Locksmith Services Serving St. Louis, MO

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    At St. Louis Lock & Key in St. Louis, MO, we believe in offering our customers excellent service, no matter the circumstances.

    In a jam? We'll come to the rescue. We work hard to provide quick, courteous service, and we pride ourselves on our:

    • Affordable rates
    • Quality workmanship and products
    • Knowledgeable, professional locksmiths

    We're proud to be locally owned and operated so that we can serve customer needs in our community. We understand that your time is important. When you're locked out, whether at home or while you're out and about, we'll provide swift assistance so that you don't have to wait around for hours. If you have an appointment, we'll make sure to show up on time.

    When you need a reliable locksmith in St. Louis, MO, St. Louis Lock & Key is the only call you'll need to make. Contact us now for more information about our products and services.

  • You Can Count On St. Louis Lock & Key

    • BBB Accredited Business
    • Locally Owned & Operated
    • Punctual, Professional Staff
    • Great Customer Service
    • Expert Locksmith Service
    • ALOA Member
    • Emergency Service Available

Our Services

Locksmith Services in St. Louis, MO


    • Locksmith Service
    • Lock Repair
    • Lock Out Service
    • Locksmith Auto Service
    • Branded Auto Keys
    • Motorcycle Keys
    • Automotive Chip Keys Made
    • Ignition Lock Repairs
    • Re-Key Cars
    • Lost Keys
    • Factory Remotes
    • OEM Factory Keys
    • Transponder Keys
    • All Foreign & Domestic Vehicles Serviced
    • And Much More!

Questions about Locksmith Services

Troubleshooting Guide

View All Troubleshooting Guide
Why is my key suddenly difficult to turn?

A worn key, debris, a failing cylinder, or pressure from a misaligned door can cause resistance. Do not force the key. Note whether the problem happens with another authorized key and ask St. Louis Lock & Key to inspect the lock.

Why does the deadbolt work with the door open but not when it is closed?

The bolt and strike may no longer align because the door or frame has shifted. Avoid repeatedly forcing the bolt or modifying the frame yourself. St. Louis Lock & Key can check alignment and lock condition.

What should I do if a key breaks inside a lock?

Stop turning or pushing on the broken key and keep the remaining piece. Glue and improvised extraction tools can damage the cylinder. Contact St. Louis Lock & Key for broken key extraction and an assessment of why it happened.

Why does the lock cylinder feel loose or spin?

Loose mounting hardware or an internal failure may prevent the lock from operating securely. Do not rely on a door that will not lock correctly. Arrange an inspection with St. Louis Lock & Key and use another secure arrangement while waiting.

What if my lock was damaged during an attempted break-in?

Move to a safe place and contact police if there is an immediate threat or a crime to report. Avoid disturbing evidence. When it is safe to arrange repairs, St. Louis Lock & Key can assess the damaged lock and replacement needs.

What should I do when my keys are locked in the car?

Move to a safe location and call 314-494-2510 with the vehicle details and exact location. Avoid wedges or improvised tools that could damage the door or glass. St. Louis Lock & Key can confirm lockout assistance and the expected arrival.

What should I do if a child or pet is locked inside a vehicle?

If there is immediate danger, heat exposure, distress, or any doubt about safety, call emergency services immediately and follow their instructions. Do not delay emergency help while waiting for St. Louis Lock & Key or another locksmith.

I am locked out of my home at night. What should I do first?

Wait somewhere safe and well lit, and contact a household member or authorized property manager if available. Avoid climbing or breaking glass. Call St. Louis Lock & Key at 314-494-2510 to discuss emergency access.

What if my keys are locked in the trunk?

Tell St. Louis Lock & Key the year, make, model, and whether the passenger area is also locked. Trunk access varies by vehicle, and opening one door may not resolve the issue. Leave the entry method to a qualified locksmith.

The handle moves but the door will not open. Is this a lockout?

A failed latch, handle mechanism, or door alignment problem can prevent entry even when the lock appears unlocked. Avoid forcing the door. Explain the symptoms to St. Louis Lock & Key so we can assess both access and hardware repair.

I moved into a new home and do not know who has keys. What should I consider?

Rekeying compatible locks changes which keys operate them, while replacing worn or damaged locks may be more suitable. Ask St. Louis Lock & Key to assess the doors and plan key control before distributing new keys.

I lost a key but still have a spare. Is copying it enough?

A duplicate restores your spare but does not prevent the missing key from operating the lock. Discuss the risk and rekeying options with St. Louis Lock & Key, especially if the lost key can be linked to the property.

Why do my front and back doors need different keys?

The cylinders may have different key combinations or incompatible keyways. St. Louis Lock & Key can check whether the locks can be keyed alike or whether hardware changes would be needed.

A new key catches after a lock was rekeyed. What should I do?

Do not force a key that binds. The key, cylinder, or door alignment may need checking, even if another lock works normally. Contact the installer or St. Louis Lock & Key with details about which locks and keys are affected.

Will changing a physical key also cancel a lost electronic fob?

