In the past, if you wanted to change your locks, you had to either call a locksmith or do it yourself. However, with the advent of smart locks, changing your locks is now as easy as pushing a button literally.
So, what happens if you want to change your locks but don’t want to replace your entire lock? Can you just rekey the lock? Usually, smart locks come with spare keys in case you forget the pattern of the lock or it is malfunctioning due to some reason.
There may come a time when you’ll have to rekey your smart lock. Whether you’ve lost your keys, had them stolen, or are simply moving to a new home, rekeying your lock is a relatively simple and money-saving process. In just a few minutes, you can do it.
In this blog post, I’ll show you how to rekey your smart lock in easy steps. Moreover, I will tell you how to rekey August Smart Lock Pro, since I have been using it for a long time. Let’s find out.
Summary
Can You Rekey a Smart Lock?
It depends on the type of smart lock you have. Some smart locks like the August Smart Lock Pro come with a detachable faceplate that allows you to quickly and easily replace the cylinder without having to replace the entire lock.
However, other smart locks like the Schlage Connect are not designed to be taken apart and require the entire lock to be replaced if you want to change the keys.
The next step is to contact the manufacturer or check their website if you have questions about rekeying your smart lock.
It should be possible for them to tell you whether or not your particular model can be rekeyed. Alternatively, you can follow this article and find the rekeying method that suits your smart lock type.
In short, smart locks offer a lot of advantages over traditional keyed locks but one potential disadvantage is that they can’t be easily rekeyed like their older counterparts. So, what does that mean for you if you want to change your locks? Let’s take a look.
What are the types of smart locks: How do you rekey each one?
An electronic locking mechanism replaces a traditional keyed cylinder in a smart lock. Smart locks can be opened using a smartphone, fingerprint, key fob, or in some cases, even voice commands.
Most smart locks also allow you to track who enters and exits your home, as well as set up entrance schedules and geofencing features.
The market today offers a wide range of smart locks on the market, each with its specific features and benefits. Smart locks come in a variety of types, including:
1. Bluetooth-enabled smart locks
These locks use Bluetooth technology to communicate with your smartphone or another compatible device. Here’s how to rekey it:
Step 1: If you’re using a Bluetooth-enabled lock, the first step is to make sure that your lock is properly paired with your device. To do this, consult your lock’s instructions to find the correct pairing procedure.
Step 2: Once your lock is paired with your device, you’ll need to download a rekeying app. There are a few different options available, but we recommend the Kwikset Kevo app for iOS or Android.
Step 3: Open the app and follow the on-screen instructions to create an account. As soon as you’ve created an account, you’ll be able to log in and access your locks from anywhere.
Step 4: Now that you’re logged in, you’ll need to find the “Rekey” option within the app. This may be located in a menu, or it may be a button on the main screen. When you’ve found it, tap it to begin the rekeying process.
Step 5: The app will walk you through the rest of the process, which includes placing your old key into the lock and following the on-screen instructions. Once you’ve completed the process, your lock will be successfully rekeyed!
2. Keyless entry smart locks
These locks do not require a key to be used, making them more convenient and secure. You can rekey them by following the process:
Step 1: Remove the battery cover
The first step is to remove the battery cover from the back of the lock.
Step 2: Remove the batteries
Once the cover is off, you will need to remove the batteries. Some locks may have a release tab that needs to be pressed to take out the batteries.
Step 3: Locate the reset hole
On the back of the lock, there is a small hole that is used for resetting the lock. The paperclip or something similar needs to be inserted into this hole.
Step 4: Press and hold the reset button
With the paperclip still inserted, you will need to press and hold the reset button for about 10 seconds. This will reset the lock and you should now be able to use it without a key.
3. Fingerprint smart locks
The locks, as their name suggests, are fingerprint-activated, ensuring that only you have access to your home or office. You can rekey them if necessary but the process is a little bit more complicated than a normal lock. Let’s see how you can rekey them:
Step 1: Start by removing the screws that hold the backplate in place.
Step 2: With the backplate removed, you should see a small metal rod sticking out from the bottom of the lock. This is the locking mechanism.
Step 3: Using a small screwdriver or a similar tool, gently push on the locking mechanism until it pops out of the lock.
Step 4: Once the locking mechanism is removed, the last step is to remove the old key from the lock. To do this, simply insert a small screwdriver or similar tool into the hole where the key was and twist until the key pops out.
Step 5: With the old key removed, you can now insert your newly made key into the lock and reattach the backplate. Make sure to screw it in place tightly so that the lock is secure.
Step 6: Now your lock is ready to go with your upgraded key!
4. RFID Smart locks
RFID locks use radio frequency identification technology to identify the user and grant or deny access. Here’s how to rekey them:
Step 1: Locate the control panel for your lock. This is usually located near the keypad, and it will have a small slot for a key or other tool.
Step 2: Find the rekeying tool that came with your lock. It will be long and thin, and it will have a small button or switch on one end.
Step 3: Insert the rekeying tool into the slot on the control panel.
Step 4: Press and hold the button or switch on the rekeying tool.
Step 5: Enter your updated code into the keypad.
Step 6: Release the button or switch on the rekeying tool.
Step 7: Test your updated code to make sure it works.
Step 8: Repeat steps 3-7 for each additional lock that you want to rekey.
Pro Tip: RFID smart locks are a superior option for security since they’re more difficult to pick than traditional locks. They’re also convenient since you don’t have to carry around a key. However, if you lose the rekeying tool, it can be difficult to reset the lock. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!
5. Smartkey Deadbolt Door Locks – Kwikset smart lock
Kwikset’s SmartKey technology allows you to rekey your locks quickly and easily. This can be done in a matter of seconds, without even removing the lock from the door! Here’s how can you do it:
Step 1: To begin, insert your old key into the lock and turn it to the “unlock” position.
