April 15, 2024

in How to by Admin

How to replace a Euro Cylinder lock

Replacing a Euro cylinder lock is a fairly straightforward process. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved:

Tools you’ll need:

Phillips screwdriver
New Euro cylinder lock (make sure it matches the measurements of your old one)
Wedge (optional, to secure the door)

Steps:

Gather your tools and new lock. Make sure the new cylinder matches the dimensions (length) of your old one. You can usually measure the old lock from the center screw hole to the edge on either side.
Secure the door (optional). Wedge the bottom of the door to prevent it from swinging shut while you work.
Locate the screw. Euro cylinder locks have a screw in the center that holds it in place. Find this screw on the side of the door where the lock body is.
Remove the screw. Use your Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw completely.
Remove the old cylinder. With the screw removed, the cylinder should have some play. Here’s a trick: insert the key in the lock and turn it slightly (about 1/8th of a turn) in either direction. This aligns an internal component and allows you to pull the cylinder out by gently tugging on the key.
Measure the new lock (optional but recommended). Double-check that the new cylinder matches the length of the old one before inserting it fully.
Insert the new cylinder. Slide the new cylinder into the hole, ensuring the cam (the part that controls the bolt) sits flush.
Test and secure. Insert your key and turn it to check if the lock operates smoothly. Once happy, tighten the screw you removed earlier to secure the new cylinder in place.

Here are some additional tips:

If you’re having trouble removing the old cylinder, applying some WD-40 lubricant around the screw and the cylinder might help loosen things up.
Consider buying a Euro cylinder with an anti-snap feature for additional security.

For a more visual guide, you can also find helpful videos on YouTube searching for “replacing a Euro cylinder lock”.

Whether you’re upgrading to a smart lock or simply have a stuck or broken lock, the Euro Cylinder is one of the most common lock types in the UK. Compatible with multi-point locks and sash locks, the Euro Cylinder is one of the most versatile lock types available.

Part of its popularity is that these locks can be easily removed and replaced. Here’s what you need to know.

First, you need to measure your old lock, so that you can buy the correct type of replacement. Euro Cylinders are sold by their total width, such as 100mm. However, there’s a second set of numbers that tell you how the lock is made up: 50/50 means that both sides of the lock are 50mm; 60/40 tells you that one side is 60mm and the other side 40mm.

It’s important to get both the correct size and the correct split. You can measure the lock by removing it (see below). With the lock removed, measure the entire width, then measure either side to halfway across the cam (the usually black bit that moves when you turn the key).

Measure Euro Cylinder Lock when removed — Image Credit (Trusted Reviews)

You can do it with the lock in situ. For the latter, open the door and measure from the centre screw hole on the door to the outer edges of the door handle.

Measure Euro Cylinder Lock from outside — Image Credit (Trusted Reviews)

You then need to choose the type of lock that you want. There are different security ratings for locks, and you’ll typically find that more expensive locks offer a higher degree of security.

You also need to choose the right type of lock for your needs: thumb turn or screw. A thumb-turn lock has a handle that goes on the inside, so it can be operated without a key. This is good for safety (it’s easier to get out if there’s a fire).

If you buy a lock with a thumb turn, ensure you get the correct lengths for the side with the key and the side with the turn.

A traditional lock requires a key on either side. Typically, these can only operate with one key at a time, so these aren’t ideal for retrofit smart locks. A retrofit smart lock, such as the SwitchBot Lock, is designed to turn a key, so you have to have one inserted on the inside; this will stop you from manually locking and unlocking the door from the outside.

If you want to fit a smart lock, then it’s best to have a thumb turn or buy a dedicated smart lock cylinder: the Yale Linus Adjustable Cylinder can be width adjusted. This lock is designed for the Yale Linus smart lock, but it will work with other locks, too. Or the Ultion Nuki comes with a secure cylinder designed for the lock.

Locks that take two keys are reversible, so you fit them either way.

What you’ll need:

You’ll need a crosshead screwdriver and a new Euro Cylinder Lock (measurements to match your door).

The Short Version

Unscrew the old cylinder
Remove the cylinder
Insert the new lock
Screw the lock into place

Step
1

Unscrew the old Euro Cylinder

To remove the old cylinder, you need to open your door and find the screw that holds the lock in place. Unscrew this and you’ll feel the old cylinder become loose and free. You can waggle the lock but it won’t come out.
Step
2

Remove the old Euro Cylinder

The cylinder cam sticks out slightly in the lock’s default position, which prevents the lock from being removed. To get it out, insert a key and turn the lock slightly (or use a thumb turn) to get the cam flush with the lock’s body. Typically, a small clockwise turn is required. When you’ve done this, the lock will slide out.

You may need to remove the door handles to do this, but often a Euro Cylinder Lock will come out without having to do this.
Step
3

Insert the new lock

Inserting the new lock is easier, as you can use the key to see when the cam is flush. Make sure the lock is the correct way round, so that it will line up properly with your handles, and then insert it through the door.
Step
4

Screw the lock into place

Use the retaining screw that you removed in Step 1 and fit this back into the door. The lock will now firmly be in place, so you can refit any handles you had to remove. Before you close the door, check that it locks and unlocks properly, and you’re good to go.

Troubleshooting

I can’t get my old Euro Cylinder lock out, what am I doing wrong?

Make sure you’ve removed the correct retaining screw. You also need to adjust the cam so that the lock comes out. If your old lock is stuck, try a key from both sides. If you still can’t get the lock to work, you may need a lock smith.

How are Euro Cylinder locks measured?

They have a total width in mm, and then a split between sides. Each side is measured from the edge of the lock to the centre of the cam (the bit that turns when a key is inserted).

How to replace a Euro Cylinder lock