How to change a Yale lock

It’s important to keep your home safe and secure, and having properly functioning locks in place is part of basic home security. In this guide, we look at how to change a Yale lock and why you might need to change your lock in the first place.

Types of Yale lock

As one of the most popular lock manufacturers in the UK, Yale produces a variety of different types of lock – each with its own design and level of security.

The most common types of Yale lock include:

• Yale cylinder lock – This type of lock also happens to be the most common type of Yale lock and has a traditional key-operated cylinder mechanism.
• Yale mortice lock – A mortice lock is a more robust type of lock than a cylinder lock, as it features a pocket (known as the ‘mortice’) that is cut into the edge of the door. As a result, it provides a greater level of security than a cylinder lock, particularly against forced entry.
• Yale smart lock – In the modern age of smart technology, Yale smart locks can be controlled via a smartphone app and offer advanced security features, such as keyless entry and remote access.

Reasons for changing a Yale lock

There are a number of reasons why you might be looking to change a Yale lock. Some of the most common reasons include:

• A sticky or broken lock
• Lost or stolen keys
• You’ve moved into a new home
• General wear and tear
• To upgrade the security of your home

How to change a Yale lock in 4 steps

If you’re looking to change a Yale lock in your home, we’ve put together this step-by-step guide to help you successfully carry out the job.

Tools you’ll need

Before you get started, you’ll need the following tools:

• A set of screwdrivers
• A new replacement lock
• Lubricant (optional but useful if your old lock has a habit of sticking)

Our step-by-step guide on how to change a Yale lock cylinder

If you’re ready to change your Yale lock, follow these steps:

1. Unscrew the existing lock. Locate the screws on your existing lock, remove them using the appropriate size screwdriver, and gently pull the lock out of the door – making sure not to damage the door. If you’re changing a Yale cylinder lock, you might need to remove the retaining screw beneath the latch bolt in order to get the cylinder out.
2. Insert the new lock. Once you’ve removed your old Yale lock you can now insert the new lock into the door. If it’s the same size and style as the old lock then just make sure it’s correctly aligned with the existing hole. If it’s a different style or size then you’ll probably need to adjust the size of the hole in order to accommodate the new lock.
3. Secure the new lock in place. Use the screws provided with the new lock to fix it into place. Just make sure not to over-tighten them as that can cause issues with the lock operating properly. For a Yale cylinder lock simply insert the new cylinder into the lock body and secure it with the retaining screw.
4. Test the new lock. With your new Yale lock in place, it’s time to make sure that it works as expected. Close the door and operate the lock by either using the key or, for Yale smart locks, the smartphone app. If needed, make adjustments to the lock or door until the lock is working smoothly and securely.

Need help changing a Yale lock? No problem, hire a local locksmith and they can save the day.

How to change the code on a Yale lock

If you have a smart Yale lock then you’ll have a code to operate the lock, which you can change whenever needed. We recommend you change your code regularly to maintain the security of your home.

Yale smart lock: how to change the code on Yale Assure Locks

If you’ve installed a Yale Assure Lock and want to set up or change the codes, here’s what you need to do.

Set up your Yale lock master code

1. Press any key to wake up the lock
2. Press the gear icon ⚙
3. Enter a 4-8 digit master code
4. Press the gear icon ⚙

Your master code will now be saved and will be needed any time you want to change the Yale lock settings in the future.

Yale lock password change

Your personal entry code should ideally be different to the master code.

1. Press any key to wake up the lock
2. Enter your 4-8 digit master code
3. Press the gear icon ⚙
4. Press 2, and then the gear icon ⚙
5. Press 1, and then the gear icon ⚙
6. Enter the desired 4-8 digit entry code, and then the gear icon ⚙

Your personal entry code will now be saved, ready for use anytime you want to operate your smart lock.

Having trouble changing the code on your Yale smart lock? We recommend speaking to Yale customer services or reaching out to a local locksmith.

How to use a Yale lock

If you have a traditional Yale cylinder lock then it will feature a simple key-operated lock mechanism, which you should be familiar with.

For Yale smart locks, each model will work slightly differently so it’s important to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for installing and using the lock.

Alternatively, you can speak to experienced local locksmiths and they can offer help and advice on all lock-related issues.

How much does it cost to change a Yale lock?

The average cost to change a Yale lock is usually between £80 and £120, depending on the exact lock, the type of door you have, and where you live.

To find out more about costs, check out our guide to locksmith prices.

Find the best local locksmiths near you

Whatever lock issues you might be having, an experienced local locksmith can help.

Whether you have a broken lock that needs replacing or you want to upgrade your home’s security, a professional locksmith will be able to provide advice and guidance – and carry out the work for you.

And the great news is, we can help you find the best local tradespeople in your area.

Use our quick and easy online search to browse approved locksmiths near you. Alternatively, save yourself time and hassle by using our request a quote feature – you simply post a few details about the job you need doing and we’ll do the legwork and get multiple local locksmiths to contact you directly. Try it out today!