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Rekeying a lock cylinder is a smart and budget-friendly way to enhance security—without replacing the entire lock system. Whether you're settling into a new property, adjusting access control, or consolidating keys, rekeying allows you to reset who has access without changing the hardware.
In this guide, you'll learn the essentials of rekeying: how it works, when it's needed, and what tools are required. We'll also explain how different lock cylinders—such as pin tumbler or euro profile—can be rekeyed efficiently at home or in commercial settings.
The lock cylinder is the internal component that interacts with your key. Inside are small pins that align with the correct key cut. Rekeying involves rearranging these pins so that a new key operates the lock, rendering the old one useless.
You've moved into a new home or office
A key has been lost or copied
You want multiple locks to work with one key
There's been a change in tenants or staff
You're switching to a master key setup
Rekeying is a fast, secure, and affordable alternative to a full lock replacement—especially when done using quality cylinders from trusted manufacturers like WUXI GMB International Corporation.
Choosing to rekey a lock cylinder offers several advantages:
Cost savings over replacing an entire lock
Maintains the existing hardware and aesthetics
Allows for key standardization across multiple doors
Can be done quickly with the right tools and knowledge
Enhances overall access control in commercial buildings
If you're wondering about the difference between rekeying and changing locks cost, rekeying usually costs a fraction of full replacement, especially when dealing with multiple locks.
Before you begin rekeying, it's important to understand the basic mechanics inside a lock cylinder. Here are the key components:
Plug: The part that turns when the correct key is inserted
Spring-loaded pins: Align at the shear line to allow the plug to rotate
Shear line: The interface between the plug and the housing
Key cuts: The pattern on the key that lifts pins to the correct height
Cylinder housing: The outer shell that holds the plug and pins in place
In most door lock cylinders—whether it's a standard cylinder, high security cylinder, or smart cylinder—the principle is the same: the key must align the pins at the shear line for the plug to turn.
Understanding this mechanism is crucial to successfully rekeying your lock cylinder.
To perform a lock cylinder rekeying, you'll need a few specific tools. These typically come in a lock rekey kit, which includes:
Key decoder or gauge
Cylinder follower tool
Pinning tweezers
New pins (various sizes)
Plug remover or cap removal tool
Rekeying instructions specific to your lock brand
The new key you want the lock to match
You can purchase universal lock rekey kits or kits tailored to specific brands. Some locksmiths also offer mobile rekeying services if you're searching for “rekey locks near me” and prefer professional help.
Rekeying a lock cylinder may sound technical, but with patience and the right tools, it's a manageable DIY project. Here's how to do it:
Begin by removing the lock from the door. Depending on whether you're working with a knob, deadbolt, or lever lock, this process will vary slightly.
Unscrew the lock from the door
Remove any faceplates or escutcheons
Pull out the lock cylinder carefully
For smart cylinders or high security cylinders, you may need to disconnect electronic components or additional locking layers.
Using a plug follower tool, push the plug out of the cylinder housing while keeping the top pins and springs in place. Avoid letting the pins fall out—this can make reassembly difficult.
Insert the new key you wish to use. The key cuts will raise the internal pins to different heights. Using your pinning tweezers and gauge, replace the old pins with new ones that match the new key's bitting.
Ensure each pin sits flush with the shear line
Double-check alignment before proceeding
This step is critical. Misaligned pins can cause the lock to jam or malfunction.
Once pins are correctly aligned, reinsert the plug using the follower to guide it back into place. Ensure no pins or springs are dislodged during this process.
Insert the new key and turn it. The lock should rotate smoothly without resistance. If it sticks or doesn't turn, reopen the cylinder and check the pin alignment.
Once you're satisfied with the key function, reattach the lock cylinder and reinstall it into the door. Test the lock multiple times before completing the job.
If you're searching for how to rekey a deadbolt, the process is largely similar to other lock cylinders, with a few differences:
Deadbolts typically use a larger, more secure cylinder
Some deadbolts use turn knob cylinders on the inside, which must be removed carefully
You may need a special rekeying tool or adapter for certain brands
When dealing with rekeying deadbolts for security doors, always ensure you're using compatible pins and keys that meet the required security grade.
If you'd rather use a single key for multiple doors, you can rekey all your locks to match one master key. This is especially useful in:
Multi-unit homes
Commercial buildings
Property management offices
To do this:
Ensure all locks are of the same brand or compatible pinning system
Use the same key and rekey each lock cylinder to match its cuts
Replace incompatible lock cylinders with universal or brand-matched options
GMB offers a wide range of compatible standard cylinders and BSI high security cylinders that can be used for master rekeying projects.
