Should I rekey my locks or replace them?
Short answerRekey if the lock still works and you only need new keys — old keys stop working, new keys start. Replace if the hardware is damaged, outdated, or you want different hardware, including a smart lock. They are not the same service.
Rekey
The lock body stays on the door. The combination inside is set so a new key works and the old keys do not. Useful when you moved in, you lost house keys but the lock still throws the bolt, or you do not know who still has copies. We will not describe how that combination is changed.
Replace
The hardware comes off. A different deadbolt, knob, or lever goes on. Useful when the lock sticks, is rusty, is the wrong style, or you are stepping up to a keypad / smart lock. A rekey cannot fix a lock that is mechanically finished.
Which situation points where
- Moved into a home, locks work: often rekey
- Lost a house key, lock still good: often rekey (after you can get in)
- Unknown copies of old keys: rekey
- Damaged or outdated lock: replace
- Want different hardware: replace
- Installing a smart lock: replace / install — not a rekey of the old cylinder in the usual sense
If you are locked out right now
Getting the door open is a lockout. Rekey or replace is a decision after you are inside, unless the lock is already destroyed. Do not treat this page as entry instructions. There are none here.
Not sure which one you need?
Tell us what happened and what is on the door now. How many doors helps.