If your key will not turn in the lock, the most common causes are a misaligned door, a worn key, frozen or corroded lock pins, or a damaged internal mechanism. If the key spins freely but the bolt does not move, the tailpiece (the part connecting the cylinder to the bolt) may be broken. Both issues are common and a locksmith can resolve them quickly. Before calling, try some simple troubleshooting steps.
What to do right now
- 1
Make sure you are using the correct key
This sounds obvious, but if you have multiple similar keys on a ring, double-check you are using the right one. Try inserting the key and feeling whether it slides in smoothly to the full depth. A wrong key will feel different.
- 2
Lubricate the lock
Spray graphite lubricant or silicone spray into the keyhole. Insert and remove the key several times to distribute the lubricant. Then try turning the key gently. Do not use excessive force — if it does not turn smoothly with moderate pressure, stop.
- 3
Check for door misalignment
If the key turns the cylinder but the bolt will not move, the bolt may be binding against the strike plate due to door misalignment. Try lifting the door handle or pushing the door firmly into the frame while turning the key.
- 4
Check if the key is worn
Compare the problem key with a spare key (if you have one). Worn keys develop rounded edges and reduced profile depth, which means the pins inside the lock do not lift to the correct height. A worn key needs to be replaced — a locksmith can cut a new one from the lock code.
- 5
Call a locksmith if the key spins freely
If the key turns the cylinder but the bolt does not move at all (the key just spins), the tailpiece connecting the cylinder to the lock body has likely broken. This requires a locksmith to disassemble and repair or replace the lock.
When to call an emergency locksmith
- ⚠️The key will not turn at all despite lubrication and correct key
- ⚠️The key spins freely but the bolt does not move
- ⚠️The key goes in but feels like it is not engaging the pins
- ⚠️You can hear clicking or grinding but the lock does not operate
- ⚠️The lock worked fine yesterday but suddenly will not turn today
- ⚠️You cannot lock or unlock your door and need the issue resolved urgently
How much does it cost?
A locksmith callout for a lock that will not turn costs $80–$170 during business hours, including diagnosis and basic repair. After-hours callouts cost $120–$250. If the lock cylinder needs replacing, add $60–$150 for the new cylinder. If the entire lock body or mechanism needs replacing, costs range from $150–$400 depending on the lock type. Cutting a new key from the lock code costs $15–$40 if the old key is worn.