I took a deadbolt lock to them because the bolt refused to fully retract. Lyle patiently explained and demonstrated how the lock had to be installed and aligned, lubricated it, and sent me home to put it back in without even charging me! When it comes to being a service to the community, this shop shines! read more

Very professional, efficient, friendly, and great price!

If anyone needs to program a early 2000 or older Lexus, save yourself time and money and don't come here. They won't be able to program it. They told me they could do it when I called and came in, but they just want to steal your money. My gut says they pulled a fast one on me. One of the key makers said he couldn't program my key, and that he tried using two different machines. He told me he's had this problem before only with older Lexus models and aftermarket keys. I have a 2001 IS300. He still charged me $100 after trying to use two different machines, which I understand, but after some thought- if he knew this problem would happen- and apparently he's run into this problem many times- then why take my time, business, and money after consistently seeing this issue that he can't fix? Low-key shady business IMO. It's worth noting they made me wait well over the estimated time by 40 minutes when they were not even busy anymore. He did the whole runaround; bringing over the machines he's using, acting like it was gonna work, then he's telling me my car is coming up as a 2000 instead of a 2001 (it's not 2000), and acting like this was a new issue to him. Upon asking him more questions, all of a sudden he has all this knowledge about my car type and year having these problems. They probably had me wait longer to tire me out and catch me off guard. Whatever it is, it didn't sit right with me and it felt like I was ripped off. read more

I had a key to be made for a GIVI case and have looking for half a year. Not even Home Depot could make a copy! Then I went to REX I'm Berkeley. The first gentleman made a key and told me he can't promise it would work but "come back" of it doesn't. The key didn't work so I went back and this time Patrick helped me. It took him 5 minutes to find what he called a reverse VW, cut the key, went outside to my motorcycle and tried it! Bingo, it worked like a charm! Patrick is a terrific guy, a real pro! I can't thank him enough read more

Fast professional service. I needed to have two copies made of a security key and after reading the reviews on Yelp, Rex Security seemed like the place that could do the job. I was able to find a space almost in front of the store. I was greeted by a worker and I requested two keys to be made. He looked at the key and said it was a special key but he would have no problem duplicating it. He pulled two blanks off the humongous wall of blank keys and in within 10 minutes, I paid and was out the door. If you need a key made, especially if you have non-standard keys, Rex is the place! read more

Rex Key & Security provided outstanding service for me today. I had a car key that separated from the fob and they repaired it when no one else seemed like they could. The Toyota dealer wanted $450 for a new key. Rex Key repaired my key for $20. I cannot recommend Rex Key enough. read more

Unbelievably responsive and helpful after a backpack with driver's license and front door key were stolen together. Called at 9AM; Rex Key had my lock rekeyed and made me new copies for the new lock by 2PM. They've been in business for 100 years and it is easy to see why. Recommend them 100%! read more

Excellent service! Very professional and amazingly knowledgeable all things key and security. Highly recommend to family and friends and businesses. From the start of the visit it is apparent that employees are trained very well and work well as a team ending with excellent follow up. I would definitely use this business again. read more

I needed to get a car key (that contained a chip) and a house key copied. First I went to Ace Hardware to get the house key copied, and since Ace doesn't copy car keys that contain chips, I went to Rex (which is right around the block, 3 minute walk) to copy the car key. Ryan was SO fast with copying my car key - and I was literally in and out the door within 5 minutes, and it only costed $77 including tax. When I got home, the house key from Ace didn't really work - it required a minute of wriggling to get the door open. But good news! Car key from Rex worked perfectly :) So, I went back to Ace and got my house key copied again in hopes that maybe it was just a fluke the first time... but after coming home again, it still didn't work! Not super surprised though, since I figure the machine at Ace was pretty old and it was super cheap anyway. So, I figured that instead of trying a 3rd time at Ace Hardware, I would just go to Rex to get my house key copied, since the car key was a success. After explaining my situation, Ryan was super quick again - made 2 copies of my house key for me, specifically in gold color to distinguish these new ones from the silver keys from Ace, within 2 minutes. But what REALLY surprised me was that he presented me these duplicate keys completely free! I tried paying again, but he insisted back that he knew I came in earlier to duplicate the car key and I could just take these 2 keys for free, try them out, and just let him know if they work! He explained that my house key was a copy - and after enough copies, the grooves get pretty deep and copies end up kinda funky. If it were just a kind deed but the keys didn't work, I'd be grateful but disappointed... BUT, good news! The house keys from Rex DID work smoothly, so I'll definitely be coming back for any key needs! Rex has great customer service PLUS high quality keys! read more

