Can You Rekey a Car Door Lock or Ignition? Answers From Detroit Experts

If you’ve ever lost your car keys, bought a used vehicle, or had concerns about stolen keys, you’re probably wondering: Can I rekey my car door locks or ignition? It’s a great question—and one we hear often here at Locksmiths of Detroit.

In this guide, we’ll break it all down in simple terms. You’ll learn what rekeying actually means, when it makes sense, and whether your car can be rekeyed instead of replacing the whole lock. Whether you drive an old sedan or a newer push-to-start model, we’re here with straight answers from real Detroit locksmiths.

What Does It Mean to Rekey a Car Lock or Ignition?

Let’s start with the basics. Rekeying means changing the internal workings of a lock so that it works with a new key and no longer responds to the old one.

Unlike replacing the entire lock, rekeying keeps the original lock hardware in place, just with a different key setup.

In a car, this might apply to:

Car door locks (driver side, passenger, or both)
Trunk locks
The ignition switch (where you insert the key to start the engine)

Rekeying does not involve programming transponder chips or key fobs—that’s a different process.

Why Would You Want to Rekey Your Car Locks or Ignition?

Here are some common reasons people in Detroit ask us about rekeying their car:

1. Lost or Stolen Keys

If someone has your original keys, they could potentially access your car. Rekeying prevents that key from working again.

2. Bought a Used Car

You don’t always know how many spare keys are out there. Rekeying gives you peace of mind knowing you’re the only one with access.

3. Broken or Worn Locks

Sometimes the lock cylinder gets damaged. Rekeying is often more affordable than a full replacement.

4. Consolidating Keys

If your car door and ignition use different keys (happens in older models), you can ask a locksmith to rekey them to match.

Can Every Car Lock Be Rekeyed?

Not always—but in many cases, yes. It depends on your car’s make, model, and year.

Here’s a general idea:

Type of Lock	Can It Be Rekeyed?	Notes
Car Door Locks	Often possible	More common in older or traditional keyed cars
Ignition Cylinders	Usually possible	Especially if it’s a non-push-button ignition
Trunk Locks	Often possible	Usually similar process to door locks
Smart Key Systems	Not traditional rekeying	Requires electronic programming rather than mechanical rekeying

If your key has a chip or you use push-to-start, you’ll likely need a reprogramming service, not a rekeying job. But depending on the design, the mechanical part of your ignition (if there is one) can still be rekeyed in some cases.

Rekeying vs Replacing Locks: What’s the Difference?

Many people confuse these two, so let’s clear it up.

Rekeying:

Internal pins or tumblers are rearranged
The lock stays the same, but old keys stop working
New key is issued
Often faster and cheaper

Replacing:

Entire lock component is removed and replaced
New keys come with the new lock
More costly
Might be necessary if the lock is damaged

Bottom line: If your lock is still working and undamaged, rekeying is often your best bet.

Does Rekeying Require You to Have the Original Key?

Good question—and the answer depends on the situation.

If you have the original key, the process is easier and quicker. The locksmith can use it to map out the cylinder.
If you don’t have the original key, it’s still possible. A skilled locksmith in Detroit can remove the lock, decode it, and make a new key from scratch. It just takes a bit more time.

What’s the Process of Rekeying a Car Lock or Ignition?

Here’s a quick walkthrough of what a local locksmith might do:

Remove the Lock Cylinder

From the car door, trunk, or ignition

Disassemble the Lock

Access the pins and tumblers inside

Rearrange Internal Components

Set the pins to match a new key pattern

Cut a New Key

Match it to the new pin arrangement

Reinstall the Lock

Test it for proper function

This is precise work, and it requires specialized tools and know-how, especially for ignition systems.

How Long Does It Take to Rekey a Car Lock?

Generally, it can take:

15–30 minutes per lock for a door or trunk
30–60 minutes for an ignition rekey (depending on vehicle accessibility and complexity)

If you’re doing multiple locks, you’ll want to allow more time.

How Much Does It Cost to Rekey a Car in Detroit?

Costs can vary based on your car make, how many locks you’re rekeying, and whether you already have a working key.

Here’s a ballpark for Detroit area vehicle rekeying:

Service Type	Typical Price Range (Detroit)
Rekey 1 Car Door	$40 – $85
Rekey Ignition Cylinder	$60 – $150
Rekey Full Vehicle (All Locks)	$120 – $250+
Emergency Call-Out After Hours	+$50–$100

Note: These are estimates as of 2024—actual prices may vary depending on availability, vehicle type, and service time.

At Locksmiths of Detroit, we prioritize transparent pricing, so you always know what you’re paying for.

Can I Rekey My Car Locks Myself?

Technically, it’s possible—but realistically, it’s not recommended unless you’re highly skilled and have the right tools.

Here’s why DIY rekeying is tricky:

Requires lock removal, pinning kits, and knowledge of your lock’s design
Mistakes can make your lock unusable or even damage your car doors or ignition
Ignitions are particularly sensitive—wrong moves can cause steering lock issues

If your goal is to save money, a pro locksmith can rekey your car correctly the first time, saving you time, tools, and potential headaches.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Rekeying

Can you rekey a push-to-start vehicle?

Not in the traditional sense. Push-to-start cars usually rely on electronic fobs and immobilizer systems. These systems require key reprogramming, not mechanical rekeying.

Is car rekeying legal?

Yes. If you’re the registered owner or have permission to access the vehicle, locksmiths can provide rekeying services legally.

Will rekeying affect my car alarm or central locking?

Nope. Rekeying just changes the mechanical part of the lock. Your alarm and central locking systems (if electronic) won’t be affected.

What if I want all locks to match the same key?

Most locksmiths (including ours) can set door locks and ignition cylinders to match a single key—if your car’s hardware allows it.

When Should You Call a Detroit Locksmith?

Consider reaching out to a local locksmith if:

You’ve lost all keys to your car
You’re worried someone else has a copy of your keys
You just bought a used car and want to start fresh
Your ignition or door lock feels “sticky” or is hard to turn
You need faster or more affordable solutions than a dealership

We’re here to help you solve the problem, not oversell you on something you don’t need.

Should You Rekey Your Car Locks? It’s Often The Smart Choice

If you’re looking for a safer, simpler way to control access to your vehicle, without replacing everything, rekeying is often the smart choice. It’s quick, relatively affordable, and just as secure as replacing the locks.

Whether you’re driving around Midtown, Corktown, or down Jefferson Ave, having peace of mind about your car’s security matters. As a locally-owned locksmith service, we at Locksmiths of Detroit are always here to give honest advice and dependable service.

Want to see if rekeying is right for your vehicle? Give us a call or follow our blog for more helpful tips from certified Detroit locksmiths.

Let’s keep your car and your keys where they belong.

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