Question
Does GEICO roadside assistance help with keys locked in a car?
I accidentally locked my keys in my car. I have roadside assistance through GEICO and was wondering if it would help unlock my car?
Answer
Yes — if you’ve added Emergency Roadside Service (ERS) to your GEICO auto policy, lockout assistance is included. That means if you accidentally lock your keys inside your vehicle, GEICO can dispatch someone to help you get back in. However, it’s important to understand how the benefit works so you know what to expect.
Lockout services are covered up to $100 per incident. If the locksmith’s fee exceeds that amount, you’d be responsible for the difference. In some cases, you might need to pay upfront and file for reimbursement, depending on the details of your individual policy. It’s a good idea to check your coverage online or call GEICO directly to confirm what's included.
What else does roadside assistance include?
Most roadside assistance plans are similar, even with different companies. They typically help with several common roadside emergencies, and GEICO specifically includes:
- Towing to the nearest repair facility, up to 20 miles
- Battery jump starts
- Flat tire changes, if you have a usable spare
- Winching, if your vehicle is stuck near a public road
- Fuel delivery (you pay for the fuel, but not the delivery)
You can request help 24/7 through the GEICO mobile app or on the website, which is handy if you've got a smartphone and are on the side of the road. The app uses GPS to help locate you and can track the technician’s arrival in real time.
A few things to keep in mind
- ERS is not automatically included in all GEICO policies — it’s an optional add-on, usually costing around $14 per year per vehicle.
- Some limits apply, like the $100 cap for lockouts and the 20-mile tow limit.
- Fuel isn’t free, even though delivery is — you’ll be charged for the gas itself.
For drivers who want affordable, basic coverage for common breakdowns — especially lockouts — GEICO’s ERS is a simple and cost-effective option. Just be sure you’ve added it to your policy before you need it.
GEICO’s roadside assistance is a solid, budget-friendly option for common issues like lockouts and jump starts. Still, it’s smart to compare plans to make sure you’re getting the coverage and convenience that match your needs. AAA is a traditional go-to with other membership perks, and Auto Hero is another solid option that The Zebra recommends. Regardless of the plan you choose, make sure it covers emergencies that would be most important to you in a pinch!
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