Kwikset SmartKey: How to Rekey Lock in 4 Easy to Follow Steps 

Don't ever get rid of this video. I use it every single time I re-key a door. As a landlord, that's frequent enough that I can't remember the procedure but reference this video often enough haha. Thank you!

Thank you for not playing obnoxious music during this video.

Amazing. I didn't know such a thing was possible. I do see a security concern though: if someone has your key they could re-key your locks and lock you out.

Honestly, I followed the instructions to the letter and it worked perfectly for both the Deadbolt and the Door Knob. No problems. whatsoever. Thank you very much for this post!

Its always nice when something works as advertised.

We ended up exchanging this model for the slimmer version ru-vid.comUgkx0jZ_lGlDVJhDnmagEU8gn47cmfPNlLQU because it was too wide for the only door trim area that made sense to mount it on. However, we should have just noted the dimensions prior to purchasing. Otherwise, we love the doorbell. It works perfectly, and the video is very clear, even at night.

thank you so very much this made the process so easy we were able to rekey a Kwikset lock in only 2 minutes, and that is only because we use the pause button otherwise it would have been 60 seconds like you did

This smarkey system is really neat. I bought a separate smartkey deadbolt and a keyed door handle two years ago for a garage to home entry door. I finally rekeyed it today so that I only need 1 key and it worked perfectly. Recently bought a keyless entry lock for the side garage entry door and Ill be rekeying the side gate door.

Thank you for this, was a big help over the written instructions and worked the first try. Thumbs up!

Thanks for the video. It actually worked lol 😂.

Definitely helpful! Super easy thanks!

Just saved 100$. Thank goodness

Sweet thanks!

Worked perfectly and very good video. Only suggestion is to mention that smart tool doesn’t really go in very far. It’s just until you hear a faint “click”. Also for double keyed deadbolts (key on both sides) you have to perform the rekeying on BOTH sides.

Thanks so much, worked like a charm!

Awesome and simple video. Thanks for making this easy enough for DIY.

Thanks for showing. I thought my landlord changed my lock out of the blue in my sleep when I left in the morning and couldnt lock the door. They came and did exactly this and gave me brand new keys I was so skeptical how that’s possible as Ive been here 5 years and never had an issue with my lock & assummed they changed my lock without my permission gave me creeps.This makes me feel alot better and i guess it was just an old key/lock that was over used.

It does the job. Excellent product.

PERFECT! THANK YOU

Hey! Incredibly helpful video. It’s amazing the 3inch output of the furthest post and how close it comes within margin. Also, the post graduate circumference is impeccable. Thanks again! Good day

If you want to avoid mis-keying the lock then do not take the instructions given at the 0:56 - 1:03 mark literally. Yes, insert the smart key into the hole firmly and remove it, then remove the key as they instruct. HOWEVER, things to note. 1. The smart key will NOT "Fully" go into the hole, or even remotely close to it for that matter. In fact, you'll be wondering if something is wrong as it barely even goes into the hole. 2. You will NOT feel or hear a click when you insert the smart key into the hole. Again, it barely goes in far at all, making you wonder if you're doing something wrong. Nothing is wrong. Just make sure you put it in firmly, then remove it, and the rest of the instructions are correct going forward. I installed 3 of these deadbolt locks with smart key technology. The locks are great. The only semi-complaint I have is the smart key instructions; if they were to edit these instructions to match my instructions above for the 0:56 - 1:03 section of the video, I guarantee 90% of all mis-keying would go away. Luckily, they have a great video on how to reconfigure the lock to get it back to the factory setting. When I configured my next two locks, I went into it knowing the smart key wouldn't fully go all the way in and that it would not click. With that expectation removed, the next two locks were a piece of cake.

Pretty helpful, since the printed instructions are microscopically tiny.

Ok, I have to admit that I was very skeptical about this re-keying process. I couldn't have more mistaken. This is the simplest procedure ever. I agree with Stephen C. Dayton regarding the tool not going in very far. I rekeyed two locks in less that 2 minutes.

Excellent video,, thanks...worked

Where do you get the new key from? Do you just buy a random key from somewhere?

worked like a charm! thanks for posting!

In section 4) line 5 of the Authors comments he instructs the reader to turn the key 180 degrees CLOCKWISE. It should read COUNTER-CLOCKWISE. Make note of this if printing the instructions. Otherwise GREAT VIDEO!

