Locked Your Keys in Your Car in Asheville? Here's What to Do
Quick answer: If you're locked out of your car in Asheville, stay calm, make sure you're in a safe spot, and call a local mobile locksmith. AP Locksmith typically arrives in 15–30 minutes and can usually unlock your car in a few minutes without damage. We're open 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM, 7 days a week — call (828) 520-2226.
Is anyone in danger? Call 911 first
If a child or a pet is locked inside the car — especially on a warm day — call 911 immediately. A car can heat up dangerously in minutes, even when it doesn't feel hot outside. Emergency services come first; a locksmith comes second.
Step 1: Get to a safe spot
If you're on a busy road, a highway shoulder (I-40, I-26, I-240) or a dark parking lot, move somewhere safe and well-lit while you wait. Turn on your phone's location so you can share exactly where you are.
Step 2: Check the easy options
Before you call anyone, take 60 seconds to check:
- All the doors and the trunk. One of them may still be unlocked.
- A spare key. Is there a family member or roommate nearby who has one?
- Your car's app. Many newer cars from Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Hyundai and other makers have a phone app that can unlock the car remotely.
- Roadside assistance. Your car insurance, AAA or your car's warranty may include lockout service. It can be slower, but it's worth checking.
Step 3: Don't try to force it
Coat hangers, slim jims and wedges can scratch paint, damage weather stripping, bend the door frame, or damage the wiring inside the door. A repair like that can cost far more than a professional lockout service.
Step 4: Call a local mobile locksmith
A professional locksmith uses specialized tools to open your car without damage, usually in a few minutes. When you call, have this ready:
- Your exact location (address, cross streets or landmark)
- Car make, model and year
- Whether the keys are inside the car or lost
Ask for the price before the locksmith comes out. A trustworthy local locksmith will tell you upfront. Be careful with companies that quote a very low price on the phone and then charge much more on site.
What if you lost your car keys completely?
If your keys aren't inside the car — lost, stolen or broken — a locksmith can still help. AP Locksmith makes replacement car keys and programs transponder keys and key fobs on-site, so you don't have to tow your car to the dealership. See our car key replacement service.
Where we can help
AP Locksmith is a licensed and insured mobile locksmith. We come to you anywhere in Asheville and nearby areas within roughly 20–25 miles, including:
Asheville, Weaverville, Woodfin, Leicester, Candler, Arden, Fletcher, Mills River, Hendersonville, Flat Rock, Fairview, Black Mountain, Swannanoa, Mars Hill, Marshall, Canton, and all of Buncombe County, NC. See the full service area.
Whether you're locked out at home, at work, in a grocery store parking lot or at a trailhead outside town — we'll come to you.
FAQ
How fast can a locksmith get to me in Asheville?
AP Locksmith typically arrives within 15–30 minutes in Asheville and nearby areas.
Will unlocking my car damage it?
No. Professional locksmiths use special tools designed to open cars without scratching paint or damaging the door, lock or electronics.
Can you unlock any car?
We unlock most cars, trucks and SUVs. Tell us your make, model and year when you call and we'll confirm.
What are your hours?
We're open 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM, 7 days a week.
Can you make a new car key if I lost mine?
Yes. We make replacement car keys and program transponder keys and key fobs on-site.
Do I need to prove the car is mine?
Yes. For your security, we ask for an ID and proof of ownership (such as registration) before or right after unlocking a vehicle.
Locked out right now?
Call AP Locksmith at (828) 520-2226. We're open 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM, 7 days a week, and serve Asheville and the surrounding area within about 20–25 miles.