A local mom and pop shop that looks to have been here for years. The owner was kind enough to note that my original key was bent and offered me some advice on how to fix my lock so I didn't accidentally break the key in the lock. He asked me if I wanted my two keys for separate copies in different colors since both keys looked so similar to each other, which I gratefully accepted. Being a patron at this establishment was, overall, a great experience and I'll come back again if I ever need another key made. read more

We had a home burglary and needed to get our keys changed immediately. I called Rex Key and they had someone out to our house before noon. Super friendly and quick service. Both the scheduler/receptionist (didn't get her name) and the service guy, Victor, were great! Victor did note that it looked like the burglar kicked the door open, and chastised me for not using the deadbolt. We've learned our lesson! Highly recommended. The other locksmiths were either not available or did not call me back. I appreciate the extra effort. THANK YOU. read more

The go to place in Berkeley for everything to do with keys. They just kick it out, and have for decades....

Big help here! I had a problem lock / key combination and went here after two hardware store fails. With Rex Key - Success! Great helpful staff read more

Locks are exorbitantly expensive here: I was shocked buying ONE digital lock costs $990.00 + special locking components + installation + trip charge!=$1800.00???!!!! I think I'm gonna cry now! read more

Rex Key & Security - Keys & Locksmiths Near Me - Berkeley, California

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They fixed my old school front door lock which has specialized old (read: expensive to replace) lock hardware. I took the lock off and brought it into the store. They had all the necessary parts there and fixed it in an hour. The part cost $40 and they charged me $25 for the labor. Pretty good deal. Yay for living in Berkeley and having locksmiths who know how to repair antique locks. Oh, and be prepared for them to make jokes. I kinda felt like they were talking down to me, but I think they were just having fun. read more

I couldn't have had a better 1st experience than I had today. The guys at Rex Key & Security are just sooooo cool. Super friendly, laid back, and really generous. Upon arriving home, I realized that I had somehow lost one of the sets of keys that they had just made for me (yea, welcome to my life). They replaced them at no charge when I returned. :-) This shop symbolizes the down-home, Mom and Pop stores in Berkeley. Since I lose keys regularly, I'll be glad to come back here to replace them and get another dose of their warm Berkeley hospitality read more

I had a mailbox key made here. I walked in. (Less than 1 minute) I walked out. New key in hand. Was a happy customer. Only draw back is there's no free parking in this area. read more

Quick and simple place to get copies of keys made. I was in and out in about five minutes, having two keys copied for a little under $5. And while I wasn't there long, the guy helping me out there was definitely friendly. Prices here do range on the type of key being copied though, anywhere from $2.20 to somewhere in the $10s I believe - if you have the key model number, and feel so compelled, you can call ahead of time and ask them. read more

Prices are high and inconsistent: when my girlfriend (who is Chinese) came to rekey the lock cylinder they charged her $15 for one cylinder, when I came to rekey two lock cylinders, they charged me $20 per cylinder, I guess because I am white, not a minority. The quality of their work is okay, but this is a super-expensive locksmith store, and I think they are racist. read more

I was locked out of my apartment in Berkeley and Rex sent someone over right away, shoutout to Ian who was super nice and chill.