Thanks very useful

Thanks to Steven C below for providing info regarding pushing the tool in firmly. It's very easy and quick. So long as the tool goes in firmly and stops, you can then pull it out and follow remaining instructions.

Goodjob

Thank you I was able to get into my home thanks to you

i have had these locks since they came out over 12 years ago. i can rekey with my eyes closed in under 15 seconds.

I use these on my rentals and one thing I've learned when setting the new key is to go back and forth multiple times. I've had a few times where the tumbler wasn't set 100%. Ended up having to take it apart to do the tumbler reset

Thank you so much! Now my crazy Ex-girl friend can't get back in! XD

Stupid question.... where do you get the new keys? Do you just buy them in the store?

This method will program any key that opens a deadbolt to another existing lock ? Meaning, my buddy can use his apt keys to unlock my door, if I rekey his existing apt key ?

Rekeying isn't the issue the breaking of the plastic link in the latch results in freezing the door knob in a locked mode. Your door is locked & only if you have access to the interior of the house can you unscrew the door knob & cut the latch with a sawzall so as to work the latch back enough to open the door. This happened on 2 door latches even though 1 was not being used as a lock devise.

I bought three new handles for front door, back door and garage door- how do I make sure the same key works for all 3???

So, if Ihave an existing lock and key, how do I get the reset tool and a new key that will fit the existing lock so I can insert it to rekey the lock? Thanks.

Is there any way to rekey more than 1 key? I have 3 old keys I'd like to use for both doors, 1 of Kwikset and another of different brand.

Does the new key have to be a kwikset? or could be any brand?

What key did you use? The guy st home depot looked at me confused af when I asked him to make a new key instead of a copy.

I have the Kwikset lock that has the key hole on both sides. When I do this it only changes one side to the NEW key...the other side still uses the OLD key. I guess I have to do this process twice - once for each side? I haven't seen that written or noted anywhere.

The key I’m trying to set it to will not fit into the lock. I’ve compared it to the key that came with the lock and they’re exactly the same size. What is wrong?

If there is no little slit for the smart key I assume i cant rekey the lock?

Kwikset engineers for president 2024!

I have a security gate at my front door that uses Kwikset. I’m currently changing out the door lock for the front door (not the security gate), so would I be able to use my “security gate key” on my new front door lock and still be able to use the key on the security gate?

I bought two handles, each coming with two keys. I'd like both locks to open with all 4 of the keys. I can't seem to make that happen for all of them. Can it be done?

Will this work with Kwikset Powerbolt Touchpad keyless entry?

What if the replaced lock was not a Kwikset? Are you able to rekey to a non-Kwikset key?

does it change the key or the lock? my second kew started working like the old key.

Is this possible without the original key? Previous owner had different keys for every lock and lost the one for this door. My brother picked it to get it turned clockwise, from that point can this still work at all?

I have 5 kwikset exterior door locks. All have individual keys. Can I re-key all door locks to work with 1 key?

Does this work with any lock or Kwikset locks only?

So what happen when another person decided to rekey your door knob on the outside. Cause the rekey system is facing the outside instead of the inside

How do you program the keys for first time installation? Will other keys stop working once you program it?

Can't remove the original key after turning 90 degrees and inserting the "smart key".

I bought a handle and deadbolt. However the key only works on the handle and not the deadbolt. What do I need to do?

Do you need to use a special key (Kwikset) as your new key or will any from Home Depot key do? If I have 1 extra key, could I rekey the lock each time the cleaner comes so she doesn't have my regular key?

SO HOW DO YOU DUPLICATE PROGRAMMED NEW KEY TO HAVE MORE THAN ONE KEY FOR YOUR DOOR ; USEFULE FOR OTHER FAMILY MEMBERS?

Where do you get the new key from? I assume it has to be pre cut?

What if you just want to program the existing key?

So, you just need that smartkey tool and you can reset the lock to work on any key?

What if I don't have a current key?

Where can i purchase the smart tool separately?

I followed the directions and as Stephen said below can not insert the smartkey until it clicks won't insert as far as you say and thought i was going to slice my hand open. Attempted to rekey anyway based on kwiksets admission that it may not click and it did work. When this replacement lock fails in 5 years like the first one I will switch all the door handles out to Schlage or anyone else because these do not have long tern reliability.

