You had a key copied, it looked identical, and it still will not turn the lock. It is one of the most common frustrations people bring to a locksmith. The good news is that the causes are usually simple and the fix is often quick.

Why a new key can fail

• It was copied from a copy. Every duplicate picks up tiny errors. Copy a copy of a copy and the cuts drift far enough that the pins no longer line up.
• The original was worn. Years in a pocket round off the cuts. A machine that traces a worn key faithfully reproduces the wear.
• The blank was wrong or poor quality. A blank that is slightly too thick, thin or soft will bind or bend.
• The machine was out of calibration. Even a fraction of a millimeter matters.
• The cut was left rough. Burrs on a new key can catch on the pins.

Better ways to get a good copy

• Copy from the original key, not a duplicate, whenever possible.
• If every key you have is worn, a locksmith can often cut a new key to the original factory depths by code or by reading the lock itself.
• Test every new key in every lock it should open, locking and unlocking, before you leave.
• Label keys with colored caps instead of writing your address on them.

Keys that cannot simply be copied

Some keys are restricted, meaning blanks are controlled and copies require authorization. Many car keys contain a transponder chip that must be programmed as well as cut. A hardware store kiosk usually cannot handle either.

When the lock is the problem

If several good keys stick in the same lock, the lock may be worn, dirty or misaligned rather than the keys. A locksmith can clean, lubricate or service the cylinder, or rekey it so all your keys match again.

Choice City Locksmith offers precise key cutting in Fort Collins and across Northern Colorado, including code cutting when your only key is worn. Call (970) 803-1100.