Lock repair cost

The lock on our front door has started sticking and the key is getting harder to turn. Is this something a locksmith can fix without replacing the whole lock, and what's a typical charge?

Asked by Adam on 7th Apr 2026
Expert Trade Answers
"A locksmith should be able to resolve the issue, but it’s difficult to diagnose the exact problem without inspecting the door, as there may be underlying faults affecting the cylinder or mechanism.
The typical cost to replace a cylinder is between £75–£90, depending on the type, location, and travel. If the issue involves the gearbox or internal mechanism, the total cost could range from £130 to £220"
Answered on 7th Apr 2026 - Member since May 2025 - report
"This issue could be a simple door realignment issue, best to get this issue sorted before a broken key or gearbox. Cost around £120"
Answered on 7th Apr 2026 - Member since Mar 2026 - report
"Hi. A lock inspection can be done to detect malfunctioning of the lock.The mechanism and cylinder can be lubricated. The kippers must be checked for closing and opening the lock. The cylinder barrel is in the same condition, it is better to change it. If the mechanism works well, the price is acceptable and starts from £79."
Answered on 7th Apr 2026 - Member since Feb 2026 - report
"Hey, depends where your based but in London typical range is £90-£120 for a door adjustment and maybe about £50+ for toe and heal to reset the door completely.

Alot of people often think it's the lock that is faulty but most time it's a straightforward adjustment especially with the weather as this causes structural movement such as winter and summer and if it's a wooden door rain etc"
Answered on 8th Apr 2026 - Member since Jan 2023 - report
"Check if the door has dropped by the hinges first."
Answered on 18th Apr 2026 - Member since Apr 2026 - report
"If it's fine to lock when the door is open... then its just an alignment issue. Labour charge only. £65

If its not performing when the door is wide open it will ge the barrel cam of the gear box which needs servicing or replacing. £90-£150 unless its a Winkhaus or such which are more costly."
Answered on 18th May 2026 - Member since Dec 2024 - report
"Door probably dropped! Ckeck that first before replacement of Lock."
Answered on 25th Apr 2026 - Member since May 2020 - report
"Best solution is to change the lock if you want to fix the problem for long term. If you want to fix the problem temporarily you can put WD40 but if just temporarily solution. The cost for change the lock £75 supply and fitt"
Answered on 7th Apr 2026 - Member since Jul 2020 - report
"Sometimes it can be fixed yes but for us to replace it with a new one is £120. Assuming it’s a standard cylinder"
Answered on 7th Apr 2026 - Member since Feb 2026 - report
"Hi it can be fixed but for a guaranteed fix replace the lock . Cost range from £80/£120 depending on what lock you have"
Answered on 7th Apr 2026 - Member since Oct 2021 - report
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