Automotive Locksmith Services

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Experienced Automotive Locksmith

Car Lockouts, Key Replacement & Extractions

IN-N-OUT Locksmith helps drivers in Baltimore, Howard, Anne Arundel, Harford, and Carroll Counties. We work on keys, fobs, ignitions, and locks. Our service comes to you, whether you are at home, work, a job site, or a parking garage. This means you don’t need to tow your car or leave it alone. You will receive a clear estimate before we start. The technician will explain each step in simple terms. This way, you will know what is happening and why.We work carefully around trim, airbag zones and delicate plastics, and we test every function with you before we leave. For scheduling or questions, call (240) 885-6557. Phones are answered 8 AM–12 AM, seven days a week.

What we fix and how we think about it

Modern vehicle security blends mechanical parts (locks, wafers, cylinders) and electronics (transponders, proximity antennas, immobilisers and modules). Trouble can show up in many ways. It might be a key that won’t turn, a blade that turns but the engine won’t start, or a remote that only works sometimes. It could also be a car that starts and then stalls because of an immobilizer handshake failure. Our job is to find out which part is failing mechanical, electrical, or software. Then, we choose the least disruptive fix to restore reliable and repeatable operation.

Key won’t turn / hard to turn: usually worn wafers, a damaged key blade, a steering column bind, or debris in the cylinder. We inspect the blade, decode the lock, clean or rebuild the cylinder, and set it to a fresh key if needed.
Turns but no crank/no start: mechanical is fine; electronic pairing may be failing. We scan for security codes, check immobiliser status, confirm key recognition, and re-sync as required.
Remote/fob issues: batteries are only part of the story. We verify frequency, antenna health and pairing status, then program or replace with the correct OEM-grade part.
After theft attempt: cylinders may be twisted, housings cracked, linkages bent and electronics confused. We rebuild or replace damaged parts and re-establish key control so missing keys no longer work.

Core automotive services

What we actually do on site

Car key programming & smart fobs
We originate or duplicate blades to factory specs, then program the transponder or proximity fob to your vehicle’s immobiliser. For proximity systems, we verify door handles, push-to-start and trunk release. For remote head keys, we confirm both the mechanical blade and the wireless functions.
All keys lost recovery
When no working key remains, we cut a new blade from code or decode, retrieve the correct security path, and pair the new key or fob so the vehicle recognises it. We can also delete lost keys from memory so a found key won’t start the engine.
Ignition repair & replacement
We rebuild worn cylinders (wafers, springs, retainers), free stuck keys, and replace damaged switches or housings. If a new cylinder is required, we can often re-key it to match your door key so you don’t carry two different keys. After mechanical work, we verify accessory/run/start positions and test the steering lock.
ECU / immobiliser re-programming
After module swaps, battery problems or ignition replacements, the vehicle may need its security data aligned. We sync keys with the immobiliser, adapt modules where supported, clear related codes and confirm a clean start/run cycle.
Lockouts, broken keys and door/trunk hardware
Non-destructive openings are handled with care to avoid scratching trim or sensors. For broken blades, we extract fragments and cut replacements from code. If a door or trunk lock is loose, jammed or spinning, we repair the cylinder and reattach linkages so the mechanical backup works as designed.

Motorcycle and RV keys (case by case)
Many bikes and RVs are possible with the right codes and blanks. We’ll ask for model details and photos to confirm in advance.

Makes & Platforms We Service

Domestic & Asian Brands

Ford/Lincoln,
GM/Chevy/GMC/Cadillac
Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/RAM

European (many models)

Volkswagen/Audi, BMW/Mini
Mercedes-Benz
Volvo
Jaguar/Land Rover

Some European platforms need specific parts or extra lead time. Call with your VIN, and we’ll confirm feasibility and the cleanest path.

Asian

Toyota/Lexus
Honda/Acura
Nissan/Infiniti
Hyundai/Kia
Mazda
Subaru

The mobile process (step by step)

Need Help Regarding Automotive Locksmith?

