How do I rekey a lock to an existing key?

Author: Maurine Schumm  |  Last update: Tuesday, August 15, 2023

How to Rekey a Lock
  1. Step 1: Remove the Doorknob. The first step is to remove the doorknob from the door. ...
  2. Step 2: Remove the Cylinder. ...
  3. Step 3: Take Out the C-Clip. ...
  4. Step 4: Attach Key Plug. ...
  5. Step 5: Dump the Old Pins. ...
  6. Step 6: Insert New Pins. ...
  7. Step 7: Replace the Plug. ...
  8. Step 8: Reattach Knob to Door.

Will Ace hardware rekey locks?

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.

Can I rekey a Schlage lock myself?

Schlage Rekeying Kits provide everything you need to get the job done—including all the tools and parts you need for repinning the cylinders of most Schlage locksets so that they work with a single key. Navigating your way through the Kit tray.

Can you rekey a Kwikset lock with a Schlage key?

However, it's important to know which brand you have when rekeying a home or buying a new lock. As mentioned earlier, you may have accidentally tried to put the wrong key in a lock to find that the key won't even go into the keyway. This is because Schlage and Kwikset locks are not compatible with the same type of key.

Can you rekey a Kwikset lock more than once?

Unlimited amount of times. All you need is the Smarkey Security tool.

How to rekey a lock 101

Does Kwikset SmartKey work with any key?

No. Only SC1 5-Pin keys are compatible.

Can any Schlage lock be rekeyed?

Schlage locks with a cylinder, whether a mechanical lock or smart lock, can be keyed alike or rekeyed according to your needs.

Can you rekey a lock without replacing it?

Yes, the original key is necessary to use a rekey kit when rekeying a lock. If you do not have the original key, you can choose to hire a locksmith to make a new key or you can replace the lock.

Does Schlage have an easy rekey?

The SecureKey design provides well over 100,000 possible key combinations, making it 10 times more secure from key duplication than other rekeyable systems on the market, according to Schlage. Rekeying Schlage SecureKey deadbolts and locks is an easy two-step procedure.

Can I rekey a lock without the original key?

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.

Why won't my key go into the lock?

First, try lubrication. A lubricant can help your key all over and penetrate into the lock to loosen whatever is making them stuck. Spray lubricant will typically do the trick. If you can't find any, WD-40 works as well.

How long does it take to rekey a lock?

Rekeying a lock generally takes about 15 minutes, but this depends on the type of lock as well as the skills of the person working on it. The most time-consuming part of the process is removing the lock from the door – the actual rekeying is much simpler. If it's simple, should you rekey your lock yourself?

Can I get all my locks keyed the same?

As long every lock in your home is the same type then yes. If your locks are different, they will have to be changed in order to use the same keys for all of them.

What is the difference between changing locks and rekeying locks?

The main difference between a lock rekey and changing your locks is that rekeying locks fixes your existing hardware and changing your locks means you want to replace your hardware.

Is it cheaper to replace door locks or rekey?

Rekeying is usually cheaper, and it still provides you with a renewed sense of security. If you move into a new home or if your key is lost or stolen, rekeying your lock will almost always suffice. If your lock mechanism is beginning to deteriorate, however, consider changing the lock.

What are the easiest locks to rekey?

Although there are many different types of locks, today we're going to talk about rekeying a pin and tumbler lock. This is the most common and one of the easiest types of locks to rekey aside from old-school locks.

What are the benefits of rekeying your locks?

7 Benefits of Rekeying Locks
  • Different situations. There are a variety of reasons why you would want to update the locks on your home or company. ...
  • Fixes a security breach. ...
  • No need for new hardware. ...
  • Cost-effective. ...
  • Customized. ...
  • Master key. ...
  • You can change locks differently. ...
  • Wrapping up.

Is Kwikset or Schlage better?

Schlage and Kwikset are two of the most popular lock manufacturers on the market. Both brands make excellent locks that homeowners can easily install, but Schlage locks tend to offer higher security and reliability and are trusted by big businesses.

How much does it cost to rekey a Schlage deadbolt?

In general, prices average between $20 and $50 for a single lock and can cost up to $130 for a house. However, if you call a locksmith out on an emergency you can expect it to cost an extra $100 to $150. If you need to rekey your vehicle the price ranges from $75 to $180 for most locksmith companies.

How many times can you rekey with SmartKey?

Am I limited to how many times a SmartKey lock can be re-keyed? A: No, you can re-key a SmartKey lock as often as you'd like.

Can SmartKey locks be picked?

Any lock can be picked, but some are practically impossible and some have not yet been picked. The SmartKey locks are sidebar locks and about as close to unpickable as you can get, but you better believe SOMEBODY has managed it. However, SmartKey locks are extremely vulnerable to compromise by the SmartKey Bypass Tool.

Are SmartKey locks safe?

Are smart key locks safe? Quality smart locks come with the same safety features as traditional locks, only with the added protection of: Required logins. You must have an account and password to access your smart lock's features.

Previous article
What time of day should you not water plants?
Next article
What does a good tile job look like?