TL;DR
Rekeying keeps your existing locks but changes the key pattern—ideal when hardware is good but you need new keys. Replacing gives you entirely new locks—better when upgrading security or hardware is worn. Rekeying costs 40-60% less than replacing.
- Rekey: $15-$25/lock + service call. Keeps hardware, new keys.
- Replace: $75-$200/lock installed. New hardware, new keys.
- Rekey if: Moving in, lost keys, good existing locks
- Replace if: Damaged, upgrading security, want smart locks
Choose Rekeying When...
- ✓ Your locks work fine and look good
- ✓ You just moved into a new home
- ✓ You lost keys or had them stolen
- ✓ Employees or roommates left
- ✓ You want all locks on one key
- ✓ Budget is a primary concern
Cost: $15-$25 per lock + service call
Choose Replacing When...
- ✓ Locks are damaged, worn, or sticky
- ✓ You want to upgrade security (ANSI grade)
- ✓ Switching to smart locks
- ✓ Hardware style is outdated
- ✓ Locks are 10-15+ years old
- ✓ After a break-in
Cost: $75-$200 per lock installed
Complete Comparison
| Rekeying | Replacing | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (per lock) | $15-$25 | $75-$200 |
| Service Call | $50-$75 | $50-$100 |
| Total (4 locks) | $110-$175 | $350-$900 |
| What Changes | Internal pins only | Entire lock hardware |
| Keys Change | ||
| Hardware Changes | ||
| Time (per lock) | 5-10 minutes | 15-30 minutes |
| Security Upgrade | ✗ (same grade) | ✓ (can upgrade) |
| Appearance Change | ||
| DIY Possible | Some locks | Most locks |
| Best For | New keys, budget | Upgrades, damage |
Prices are 2025 estimates. Actual costs vary by location and lock type.
What Each Option Involves
Rekeying Process
- 1. Remove cylinder: Locksmith removes the lock cylinder from the door
- 2. Disassemble: Opens the cylinder to access the pin tumblers
- 3. Replace pins: Swaps existing pins with new ones matching a new key
- 4. Reassemble: Puts the cylinder back together
- 5. Test: Verifies new key works, old key doesn't
Time: 5-10 minutes per lock. Your old keys stop working immediately.
Replacing Process
- 1. Remove old lock: Unscrew and remove existing deadbolt/knob
- 2. Check fit: Verify new lock fits door prep (may need adjustment)
- 3. Install new lock: Mount new hardware, align strike plate
- 4. Test operation: Check smooth operation from inside and out
- 5. Provide keys: Hand over new keys
Time: 15-30 minutes per lock. May take longer if door prep adjustment needed.
Pricing Breakdown
Rekeying Costs
| 1 Lock | 4 Locks | 6 Locks | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per-Lock Fee | $20-$25 | $18-$22/ea | $15-$20/ea |
| Service Call | $50-$75 | $50-$75 | $50-$75 |
| Total | $70-$100 | $120-$165 | $140-$195 |
Volume discounts are common. Keying all locks alike is usually no extra charge.
Replacement Costs (Lock + Installation)
| Budget | Mid-Range | Premium | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deadbolt | $75-$100 | $100-$150 | $150-$250 |
| Smart Lock | $150-$200 | $200-$300 | $300-$450 |
| High-Security | N/A | $175-$250 | $250-$400 |
| ANSI Grade | Grade 3 | Grade 2 | Grade 1 |
Includes lock hardware and professional installation.
Which Is Right for Your Situation?
Best Choice By Situation
- Rekey: Just bought a home and locks work well
- Rekey: Lost keys but locks are in good shape
- Rekey: Want all locks on one key
- Rekey: Tight budget, good existing hardware
- Replace: Locks are damaged, sticky, or worn
- Replace: Want to upgrade to Grade 1 or 2
- Replace: Installing smart locks
- Replace: Hardware is 10-15+ years old
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rekey if locks are damaged or low-quality
- Replace if budget is tight and locks work fine
- Rekey if you want smart lock features
- Replace just because you moved (rekey is enough)
Real-World Scenarios
New Homeowner (Rekey)
Bought a 5-year-old home with 4 exterior doors. Locks work fine but don't know who has keys from previous owners, realtors, contractors.
Called locksmith to rekey all 4 locks. Changed pins so old keys don't work, all new locks work with one key.
Peace of mind knowing only family has working keys. Saved over $300 vs replacing.
Security Upgrade (Replace)
Home with 20-year-old Grade 3 locks. Neighborhood has seen increased break-ins. Wants better security.
Replaced all exterior locks with Schlage B60N Grade 1 deadbolts. Added strike plate reinforcement.
Significant security upgrade. New Grade 1 locks resist attacks much better than old Grade 3.
Lost Keys Emergency (Rekey)
Keys lost at the mall. House keys, car keys, and garage remote on the ring. Worried someone might have address from a loyalty card.
Emergency locksmith came same day, rekeyed front door and garage entry deadbolt.
Both locks rekeyed by evening. Old keys no longer work if found by someone.
Smart Lock Conversion (Replace)
Family tired of keys. Kids forget them, parents work late. Want keyless entry with codes and phone unlock.
Replaced front door deadbolt with Yale Assure 2 smart lock. Kept other doors with regular deadbolts.
Keyless entry for family members. Temporary codes for dog walker. Activity log shows when kids get home.
Can You DIY?
DIY Rekeying
Some locks have DIY rekey features:
- • Kwikset SmartKey: Rekey in seconds with tool ($10)
- • Schlage SecureKey: Similar quick-rekey system
- • Standard locks: Require locksmith pinning kit ($50+) and skill
Verdict: Easy with SmartKey/SecureKey, difficult otherwise.
DIY Lock Replacement
Most lock replacements are DIY-friendly:
- • Standard deadbolts: 15-30 min with screwdriver
- • Smart locks: 20-40 min, follow instructions
- • May need adjustment if door prep differs
Verdict: DIY-friendly for most homeowners. Pro install recommended for complex situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to rekey or replace locks?
When should I rekey my locks?
When should I replace locks instead of rekeying?
How long does rekeying take?
Can I rekey locks myself?
Does rekeying make my locks less secure?
Can all locks be rekeyed?
Should I rekey or replace when moving into a new home?
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Last updated: 2025-12-10