How to Remove a Kwikset Deadbolt Lock: Step-by-Step Guide

Published Date: Oct 8, 2025

Got a Kwikset deadbolt that needs to come off? Don’t let hidden screws or tight trim slow you down. Sure Lock & Key explains how to remove a Kwikset deadbolt lock step by step for a clean, door-safe removal. Keep reading this blog to get the full process and solve your lock problem today.

Gather Your Tools for Kwikset Deadbolt Removal

A smooth Kwikset deadbolt removal starts with the right basics. Most Kwikset deadbolts use standard screws, so you can use common household tools.

A Phillips-head screwdriver. Have a couple of different sizes available, just in case the screws are smaller or larger than standard.
A small flathead screwdriver or putty knife. You can use it to lift the cover plate or trim without scratching your door.
Needle-nose pliers (optional). These will be useful for holding or turning stuck parts without marring hardware.
A tray for small parts. Use a cup or magnetic tray to keep screws and pins together.

Need a hand? If you don’t feel like doing it yourself, Sure Lock & Key offers residential locksmith services you can trust.

Step 1: The Interior Side — How to Disassemble a Kwikset Deadbolt

Start on the interior side of the door. That’s where the screws hold the lock together. From this point, learn how to disassemble a Kwikset deadbolt while protecting the door and mechanism.

First, unlock the deadbolt so the bolt retracts and releases tension. Locate the screws on the interior thumb-turn assembly. You’ll usually see two screws. Use your Phillips-head screwdriver to turn them counterclockwise until they’re free. As you remove them, place the screws in a parts tray.

Once the screws are out, the interior piece usually comes free with a light wiggle. If it resists, schedule an appointment with an apartment locksmith instead of forcing it.

Step 2: The Final Steps — How to Remove the Kwikset Deadbolt from the Door

With the interior side off, you’re ready for the final steps of how to remove the Kwikset deadbolt from the door. The exterior part of the lock is no longer secured, so you can simply pull the exterior cylinder straight out. If it sticks, wiggle while pulling.

Next, you’ll need to remove the deadbolt latch (the bolt on the door edge). It’s held by two screws on the door edge. Use your Phillips-head screwdriver to remove them. Once the screws are out, slide the latch out of the mortise. Apply painter’s tape around the trim, then ease it out with a flathead.

That completes the core steps of Kwikset lock disassembly. Before installing new hardware, clear debris from the mortise and confirm your backset matches the new latch. Curious about other mechanisms? See our guide on how to open a deadbolt lock when the key is missing or the thumb-turn fails.

Now That It’s Removed: Plan Your New Kwikset Installation

After the deadbolt is off, your door is ready for new hardware. If you’re changing a Kwikset lock, confirm fit first: door thickness, backset, handing, finish, and whether you want it keyed alike. Still deciding between a mechanical deadbolt and a smart model? Compare options in Sure Lock & Key’s ‘What Type of Deadbolt Should I Get?’

Once you’ve picked the lock, grab the template and screws, then follow the instructions on how to install a deadbolt lock on a door to finish the job with confidence.

For Expert Removal and Installation, Trust Sure Lock & Key

You’ve seen how to remove a Kwikset deadbolt lock step by step, and you’re ready for installation. If stuck screws, painted trim, or Kwikset SmartKey deadbolt removal slow you down, skip the frustration. Sure Lock & Key can remove the old lock, install the replacement, check backset and strike alignment, and rekey to match your other doors. We’re a family-run company with more than 35 years in the trade — what began as a small neighborhood shop has grown into a multi-state team trusted by homeowners and property managers. Want it done right without the hassle? Call or schedule with Sure Lock & Key today.

Have you noticed a doorknob with no visible screws and not known how to remove it? You’re not the only one. Many modern locks are designed with hidden fasteners. While that sleek look adds style, it can be confusing when it’s time to remove the lock. Sure Lock & Key created this guide to show you how to remove a door lock without screws — safely and without damaging your hardware.

How to Remove a Door Lock Cylinder: A Quick Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you’re a homeowner replacing old hardware or a landlord upgrading security, learning how to remove a lock cylinder from a door can be a handy skill. While the process varies based on the lock type, it’s a pretty simple task that doesn't require advanced tools or deep technical knowledge. Below, we break it down by lock style to make it easier. If anything feels too tricky, there’s always the option to bring in a professional.

How to Remove a Deadbolt Lock from a Door: Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you’re upgrading your home security, replacing worn-out hardware, or preparing to paint your door, the need to remove a deadbolt lock can arise. This guide walks you through a clear, step-by-step process using just a few basic tools. Let’s explore how to remove a deadbolt lock from a door safely and efficiently.