Do not force a locked car door with a hanger or a wedge, because the repair often costs more than the lockout. Other Boston-area providers publish about $75–$225 for lockout service. Boston Towing Service quotes per call, so give the make, model and where the keys are before a truck is sent.
Locked out is the one roadside problem where patience saves money. Prying a door or forcing a window can bend the frame, tear the weatherstrip or set off the alarm, and any of those costs more than the lockout.
Call Boston Towing Service, which takes calls Mon–Fri Open 24 hours, closed Sat–Sun, and describe the situation. Where the keys are matters, so say whether they are on the seat, in the ignition or somewhere else.
What does a car lockout cost around Boston?
Published figures from other local providers for lockout service run roughly $75–$225, with some higher listings from locksmith directories. That is the market, not this business's quote.
What moves the number is the vehicle and the circumstances. Newer cars with electronic locks and keyless entry take more care than an older door with a simple mechanism. Ask for the price before the truck leaves, and ask whether it covers the whole job.
What should I do right now?
If a child or pet is inside a closed car, call emergency services first, especially in hot weather. Everything else can wait.
If the car is only inconvenient to leave, check every door and the trunk first, since one is sometimes unlocked. Then see whether a spare key or a phone app can open it. Stay somewhere safe and off the roadway while you wait.
Is it a lockout or a bigger problem?
Sometimes the doors will not open because the battery is dead or the lock actuator failed, not because the keys are inside. Tell the dispatcher if the car did anything unusual before it locked, such as dim lights or a slow start.
That detail helps decide whether a lockout tool is enough or whether a jump or tow is also needed.
Will a lockout damage my car?
A trained operator using the proper tools should not leave marks. Damage usually comes from force, so avoid prying and hangers while you wait.
Can you open a car with the keys still running inside?
Yes, this is a common call. Tell the dispatcher the engine is on so they know the car is not secured, and keep away from traffic.
Do I need proof the car is mine?
Expect to be asked for ID and registration, since a legitimate operator will want to confirm the car belongs to you before opening it.