How Long Does It Take to Unlock a Car? Expert Insights and Towing Service Tips

Published on Mar 07, 2025
How Long Does It Take to Unlock a Car? Expert Insights and Towing Service Tips

Understanding Car Unlocking Services: What You Need to Know

Imagine this: you’ve just parked your car, locked it, and closed the door only to realize the keys are still inside. It happens more often than you think. Whether you're stranded in the parking lot or have accidentally locked yourself out at the gas station, one question often arises: how long does it take to unlock a car?

The answer isn’t always straightforward. Several factors come into play when it comes to the time it takes to unlock a car. But before diving into the details, let's discuss why knowing this information can be incredibly useful when you're in a bind.

United Towing Service Inc.
united towing
United Towing Service Inc.

26170 Adams Ave, Murrieta, CA 92562, USA

Factors That Affect Car Unlocking Time

While a straightforward car unlock may take just minutes, there are various variables that can influence the duration of this service. Understanding these factors can help you prepare and stay calm during the process:

  • Type of Car: The model and make of your vehicle plays a huge role in unlocking time. Newer cars equipped with advanced security systems might take longer to unlock compared to older models.
  • Location: Where you’re located matters. If you’re in a busy urban area, there’s likely more traffic for the towing service to navigate. Conversely, if you’re in a rural area, it might take longer for the technician to arrive.
  • Time of Day: Services during peak hours or at night could have longer wait times, especially if it’s a busy period for towing companies.
  • Tools Available: Depending on the tools and technology used by the car locksmith or towing company, unlocking a car may take more or less time. Some companies use inflatable wedges, while others might use a traditional "big easy" tool to unlock doors.

How Long Does It Take to Unlock a Car?

Typically, unlocking a car can take anywhere between 15 to 30 minutes. However, this time frame can vary significantly based on the factors mentioned above. For instance, if you’re dealing with a high-tech car, it may take longer as specialized tools or methods are required.

In emergency cases where you’re locked out in unsafe conditions or have a time-sensitive matter, many professional towing services offer rapid response times to minimize your wait. Some services might even offer a mobile locksmith team that can arrive in as little as 15 minutes, depending on the urgency and location.

J & J Towing
j and j towing
J & J Towing

4560 N Webster Ave, Perris, CA 92571, USA

Real-Life Cases: Towing Services and Unlocking Cars

To make things more relatable, let’s look at some real-life examples of how towing companies handle car unlock situations:

  • Case 1: The Late-Night Unlocking – One customer found herself locked out of her car in a dimly lit parking lot late at night. After calling a towing service, a technician arrived within 20 minutes, and the car was unlocked within 5 minutes using a long-reach tool. The customer appreciated the technician’s efficiency and quick response.
  • Case 2: The High-Tech Car – A person with a newer model vehicle equipped with advanced security features needed to unlock their car. The towing service technician had to use specialized equipment, taking a bit longer (around 45 minutes) to ensure the car’s security system wasn’t damaged during the unlocking process.
  • Case 3: The Rural Area Delay – A person locked themselves out of their car in a remote area. While the response time was a bit slower than expected, the towing service still arrived within an hour. The extra time was spent navigating long, winding roads to get to the location.

When Should You Contact a Towing Service or Locksmith?

Knowing when to call a towing service versus a locksmith can save you time, effort, and potentially money. Here are some scenarios where you might consider calling a professional:

  • When You’ve Lost Your Keys – If your car keys are missing, calling a locksmith or a professional car rescue service is the best option. They can create a new key for your vehicle without damaging it.
  • When You’re in a Dangerous Situation – If you’ve locked yourself out of your car in an unsafe location, such as on the side of the road or in a high-crime area, it’s essential to get help quickly. Towing services often have emergency response teams trained to handle these situations.
  • If Your Car is High-Tech – Newer models with advanced security features may require specialized tools or knowledge. For these cars, calling a professional who is experienced with high-tech unlocks will save you the hassle.

How to Avoid Getting Locked Out in the First Place

While getting locked out of your car is an unfortunate situation, there are ways to minimize the chances of it happening:

  • Always Double-Check: Before closing your car door, check that your keys are inside or on your person.
  • Spare Key: Keep a spare key in a safe place or with a trusted friend to prevent being locked out.
  • Invest in Keyless Entry: If you often forget your keys, consider upgrading to a keyless entry system for added convenience.

Why Choose Our Towing Services?

If you ever find yourself in need of fast and reliable car unlocking services, consider our towing company. Our team of certified technicians is equipped with the latest tools and training to get you back in your car quickly and safely. We offer affordable prices, rapid response times, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Whether you're locked out during the day or night, you can rely on us to get to you fast!

Don't let a car lockout ruin your day. Contact us now to learn more about our services and to get a quote. Our team is ready to help 24/7, so you’ll never be left stranded for long!

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