Key Keeps Turning in My Lock
July 30, 2025
Everyone expects their keys to work well with their locks. When you stick your key into a keyhole and turn the key to unlock a door or locking mechanism, you expect the latch to release immediately. Failure is not an option for the sake and security of your property. A healthy lock will never keep rotating indefinitely.
A key requires you to apply a slight force as you turn it. Usually, a 90 or 180-degree turn of the key will unlock the lock. But what happens if your key keeps turning in the lock? Is that normal, or is there something wrong with the lock or key? Well, it is certainly not normal.
A key keeps turning in a lock because a small component within the locking mechanism has suffered damage or wear. In most cases, the actuator is the component that has stopped functioning correctly. It is the component responsible for transmitting power when turning the key. This power transmits to the latch or deadbolt to lock or unlock it.
If the actuator is damaged, worn out, detached, or broken, it cannot transmit the necessary turning force to lock or unlock the deadbolt. Instead, the key will feel looser with less resistance as you turn it. And the key won’t stop rotating after turning it 90 or 180 degrees. It will keep turning all the way around.
Of course, different locks have varying components and mechanisms installed. Many small parts correspond with the actuator and help it function. For instance, Euro cylinders use a clip to secure the actuator firmly. But if the clip suffers wear or damage, it will release the actuator and prevent it from operating the deadbolt correctly.
The best-case scenario is that some screws are loose in the locking mechanism. If you see the entire lock or cylinder rotate as you turn the key, you may only need to tighten some loose screws. But you won’t know for sure unless you contact a professional locksmith to evaluate the problem. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Call a Professional
A lock no longer works if your key keeps turning and turning without ever stopping. Sometimes, it could even cause you to be locked out of your home, garage, or building. The only way out of this situation is to contact a professional locksmith for an emergency lock repair or replacement service.
One phone call to SMS Locksmith can resolve the issue quickly. We can send a professional and certified locksmith to your property to repair or replace your lock. If we determine the locking mechanism is outdated, we may recommend upgrading to a more advanced lock for better security and functionality.
Call 020-3151-0531 for more information on our door lock repair and replacement services. We offer affordable prices on our locksmithing services for business owners and homeowners nationwide.
This is one of the top questions people ask before calling a locksmith. Rekeying what it means Rekeying resets the lock’s internal mechanism, so only new keys work. It’s cheaper and fast. Good for: Lost keys (but lock itself is fine) Moving house (if the existing locks are in good condition) Replacing when it’s better Changing the whole lock is best when: Locks are old or damaged You want stronger security You’re upgrading to smarter or multi-point systems A locksmith will recommend the best option after inspecting your hardware.
People searching for a locksmith often worry about cost before they call. So let’s break it down clearly. Typical locksmith pricing Costs depend on: Whether it’s an emergency call-out The time of day Type of service (e.g., unlock, change lock, install new security lock) Parts required Example ballpark figures Emergency opening (no lock change): £60–£150 Lock change (cylinder replacement): £80–£200+ UPVC multi-point lock repair: £100–£250+ High-security lock fitting: £150–£350+ These are typical ranges a local locksmith will confirm before work starts. Tips to avoid surprises Ask for a firm quote before work Confirm whether VAT is included Check if emergency call-outs cost extra Request parts costs upfront SMS Locksmith gives transparent quotes up front , so you’re never left guessing.
