Complaint Review: Run Local Locksmith

I contacted run-local-locksmith.com because my wife's key could not turn the ignition. I was told I had to replace the ignition lock cylinder, that it would be $120 in labor + parts.

The locksmith (John) fixed the problem, but charged me $519.97. I was shocked. He had charged me $275 for the ignition lock (which typically sells for $40 or less and is only $80 from dealer). He keyed the ignition lock for my wife's keys, but then also charged $79 for "de-coding" the ignition (which was unnecessary because the transponder was never modified). This charge was in addition to the $120 labor for an hour's work.

I called run-local-locksmith to complain about what I considered a gross over-charge for parts and labor. They told me I agreed to pay it so that was that. Because it was an emergency situation, I did not have the opportunity to look up the cost of the part or try to shop for a different locksmith. While I'm happy with the work John did, I think I was ripped off.

I strongly recommend you avoid run-local-locksmith, as they seem to prey upon unsuspecting motorists in need. While the locksmith may set the price of the parts, the company dispatches the locksmith. It's like a cab company that knows the charge for a trip to the airport is fixed at $75, but then charges triple to a customer who is unaware of the rules. Sure it's the cabbie's fault, but it's also the companies responsibility to hire responsible and honest drivers.

Never, ever do business with these people...