Cylinder replacement — from standard to high security

The cylinder — the barrel your key enters — is the most frequently replaced part in locksmithing, and for good reason: it alone decides who can get in. Lost keys, a move, a security upgrade: replacing the cylinder is enough, at a fraction of a full lock's cost. Fifteen minutes for a standard model, with new keys — and your old ones open nothing anymore.

Why the cylinder rather than the whole lock?

In most situations the lock's mechanism — case, bolts, linkage — is in perfect health: only key access needs resetting. That is the right fix after lost or stolen keys, when moving in, when a keyholder leaves (tenant, employee, cleaner), or when a seized cylinder announces its end. It is also the cheapest security upgrade there is: on most locks, a high-security cylinder mounts in place of the original with nothing else changed.

Choosing well

Size first: a cylinder is measured from its cam to each end (30×30, 30×40…) and must never protrude more than 2–3 mm — a protruding cylinder snaps off with pliers in seconds; we measure systematically. Protection level next: anti-drill, anti-pick, anti-snap, anti-bumping. Protected keys finally: card-protected cylinders make key copying impossible without the card only you hold. Useful options: keyed-alike sets (one key for door, garage and gate) and emergency-function cylinders that still work with a key left inside.

Prices

FAQ

Is every cylinder compatible with my lock? The European profile fits the vast majority of modern French locks; sizes just need respecting. Older round or specific formats have their equivalents — in our van stock.

One key for all my doors? Yes, with keyed-alike cylinders on each access — a favourite for houses.

See also