Locked Your Keys in Your Car? Here's What to Do in London, Ontario
It happens to everyone eventually. You're at Masonville Mall, you close the door, and that sinking feeling hits — your keys are sitting on the driver's seat, staring back at you through the window. Or maybe you're pumping gas on Wellington Road and realize your key fob is locked inside with the engine running.
Don't panic. Getting locked out of your car in London, Ontario is frustrating, but it's one of the most common roadside emergencies we handle. Here's everything you need to know about getting back into your vehicle quickly, safely, and affordably.
Should I Call a Locksmith or a Towing Company?
This is the first question most people ask, and the answer depends on your situation.
Towing companies (like Em's Towing & Roadside Assistance) offer lockout services as part of their roadside assistance packages. We use professional tools to unlock your vehicle without damaging the door, weather stripping, or paint. For most modern vehicles, we can have you back inside in 15-30 minutes.
Locksmiths specialize in key cutting and lock repair. If your key is broken, you need a new key fob programmed, or the lock itself is damaged, a locksmith is your best bet. However, for a simple lockout where the keys are inside the vehicle, a towing company is usually faster and more affordable.
Cost comparison: In London, Ontario, lockout service from a towing company typically runs $60-$120, depending on your location and time of day. Locksmiths often charge $150-$300+ for emergency lockouts, especially after hours.
Bottom line: If your keys are inside the car and the locks work fine, call a towing company. If you've lost your keys or need a replacement, call a locksmith.
What About CAA or Roadside Assistance Insurance?
If you have Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) membership or roadside assistance through your auto insurance, lockout service is often included. Check your policy or membership card before calling anyone — you might get the service for free.
However, keep in mind:
- CAA response times can vary, especially during peak hours or bad weather
- Some policies limit the number of service calls per year
- Not all policies cover lockouts if the keys are lost (only if they're locked inside)
If you don't have coverage or you've used up your annual calls, calling a local towing company directly is your fastest option. At Em's Towing, we provide upfront pricing over the phone at (226) 476-4176 so there are no surprises.
Can I Unlock My Car Myself?
Maybe. But probably not without risking damage.
The old "coat hanger through the window" trick worked on cars from the 1990s and earlier, but modern vehicles have anti-theft systems that make DIY unlocking nearly impossible. If you try to force your way in with a slim jim, wire, or wedge without the right training, you can easily:
- Damage the weather stripping around the door
- Crack the window
- Scratch the paint
- Trigger the alarm
- Damage the locking mechanism itself
A $75 lockout call is a lot cheaper than a $500 repair bill.
That said, if you have a spare key at home, you might be able to have a friend or family member bring it to you. Just make sure you're in a safe location while you wait — parking lots in Byron, White Oaks, or Hyde Park are well-lit and relatively safe during the day, but highway shoulders (especially along the 401 or 402) are not.
What If There's a Child or Pet Locked in the Car?
Call 911 immediately.
If a child, infant, or pet is locked inside the vehicle — especially in hot or cold weather — this is a life-threatening emergency. London Police and Fire Services can respond quickly and are authorized to break a window if necessary to get them out safely.
Do not wait for a locksmith or towing company in this situation. Every minute counts.
How Long Does It Take for a Tow Company to Arrive for a Lockout?
At Em's Towing, we aim for a 20-30 minute response time for lockouts in the London area, including Byron, Westmount, Lambeth, and surrounding neighborhoods. If you're on Highway 401 near the Wellington Road or Wonderland Road exits, we can usually reach you within 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
When you call, we'll give you an estimated arrival time based on your exact location. Our dispatch team monitors traffic conditions in real-time, so you'll know what to expect.
What Information Do I Need to Provide?
When you call for lockout service, have the following ready:
- Your exact location (intersection, parking lot name, or highway exit)
- Your vehicle's make, model, and year
- Whether the keys are visible inside the car
- Your contact phone number
If you're on a highway or in an unfamiliar area, use your phone's GPS or a landmark (like a Tim Hortons or gas station) to help the driver find you.
How Can I Prevent Getting Locked Out in the Future?
Once you've been locked out, you'll never want to go through it again. Here are some simple prevention tips:
1. Keep a spare key at home or with a trusted friend. Don't keep it in your car (that defeats the purpose), but have one accessible.
2. Invest in a magnetic key holder that attaches under your car's frame. Just make sure it's secure and check it occasionally to ensure it hasn't fallen off.
3. Use a keychain carabiner to clip your keys to your belt loop or bag. It's harder to lock your keys inside when they're physically attached to you.
4. Enable smartphone-based keyless entry if your vehicle supports it. Many newer models (2020+) allow you to unlock your car using an app, even if you've left the physical key inside.
5. Get in the habit of the "pocket pat" before closing the door. Keys, phone, wallet — every time, no exceptions.
Why Choose Em's Towing for Lockout Service in London, Ontario?
When you're locked out of your car, you want someone who's fast, professional, and won't damage your vehicle. Here's what sets us apart:
20-30 minute average response time in London and surrounding areas
Professional tools designed for modern vehicles
No damage guarantee — we unlock your car safely or you don't pay
Upfront pricing with no hidden fees
24/7 availability — because lockouts don't wait for business hours
We serve all of London, Ontario, including Byron, Masonville, White Oaks, Hyde Park, Westmount, Lambeth, and areas along Highway 401, Highway 402, and Highway 3. Whether you're locked out at home, at work, or stranded in a parking lot, we'll get you back on the road quickly.
Need Help Right Now?
Call Em's Towing & Roadside Assistance at (226) 476-4176
We're available 24/7 for lockout service in London, Ontario and surrounding areas. Our friendly dispatch team will provide an estimated arrival time and upfront pricing over the phone.
For more information about our services, visit:
Don't let a lockout ruin your day. We'll have you back inside your car before you know it.