Without the matching key, the only way to rekey the lock will be to pick it open, and although it's usually not a problem for a skilled locksmith, it will often incur additional charges which can make it more expensive than replacing the lock altogether.
Yes, it is possible for you to rekey a lock without the original key. A locksmith can change your locks even if you have lost or misplaced the original key. In general, it is possible to pick or shim the lock and unlock the door. Then, the locksmith will have a much easier time removing the lock cylinder.
A well-trained locksmith can actually create a key without having the original. How so? Well, locksmiths have specialized tools and equipment that allow them to produce an exact copy of your old key, and they can do so in a variety of ways.
Purchase a Rekeying Kit
You can use the same key for each regardless of brand. The rekeying kit comes with everything you need to complete this task, such as tiny picks and tweezers, a key gauge, an assortment of pins and springs, and any other tools you'll need to disassemble and reassemble the lock.
Calling a professional locksmith
Calling a locksmith is usually a good decision because: They'll be an expert in defeating locks to open house and car doors. So they'll know how to use the tools of their trade to get you inside in next to no time.
What should I do? If you recorded the key number, you may be able to get replacement keys from a hardware store or locksmith. If you didn't record the number, contact a locksmith to remove your lock. Please note there will likely be a fee for this service.
If you have a traditional key, a locksmith can make you a replacement key without the original on the spot. If you have a more technologically advanced key, you'll probably need to get a tow to a dealership and order a replacement from them.
Due to the extremely low price of the key pins in the locks, rekeying is almost always much cheaper than getting your locks changed. When rekeying your locks, you are only being charged for the labor, whereas when you get your locks changed, you're paying both for labor and parts.
To change a lock so that it fits an existing key, you simply work in the opposite direction: You change the pattern of the pins in the lock so that it matches the pattern of notches in the key. If the lock is designed with a universal keying system, any locksmith can re-key the lock in no time.
Lowes won't rekey an old lock you carry in, you have to buy it right there. ... unless you get an employee in a good mood that feels like helping. They use the 5 digit code on your key to know what pins to put in the lock.
Most Home Depot's have an associate on staff that can rekey door locks. Call your local Home Depot and make sure that the person that does the rekeying service is there before you arrive. Also there may be a charge for this service.
Though AutoZone no longer offers key cutting, you can still get assistance with your vehicle needs with service such as battery testing, fix finder, and other services at your local AutoZone store.
Can all door locks be rekeyed? Most common door locks can be rekeyed, but if you have lost the original key or the lock is broken, the lock will need to be replaced.
The type of service you require most affects locksmith costs. Duplicating a traditional key might cost as little as $5 while extracting a broken key from a lock could range from $50 to $200. Installing new electronic locks or replacing a high-tech car transponder key could cost $400 or more.
You don't need the original key to rekey a Schlage lock, just the right tools. Understanding your lock type is the first step before rekeying. Rekeying kits are available at most hardware stores or online.
You can still acquire a replacement key if you have lost the original. You may consider returning to the dealer to obtain a replacement key, however, this can be very expensive, especially if your vehicle needs to be towed. A more affordable option is to enlist the services of an auto locksmith.
Most locksmiths should be able to rekey locks without the original key with some level of ease. That said, the cost associated with doing it without the original set of keys is high. That's why you might want to consider changing the locks instead.
Lock rekeying is the process of altering a lock's internal components to work with a new key while keeping the existing lock hardware. This involves changing the pins or wafers inside the lock cylinder, which are the parts that interact with the key to allow it to, or prevent it from, turning.
Unlimited amount of times.
We rekey Kwikset and Schlage locks at a fraction of the price of having to replace your locksets. We can also create a 'master key' for superintendents or landlords that need access to multiple units without carrying a hundred keys. We also key Masterlock padlocks to an existing Masterlock key.
Changing a Yale lock typically costs around £100 during normal business hours. If it's an emergency, most locksmiths will charge a call-out fee ranging from £50 to £150. These figures represent typical costs, but the actual cost of your lock replacement project may vary based on several crucial factors.
A rekey service can take between 10 and 40 minutes per lock. Rekeying only applied to keyed security locks, and not to privacy locks found on bathroom and bedroom doorknobs. New lock installation or replacement can take 30-60 minutes per lock, which is one reason that lock replacement is more expensive.
General Locksmith Costs
If you've lost your house keys, a professional locksmith can easily make new keys for you. Replacing normal door keys ranges from R500 to R700. If the key is stuck in the lock or you want the lock replaced, the price ranges from R650 to R1000.
Call a Locksmith
It is likely that he will bring bolt cutters and simply replace the lock, but it is possible that he could make a new key for you, depending on the kind of lock. Locksmiths are more familiar with opening locks than just about anyone.
Home Depot is not able to make a key copy without the original, except for the above Key Hero App case. However, a locksmith makes keys when all keys are missing to just about everything.