Door Lock & Mechanism Repair in Bristol

Family-run Bristol business · 20 years trade experience · Send us an enquiry with photos and we'll get back to you

Signs your door lock or mechanism needs attention

• The handle is stiff and hard to push down
• The handle has become loose or has dropped off
• The door closes but the multipoint lock won't fully engage when you lift the handle
• The key turns but the lock doesn't operate correctly
• The cylinder is seized — key won't insert smoothly or turn at all
• The door is secure but one or more locking points aren't engaging properly

Lock faults and what they usually mean

Here are the door lock and mechanism faults we're asked about most, what they usually point to, and the likely fix. A door that won't lock is a security issue — we treat it as a priority. These are general guides; send us a few photos and we'll confirm before anything is ordered.

Not sure which it is? Send us a few photos of the lock and handle and we'll tell you what's likely wrong and give you a clear price first.

Common causes

Worn handle mechanism

The handle operates a gearbox inside the door that drives the multipoint locking system. After years of use the springs and gears wear out — the handle feels stiff, then eventually stops operating the lock or snaps off. This is one of the most common door repairs we do.

Multipoint lock mechanism failure

The multipoint locking strip runs the full height of the door. When you lift the handle, it drives hooks, bolts, and rollers into the frame at multiple points. Over time this mechanism can seize or break — usually from age and lack of lubrication. The door either won't lock at all or only locks at some points.

Seized cylinder

The euro cylinder (the barrel the key goes into) can seize from corrosion, especially on doors exposed to rain. It can also be damaged by attempted forced entry. Replacement is straightforward — typically 20–30 minutes.

How we repair door locks

We'll examine the handle, mechanism, and cylinder and identify the exact fault. In most cases we carry the necessary parts on the van:

• Handle replacement: Remove the old handle and gearbox, fit a matching replacement, test operation.
• Multipoint mechanism replacement: Access the mechanism safely, fit the correct replacement, then test all locking points.
• Cylinder replacement: Remove the old cylinder, fit a new one (including new keys), test locking and unlocking.

We treat door lock problems as a priority — a door that won't lock is a security issue. Send us an enquiry with photos and we'll get back to you quickly.

What does it cost?

Handle replacements are £120 + VAT and are typically done in a single visit. Multipoint mechanisms are more involved but still far cheaper than a new door — £350 + VAT.

Job	Price (+ VAT)
Handle replacement	£120
Cylinder replacement	£120
Multipoint lock mechanism replacement	£350

We agree the price before starting any work. Mechanism replacements cost more than handle or cylinder jobs because they're more involved — but they're still far cheaper than a new door.

Do I need a new door?

Usually not — not if the door itself and frame are still sound. A new multipoint mechanism costs a fraction of a new door and gives you years more reliable use. Even a full mechanism replacement is a much better investment than replacing a door that is structurally sound.

We'd only suggest replacement if the door frame or slab itself has failed, or if the door is very old and multiple components are failing at once. If you're already thinking about a new door, we can advise honestly on whether repair still makes sense.