Rekey Car Locks
Car door lock rekeying is a smart and affordable way to protect your vehicle, especially if your keys were lost, stolen, or given to someone you no longer trust. Instead of replacing the entire lock, a technician adjusts the internal components so the old key no longer works. A new key is then cut to match the updated lock configuration. Unlock Cars Door offers mobile, nationwide car door lock rekeying services to keep your vehicle secure without the high cost of complete lock replacement.
What Is Car Door Lock Rekey?
Rekeying a car door lock involves modifying the lock cylinder so that it responds to a new key instead of the original one. Inside every lock are small metal wafers that match the pattern of your key. During a rekey service, a locksmith rearranges or replaces these wafers so the old key no longer fits or turns the cylinder. This gives you full control over who has access to your vehicle.
When You Should Rekey Your Car Locks
- You lost your keys and don’t know who may find them
- Your car keys were stolen
- You bought a used car and want to ensure old keys don’t work
- You suspect someone has a copy of your key
- Your key was damaged, worn, or no longer works smoothly
- You want to match all door locks to one key for convenience
Rekeying is a cost-effective security upgrade that gives you peace of mind without replacing the entire lock system.
How Car Door Lock Rekeying Works
Our technicians follow a precise procedure to ensure your new key works perfectly:
- The technician removes the door lock cylinder from the vehicle.
- Internal wafers and springs are rearranged or replaced with new ones.
- A new key is cut to match the updated lock pattern.
- The lock is reassembled and tested for smooth operation.
- Additional locks (trunk, ignition, glove box) can be rekeyed to match the same key upon request.
Most rekey jobs take 20–45 minutes per lock, depending on the vehicle.
Rekeying vs Replacing the Lock
Many drivers wonder whether they should rekey or replace their lock. In most cases, rekeying is cheaper, faster, and just as secure. However, lock replacement is recommended when:
- The lock is damaged or worn out beyond repair
- The lock was drilled or forced open
- The key broke inside the lock and caused internal damage
- You want an upgraded high-security lock system
If your locks are in good condition, rekeying is usually the best option.
Types of Locks We Rekey
- Standard door lock cylinders
- Trunk locks
- Glove compartment locks
- High-security car lock cylinders (varies by model)
Most vehicles—domestic, foreign, and luxury—can be rekeyed on-site by a qualified technician.
Do You Need to Rekey the Ignition Too?
Your ignition cylinder uses a different set of wafers than your door locks. If you want one key to operate both the doors and the ignition, you may request a full vehicle rekey. This includes:
- Door locks
- Ignition cylinder
- Trunk lock (if compatible)
Rekeying the ignition ensures all keys that used to start the vehicle no longer work—ideal if your key was stolen.
Cost of Car Door Lock Rekey Service
Rekey pricing depends on the vehicle, lock type, and number of locks being serviced. Below is a general cost guide:
| Service Type | Description | Price |
| Service Call | Technician travel and assessment | $29 |
| Single Door Lock Rekey | Rekeying one door lock cylinder | $60–$120 |
| Full Vehicle Rekey | Doors + trunk (varies by model) | $120–$220 |
| Ignition Rekey | Matching a new key to ignition and doors | $90–$180 |
| Broken Key Extraction | Remove broken piece and rekey if needed | $75–$140 |
All pricing is given upfront. Your technician will confirm final costs after inspecting the lock system.
Why Choose Unlock Cars Door for Rekeying?
- Fast mobile service nationwide
- Experienced automotive locksmith technicians
- Affordable alternative to dealership lock replacement
- High-quality rekey components and tools
- No towing required—we come to you
- Licensed, insured, and trained for modern vehicles
Security Benefits of Car Door Lock Rekeying
- Ensures lost or stolen keys can no longer open your car
- Improves overall vehicle security
- Prevents unauthorized access by former key holders
- Gives you a fresh, private key system
Rekeying is one of the most effective ways to re-secure your vehicle without major hardware replacement.
Contact Unlock Cars Door for Professional Rekey Service
If you lost your keys, purchased a used vehicle, or simply want to ensure no one else has access to your car, our mobile technicians can rekey your locks quickly and affordably. Contact us anytime for immediate car door lock rekey service wherever you are in the country.