How a lockout opening works

1. You call and say where the car is and what it is. Year, make, and model help the driver bring the right tools.
2. The driver confirms the car is yours. Expect to show ID and match it to the registration or insurance in the car once it is open. This protects your car from being opened for a stranger.
3. The door is opened with lockout tools. Depending on the car, that means a slim tool through the door frame to the lock or handle, or a long reach tool to the unlock button. The door frame is protected with a wedge and the tools are made for the job.
4. You check the car and your keys before the driver leaves.

Will it damage my car?

In the large majority of cases, no. Professional lockout tools are designed to open a car without breaking glass, bending the door, or tearing weatherstripping. Very old locks, damaged doors, and some high security models can be stubborn, and the driver will tell you honestly if a car is fighting back before forcing anything. What never helps: trying to pry the door yourself with a screwdriver or breaking a window. A side window costs far more to replace than a lockout call, and modern laminated glass does not break cleanly anyway.

Common lockout situations in Pueblo

• Keys in the trunk after loading groceries or fair supplies. Many cars can be opened through the cabin to reach the trunk release.
• Car locked itself while warming up on a cold morning. Common with older remotes and push button starts.
• Keys locked in at work or school, including lots around CSU Pueblo and the downtown offices.
• Fob battery died. Many fobs hide a physical key inside. Check the fob for a small release before you call. If the car has no visible keyhole, call anyway.
• Lost keys entirely. If the keys are gone, not locked inside, the car may need a tow to a dealer or locksmith who can cut and program a new key. We can tell you on the phone which situation you are in.

What a lockout costs

A lockout opening is a service call, priced on the phone before dispatch. It costs far less than a window. After hours calls can cost more than daytime ones, and you will know the number before anyone heads your way. See the cost guide for how service calls are priced.