Getting locked out is never fun — but when it happens while you’re abroad or living in a new country, things can get stressful fast. Whether you’re a tourist in Marbella or an expat in Rincón de la Victoria, dealing with a lock issue in a different language and legal system can be overwhelming. And unfortunately, not all locksmiths are transparent or reliable.
Need help right now? We offer 24h locksmith service in Málaga and across the Costa del Sol
If you’re currently locked out or need a locksmith urgently, don’t worry — we’re here to help. At Mou Cerrajero Málaga, we offer professional 24/7 locksmith services across the entire Costa del Sol.
We cover areas like:
- Málaga
- Torremolinos
- Fuengirola
- Benalmádena
- Mijas
- Marbella
- Rincón de la Victoria
- Cártama
- Coin
- Alhaurín de la Torre
- Alhaurín el Grande
1. Know the price before they show up
Many people have been quoted one price over the phone, only to be charged double — or more — after the job is done. Sometimes the excuse is “emergency surcharge” or “night fees”.
What to do: Ask for a full quote upfront, or at least a clear price range including possible extras.
✅ With Mou Cerrajero Málaga, you’ll always get a transparent price during the first call — no surprises, no hidden fees.
2. Ask about payment methods
Some locksmiths only accept cash or add strange card processing fees last minute. Imagine being locked out with no cash and no nearby ATM…
What to do: Confirm if they accept card, cash, or Bizum before they arrive.
✅ We accept cash, card and Bizum — and we’ll always tell you in advance.
3. Make sure they speak English — really
You might talk to someone in perfect English on the phone… but then the technician who shows up doesn’t speak a word. Explaining what you need becomes a guessing game.
What to do: Ask if the person who will actually come to your door speaks English.
✅ At Mou Cerrajero Málaga, we truly speak your language — English, French, Spanish, and even Arabic.
4. Watch out for locksmith scams
There are shady operators who will drill your lock unnecessarily just to charge more. Some don’t show ID, arrive in unmarked cars, or aren’t even licensed.
What to do: Look for locksmiths with good reviews and a real presence — not just a mobile number.
✅ We’re registered professionals, members of the APFC, and have over 100 five-star reviews on Google Maps.
5. Ask about non-destructive methods
Some locksmiths go straight to drilling, even when it’s not necessary. That means more cost for you — and possibly damage to your door.
What to do: Ask if they can open the door without damage, and what their plan is before starting.
✅ We always use non-destructive techniques first. Drilling is the absolute last resort.
6. Confirm arrival time — and get updates
You call an “emergency locksmith,” and then wait 2 hours. Sound familiar?
What to do: Ask for an estimated arrival time, and check if they can update you if delayed.
✅ We confirm the ETA during the first call. In Málaga city we usually arrive in under 30 minutes.
7. Ask for ID and credentials
Someone shows up without a uniform or any form of ID? That’s a red flag. You should always know who’s coming into your home.
What to do: Ask for their name and ID before letting them start any work.
✅ Our technicians are uniformed, carry ID, and clearly represent our company.
8. Avoid high-pressure upselling
Some people feel pushed into extra services — new locks, spare keys, upgrades — they didn’t really need.
What to do: Stick to what you need, and say no to extras unless you’re 100% sure.
✅ We never upsell. If we recommend something, it’s because it genuinely helps — and you always decide.
9. Think about follow-up support
Sometimes, the job seems fine… until the next day when the lock jams. And then the locksmith is impossible to reach.
What to do: Choose a company that offers a real guarantee and answers the phone after the job.
✅ Our work is guaranteed. If something’s not right, we’ll fix it.
Quick tips to stay safe and avoid stress
- Save the number of a trusted locksmith before you need it.
- Check real reviews from expats or tourists.
- Don’t feel rushed — ask questions.
- Stay calm — you’re in control.
Contact your English-speaking locksmith on the Costa del Sol
Need help right now? Call or WhatsApp us at (+34) 603 515 632. We’re based in Málaga and cover the entire Costa del Sol — fast, reliable and always transparent.
Want to see the areas we serve? Visit our local locksmith pages for Torremolinos, Mijas, Benalmádena and more.