Step 2: Next, insert the SmartKey tool that comes with your Kwikset lock into the small hole next to the keyhole.
Step 3: Once the tool is inserted, turn it clockwise until you hear a click. This will release the old pins from the cylinder.
Step 4: Now, remove the old key and insert your newly acquired one.
Step 5: Finally, turn the newly created key to the “lock” position and remove the SmartKey tool. That’s it! Your lock has now been successfully rekeyed.
6. Smartphone locks
These use your smartphone as the key, allowing you to unlock your door with a simple tap of your finger. Rekeying a smartphone lock is a bit more involved than rekeying a traditional keyed lock, but it’s still not too difficult. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Remove the back cover of your lock screen and locate the reset button.
Step 2: Use a paperclip or toothpick to press and hold the reset button for 10 seconds.
Step 3: Release the reset button and wait for the lock to reboot.
Step 4: Once the lock has rebooted, open the app and enter your current passcode.
Step 5: Tap “Settings” and then “Device.”
Step 6: Scroll down to “Rekey Device” and tap “Yes.”
Step 7: Enter your re-entered passcode and tap “Done.”Now, your smart lock is successfully rekeyed!
7. Smatlock with faceplate
Now we will take a look at how to rekey a lock with a faceplate such as August Smart Lock Pro:
Step 1: Remove the faceplate by unscrewing the two screws that hold it in place.
Step 2: Take out the old cylinder and insert the newly installed one. Make sure it’s properly aligned before screwing the faceplate back on.
Step 3: Use the August app to reconnect your lock to your account. You may need to enter a new access code for the upgraded cylinder.
As now we know how to rekey each type of smart lock according to their features let’s take a look at some examples so that we can relate more to them.
How to rekey Schlage smart lock?
If you need to rekey your Schlage smart lock, there are a few things you’ll need to do. First, you’ll need to gather the following materials:
- New Schlage smart key
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Small flathead screwdriver
Or the kit as it contains all of the tools you need to change the locks, including a new key. Once you have everything you need, follow these steps to rekey your Schlage smart lock:
Step 1: Remove the faceplate from the lock using a Phillips head screwdriver.
Step 2: Remove the cylinder from the lock.
Step 3: Remove the batteries from the lock.
Step 4: Insert the new cylinder into the lock.
Step 5: Replace the screws in the back of the lock.
Step 6: Replace the batteries and faceplate on the lock.
Step 7: Insert your key into the lock and turn it to the unlock position.
Step 8: Hold down the reset button on the lock for three seconds.
Step 9: Turn your key to the locked position and remove it from the lock.
Step 10: The Schlage smart lock is now rekeyed.
Step 11: Test the lock to make sure it is working properly.
How to rekey a Yale smart lock?
It is WiFi operated smart lock and can be controlled with a smartphone. if you need to change the key, you can do it easily with the following steps:
Step 1: To rekey a Yale smart lock, you must first remove the old key from the key cylinder.
Step 2: Then, insert the new key and turn it clockwise until it stops.
Step 3: After that on the back of the lock, locate the small hole next to the battery compartment.
Step 4: Insert a paperclip or similar object into the hole and press and hold for 5 seconds.
Step 5: The keypad will light up and you will hear a beep.
Step 6: Enter your 4-8 digit master PIN code.
Step 7: Press the “#” key.
Step 8: The keypad will flash and you will hear 3 beeps.
Step 9: Enter your new 4-8 digit PIN code.
Step 10: Press the “#” key again.
Step 11: The keypad will flash and you will hear 3 beeps.
Step 12: Test the new PIN code by locking and unlocking the door.
Now you can rekey any type of lock you have. Here’s why rekeying is necessary.
When to rekey a smart lock?
There are a few different scenarios in which you may need to rekey your smart lock, including:
1. The key is lost
If you lose your key, it is critical to rekey your lock as soon as possible. This will prevent anyone who finds it from gaining access to your home or office.
2. If you move
When you move to a new home or office, you will need to rekey your lock to ensure that your old key cannot be used to gain entry.
3. You change your locks
You will need to rekey your old locks if you change from traditional locks to smart ones so that your prior keys cannot be used.
4. When you suspect that your lock has been compromised
If you suspect that someone has gained access to your home or office without your permission, you should rekey your lock to prevent them from doing so again.
Conclusion
So, can you rekey a smart lock? The answer is it depends on the type of smart lock you have. It is possible to replace a cylinder in some models by removing the faceplate, but in others, it must be replaced entirely if you want to change keys because it cannot be taken apart.
And there you have it! Rekeying your smart lock is a quick and easy process that anyone can do in just a few minutes. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully and if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for assistance.
Hopefully, this article has shed some light on this topic for you and helped you decide what to do with your locks!
Thanks for reading!
FAQs
If you are comfortable with tools and know how to remove the current cylinder, then you can rekey your smart lock yourself. However, if you are not confident in your abilities, it is always advisable to hire a professional locksmith. This will ensure that the job is done correctly and that your home remains secure.
The cost of rekeyed smart locks will vary depending on the type of lock you have and the locksmith you use. You can expect to pay approximately $20 to $50 for the service depending on the lock and circumstances.
Not all smart locks can be rekeyed. Some locks use proprietary systems that cannot be changed. However, most traditional locks can be rekeyed using a standard key.
Resources:
- https://www.kwikset.com/smartkey-security
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8xnwIt1eLg
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEDb27HmRfM
- https://www.schlage.com/content/dam/sch-us/documents/pdf/installation-manuals/P513-325.pdf
I am Jeff Bortnick, the founder of SMART WISE HOME. I am also a husband, father of two, and a long-time technology lover. I have been obsessed with home automation since I was at University doing my MSc in Automation and Control Engineering