Can You Rekey a Smart Lock? 

Smart locks offer convenience and advanced security, but what happens if you lose a key or move into a new home? Unlike traditional locks, smart locks don’t always require physical rekeying—thanks to digital access controls. However, some models still use physical keys as backups. This guide explains whether you can rekey a smart lock, how the process works, and which options are best for your needs.

1. Understanding Rekeying in Smart Locks

Traditional vs. Smart Lock Rekeying:

• Traditional locks require replacing internal pins to match a new key.
• Most smart locks eliminate this need by using digital credentials (PIN codes, smartphone access, or biometrics).

Exceptions:

• Some smart locks include a physical keyhole as a backup.
• These models can be rekeyed using standard methods if needed.

How Digital “Rekeying” Works:
Instead of changing physical pins, smart locks allow you to:
Delete old PINs or access codes
Revoke smartphone permissions
Generate new temporary codes
Reset fingerprint scans

This process is faster and more flexible than traditional rekeying.

2. When Should You Rekey a Smart Lock?

Smart locks should be digitally “rekeyed” in these situations:

Moving Into a New Home

• Delete previous owners’ access codes.
• Reset all admin permissions.

Lost or Stolen Phone

• Remove Bluetooth/Wi-Fi access from missing devices.

Changing Roommates or Tenants

• Revoke old codes and assign new ones.

Security Breach Suspected

• If someone unauthorized gains access, reset all credentials.

For Smart Locks With Physical Keys:

• If the key is lost, you may still need to rekey the cylinder (or replace it).
• Some brands let you rekey easily without a locksmith.

3. How to Rekey a Smart Lock (Step-by-Step)

For Digital Credentials:

1. Open the lock’s app.
2. Delete old user codes or mobile access.
3. Create new PINs or reauthorize devices.
4. Enable auto-lock to prevent unauthorized entry.

For Physical Keyholes (If Applicable):

1. Check if your lock supports rekeying.
2. Use the original key + a tool to reset the cylinder.
3. Insert a new key and turn to complete rekeying.
4. Test the new key to confirm it works.

Pro Tip:

• If your smart lock doesn’t support rekeying, consider replacing the cylinder (costs ~
  $20-$

  20−50).

Final Verdict:

• Most smart locks don’t need physical rekeying—digital resets are sufficient.
• For maximum security, regularly update access codes and enable two-factor authentication.

Have you ever rekeyed a smart lock?