Getting locked out of your car during the day is frustrating. Getting locked out at night in Los Angeles is a different level of stressful — especially if you're in an unfamiliar area, alone, or far from home. Here's exactly what to do to stay safe and get help quickly.
Safety First — Before You Call Anyone
🟢 Do This Immediately
- Move to a well-lit area — near streetlights, a business, or a parking structure entrance.
- Stay near other people if possible — a busy sidewalk, open restaurant, or gas station.
- Keep your phone charged — if it's low, find somewhere to charge before making calls.
- Let someone know where you are — text a friend or family member your location.
- Trust your instincts — if something feels unsafe, call 911 first, then worry about the car.
Where to Wait in LA at Night
Los Angeles has 24-hour businesses across most neighborhoods. Good options to wait near or inside:
- 24-hour gas stations (many have attendants and are well-lit)
- 24-hour pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens)
- Fast food restaurants open late (McDonald's, Jack in the Box, etc.)
- Hotel lobbies — you can often wait in the lobby safely even if you're not a guest
- If you're near a shopping center, many have 24-hour security patrols
Who to Call
- Your car's app — Tesla, OnStar, MyChevrolet, Toyota Connected and others can unlock remotely for free. Try this first.
- Your auto insurance roadside assistance — if your policy includes it, this is usually the fastest and cheapest option at night.
- AAA — if you're a member, this is a great option. Response times can be longer at night.
- A car unlocking service like LA Lock Busters — we operate until 10pm daily and dispatch immediately.
- After 10pm: You'll need a 24-hour locksmith — search Google for "24 hour locksmith Los Angeles" and check reviews carefully.
Note: We operate 7am–10pm daily. If you need help after 10pm, please contact a 24-hour locksmith. We don't want to leave you stranded — this is just our honest hours.
What NOT to Do at Night
- Don't stand alone next to your car on a dark or isolated street while waiting.
- Don't accept help from strangers offering to unlock your car — this is a common setup for theft or worse.
- Don't try to break in yourself — beyond the damage risk, it can look suspicious and attract police attention.
- Don't give your location to companies that seem unprofessional or that pressured you with an unrealistically low price — these scammers operate at night too.
If You're on a Freeway or Busy Road at Night
This is a genuine safety emergency — your priority is getting away from traffic, not unlocking your car.
- Call 911 — CHP patrols freeways and will send help.
- Turn on your hazard lights.
- Exit the vehicle and stand well away from traffic (behind the guardrail if possible).
- Wait for CHP to arrive before trying to deal with the car.
Locked out tonight? We're available until 10pm.
We dispatch immediately and give you an honest ETA. Sedan $89 · SUV/Coupe $130.
📞 Call (424) 353-3973Preventing Future Night Lockouts
- Keep a spare key with a trusted person — family member, friend, or neighbor.
- Use a magnetic key box hidden under your car (not recommended for high-crime areas).
- Download your car's app and set it up before you need it.
- Add your auto insurance's roadside number to your phone contacts now.
- Consider a keyless entry car for your next vehicle.