Should You Rekey or Replace Your Locks? A Homeowner's Guide

It's one of the most common questions homeowners ask. When you move into a new home or have a security concern, should you rekey your existing locks or replace them entirely? The answer depends on a few factors.

What's the Difference?

Rekeying changes the internal pins of an existing lock so old keys no longer work. The lock hardware stays the same; only the key combination changes. A locksmith disassembles the cylinder, replaces the pins, and cuts a new key to match.

Replacement means installing entirely new lock hardware. The old lock is removed; a new lock takes its place. New hardware means new everything — cylinder, deadbolt mechanism, possibly the strike plate and faceplate.

When Rekeying Is the Right Answer

You just bought a house

This is the most common rekey scenario. You don't know who has copies of the old keys — previous owners, realtors, contractors, neighbors, dog walkers, the previous owner's adult children. Rekeying instantly invalidates all of them. Your existing locks work fine; you just want a fresh key.

You lost your keys

If your keys are missing and might be in the hands of someone with bad intent, rekey immediately. It's faster and cheaper than replacement, and your locks will work again with new keys within an hour.

You went through a roommate or relationship change

When someone moves out and they're not coming back, rekey to revoke their access. Same idea as a house purchase — you can't be sure they didn't make extra copies.

You want all your locks to use the same key

If you have multiple exterior doors with different keys (a common situation after years of partial lock changes), a locksmith can rekey them all to use one key. This is often included in a standard rekey service.

When Replacement Makes More Sense

The hardware is worn out or damaged

If your locks are decades old, sticking when you turn the key, or showing visible wear, replacement might be more cost-effective than repeated repairs. Rekeying a worn lock just gives you new keys for a lock that's still about to fail.

You want to upgrade security

If your current locks are basic builder-grade hardware and you want stronger security, replacement lets you install Grade 1 commercial or high-security cylinders that resist picking, drilling, and bumping. Rekeying can't change the lock's underlying security level.

You want a smart lock

Adding smartphone control, keypad entry, or remote access requires new hardware. You can't rekey a traditional lock into a smart lock. If you're going smart, replacement is the path.

The lock was forced or damaged

If someone tried to break in and damaged the lock or strike plate, replacement is usually necessary. A compromised lock might function but isn't reliably secure anymore.

You're changing aesthetic finishes

If you're remodeling and want new finishes (matte black instead of brass, etc.), you'll need to replace anyway.

Cost Comparison

Rekeying is significantly cheaper than replacement in most cases:

• Rekey: $25-$45 per lock plus a service call fee. A typical 5-lock home rekey runs $150-$300 total.
• Replacement: $80-$250 per lock for standard residential hardware, more for high-security or smart locks. A typical 5-lock replacement runs $500-$1,500 or more.

For a new home purchase where the existing locks are in good condition, rekeying is almost always the right call. You save money and get the same security benefit (no old keys work).

Hybrid Approach

Sometimes the best answer is mixed: rekey some locks, replace others. For example:

• Rekey the front and back door deadbolts (which are in good condition)
• Replace the garage entry door lock (which is worn and sticking)
• Upgrade the front door to a smart lock for keyless entry convenience

A good locksmith will look at your existing hardware and recommend honestly. Auburn Lock & Car Keys evaluates each situation individually — we'd rather do the work that actually serves you than upsell unnecessary replacements.

How Long Does Each Take?

A standard 3-5 lock home rekey takes 30-60 minutes on-site. Replacement of the same number of locks takes 1-2 hours depending on door condition. Both are typically same-day appointments.

What About Just Changing the Locks Yourself?

You can definitely DIY a lock replacement, especially for standard deadbolts. Big-box hardware stores sell complete deadbolt kits with installation hardware. If you're handy with a screwdriver, replacing a deadbolt takes about 20 minutes.

What you can't easily DIY is rekeying. That requires a special tool kit and replacement pin sets, plus the knowledge to disassemble and reassemble cylinders correctly. Rekey kits exist for some Kwikset locks (the SmartKey system), but most rekeying still requires a locksmith.

The Bottom Line

For most new homeowners and most security concerns where the existing hardware is in decent shape, rekeying is the right answer. It's faster, cheaper, and gets you the same security benefit. Replace when hardware is failing, when you want upgrades, or when you want smart features.

When in doubt, call us. Auburn Lock & Car Keys can assess your situation honestly and recommend what's appropriate — not what's most expensive. (253) 796-8550.