How to Identify & Rekey SmartKey Locks

Around 2007 Kwikset released a new type of lock cylinder known as the SmartKey*.  Unlike a conventional pin tumbler lock, the SmartKey can be rekeyed without having to remove the cylinder from the door.  This is especially convenient for homeowners, who will no longer have to hire a locksmith every time they need their lock rekeyed.  In this article you will learn how to identify and rekey a SmartKey lock and also be provided with some information regarding the advantages and disadvantages of using these locks to secure your home.

This lock is purely mechanical and should not be confused with Kwikset's Kevo* electronic deadbolt.  The Kevo can be programmed to use Bluetooth-enabled devices (such as smartphones) to unlock it, but also uses a SmartKey cylinder for purposes of providing users with a mechanical override.  The takeaway from this is that SmartKey has nothing to do with your smartphone.


Identification:  Is Your Lock a SmartKey?

These locks can be identified by a small vertical slot on the plug, located to the left of the cylinder's keyway**.  These locks will also be marked "Kwikset" or "Weiser".  U-Change brand locks may look similar, however the slot in the plug is horizontal instead (U-Change locks utilize a completely different mechanism and are similar in construction to conventional pin tumbler locks).

SmartKey deadbolt (left) next to a conventional Kwikset pin tumbler cylinder (right).  In this photo the rekeying slot has been circled in red.  Both cylinders pictured are capable of being keyed alike despite the fact that they are mechanically different

Rekeying Instructions:

You will need the following:

• A Working Key (Key A):  If you do not have a key that works on your lock, the lock will need to be removed from the door and reset by a locksmith (we provide this service)
• SmartKey Learn Tool:  Use Kwikset Part #83283.  This tool has a red protective sheath to prevent the tip from becoming damaged or poking the user.  If you would prefer the basic tool without the protective covering, use Kwikset Part #83282 instead
• New Keys (Key B):  These are the keys you wish to operate the lock instead of your current set

To rekey your SmartKey lock follow these steps:

Step 4 shown using Kwikset Part #83283

1) Make sure your door is open so you don't get locked out

2) Insert Key A completely into the plug

3) Rotate Key A 90 degrees clockwise to the three o'clock position

4) Insert the tip of the Learn Tool into the rekeying slot, which will now be horizontal.  Apply forward pressure to the Learn Tool until you hear a click

5) Remove the Learn Tool from the plug.  DO NOT rotate the plug at this time

6) With Key A still horizontal you may now remove it from the plug.  If you are unable to remove it, repeat the last two steps

7) Insert Key B fully into the plug

8) With Key B fully inserted, rotate it counterclockwise 90 degrees to the 12 o'clock position and remove it from the cylinder

9) Test your work:  Key A should no longer rotate when inserted.  Key B should now rotate, operating your deadbolt or handle

Advantages & Drawbacks

One advantage of using these locks is that they are substantially more difficult to pick than a conventional Kwikset pin tumbler lock due to their serrated wafers.  Further, unlike Kwikset's pin tumbler counterpart, this lock cannot reliably be "bumped".  This reduces the chances of one gaining entry to your premises without leaving evidence of destruction behind.

Also, as stated earlier these locks are convenient.  They can be rekeyed quickly and without extensive knowledge or tools.  While these locks cannot be master keyed, Kwikset offers a special SmartKey cylinder that utilizes two plugs to allow for a similar effect:  A "Master" key may be inserted into one plug to operate the lock or a different key may be inserted into the other plug, also operating the lock.

While the SmartKey is certainly a convenient design, there are some risks that should be noted.  SmartKey locks are made out of some plastic components, which makes these locks extremely vulnerable to the use of common power tools.  Also, there is a destructive technique that involves using a specialized tool that will not cause noticeable damage to the lock's face.  A burglar could use this tool to gain entry to a residence secured by a SmartKey lock and upon the homeowner's return, their key would work normally as if the lock had not been destroyed.  By contrast, destructively opening a pin tumbler lock would require leaving a substantial hole in the face of the lock, which a homeowner would notice.

One should also be aware that there have been claims of the tumblers coming apart inside these locks, causing a lockout.  This is most likely due to the use of fragile tabs that interface with the lock's wafers.  If these tabs break off, the key can no longer elevate the wafers to their proper position and therefore not open the lock.


Conclusion

The SmartKey lock is a convenient and cost-effective alternative for homeowners and renters, who wish to have their locks rekeyed on a frequent basis.  Unfortunately, because this lock is built to be cost-effective, both quality and security have suffered.  U-Change locks for example are generally considered higher quality and less likely to experience mechanical failure, although they have their own share of security vulnerabilities.  It may be some time before a user-friendly rekeyable mechanical lock hits the market that is of higher quality and provides greater security.  Personally, I would rather use a conventional pin tumbler deadbolt designed to resist common destructive attacks.

*SmartKey and Kevo are trademarks of Kwikset Corporation

**On pin and wafer tumbler locks the plug is the round component, which the key is inserted into