Door Lock Repair Service

When You Need Door Lock Repair Service

Door locks protecting your Austin home experience daily wear from use, weather exposure, and age. Minor problems caught early prevent major failures and security vulnerabilities.

You need professional lock repair when:

Keys stick or are hard to turn - Increasing resistance when inserting or turning your key signals internal wear, dirt accumulation, or lack of lubrication. This progresses from slight stickiness to complete jamming, often culminating in broken keys stuck in the lock leaving you locked out. Early repair prevents escalation.

Door knobs or levers feel loose - Wobbling handles indicate loose set screws, worn springs, or damaged mounting hardware. Beyond the annoying feel, loose hardware accelerates wear on internal components and may fail suddenly, leaving the handle detached in your hand when you need entry most.

Latch doesn’t catch the strike plate properly - If your door doesn’t latch reliably, swinging open when closed or requiring a push/pull to engage, the strike plate has misaligned with the latch. This happens from settling foundations, seasonal door movement, or loose hinges. Failed latches leave your home unsecured even when you think the door is closed.

Deadbolt won’t extend or retract smoothly - Deadbolts that bind, catch, or require force to throw signal misalignment, internal wear, or debris jamming the mechanism. Forcing a sticky deadbolt risks breaking keys inside the lock, wearing internal pins prematurely, or snapping the bolt itself.

Lock cylinder spins freely - If you insert the key and it turns with no resistance, making a full 360-degree rotation without engaging the bolt, internal components have broken or separated. This is complete lock failure requiring immediate repair to restore security.

Visible damage from forced entry attempt - If someone attempted to force your lock (even if they didn’t succeed), internal components likely sustained damage. Locks that appear to work after forcing attempts may have weakened springs, bent pins, or cracked cylinders that will fail soon.

Broken key stuck inside lock - Keys break inside locks from forcing sticky mechanisms, using worn keys with metal fatigue, or attempting entry with wrong key. The broken piece blocks keyway entry, preventing lock operation and often locking you out if the key broke on exterior side.

Lock won’t accept key at all - Keys that won’t insert fully into keyway suggest foreign objects lodged inside (dirt, broken key piece from previous incident, deliberately jammed material), frozen mechanism in rare Austin freezes, or severely damaged keyway.

Rust or corrosion affecting operation - Exterior locks exposed to weather can develop rust or corrosion that jams internal mechanisms. While Austin’s climate is generally dry, sprinkler overspray, rain-driven moisture, or years of exposure can rust unprotected metal components.

Recently experienced a break-in or forced entry - Even if locks still appear functional after a break-in, forcing or tampering can damage internal components invisibly. Fresh locks or professional inspection ensure compromised security doesn’t leave you vulnerable.

Our Door Lock Repair Process

We systematically diagnose lock problems and provide honest repair vs replacement recommendations.

1. Problem Assessment & Diagnosis

We start by understanding what’s not working and determining the root cause.

Symptom description: You describe when problems started, how they’ve progressed, what makes them better/worse, and any recent events (weather, break-in attempt, dropped keys). This provides context for diagnosis.

Visual inspection: We examine exterior and interior lock components for visible damage (cracks, rust, missing pieces), loose hardware (screws, mounting plates), misalignment (strike plate not matching latch), or obvious wear (damaged keyways, stripped screw holes).

Operational testing: We test the lock using your existing keys and our tools to identify binding points, weak springs, sticky mechanisms, or internal failures. We operate the lock slowly to feel exactly where problems occur.

Key examination: We inspect your keys for wear, bending, or damage that could cause or contribute to lock problems. Worn keys often indicate worn cylinders, and key problems sometimes masquerade as lock problems.

Door alignment check: We verify the door hangs properly in the frame - no sagging from worn hinges, seasonal swelling, or settling foundation movement. Many “lock problems” are actually door alignment issues causing latches and deadbolts to bind against misaligned strikes.

Internal component assessment: For locks where we can access internal components without disassembly, we check springs, pins, and gears for visible wear, breakage, or missing pieces.

