Kwikset SmartKey Troubleshooting: How to Rekey Lock When Key Comes Out During Procedure

What happens if your key comes out during the SmartKey re-key procedure? Re-key your lock in seconds with this easy step-by-step instructional video by Kwikset.
First, make sure the key is NOT in the cylinder
1) Insert SmartKey tool :15
-- Ensure that the SmartKey tool is FULLY and FIRMLY inserted into the SmartKey hole
-- You may need to use some force to fully insert the tool
-- Remove SmartKey tool
2) Insert Key :35
-- Reinsert the key you wish to use with the lock
-- Make sure your key is FULLY inserted
-- The edge of the key should touch the indent in the cylinder face
-- Without PUSHING or PULLING the key, rotate it 180 degrees counter-clockwise
-- TEST PROCEDURE: Rotate the key 180 degrees clockwise. Pull the key to make sure it will NOT come out in this position DO NOT use excessive force when pulling
For more assistance, visit our Support Page here: www.kwikset.com/customer-support/how-to-center.aspx or call 1-800-327-5625 (LOCK).

[@kenji-san1899]

Kwikset Support: I have a question...my key did come out on first attempt and I watched this video and followed all the steps...but the key still came out on second attempt. However, the procedure worked...the key that came with the new doorknob-deadbolt set does not work anymore...and my old key in fact does work...consistently. Is it a critical issue if the key comes out on the "test" procedure part? That is..Is it possible you can have a successful re-key procedure and maybe sometimes the "test" procedure isn't indicative of an issue? The product was bought from Home Depot and self-installed today on 12/26. Product is a signature series Kwikset antique brass finish doorknob-deadbolt set.

[@scttucson6468]

Does this only work with Kwikset type keys? as my schlage key will not work

[@kwikset]

Yes, SmartKey rekey technology only works with Kwikset keys.

[@elizabethtrujillo-adams2067]

what happens if your lock requires you to turn the key
in the opposite direction to lock? so you turn it to the left 9 position vs right to the 3 position

[@kwikset]

Hi Elizabeth - Here to help! To gather more details about your lock and help you with troubleshooting, please contact our Support Team here: kwik.st/3mAJY44 Thanks ~ Kwikset Social

[@Sanjuk0522]

I messed up the process and the original key that came with the box doesn’t work. How can I fix this

[@kwikset]

Hi and here to help! To fix this, please follow the instructions in the link below to assist you with the SmartKey recovery process.
kwik.st/3ZcRfEG For further assistance, please contact our Support Team at 1-800-327-5625. Thanks ~ Kwikset Social

[@traceythomas6761]

It seems critical that when the key comes out in the original test, you're NOT supposed to reinsert it and take it back to the start position, because the smart key won't seem to do anything from the vertical position and you can't get it back to a 90 degree clockwise position after. Is the lock ruined now?

[@kwikset]

Hi and here to help! Please try our SmartKey cylinder recovery steps here: kwik.st/3OTwIkM
In addition, our Consumer Support Team is here to help... please contact us at 1-800-327-LOCK (5625). Thanks ~ Kwikset Social

[@RhythmSection]

Why is this so difficult? What the hell man....

[@randygroth8403]

These locks are junk! I had 2 fail in the last 6 months. Both wouldn't unlock, the key wouldn't turn.Buy a Dexter deadbolt .