How to Rekey a Yale Deadbolt with a 6-Pin Key
By Yale Locks | Official Online Store | Yale Home | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to rekey your Yale deadbolt using a 6-pin key blank. Step-by-step instructions for changing the key that operates your lock, including common mistakes to avoid.
Quick answer
Rekeying a Yale deadbolt with a 6-pin key involves replacing the lock cylinder pins to match a new key. The Yale SC Key Blank 6 Pin is the correct blank for cutting a new key that will operate your rekeyed deadbolt.
Why rekey instead of replace
Rekeying changes which key operates the lock without removing the entire deadbolt. This is faster and cheaper than installing a new lock, and you keep the same hardware and finish. It is a good option when you want to limit access after losing a key or moving into a new home.
The Yale SC Key Blank 6 Pin is designed specifically for rekeying tasks. It is a mechanical accessory that you can have cut to match your new key profile. Using the correct blank avoids compatibility issues with the lock cylinder.
Steps to rekey a Yale deadbolt with a 6-pin key
- Remove the deadbolt cylinder: Unscrew the cylinder retaining screw on the interior side of the door. Pull the cylinder out of the deadbolt housing. You may need to turn the key to the unlocked position to release the cylinder. Do not force the cylinder out. If it sticks, check that the deadbolt is fully retracted.
- Disassemble the cylinder and remove old pins: Use a small screwdriver to remove the retainer clip or C-clip at the back of the cylinder. Slide out the plug and dump the old pins onto a clean surface. Note the order and position of each pin (top pins and bottom pins). Work over a tray to avoid losing pins. Take a photo of the original pin arrangement before removing them.
- Insert new pins to match your new key: Insert the new key (or a key cut from the Yale SC Key Blank 6 Pin) into the cylinder. Install the bottom pins one by one, then the top pins (springs and drivers). Each pin should sit flush with the shear line when the key is inserted. Use a pinning kit or follow a keying chart. If a pin sticks up above the cylinder surface, it is too long. If it falls below, it is too short. Both will prevent the lock from working.
- Reassemble the cylinder and test the lock: Replace the plug and retainer clip. Insert the cylinder back into the deadbolt housing and tighten the retaining screw. Test the lock several times with the new key, both locking and unlocking, with the door open and closed. If the key does not turn smoothly, the pins may be misaligned. Disassemble and recheck each pin position. Never force the key.
Product facts
- Yale SC Key Blank 6 Pin: The Yale SC Key Blank 6 Pin is a mechanical accessory with a Coated - Nickel finish. This blank is pre-cut for 6-pin cylinders, so you can have it duplicated by a locksmith or key cutting service to create a new key that fits your rekeyed deadbolt.
Yale SC Key Blank 6 Pin