Rex Locksmith was able to repair a lock for me that had been deemed un-repairable by another locksmith. I was so happy to not have to replace the whole lock on my front door. I had removed the cylinder and brought it around, first to another locksmith and then I thought let's get another opinion. Rex was able to get the pins working again so no replacement needed, no rekeying necessary. Hooray! read more

These guys are so helpful, friendly, and efficient. They made me a key blade for my 2020 Kia Soul and I'm so grateful because the dealer would only make me a switchblade with all the bells and whistles which would have totaled nearly $400. All i wanted was a backup key blade in case I lose my car key, and these guys made me one for $25. I had previously talked to 2 locksmith companies who were stumped by my request. They didn't think it was possible to make me a key because they were convinced that my key had a chip in it. But it does not! I've been to Rex for other car key needs in the past and they've always been kind and helpful. Highly recommend coming here. read more

We called Rex Key & Security (510-527-7000) this morning, because our front door key had stopped turning the tumbler in the front door knob (vintage 1913), and we were being locked out. We had been locked out all weekend long. Fortunately someone was home each time, so we were able to have the door opened for us. I asked Rex Key if they could come to our house and fix our problem. The man I spoke to suggested I try WD-40 in the key hole and then put the key in a few times and turn it. He said if that didn't work, we could unscrew the lock from the door and bring it in to avoid the $150 house call fee. What a great guy! The WD-40 worked well. (I had been told by another locksmith NOT to use WD-40). Problem solved. Thank you so much Rex Key & Security! read more

I have used Rex for a while. Generally happy with the service. The guys in the shop can be a bit...crusty, shall we say, when you go in. I understand they are basically trying to be sarcastically funny, but it can be a little off putting until you get used to it. Anyway, I mainly wanted to give props to Ryan who helped me on my last visit. I had a double sided deadbolt i wanted to convert back to a standard flipper on one side (i dont know the real terms). I know they have lots of random parts, a box of recycling stuff. I was hoping to reuse most of my existing lock, to be good to the planet. Ryan could have taken the easy route, just told me they don't do that, I had to buy a new lock. But he searched thru the shop, scrounged up several spare parts, and got me exactly what i needed. This is what shopping local should be like. Good job Ryan, i appreciate your work ethic! read more

I already had a remote programmed and just needed the key cut since the dealer gave ripoff prices. Fair prices at this business and good customer service. Very likely to use this business again for additional car keys in the future. read more

Super duper fast service. No fussing about anything. You get what you need with no hassle. Low prices to boot. read more

Great communication! They ordered the remote garage opener keychains I needed and the order arrived the next day. They called me immediately, explained how to program them and I was done. Really friendly folks at the shop, cut two keys while I was there that Ace messed up and they work. I will definitely go to them for any future needs. Thanks! read more

I snapped the key in my classic car yesterday. After calling a number on "Locksmith services" on Craigslist I concluded that the CL market has been cornered by a mafia ring or something, because they were all about the same price (~$300!), and all had heavy european accents. My dad emigrated from Italy, and I'm all for anyone trying to get ahead in this country, licensed or not, but it seems whatever is happening on CL is a racket in collusion. A longtime Berkeley resident who collects the same classic cars had recommended Rex because she received outstanding service from them over many decades. I insisted I couldn't afford a storefront operation in Berkeley. She insisted I call. They met with my tow truck driver, without an appointment, and extraction the fragments of broken key right in front of their shop, literally on University Ave. Conan, the owner's son, perhaps the new owner, provide incredible customer service. The cost was about 1/5th of what the faux-licensed guys on CL were charging! He stayed past closing so I could ride my bike to their shop to pick up my new keys (he gave me 3 extras free of charge!). Offered to rebuild the cylinder to remove broken metal that may cause problems down the road. They can build any lock cylinder to match the key! If you have a separate key for your door or hatch they can rebuild it so one key opens all doors and ignition. When I showed up to pay and get my keys I explained how grateful I was for his rates, in contrast to the CL guys, given how covid-19 impacted my budget. Conan then said it was on the house, and I could pay nothing. At that point I insisted I pay, and even left a small tip. I remain amazed that the most knowledgeable locksmith, steeped in his trade, put forward the lowest price. The whole thing felt honest, and reputable to where I had to take to Yelp and explain that with 17 years in Berkeley, and now Oakland, I think it's important that the most legit, long-standing family businesses be known by the community -especially those looking to save their time and money, avoiding hassles and hustles. I will return to Rex for all my locksmith needs read more

Rex Key & Security - The car they fixed, parked in front of their shop. - Keys & Locksmiths Near Me - Berkeley, California

