i locked my keys in my car who do i call for free
If you’ve locked your keys in your car and want help for free , you have a few options before you pay anyone.
First: Check for any “free” help you already have
These can turn a lockout into a no-cost or low-cost rescue:
- Auto insurance roadside assistance
- Many policies include roadside assistance that covers lockouts (they send someone to unlock the car).
* Check your insurer’s app or the back of your insurance card for a 24/7 number.
* If it’s included, you usually pay nothing at the time, or just a small add‑on fee you already agreed to.
- Motor club membership (AAA, etc.)
- Membership-based roadside services often include car lockout as a standard benefit.
* You call their emergency number or request help via their app; a technician comes and unlocks the vehicle.
* Depending on the plan level, they may even reimburse some locksmith costs if needed.
- New-car or connected-car services (OnStar, similar)
- Some manufacturers offer remote unlock as part of their connected services.
* If you’re already subscribed, they can sometimes unlock the car after verifying your identity, which usually doesn’t cost extra beyond your existing subscription.
- Warranty or dealer perks
- Some dealers include roadside lockout assistance with new or certified-used cars as a complimentary perk.
* Check any welcome packet, key tag, or dealership app for an emergency number.
- Family, friends, or spare key
- If a spare key exists at home, calling someone to bring it is often the truly free option.
* If you’re somewhere safe and not in a rush, you can also use a rideshare or taxi to go get the spare.
Quick example:
You’re in a parking lot, keys on the seat, doors locked. You open your insurer’s app and see “Roadside Assistance – Lockout covered.” You tap “Request help” and a local provider comes and unlocks your car without an extra bill at the scene.
If you don’t have any coverage
If none of the above apply, truly “free” options are limited, but you can still keep costs low and stay safe:
- Local towing service or locksmith
- Tow companies and locksmiths can unlock cars quickly and with less damage than DIY attempts.
* It won’t be free, but if you later discover you do have some form of roadside coverage, you may be able to submit the invoice for partial reimbursement.
- Some motor clubs will help non‑members for a one‑time fee
- For example, some organizations will come out even if you aren’t a member, though you pay a service charge; sometimes it’s close to what you’d pay a locksmith anyway.
Who to call first (priority list)
If you want a simple order:
- Your auto insurer’s roadside assistance line or app (often free or prepaid).
- Any motor club membership (AAA or similar) if you have it.
- Your car maker’s connected service (OnStar-type service) if you’re subscribed.
- A family member or friend with access to your spare key.
- A local towing company or auto locksmith as the paid backup.
Safety and what NOT to do
- Don’t try to break a window unless there is a true emergency such as a child or pet in danger; in that case, call emergency services immediately.
- Avoid using improvised tools (coat hangers, screwdrivers) if you’re not experienced; it’s easy to damage weather stripping, window glass, or door locks, which costs far more than a professional unlock.
SEO-style quick meta description:
If you’re thinking “i locked my keys in my car who do i call for free,” start
with your insurance’s roadside assistance, any motor club membership, or your
car’s connected services, which often include lockout help at no extra cost.
Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.