How Much Do Auto Locksmiths Charge?

By Michael Anderson, 27 years of experience · November 9, 2026 · 6 min read

Car lockouts start at $55, car key replacement at $110, and key fob programming at $70. Call 15 Min Locksmith at (805) 977-6159 for mobile service; a $29 service call also applies.

Our Starting Prices in San Luis Obispo

Need help now? (805) 977-6159

How Much Do Auto Locksmiths Charge for Each Job?

The starting price depends on the service you need: getting into a locked car, replacing a missing key, and programming a key fob are different jobs. Our listed starting prices include car lockouts from $55, car key replacement from $110, and key fob programming from $70. Our service call is $29.

A starting price is not a promise that every request has the same total. Be clear about the job you need, and ask how the service-call amount applies to that specific work before authorizing it. You can also review our prices before arranging service.

When all car keys are lost, we make a new car key on site. That is different from opening a vehicle when the key is still available, so describe what happened rather than asking only for a general locksmith estimate.

Which Auto Locksmith Starting Price Fits Your Situation?

Match the request to the problem first. These examples show which of our listed starting prices applies; they do not add an unlisted charge or promise that separate services have the same price.

Should You Call an Auto Locksmith or a Dealer?

Choose based on the job and where the vehicle is. A mobile locksmith comes to your location, which can be useful when the car cannot be driven or you are locked out. A dealer is another option for vehicle key service; ask each provider what specific work they will do and what it will cost before you decide.

Need help now? (805) 977-6159

What Should You Check Before the Car Locksmith Arrives?

These owner-level checks help you describe the problem accurately without trying to force a door, key, or ignition. Stop and call for service if the key is stuck, the vehicle is damaged, or someone inside needs urgent help.

1. Check for immediate danger — Look at the vehicle and check whether a person or pet is in danger. If there is an immediate emergency, call 911; do not wait for a locksmith.
2. Confirm the vehicle’s location — Note the address, parking area, and a clear description of where the car is. Check that the vehicle is safe to approach and that the locksmith can find it.
3. Check whether a spare key is available — Ask someone who may have a spare to confirm whether they can bring it. Check that it is for this vehicle before choosing a lockout or replacement-key service.
4. Identify what is missing or not working — Say whether the key is locked inside, every key is lost, the key is damaged, or the remote is the problem. Check that your description matches the service you are requesting.
5. Keep the key and remote together — If you have a key or remote, keep it available for the locksmith rather than taking it apart or trying to repair it. Check that you can hand over every available key when asked.
6. Share the vehicle details you know — Give the vehicle’s make, model, and year if you know them, and describe whether any key still works. Check that the details match the vehicle’s registration or other records.
7. Confirm the requested work and starting price — State whether you need entry, a replacement key, or programming, then confirm the applicable starting price and how the $29 service call applies. Check that you and the locksmith agree on the job before work begins.

What Should You Confirm Before Auto Locksmith Work Starts?

A clear description of the job helps prevent confusion about what the starting price covers. Before work begins, make sure you and the locksmith are discussing the same service.

• The exact problem — Say whether you are locked out, have lost all keys, need a replacement key, or need fob programming. These are distinct requests, not interchangeable names for one job.
• The service-call amount — Ask how the $29 service call applies to the work you requested. Do not assume it is included in, deducted from, or added to another listed amount without confirming.
• The work being authorized — Have the locksmith state what service they are about to perform and its applicable starting price. Check that it matches your request before giving approval.
• The warranty — Our parts and labor carry at least a 6-month warranty. Ask which parts and labor apply to your particular service and keep the details provided for the work.

How Much Is a Replacement Car Key Remote?

Key fob programming starts at $70. Replacing a remote and programming one are different requests, so say whether you need a new fob, programming, or both when you ask for service.

Before arranging work, check whether you still have a working key and whether the problem is with the remote or the key itself. That distinction helps the locksmith understand the request and give you the applicable starting price rather than quoting for a different job.

Need help now? (805) 977-6159

What If the Car Key Problem Is Not What You Expected?

A key that is damaged, stuck, or not working as expected may call for a different service than a simple lockout or replacement. Do not force the key or keep trying to turn it if it feels stuck; describe what happened and ask for the right service before work starts.

If you first requested a lockout but discover that every key is missing, tell the locksmith before authorizing work. The request may need to change from vehicle entry to lost-car-key service, which has a different listed starting price.

For a time-sensitive lockout or key problem, contact us with the vehicle’s location and the service you need. We are open 24/7, and our mobile locksmiths serve San Luis Obispo and Central Coast towns within 30 miles.

How Does Mobile Auto Locksmith Service Reach San Luis Obispo?

We come to the vehicle rather than asking you to bring it to us. Inside San Luis Obispo, our typical arrival time is within 15 minutes; for towns farther out, the next free locksmith handles the call, so the 15-minute arrival time does not apply there.

We serve San Luis Obispo and Central Coast towns within 30 miles, including Santa Maria, Paso Robles, Arroyo Grande, Atascadero, Morro Bay, Grover Beach, and Templeton. Share your exact location when you request help so we can confirm the service area and direct the mobile visit.

Frequently asked questions