2. Honest Recommendation: Repair vs Replace

After diagnosis, we explain what’s wrong and provide transparent recommendation on the best solution.

Repair makes sense when: Problem is simple lubrication or cleaning ($75-$95), replacement parts cost under $40-50 (springs, cylinders, latches), lock is quality brand (Schlage, Kwikset, Medeco) worth repairing, lock is less than 10 years old, or only one component needs repair (other components still in good condition).

Replacement makes better sense when: Multiple components have problems (cascade failure indicating end-of-life), lock is 15+ years old with general wear, repair cost exceeds 70% of new lock cost, lock is builder-grade hardware with poor reliability history, lock was damaged during break-in attempt (security compromised even if repaired), or you want upgraded security/features (smart lock, higher grade).

Cost comparison presentation: We provide clear pricing - cost to repair with parts/labor breakdown, vs cost to replace with new lock of equivalent or better quality. We explain expected lifespan after repair vs warranty period on new lock.

No-pressure recommendation: We tell you honestly which option we recommend and why, but the decision is yours. We make more money on replacements than repairs, so when we recommend repair it’s genuinely because that’s the right answer for your situation.

Same-visit resolution: Whether you choose repair or replacement, we typically resolve the problem during the same visit. We stock common replacement parts and complete replacement locks on our service trucks for immediate installation.

3. Repair Execution or Replacement Installation

Once you approve the recommended solution, we execute the repair or replacement professionally.

Lubrication and cleaning repairs: For sticky or binding locks needing lubrication, we thoroughly clean the keyway and cylinder with compressed air, apply appropriate lubricant (graphite powder or Teflon spray, never oil-based), work the lock through full range of motion to distribute lubricant, test with your keys, and verify smooth operation.

Parts replacement repairs: For failed internal components, we disassemble the lock as needed, remove damaged parts (springs, pins, cylinders, latches), install replacement components (OEM or equivalent quality parts we stock), reassemble the lock, test for proper operation, and adjust as needed for optimal performance.

Alignment and adjustment repairs: For misalignment problems, we adjust strike plate position (move up/down/in/out to match latch/deadbolt), tighten or shim loose hinges to prevent door sagging, plane or sand door edges if seasonal swelling causes binding, and verify latch and deadbolt engage strike smoothly without forcing.

Broken key extraction: For keys broken inside locks, we extract the broken piece using specialized tools without damaging cylinder, verify the lock operates correctly after extraction, duplicate keys from the extracted broken piece or from lock code, and address underlying cause if key broke due to lock malfunction.

Emergency lockout with repair: If you’re locked out AND the lock needs repair, we first gain entry non-destructively if possible (pick the lock, use emergency access methods), then address the repair to prevent reoccurrence, and provide new keys if needed.

Full lock replacement: If replacement is the better option, we remove the old lock hardware completely, verify hole sizes match new lock or enlarge if needed, install new lock with reinforced strike and long screws, key new lock to your preference (match existing keys if possible, or provide all new keys), test thoroughly, and dispose of old hardware.

4. Testing & Adjustment

After repair or replacement, we verify everything works properly.

Smooth operation testing: We cycle the lock 10-15 times to ensure consistently smooth operation (no binding, catching, or excessive force needed). We test with keys from multiple angles (straight insertion, slight up/down pressure) to verify forgiving operation, and verify both locking and unlocking require equal ease.

Key testing: We test all your existing keys (if repair maintained same keyway) or new keys (if rekeyed or replaced) to ensure each works properly. We verify keys insert fully without forcing and turn smoothly through complete rotation. We check keys from other doors to ensure they DON’T work (security verification).

Strike alignment verification: We confirm latch and deadbolt engage strike plate centered without rubbing edges, deadbolt extends fully into strike box (1” minimum), and door latches reliably every time without requiring push or pull.

Door operation: We verify door opens and closes smoothly without dragging or binding, door swings freely on hinges without sagging, and repaired/replaced lock doesn’t create new resistance in door operation.

Security verification: We confirm deadbolt can’t be backed out while engaged (one-way bolt works correctly), door knob/lever doesn’t disengage when force is applied externally, and lock provides appropriate resistance to picking or bumping (for quality locks).