Call us or fill out the form below to get a quote.

Pricing clarity (how we quote)

No two vehicles and no two problems are identical, so pricing is based on the platform, the part type (blade/fob/cylinder/switch), whether keys must be originated or duplicated, and whether module sync is required. Before we start, you receive an itemised estimate that lists labour, parts and any programming steps. If we uncover hidden damage (very common after theft attempts), we stop, show you photos and adjust the plan together so you approve the path forward.

Practical tips that save time and money

Bring all keys and fobs to the visit. Some vehicles limit memory slots; we’ll make sure every key you own still works when we’re done.
Charge or replace dead remotes. A fresh battery avoids false failures during testing.
Confirm garage or gate rules. If the car is in a secure lot or garage, arrange entry in advance so we can park near the vehicle.
Share the VIN if possible. It lets us verify parts and security procedures in advance.
Tell us if modules were changed. A used ECU or ignition switch can change the programming path; better to know beforehand.

Common scenarios we handle every week

All keys lost at a youth sports field: we originate a blade from code, program a proximity fob, and confirm push-to-start and power tailgate functions before you drive away.
Work van key snapped in the ignition: we extract the fragment, rebuild the cylinder, cut two new blades, and make sure door and ignition match so drivers aren’t juggling keys.
SUV stolen attempt, column torn up: we replace the cylinder housing, re-key to the door key for convenience, sync the immobiliser, and remove any lost keys from memory.
Used fob bought online won’t pair: we test it; if it’s locked to another vehicle (common), we provide the correct OEM-grade part and complete the pairing.

Counties we serve (service-area focus)

Baltimore County
Howard County
Anne Arundel County
Harford County
Carroll County

Calls come from driveways, office lots, campuses, garages, shopping centers and job sites throughout these counties. If your location has special access rules, mention that when scheduling and we’ll plan accordingly.

Why drivers choose IN-N-OUT Locksmith

No tow required. We come to the vehicle with cutting, decoding and programming tools.
Clear explanations. We translate security codes and technical steps into plain English so you always know what’s happening.
Quality parts. Keys, fobs, cylinders and switches sourced from reputable suppliers to match your platform.
Careful workmanship. We protect trim, avoid drilling unless absolutely necessary, and test everything with you.
Respect for your time. Phones are answered 8 AM–12 AM daily, and we schedule windows that work with your day or evening.

Warranty and aftercare

We stand behind our work. Programming and hardware carry a practical warranty that’s explained on your invoice. If a fob loses pairing during a battery change or module service shortly after our visit, we’ll help you get it back in sync. If a cylinder we rebuilt becomes sticky, we’ll re-check the pinning and key profile and make it right.

GET A QUOTE BELOW

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need to go to the dealership?

Usually not. We handle cutting and programming on site for most models. Some European platforms require special parts or an extra step; we’ll confirm by VIN.

Can you delete keys from memory?

Yes. If a key is lost or stolen, we can remove it so it no longer starts the car. Mechanical locks can also be re-keyed if needed.

Can you program a used fob I already bought?

Sometimes. Many used fobs are locked to the original car and cannot be repurposed. We’ll check the part number and advise the best option.

Will my old door key still fit if you replace the ignition?

We can usually re-key the new ignition cylinder to match the existing door key so you carry one key for everything.

What should I have ready before you arrive?

Vehicle location, county, year/make/model, VIN if available, and proof of ownership. Photos of the key/fob and ignition help us show up with the right parts.

What are your hours?

Phones are answered 8 AM–12 AM, seven days a week. Evening work is available up to midnight as routes and parts allow.

How to schedule

Call (240) 885-6557 and tell us your county and the issue you’re seeing. If you prefer, use the Contact page and attach a couple of photos. We’ll confirm parts, send a written estimate, and set a time window that fits your day or evening. When we finish, you’ll have labelled keys or fobs, smooth operation, and a clear receipt for your records.