Quick answer:
- Rekey when the lock works fine and you just need old keys to stop working.
- Replace when hardware is worn, damaged, low-quality, or you want an upgrade.
- Rekeying is usually far cheaper — about $20–$40 per lock.
What’s the Difference?
Rekeying changes the small pins inside your existing lock cylinder so that your old key no longer works and a new key takes over. The lock stays on the door — only the internal pinning changes. Replacing means removing the old hardware entirely and installing a new lock.Both accomplish the same core goal — control over who can open your door — but they make sense in different situations. We cover the full process on our rekey locks and lock installation pages.
When to Rekey
Rekeying is the right (and cheaper) choice when your hardware is in good shape and you simply need the old keys retired. That covers most situations:
- You just moved into a home — see our new-home checklist
- You lost a key or it was stolen
- A roommate, tenant, or ex moved out
- A contractor or cleaner had a copy
- You want every door on one matching key
If several of those ring true, our guide on the 5 signs it’s time to rekey goes deeper.
When to Replace
Replacement makes more sense when the lock itself is the problem, or when you want better security than the current hardware can offer:
- The lock is worn, loose, sticky, or rusted
- It was damaged in a break-in attempt
- It’s a flimsy builder-grade lock you want to upgrade
- You want a Grade 1 deadbolt or a smart lock
- There’s no deadbolt at all and you want to add one
Upgrading builder-grade hardware to a quality deadbolt is one of the best security investments you can make — see our picks in best deadbolts for Albuquerque homes.
The Cost Difference
Rekeying is almost always cheaper because you keep your existing hardware — typically $20–$40 per lock plus a service call. Replacement adds the cost of the new lock itself, which ranges from budget knobs to premium high-security hardware. For a full breakdown, see how much a locksmith costs in Albuquerque.
Not sure which way to go? We’ll give you an honest recommendation based on the actual condition of your hardware — never an upsell. Call (505) 818-0720 or request service online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you rekey all my locks to one key?
Yes, as long as the locks share a compatible keyway. Keying alike means one key opens every exterior door, which is convenient and easy to manage. We confirm compatibility before we start.
Is rekeying as secure as replacing?
For retiring old keys, yes — once rekeyed, the old keys physically cannot open the lock. Replacement is about upgrading the hardware itself, not about whether old keys work.
How long does rekeying take?
A single lock takes about 10–15 minutes; a whole home is usually 30–60 minutes depending on the number of locks. We can often handle it in one visit.
Need a locksmith in Albuquerque? Call Just In Time Locksmith at (505) 818-0720 for fast, local, upfront-priced service — or request service online. 24/7 across the metro.