Final adjustments: If we detect any minor issues during testing, we make immediate corrections - slight strike adjustment, additional lubrication, tightening any loose components, or fine-tuning alignment.

5. Customer Education & Maintenance

We explain what we repaired and how to maintain the lock for maximum lifespan.

Problem explanation: We show you what was wrong (worn springs, misaligned strike, dried lubricant) so you understand what failed and why. Visual understanding helps you spot similar problems earlier on other doors.

Maintenance guidance: We recommend lubrication schedule (typically graphite spray every 6-12 months), checking set screws periodically for tightness, monitoring for early signs of new problems (stickiness, looseness), and using keys properly (don’t force, don’t use as pry tools).

Key management: We explain proper key use (avoid getting keys wet if possible, don’t attach heavy keychains that stress lock internal components, replace worn keys before they break), and recommend keeping spare keys so worn daily-use keys can be rotated out before failure.

When to call again: We teach you warning signs that indicate developing problems (increasing key resistance, intermittent latch failure, new sounds during operation) and encourage early calls for small problems before they become emergencies.

Warranty on our work: We provide warranty on repairs (typically 30-90 days depending on repair type) and manufacturer warranty on replaced locks (1-5 years depending on brand). We explain what’s covered and how to get warranty service if problems develop.

Common Lock Problems We Repair

Our technicians handle the full range of residential lock issues Austin homeowners encounter.

Sticky or Stiff Locks

Symptoms: Key hard to insert or turn, increasing resistance over time, key sometimes gets stuck mid-turn, different keys work with varying difficulty.

Common causes: Dried-out factory lubrication (most common after 3-5 years), dirt and debris accumulated in keyway (Austin’s cedar pollen season contributes), worn pins and key creating excessive friction, corrosion from moisture exposure (sprinkler overspray, rain), or internal spring failure preventing smooth pin movement.

Typical repair: Thorough cleaning with compressed air, application of graphite powder or Teflon spray lubricant, working lock through full range of motion to distribute lubricant, testing with multiple keys. Cost: $75-$95 if lubrication solves the problem.

When replacement needed: If pins are severely worn (key wobbles in keyway, wrong keys partially work), cylinder is corroded internally (visible green or brown deposits), or springs have failed (keys turn with no resistance but won’t engage lock). Replacement cost: $95-$140 for new cylinder or complete lockset.

Loose or Wobbly Door Handles

Symptoms: Handle moves excessively side-to-side or up-down, handle feels detached or disconnected, handle doesn’t return to horizontal position after releasing, visible gap between handle base and door.

Common causes: Loose set screws (vibrate loose from daily use, especially on busy entry doors), worn internal return spring (handle doesn’t spring back positively), stripped screw holes (repeated tightening wears soft metal), broken or bent spindle connecting interior/exterior handles, or worn mounting plates with enlarged screw holes.

Typical repair: Tighten set screws if that’s the only problem ($75 service call), replace internal springs ($90-$110), repair stripped holes and remount ($85-$110), or replace spindle ($85-$120).

When replacement needed: If multiple components are worn (springs AND stripped holes AND worn mounting), handle is low-quality builder-grade with repeated loosening history, or cost of parts approaches new lockset cost. Replacement: $95-$160 for quality residential lockset.

Misaligned Latches and Deadbolts

Symptoms: Door doesn’t latch automatically when closed (requires push or pull), latch catches on strike plate edge instead of entering hole, deadbolt binds or won’t extend fully, visible gap between latch/deadbolt and strike when engaged.

Common causes: Settling foundation shifting door frame position (common in Austin’s expansive clay soils), seasonal door swelling from humidity changes (wood doors expand in summer), worn or loose hinges allowing door to sag, strike plate installed in wrong position originally, or door was planed/adjusted after lock installation.

Typical repair: Adjust strike plate position ($75-$95) by filing strike hole larger in appropriate direction or removing and remounting strike plate in corrected position. Tighten or shim hinges to restore door position ($75-$95). For more complex cases, plane or sand door edge to correct fit ($95-$120).

