Can You Rekey a Lock Without the Original Key? Phoenix Locksmith Answers
You’ve lost the key to your front door—or maybe it was never handed over during a move-in, sale, or tenant turnover. Now you’re wondering:
Can I still rekey the lock if I don’t have the original key?
The good news is: yes, in most cases you can.
At Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm – Phoenix, we help homeowners, landlords, and property managers rekey locks every day—even without the original keys.
In this guide, we’ll explain how rekeying without a key works, when it’s possible, what it costs, and when you might need to consider replacing the lock instead.
🔐 What Is Rekeying—And Why the Original Key Matters
Rekeying a lock involves:
- Removing the lock from the door
- Taking apart the lock cylinder
- Changing the internal pins to match a new key
- Issuing you new keys while disabling all previous ones
If you have the original key, the process is quick because the lock can be easily turned and disassembled.
But if you don’t have the original key, it gets trickier—but not impossible.
🧠 How Locksmiths Rekey Without the Original Key
If the key is missing, we typically use one of these methods:
1. Lock Picking
We carefully pick the lock open using professional tools and skill (no damage to the door or hardware).
2. Decoding Tools
Special tools allow us to read the lock’s pin positions and determine how it was keyed—so we can reset it.
3. Drill and Replace Core
If picking isn’t possible due to damage, wear, or cheap lock quality, we may drill the cylinder and replace the internal core.
Once the lock is open, we can proceed with rekeying as normal and cut new keys on the spot.
🔑 When Would You Rekey Without the Original Key?
This happens more often than you think in Phoenix:
- After buying a home with no keys handed over
- When tenants leave without returning keys
- During eviction cleanouts or property management transitions
- When landlords lose the master
- After family changes, roommate departures, or relationship breakups
- In emergency situations where locks need to be controlled immediately
📞 Need emergency rekeying without a key? Book now or call (602) 854-2766.
🔍 Are All Locks Rekeyable Without the Original Key?
Most standard pin-and-tumbler locks can be picked and rekeyed without the original key. These include:
- Kwikset
- Schlage
- Yale
- Baldwin
- Defiant
- Brinks
- Master Lock (door models)
However, there are some exceptions:
- High-security locks (like Medeco, Mul-T-Lock) may require factory keys or proprietary tools
- Smart locks with electronic-only keypads may not be rekeyable, but we can reset or replace them
- Damaged or rusted locks may need replacement
🛠️ What Happens If Rekeying Isn’t Possible?
If the lock is damaged, non-pickable, or simply not worth salvaging, we offer: ✅ Full lock replacement (new hardware + keys)
✅ Upgraded lock installation
✅ Smart lock conversion
✅ One-key systems for multiple doors
We carry a full selection of replacement locks and key systems to fit any door in Phoenix homes and businesses.
🧾 What Documents or Proof Are Needed?
We may ask for:
- Proof of property ownership or lease (ID and title, lease agreement, utility bill)
- Landlord authorization if you’re a tenant
- Property management approval if you’re on-site staff
This protects your property and ensures we’re working with the rightful party.
🏠 What Types of Locks Can Be Rekeyed Without Keys?
We can rekey (with or without the key):
- Deadbolts
- Door knobs
- Entry handlesets
- Patio sliders with keyed handles
- Garage entry locks
- Smart locks with key backups
- Mailbox or storage unit locks
💲 How Much Does Rekeying Without a Key Cost?
| Service | Avg. Cost |
|---|---|
| Rekey with key | $60–$90 |
| Rekey without key (non-destructive) | $80–$120 |
| Rekey + drill & core replacement | $100–$150 |
| Lock replacement (if needed) | Ask for quote |
We’ll always give you a full quote before we begin—no surprises.
🗺️ Areas We Serve in Phoenix for No-Key Rekeying
We provide same-day mobile locksmith service in:
- Arcadia
- Alhambra
- South Phoenix
- Central City
- Garfield
- Biltmore
- North Phoenix
- Roosevelt Row
…and across all Maricopa County neighborhoods
We arrive equipped to rekey any residential or light commercial lock—key or no key.
Final Word: Lost the Key? We’ve Got You Covered.
You don’t need to replace the whole lock—or stress about what key might still be floating out there.
Whether you’ve lost a key, changed tenants, or just need to regain control, rekeying gives you back your security quickly and affordably.
No Key? No Problem. Rekey with Confidence.
We specialize in rekeying locks without the original key—securely, professionally, and fast for Phoenix homes and businesses.
Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm – Phoenix
📞 (602) 854-2766
🌐 affordablesecurityphoenix.com