Mechanical keys and electronic credentials can use separate access systems. A cylinder rekey alone may not disable a fob or vehicle transponder. Tell St. Louis Lock & Key about every missing key or credential so the appropriate work can be discussed.

I have lost my only car key. What information will help?

Gather the vehicle year, make, model, location, and available ownership documents. Tell St. Louis Lock & Key whether the key was mechanical, a remote-head key, or a smart fob so we can confirm replacement requirements.

Why does my spare car key open the door but not start the engine?

A mechanical key may fit the door while the vehicle still requires a correctly programmed transponder or smart key to start. St. Louis Lock & Key can check key compatibility; a no-start problem may also have another cause.

Why is a copied key less reliable than the original?

Wear on the original or an inaccurate cut can affect how a duplicate fits. Stop using a key that catches or bends. Ask St. Louis Lock & Key to inspect the key and lock rather than repeatedly copying a worn key.

Can a bent or cracked key keep being used?

A damaged key can break or become stuck, so avoid forcing it and keep a safe working spare available if you have one. St. Louis Lock & Key can discuss a replacement and check whether the lock contributed to the damage.

What should I do if my motorcycle key no longer turns?

Do not force the key or apply leverage. A worn key, lock damage, or pressure on the steering lock may be involved. Check the owner manual for normal operation and contact St. Louis Lock & Key with the motorcycle details.

Why does my key fob work only when I stand close to the car?

A weak fob battery or interference may reduce range, but damaged buttons or electronics can also be involved. Follow the owner manual for battery replacement and contact St. Louis Lock & Key if operation remains unreliable.

My vehicle says key not detected. Does that mean I need a new fob?

Not necessarily. A weak fob battery, interference, a programming problem, or a vehicle-side fault may cause that message. Follow the owner manual for the approved backup starting procedure and ask St. Louis Lock & Key about checking the key.

Why did my remote stop working after I changed its battery?

The battery type, orientation, contacts, or fob condition may need checking; some systems also have specific synchronization requirements. Follow the owner manual and ask St. Louis Lock & Key to confirm the appropriate next step.

Why will a replacement fob bought online not program?

A fob may have the wrong part number or frequency, be incompatible, or have prior-use restrictions. Before buying another, give St. Louis Lock & Key the vehicle details and fob information to discuss suitable options.

Can a water-damaged remote still be trusted?

Moisture can cause intermittent failure even after the remote seems to recover. Avoid applying heat or repeatedly testing a visibly damaged unit. Keep a working spare if available and discuss assessment or replacement with St. Louis Lock & Key.

My key will not turn in the ignition. What could be wrong?

Steering-lock pressure, key wear, or an ignition cylinder problem may be involved. Follow normal starting guidance in the owner manual and do not force the key. St. Louis Lock & Key can assess the key and ignition lock.

Why will my ignition key not come out after parking?

The vehicle may not recognize Park, the ignition may not be fully off, or a key or cylinder fault may be present. Check the normal parking and key-removal steps in the owner manual; contact St. Louis Lock & Key if it remains stuck.

The key turns but the engine does not start. Is the ignition lock bad?

A no-start can involve the battery, starter, immobilizer, or other vehicle systems as well as the key. Note warning messages and whether the engine cranks. St. Louis Lock & Key can discuss key and lock checks without assuming the ignition cylinder is the cause.

Why does the ignition work with one key but not another?

The less reliable key may be worn, damaged, incorrectly cut, or missing valid electronic recognition. Tell St. Louis Lock & Key exactly how the two keys behave so the mechanical and electronic requirements can be checked.

What should I do if the ignition key starts sticking repeatedly?

Repeated sticking can worsen and leave the key trapped or broken. Avoid heavy force and improvised lubricants. Arrange an inspection with St. Louis Lock & Key before relying on the vehicle for an important trip.

Why will my front door not latch unless I pull it hard?

Door alignment, weather-related movement, or latch wear may be preventing proper engagement. Avoid relying on a door that merely appears closed. St. Louis Lock & Key can inspect the latch, strike, and locking hardware.

My smart lock reports low battery. What should I do?

Follow the manufacturer instructions for the specified batteries and replacement procedure. Keep the approved backup access method available. If the warning remains or the lock binds, contact St. Louis Lock & Key to discuss the hardware.

Why does my keypad accept a code but the bolt does not move?

Battery power, a mechanical obstruction, or door alignment may be involved even when the keypad responds. Do not repeatedly force the bolt. St. Louis Lock & Key can check the lock and door rather than assuming the access code is the problem.

My smart lock works at the door but not through the app. Is it broken?

The lock may be working while the app, network, or hub connection is unavailable. Follow the manufacturer troubleshooting steps and keep an authorized backup entry method. Ask St. Louis Lock & Key about model-specific support if hardware issues remain.

Why does a new house key work in only some of my locks?

The locks may use different key combinations or the key may be worn or inaccurately cut. St. Louis Lock & Key can compare the affected locks and discuss compatible key-alike options rather than forcing the key into each one.

What should I do if a business door does not latch reliably?

A closer, strike, latch, or alignment issue may leave the entrance unsecured. Keep the door under appropriate supervision and arrange a hardware inspection with St. Louis Lock & Key. Do not improvise a fix that prevents people from exiting.