Prevention: Address door alignment issues promptly before forcing mis-aligned locks damages internal components. Have hinges checked when you notice changing door operation. Consider adjustable strike plates for doors that shift seasonally.

Broken Keys Stuck in Locks

Symptoms: Key broke off during use, broken piece lodged in keyway preventing other key insertion, portion of key visible or completely inside lock, unable to operate lock at all.

Common causes: Worn key with metal fatigue (repeated bending from years of use), forcing a sticky lock that needs lubrication or repair, attempting to use wrong key and forcing it, extremely cold weather making metal brittle (rare in Austin), or internal lock damage creating excessive resistance.

Typical extraction: We use extraction tools to grip and remove broken key piece ($85-$120 for extraction and testing). For flush breaks (no visible key protruding), extraction is more complex and may require partial lock disassembly ($110-$140). After extraction, we assess lock condition and repair underlying cause that led to key breaking.

Post-extraction: Duplicate new keys from extracted broken piece (we reassemble if it broke into multiple pieces), or cut keys from lock code if broken key is too damaged. Address sticky lock that caused breakage (lubrication, repair). If lock damage contributed to break, recommend cylinder replacement ($95-$140).

Frozen or Jammed Locks

Symptoms: Key won’t insert at all, keyway appears blocked, lock completely non-functional, nothing moves when key is forced.

Common causes: Foreign object jammed in keyway (deliberate vandalism, accident), broken key piece from previous incident still lodged inside, lock frozen from rare Austin ice storms, or severe internal damage (broken pins completely blocking cylinder rotation).

Typical repair: Extract foreign objects or broken key pieces ($85-$110), thaw frozen locks with lock de-icer or careful heat application ($75-$90 emergency service), or disassemble and clear internal jams ($95-$130).

When replacement needed: If internal components are severely damaged (broken pins, cracked cylinder housing, damaged keyway beyond repair). Replacement: $95-$150 depending on lock quality.

Worn or Damaged Cylinders

Symptoms: Wrong keys partially work in lock (security vulnerability), key wobbles excessively in keyway, cylinder visible worn with rounded pin holes, keys need to be wiggled to work, or master keys from hardware stores operate your lock.

Common causes: Years of daily use wearing pins and keyway, low-quality lock with soft metal components, forcing lock with wrong keys damaging pins, or attempted lock picking leaving marks and damage.

Typical repair: Replace cylinder with new one ($95-$140) maintaining existing keyway brand or upgrade to higher-security cylinder ($120-$180 for pick-resistant models). We can often rekey new cylinder to match your existing keys for convenience.

Security implications: Severely worn cylinders accept wrong keys or can be picked easily - security vulnerability. If your lock accepts keys it shouldn’t, immediate cylinder replacement restores security. We can demonstrate the vulnerability during service call if you’re uncertain whether replacement is warranted.

Repair vs Replace: Making the Right Choice

Understanding when to repair and when to replace saves money while ensuring security.

When Repair is the Smart Choice

Repair makes sense for locks that are fundamentally sound with isolated problems.

Recently installed locks (under 5 years old): Quality locks less than 5 years old typically have good remaining lifespan. Repairing specific failures (spring, cylinder, alignment) is cost-effective.

Quality brand locks: Schlage, Kwikset, Medeco, Mul-T-Lock, and other quality brands are built for repair. Replacement parts exist, components are robust, and repairs often last as long as original parts did.

Single-component failures: If only one component failed (spring, cylinder, latch) while others are fine, replacing that component is more economical than entire lock replacement.

Simple problems: Lubrication needs, loose screws, or minor alignment issues costing $75-$110 obviously make more sense than $130-$200 replacement.

Historic or special hardware: If you have antique locks, designer hardware matching other doors, or special-ordered finishes, repair preserves this investment even if repair costs approach replacement for standard locks.

Already keyed alike systems: If this lock is keyed with others and you want to maintain that system, repairing preserves the keying scheme. Replacing requires rekeying the new lock to match or rekeying all other locks to match new one.

