What Are the Parts of a Door Lock Called: Quick Overview

Published Date: Aug 25, 2025

Do more than just hold your door shut — they rely on several components working together to protect your home. If you’ve ever wondered, “What are the parts of a door lock called?” you’re in the right place. Sure Lock & Key explains the essential parts that keep your lock working smoothly, so whether you’re facing an issue or just curious, you’ll have a clear picture of how it all fits together.

Turning Mechanism: What Is the Part of the Door Lock Called That You Turn

The part you turn to open the door is typically a knob or a lever, the components you interact with directly. Inside the door, they connect to a spindle — a metal rod that rotates with them and retracts the latch, allowing the door to open.

Knobs are common in homes, while levers are often used in commercial spaces or for accessibility. Either way, they work the same — turning the spindle to release the latch.

The Door Latch: What Is the Door Latch Called

The latch bolt — or simply, the latch — is the part that slides into the door frame to keep the door closed. It’s spring-loaded, so it retracts when the knob or lever is turned. If you have a deadbolt, that’s a separate component, more solid and designed for added security. So if someone asks, “What is the door latch called?” now you’ll know.

Inside the Lock: What Is the Inside of a Door Lock Called

The internal parts are commonly referred to as the lock body. This includes:

Cylinder: The part where the key is inserted. When the correct key aligns the pins, it allows the cylinder to turn and operate the internal locking components.
Spindle: As mentioned earlier, this rod connects the handles and turns to move the latch.

Each part plays a key role in how your lock works. For a more detailed explanation, check out Sure Lock & Key’s full guide on how a door lock works.

Additional Components That Matter

In addition to the lock body and latch, other components are just as important for proper door lock performance:

Set screw: A small screw inside the handle that holds the knob or lever firmly in place.
Trim: A decorative cover that surrounds the lock on the door’s surface, hiding and protecting internal parts.
Faceplate: The metal cover on the door’s edge that frames the latch or bolt opening and helps it meet the strike plate smoothly.
Strike plate: A metal piece on the door frame where the latch or bolt fits when the door is closed. It adds strength and helps keep the door securely shut.

Even small issues with these parts can lead to a malfunctioning lock — which is why regular maintenance or a quick inspection can go a long way toward preventing this.

What to Do If Your Door Lock Isn’t Working Properly

If your door lock isn’t working the way it should — maybe it sticks, feels loose, or doesn’t line up with the frame — the problem often lies with one of the key components. That’s why knowing what the parts of a door lock are called can really come in handy.

Even with that knowledge, pinpointing the exact issue isn’t always simple. Instead of guessing, it’s smarter to let a professional take a look. At Sure Lock & Key, we handle everything from minor fixes to full lock replacements. So, if you’re looking for a trusted residential locksmith, we’re here when you need us.

Summing Up

From the cylinder to the strike plate, every part of a door lock plays a role in keeping your space secure. If you’ve ever wondered “what are the parts of a door lock called,” now you know the names and purposes of those key components. Understanding these terms can make it easier to explain issues and may help you prevent small problems from becoming bigger ones.

That’s where Sure Lock & Key comes in. With over 35 years of experience, our family-founded team is trusted for reliable service and 24/7 availability. Whether you’re dealing with a faulty lock or planning ahead, you can count on our team for fast, reliable service — anytime you need it.

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