A former employee still has a key. What should we review?

Have an authorized manager review physical keys, electronic credentials, and access needs. St. Louis Lock & Key can discuss commercial rekeying and supported access-control changes; replacing a key alone does not cancel existing access.

Why does a keycard work at one door but not another?

Permissions, a reader fault, door hardware, or system configuration may be involved. Have the authorized system administrator check the affected credential and door, then discuss compatible hardware or system support with St. Louis Lock & Key.

What if a panic bar or exit device is difficult to operate?

Treat unreliable exit hardware as urgent and keep people away from a space without a safe exit. Do not chain, wedge, or disable the device. Notify the responsible building manager and contact St. Louis Lock & Key about repair; call emergency services if anyone is trapped.

Why does a commercial door slam or stop short of closing?

The closer, hinges, latch alignment, or changing air pressure may affect closing. Repeated slamming or incomplete latching needs inspection. St. Louis Lock & Key can assess the hardware; do not disconnect a closer as a workaround.

Can you repair a lock instead of replacing it?

Yes. St. Louis Lock & Key offers lock repair as well as replacement. We can assess sticking mechanisms, loose hardware, and damaged latches to determine whether repair is suitable or replacement is the better option.

Can you install a replacement lock or deadbolt?

Yes. St. Louis Lock & Key provides lock replacement and installation. We will discuss the door, existing hardware, intended use, and compatible options before work begins.

Do you remove broken keys from locks?

Yes. Broken key extraction is part of our lock repair services. Stop using the damaged lock and contact St. Louis Lock & Key; pushing tools or another key into it can make the repair harder.

Do you help with car, home, and business lockouts?

Yes. St. Louis Lock & Key provides automotive, residential, and commercial lockout service. Call 314-494-2510 with your location and access details to confirm assistance.

Will the lock have to be replaced to open the door?

That depends on the lock and its condition. St. Louis Lock & Key uses nondestructive methods where suitable and can explain if damage or another issue makes repair or replacement necessary.

What is the difference between rekeying and replacing a lock?

Rekeying changes a compatible lock cylinder to work with a different key while retaining the lock hardware. Replacement installs new hardware. St. Louis Lock & Key can assess the existing locks and discuss which approach fits your needs.

Can you make several locks work with one key?

St. Louis Lock & Key offers key-alike rekeying for compatible locks. The locks must support a suitable common key system; different brands or damaged hardware may require other options.

Do you rekey vehicle door and ignition locks?

Yes. St. Louis Lock & Key offers automotive rekeying. Provide your vehicle details so we can confirm the mechanical lock work and any separate electronic key programming that may be needed.

Can you make replacement or spare car keys?

Yes. St. Louis Lock & Key provides automotive key cutting and replacement, including lost-key assistance. Supply the year, make, model, and whether a working key remains so we can confirm the correct key and programming requirements.

Can you help with motorcycle keys?

Yes. St. Louis Lock & Key offers motorcycle key service. Call with the motorcycle year, make, model, and the type of key you need so we can confirm compatibility and availability.

Do you make and program transponder keys?

Yes. St. Louis Lock & Key offers automotive chip keys and transponder key programming. Mechanical cutting and electronic recognition are separate requirements, so we confirm both for your vehicle.

Can you replace a factory remote or key fob?

Yes. St. Louis Lock & Key offers factory remotes and automotive key fob services. Confirm the correct part and programming for your vehicle before purchasing a replacement yourself.

Do you repair vehicle ignition locks?

Yes. St. Louis Lock & Key provides ignition lock repairs. Describe whether the key will insert, turn, or come out, and share the vehicle details so we can discuss an inspection.

Can you check a key that is stuck in the ignition?

Yes. Contact St. Louis Lock & Key about a stuck ignition key. Avoid forcing it, and describe whether the vehicle is parked, the engine is off, and the steering or shifter seems stuck.

Do you duplicate house keys and replace worn keys?

Yes. St. Louis Lock & Key provides residential key duplication and replacement. Bring or describe the original key and lock; a badly worn key may need more evaluation than a simple copy.

Can you install a smart lock or keypad lock?

Yes. St. Louis Lock & Key offers residential smart lock and keypad installation. Discuss the exact model, door preparation, and compatibility with any existing home automation system before selecting hardware.

Do you provide master key systems for businesses?

Yes. St. Louis Lock & Key offers commercial master key system design and installation. Discuss which people need access to which doors, existing lock compatibility, and how keys will be controlled.

Can you help with business keycards, fobs, or access control?

Yes. St. Louis Lock & Key offers commercial access control installation and support. Provide the system brand, door hardware, and required work so we can confirm support for your equipment.

Do you service commercial door closers and exit hardware?

Yes. St. Louis Lock & Key offers commercial lock, door closer, and exit device repair. Describe any failure to close, latch, or open from inside so we can assess the hardware and the urgency.

Can you discuss high-security locks for my business?

Yes. St. Louis Lock & Key offers high-security commercial lock options. We can discuss the door, usage, key control needs, and compatible hardware without assuming one lock is right for every opening.

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