When Replacement is the Better Investment

Replacement makes sense when cumulative problems or age indicate end-of-life.

Multiple simultaneous problems: If lock needs new cylinder AND springs AND latch mechanism, cumulative repair cost often exceeds replacement cost for new lock with warranty.

Age over 15 years: Locks operating 15+ years have age-related wear across all components. Repairing one failure doesn’t prevent others from failing soon. Fresh lock provides 10-20 year lifespan vs 1-3 years for elderly lock.

Builder-grade cheap locks: Low-quality locks (often builder-installed to minimize cost) aren’t worth repairing. Replacement with quality lock costs marginally more than repair and provides dramatically better reliability and security.

Security upgrades: If you have Grade 3 basic locks and want improved security, replacement with Grade 2 or Grade 1 locks during repair makes sense. Or upgrade to smart locks for keyless convenience.

Post-break-in: Locks forced during break-in attempts have compromised integrity even if they still operate. Internal damage you can’t see may cause future failure. Replacement ensures full security restoration.

Cumulative repair costs: If you’ve already repaired this lock once or twice, additional repairs indicate the lock is at end-of-life. Replace before you invest more in repairs than replacement would cost.

Damage beyond repair: Cracked lock bodies, severely corroded internal components, or structural failure can’t be repaired. Replacement is the only option.

Our Honest Recommendation Promise

We make more money on replacements than repairs, yet we often recommend repair. Why?

Reputation matters more than single-job profit: Happy customers who got honest service call us for future needs and refer neighbors. Overselling replacements when repair works builds short-term revenue but destroys long-term business.

Transparent pricing builds trust: We show you exact costs for both options (repair parts/labor vs replacement cost) and explain expected lifespan for each choice. You make informed decision with all information.

Volume comes from trust, not maximizing each job: Austin has hundreds of thousands of homes needing locksmith services. Building reputation for honesty creates steady work flow. Maximizing profit per job through unnecessary replacements creates one-time customers and negative reviews.

We want your future business: This lock repair is one of many potential services you’ll need over years of homeownership - rekeying, additional locks, smart lock upgrades, lockouts. Treating you fairly today earns your business tomorrow.

Coverage Area & Service Availability

We provide door lock repair throughout greater Austin metro area with same-day service available.

Primary service area: Austin, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Georgetown, Leander, Lakeway, Bee Cave, West Lake Hills, Rollingwood, and Sunset Valley.

Extended service area: Hutto, Taylor, Manor, Elgin, Bastrop, Dripping Springs, Wimberley, Kyle, Buda, and surrounding communities.

Same-day service: Most locations within our primary service area qualify for same-day lock repair service, subject to technician availability. Call by early afternoon for highest probability of same-day resolution.

Emergency lockout repair: If you’re locked out due to the lock malfunction (not just forgetting keys), we prioritize emergency service to get you back inside quickly. Emergency service available evenings, weekends, and holidays for additional fee ($50-$75 after-hours surcharge).

Common Questions About Lock Repair

Can I repair locks myself or should I call a professional?

Some simple lock maintenance you can do yourself, but professional repair is safer for most problems:

DIY appropriate for: Lubricating keyway with graphite spray (pick up graphite powder at hardware store, puff into keyway, work lock through full range of motion), tightening visible set screws on loose handles (use appropriate hex key or screwdriver), cleaning dirt from keyway with compressed air, and replacing batteries in smart locks.

Call professional for: Extracting broken keys (DIY attempts often push key deeper or damage cylinder), diagnosing internal failures (requires understanding lock mechanics), replacing internal components (cylinders, springs, pins), adjusting or replacing strike plates (requires proper alignment knowledge), repairing or replacing smart lock electronics, and any problem where you’re unsure of the cause.

Risks of DIY lock repair: Using wrong lubricants (WD-40, oil-based products attract dirt and make problems worse), damaging lock during broken key extraction attempts, replacing wrong components (symptoms suggest one problem but cause is different), installing incorrect parts (wrong spring size, incorrect cylinder type), creating security vulnerabilities through improper repair (worn pins, loose cylinders), and making problems worse requiring more expensive professional repair.

