Rekeying gets recommended constantly (see rekey vs. replace after moving in and how often to change your locks), but few people know what actually happens mechanically. Here's the real process.
Step 1: Remove the Cylinder
The locksmith removes the lock cylinder from the door, this is the core component being rekeyed, the rest of the hardware stays in place.
Step 2: Extract the Pins
Using a specialized follower tool, the existing pins and springs are carefully removed from inside the cylinder without losing any of the small components.
Step 3: Determine the New Key Pattern
A new key (or your desired key pattern) is used to determine what pin heights are needed for the cylinder to recognize it correctly.
Step 4: Insert New Pins
New pins matching the required heights are inserted in the correct order, this is precision work, get one pin wrong and the key won't turn smoothly.
Step 5: Reassemble and Test
The cylinder is reassembled, reinstalled in the door, and tested with the new key to confirm smooth operation before the locksmith leaves.
Step 6: Old Keys Stop Working
Immediately after this process, any previous key for that lock will no longer operate it, only the newly matched keys will.
How Long This Actually Takes
See our how long does rekeying take guide for realistic timing per lock and for a whole house.
Ready to get your locks rekeyed? Call 818-249-5128.