Corrected instructions (per other Kwikset guides) 1) Key compatibility check -- Insert new key in lock to ensure it fully inserts -- Remove new key 2) Prepare Door -- Set deadbolt to locked position -- If you have a knob or lever, make sure it is in the lock position -- Ensure your door cannot close on it's own (use door stop if you have one) or that you have another way to enter your home. 3) Insert Current Key -- FULLY insert the key that operated the lock, then rotate 90 degrees clockwise (note that instructions are the same regardless of cylinder orientation) 4) Insert SmartKey tool fully and firmly into the SmartKey hole :56 -- You may feel the tool click inside the lock which is normal -- Remove SmartKey tool -- Remove current key (while still in 90 degree position, do not rotate) 5) Insert New Key -- Insert new key you wish to use with lock -- Make sure that the key is FULLY inserted -- The edge of the key touched the indent on the cylinder surface -- Without PUSHING or PULLING the key, rotate it 180 degrees counter-clockwise -- Without PUSHING or PULLING the key, rotate it 180 degrees clockwise -- Try pulling the key to make sure it will NOT come out in this position (DO NOT use excessive force) -- Rotate new key 90 degrees counter-clockwise to start position -- Remove your new key 6) Verify new key -- Reinsert new key to ensure it operates smoothly -- Remove your new key when finished 7) Test old key -- Reinsert old key and confirm it does not turn -- Call Kwikset Consumer Service 800-327-5625 if old key still operates lock

I have a smartkey deadbolt that suddenly stoped working is there a way to re key to my existing key i have now . note i dont have a key that turns that. Deadbolt

we are getting anew door with schlage locks. Can I rekey the Kwikset lock on my other door to match the new key?

where's the link to purchase the kit?

So u can use any key to re key it?

Where can I get a new key and smart key?

I don't want to pay for an expensive locksmith. I want to rekey my front door which uses the same key as the security door and the door leading to the garage. I had someone housesitting and I don't want to have the same key anymore. Do you have a suggestion about how to get a new key so I can perform this task? Would rekeying the garage entry doorknob, remove it and take it to a locksmith make sense?

Hi • I have chaos • at step one the key 🔑 will not turn to 90 degrees • this means I can not insert the Smart Key 🔑 Please reply with a solution • Thanks 🚂

Does the new key have to be a Kwickset SmartKey?

😊

Is it possible to re-use the old keys? Is this not recommended

Why is there an ad? I’m just trying to learn about your product Quickset!

I did the re key when I first put the lock on, but it only worked for 1 of 2 keys

Could I do this to a random house

hi.. can someone help me.. my set does not turn either way.. not sure if the people that installed it did something but it won't turn either way

isn't this sort of unsafe since it can re keyed to someone elses key (in theory?)

I used the original key to rekey one for my neighbor. My neighbors key works but, now my original Kwikset key does NOT work. What did I do wrong and how can I fix this?

Can I use any key? Or does it have to be a special Kwikset key?

Can I use this to key 4 doors all the same?

no smartkey hole in our Kwikset deadbolt

The video fails to mention: Once you have re-keyed with the new key, test the old key to be certain it no longer works. I am wondering a few things. Will this re-keying method work with any lock so long as the keys are compatible? Couldn't someone take this re-keying key and use it on locks that they don't have the original key for?

How does i find out if my lock can be rekeyed?

How is this secured against thieves using this easy process??

I did not have the deadbolt in the locked position. Now none of my keys new or old work! Help please!!!

do note, this video is from 2016 and is NOTE how the new locks work. it's even EASIER to rekey with the "smart key"

Too bad the smart tool broke off in my lock. I had to take it back and get a new one.

I have a brand new home with no old keys how do I do it without old keys

can someone with a smart key tool rekey my lock?

Sadly, Step A of the instructions that come with the unit, isn't addressed here, and may be a deal breaker for many. Our 90's Schlage regular middle class residential home deadbolt key doesn't fit this Kwikset SmartKey deadbolt's keyhole. Back to Lowe's for a return.

Can I use something else instead of the smart key

Kwickset has a video..it does NOT say to have the dead bolt extended. I failed at rekeying following this video instruction.

Seek clarification - Do you need to re-key twice once for inside and another time for the outside

This video has made me more attractive to my wife. Gotta stay useful in their eyes!

I made a mistake and now no key works on the door!! Please can anyone help me ?