When DIY makes sense: If problem is obviously simple (clearly loose screw, new lock just needs lubrication, smart lock battery dead), you’re handy and have appropriate tools, replacement parts are clearly identifiable and available, and failed DIY attempt won’t make you more vulnerable (don’t attempt DIY on your only entry door lock at night before leaving for vacation).

Cost comparison: DIY saves $75-$110 service call if successful, but risks $50-$150 in additional damage if unsuccessful. Professional service provides guaranteed correct diagnosis, proper parts and repair, operational testing to verify fix worked, and warranty on work performed.

How much does typical lock repair cost?

Repair costs vary by problem complexity and parts needed:

Service call minimum: $75 - Covers technician arrival, diagnosis, and simple fixes (lubrication, tightening screws, minor adjustment) that don’t require parts.

Simple repairs with common parts: $85-$120 - Includes service call plus inexpensive replacement parts (springs, set screws, minor components). Examples: replace internal springs, extract broken key, adjust strike plate.

Component replacement repairs: $95-$150 - Includes service call plus mid-cost parts (cylinders, latches, handles). Examples: replace lock cylinder, replace latch mechanism, install new strike box.

Complex or time-intensive repairs: $120-$180 - Includes service call plus expensive parts or significant labor (multiple component replacement, difficult extractions, extensive alignment work). Examples: replace cylinder plus springs plus realignment, extract flush-broken key from high-security lock, repair/replace smart lock components.

Emergency or after-hours service: +$50-$75 - Additional fee for evenings, weekends, holidays, or emergency lockout situations where immediate service is needed.

Comparison to replacement: New residential lockset installation costs $95-$160 for standard quality (Schlage, Kwikset Grade 2), $130-$200 for high-security or smart locks. If repair costs exceed $100-$120 and lock is old or showing multiple problems, replacement often provides better long-term value.

No surprise pricing: We diagnose the problem first, then quote repair cost before beginning work. You approve the price before we proceed. No hidden fees or surprise charges.

How can I prevent my locks from needing repair?

Preventive maintenance extends lock lifespan dramatically:

Annual lubrication: Apply graphite powder or Teflon spray to keyway every 6-12 months. Work lock through full operation after lubricating to distribute lubricant. Never use WD-40 or oil-based lubricants that attract dirt. Takes 2 minutes per lock, prevents most sticky-lock problems.

Key management: Replace visibly worn keys before they break (see grooves in key teeth, thinning metal, discoloration). Don’t use keys as pry tools or screwdrivers. Avoid heavy keychains that stress lock cylinders. Keep spare keys so worn daily keys can be retired early.

Gentle operation: Don’t force sticky locks - address stickiness immediately with lubrication. Don’t jiggle or wiggle keys excessively. Turn keys smoothly with moderate pressure. Teach household members (especially kids) proper lock operation.

Door alignment: Address sagging or binding doors promptly before misalignment damages locks. Tighten loose hinges annually. Watch for seasonal door swelling and adjust as needed. Keep door weatherseals maintained so doors close properly.

Periodic inspection: Check mounting screws quarterly for tightness (set screws on handles, strike plate screws). Look for early rust or corrosion signs and address immediately. Test all keys periodically to ensure they work before you need them in emergency.

Weather protection: Clean weatherseals on exterior locks annually. Apply protectant to exposed metal finishes yearly. Adjust sprinklers if they’re hitting door locks directly. Consider covered porch or awning for locks getting direct rain exposure.

Smart lock maintenance: Replace batteries proactively when low-battery warning appears (don’t wait for complete battery death). Keep firmware updated through smartphone apps. Protect keypads from direct water spray. Clean touchscreens periodically.

Quality investment: Install quality locks (Schlage, Kwikset, Medeco) on exterior doors rather than cheap builder-grade hardware. Quality locks have better weather resistance, stronger components, and longer lifespan requiring less frequent repair.

Following these practices extends typical lock lifespan from 10-15 years to 20+ years and reduces repair needs by 60-70%. Small preventive effort saves significant repair costs over time.

What should I do if my key breaks in the lock?

