cover car lockout service?
Many Alberta auto insurance policies include roadside assistance as an add-on ($20–$40/year) that covers lockouts. Manufacturer roadside programs (included free for 3–5 years on new vehicles) also typically cover lockout assistance. Check your policy or owner’s manual to see if you’re already covered.
How much does a replacement car key cost?
A basic key copy costs $5–$15 at a hardware store. A transponder key (chip key) costs $50–$200 at a locksmith or dealership. A key fob with push-button start can cost $200–$500+ including programming. Prices vary significantly by vehicle make and model.
Do you unlock trucks, SUVs, and vans?
Yes. Edmonton Towing’s lockout service works on all vehicle types — sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, vans, and commercial vehicles. Our technicians carry tools designed for every major make and model, including high-security European vehicles.
Locked Out? Let Us Get You Back In.
24/7 car lockout service across Edmonton • Damage-free • Fast response