You’ve probably jiggled a stubborn key in a lock and thought, “Eh, it still works.” But here’s the thing—if your key’s acting up, it’s only a matter of time before it stops working altogether. Whether it’s a house key that’s been around since the ’90s or a car key that’s seen better days, using a damaged key can lead to bigger issues than just a little frustration.
Keys wear down with time. The ridges can flatten, the metal can bend, and those little imperfections can start to mess with your lock. What might seem like a small annoyance now could turn into a full-on lockout later—or worse, a broken key stuck in the lock. Replacing your keys before that happens is a simple, cost-effective way to avoid those stressful situations.
The Telltale Signs It’s Time for a New Key
So how do you know when it’s time to stop pushing your luck? Keep an eye (and ear) out for these common red flags:
You have to wiggle or force the key every time you unlock the door
Your key is visibly bent, cracked, or worn down
It doesn’t work smoothly anymore—even if it eventually turns
You’ve had the same key for years with no backup or copy
You’ve lost track of how many duplicates you’ve made over time
Replacing keys proactively is a whole lot easier than dealing with a broken lock or a late-night locksmith call.
It’s Not Just About Wear—It’s Also About Security
Old keys can be unpredictable, sure. But there’s also a safety concern. If you’ve moved into a new place and haven’t changed the locks or replaced your keys, you might not be the only one with access. That alone is a solid reason to consider getting fresh keys made or even having your locks rekeyed for peace of mind.
And if you’ve given out spares to contractors, ex-roommates, or anyone you don’t stay in touch with anymore, a fresh key replacement helps you take control over who has access to your home or office. It’s a small move that can make a big difference in your everyday security.
Thinking it might be time to swap out those old keys? We’ve got you covered. Learn more about our key replacement, key duplication, and copy key services. Or, if you’re dealing with a home or office situation, check out our residential locksmith services to upgrade your security before problems pop up.