If your key breaks inside the lock, follow these steps:

Stop immediately: Don’t try to continue turning or operating the lock. Further operation can push broken piece deeper or damage internal components. If the broken key piece is visible protruding from keyway, don’t push it in - leave it accessible for extraction.

Assess the situation: Can you see any portion of the broken key? Is this your only key to this lock? Are you locked out or just can’t lock the door? Do you have spare keys that might work? Is this an emergency (locked out at night) or inconvenient (can use another door temporarily)?

Emergency lockout: If you’re locked out and can’t access your home, call us immediately for emergency broken key extraction and lockout service. We’ll extract the key and get you back inside, then repair any lock damage that caused or resulted from the break. Emergency service available 24/7: (512) 277-7730.

Non-emergency situation: If you’re not locked out (broken key is on interior side, you have other access), you can schedule same-day or next-day service at standard rates without emergency fees. We’ll extract the key, repair the lock if it contributed to the break, and provide new keys cut from the extracted piece.

DIY extraction risks: You might find advice online about using super glue, needle-nose pliers, or other improvised extraction methods. We strongly advise against DIY extraction attempts because: Super glue often bonds broken key to cylinder, making professional extraction impossible without replacing entire cylinder (turns $85 extraction into $130 cylinder replacement). Needle-nose pliers or tweezers often push key deeper into cylinder rather than extracting it. Drill or pick attempts can permanently damage cylinder, requiring complete replacement.

What to expect during professional extraction: We use specialized extraction tools designed for grabbing broken keys. For protruding breaks, extraction takes 5-15 minutes. For flush breaks (key broken even with keyway opening), extraction is more complex and may require 15-30 minutes. After extraction, we test lock operation to verify it wasn’t damaged, duplicate new keys from extracted broken piece, and address any underlying lock problems that contributed to the break.

Prevention: Most broken keys result from forcing sticky locks. If your key becomes harder to turn over time, address the sticky lock immediately with lubrication or repair. Don’t continue using worn keys showing visible wear grooves or thinning - replace them before they break.

Will you try to sell me new locks when repair is sufficient?

No - our business model prioritizes honesty over maximizing individual job revenue.

Why we recommend repairs when appropriate: Building reputation for honest service creates long-term customer relationships, word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied customers who got fair treatment, repeat business for future locksmith needs over years of homeownership, positive online reviews that drive new customers, and sustainable business based on trust rather than one-time profit maximization.

How we make recommendations: We diagnose the actual problem (not just symptoms you reported), explain what’s wrong in plain language with visual demonstration when possible, provide cost for repair option with expected lifespan, provide cost for replacement option with warranty information, give our honest recommendation with reasoning, and let you make final decision with all information.

Real example: Customer calls about sticky deadbolt. We arrive, test lock, find dried lubricant is the problem. We could claim the cylinder is worn and needs $140 replacement. Instead, we lubricate the lock ($75 service call), it works perfectly, customer is happy. That customer calls us next time they need locksmith service, recommends us to neighbors, and leaves 5-star review. We’ve earned 10+ future jobs from honesty on one $75 service call.

Replacement legitimate when: Lock has multiple failures (cylinder + springs + latch all need replacement), cumulative repair cost exceeds replacement cost, lock is 15+ years old with expected short remaining life, security upgrade is appropriate (Grade 3 to Grade 2, mechanical to smart lock), or customer specifically requests upgrade regardless of repair option.

Trust signals we provide: Written quote for both repair and replacement before work begins, transparent parts and labor cost breakdown, show you the broken/worn parts we replace, explain exactly what we recommend and why, no pressure sales tactics or scare tactics, and satisfaction guarantee on all work.

Your protection: Get quote before approving work, ask why replacement is recommended if you’re uncertain, request to see worn/broken parts that indicate replacement needed, and call another locksmith for second opinion on expensive recommendations (we’re confident in our honesty and don’t fear comparison).

Most Austin locksmiths are honest, but in any industry some prioritize short-term profit over long-term reputation. We’ve built our business on the opposite approach - under-sell and over-deliver.