Deciding between rekeying and replacing your lock depends on several factors. Here's a quick comparison:
| Factor | Rekeying | Replacing |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Low (just pins and labor) | Higher (new hardware required) |
| Security Upgrade | Basic (new key) | Significant (new cylinder options) |
| Time Required | Quick (15–30 minutes per lock) | Moderate (full removal/reinstall) |
| Aesthetic Change | None | Yes (new design or finish) |
| Smart/High-Security Integration | Limited | Full upgrade possible |
If your goal is to eliminate old key access without changing the appearance or structure, rekeying is the best option. If you're upgrading to a smart cylinder or security cylinder, replacement might be the smarter long-term investment.
Not all lock cylinders are created equal. Here are common types and their rekeying compatibility:
| Lock Cylinder Type | Rekeyable? | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Cylinder | Yes | Home use | Most DIY-friendly |
| High Security Cylinder | Yes* | Commercial use, security doors | May require special tools |
| Smart Cylinder | Sometimes | Smart home, apartment | Some models are electronic-only |
| Mortise Cylinder | Yes | Offices, high-traffic doors | Requires precise pinning |
| Turn Knob Cylinder | Yes | Interior doors, privacy | Easy to remove and rekey |
*High security cylinders, like those certified by BSI, often include anti-pick and anti-drill features, making them harder to rekey without professional tools.
GMB International Corporation offers a full range of rekeyable cylinders, including standard, smart, and BSI high security options tailored for both residential and commercial applications.
While many homeowners can rekey a lock with the right tools, there are times when it's safer to hire a locksmith:
You're dealing with a high-security or electronic cylinder
The cylinder is damaged, corroded, or jammed
You need to rekey multiple locks with different brands
You're building a master key system
Rekeying may seem straightforward, but small errors can lead to big headaches. Avoid these common pitfalls:
Inserting the wrong pin sizes
Letting top pins or springs fall out during plug removal
Using mismatched keys and cylinders
Failing to test the new key before reassembly
Not replacing worn or damaged lock parts
If in doubt, consult the manufacturer or use a professional rekeying service.
WUXI GMB International Corporation is a global leader in lock technology, offering a comprehensive selection of lock cylinders engineered for security, reliability, and compatibility.
They offer:
BSI high security cylinders for commercial and high-risk environments
Smart cylinders with biometric and app-based access
Standard and turn knob cylinders for quick replacements
Customizable lock systems for OEM and ODM clients
With over 15 years of industry experience and compliance with EN, TS, and ANSI standards, GMB products are trusted in over 50 countries.
Whether you're rekeying a single door lock cylinder or upgrading an entire building's access control, GMB has a solution tailored for your needs.
Q1: Can I rekey a lock cylinder myself at home?
A1: Yes, many standard door lock cylinders can be rekeyed with a lock rekey kit and some patience. It's a great DIY project for homeowners looking to boost security affordably.
Q2: Is it cheaper to rekey or replace a lock?
A2: Rekeying is generally much cheaper since you're only changing the internal pins, not the entire lock. It's ideal for people who want to keep their existing hardware.
Q3: Can I rekey a lock to match an existing key?
A3: Absolutely. This is common for homeowners who want all doors to operate with one key. You'll need compatible locks and a rekey kit to match the pins to your preferred key.
Q4: Are smart cylinders rekeyable?
A4: Some smart cylinders allow mechanical key rekeying, while others are fully electronic and non-rekeyable. Always check the specifications before purchasing.
Q5: What is a BSI high security cylinder?
A5: BSI-certified cylinders adhere to British security standards, offering advanced protection features like anti-pick, anti-drill, and anti-bump. These are ideal for security doors and commercial use.
Q6: How long does it take to rekey a lock cylinder?
A6: For standard cylinders, the rekeying process usually takes 15–30 minutes. High security or smart cylinders may take longer depending on complexity.
Q7: Do I need a new key when rekeying?
A7: Yes. Rekeying changes the internal pin configuration to match a new key. The old key will no longer work once the process is complete.
Rekeying a lock cylinder is a powerful way to regain control over your property's security without replacing expensive hardware. Whether you're protecting your home, upgrading office access, or standardizing keys across multiple entry points, knowing how to rekey a lock puts you in control.
With the right tools, a little patience, and high-quality components—such as those offered by WUXI GMB International Corporation—rekeying becomes a straightforward, cost-effective solution for modern security challenges.
So next time you lose a key, move into a new space, or want to upgrade to a smart or high security cylinder, don't rush to replace the whole lock. Rekeying may be all you need.
Tel: +86-510-8271 7656
Fax: +86-510-8271 7655
Email: info@gmbsino.com
Address: 4FL, No.503-1 Nanhu Road,
Sensing Device Industrial Park,
Liangxi District,Wuxi, Jiangsu,
China 214024