Very helpful gal on the phone. Quoted prices and they were cheaper than I have paid competitors. Even if I do not choose them in the end I am so impressed with their customer service I had to write a review! read more

Excellent service by Jeffrey! Called about my son's lost car key and with the VIN, had a new one same day inexpensively! He was $350 cheaper than another Berkeley locksmith. Nice and professional, highly recommend. read more

The guys in this shop are great. But they need to get someone else to answer the phone. I had a time-sensitive problem with a key that broke off in my car. (AAA would only tow the car.) The guy let me go through hoops explaining the situation and then said in a clipped voice: We won't do that today. You're welcome to bring it in tomorrow at 8:30. Clueless. No people-smarts. But also a real tinge of nastiness. read more

GREAT SERVICE, FAST I had a key duplicated at Rex a number of years ago and so when I needed a new car key, I went back, and the young man who helped me could not have been more polite or helpful. It was a pretty basic transaction -- $6 duplicate key -- but the whole experience was as trouble free as I can imagine. I was in and out of there in about five minutes; the key works perfectly; and I'm a happy camper .. er, driver! read more

These guys have to be the most incompetent locksmith shop ever. I've worked as a locksmith for a small one man shop. A very skilled honest owner who was very careful with letting his knowledge pass on to me but who I saw leave only satisfied customers behind, and if needed would go above and beyond. REX is the polar opposite? They have a bunch of technicians all of whole seem to seriously lack in skill and overflow with arrogance. They are rude. Do pathetic work. Are generally not on schedule and don't apologize in the least for their faults. They refuse to take any responsibility for even the simplest of tasks failed, such as copying a key. Which a monkey could do. These days you can go to a Safeway and a machine you pop a couple bucks into does a more reliable job! Their also strictly male. I mean only sleazy men work their. Once I took my son in who had lost the key to his bike lock and needed the lock opened. He was with his attractive but highschool aged girlfriend. The technicians we're so obvious in their letcherous eyeing of the poor girl that she had to leave and I had an angry word with the owner. I will never and have only once patronized REX KEYS. And I not only recommend but urge you not to! Businesses like this should fail in favor of competent decent people. Down with REX! read more

I did not think places like this existed anymore. My vehicle was vandalized in a robbery attempt and needed new door locks and a new ignition lock. I was not sure where to get help and called them. Ryan had me come right in and got to work. He ran into the same issue I was having in my attempt to replace my ignition cylinder and just stuck with it until they figured out how to get the job done. I left with not only a full repair but an upgrade as now I have a single key for doors and ignition. They made sure everything worked perfectly before I walked out. It was such a relief to have the work done and took a load of stress right off me. Everyone in the store was kind and friendly as well as helpful. As I waited for my work to be done in the store I was impressed with the staff and their casual camaraderie and how well they treated everyone who walked through the door. It really had a good community kind of feeling. If you need help with your locks, I would recommend that you call them first. I am so happy to know that I can count on them for any future locksmith needs and to have such a great business I can refer others to for assistance. read more

I take my reviews on Yelp very seriously. It is hard to find people of quality you can trust to come into your home and work on your locks. I recommend​ them without hesitation. Tim the manager and Conan the locksmith, who came to my home, get my VOTE! They are honest, kind and competent. Conan cares deeply about the quality​ of work he performs. His father was a locksmith and he has a high regard for the trade. Thanks again, ​Conan and Tim. read more

Friendly place. I needed a new key made for my motorcycle from a blank I already had. Four dollars, 5 minutes and a couple of laughs later I was back on my bike with my spare key. I will definitely recommend them to my friends. read more

Yesterday 3/15/22 I had a unfortunate encounter with a Rex's key worker in Pinole at Sizzler's restaurant. The situation went from 0-100 in second. I'm with my wife and kid, we're going to have lunch. We see the Rex key worker slamming the door so I ask the worker was he ok? Why did I say that? At the top of his lungs he yelled "do you want my F!!!!!G job"? I replied "no" and said you need to find another job if you not happy with the one you got. So we went back and forth for about three or four minute, yelling and cussing. it got to the point where it almost got physical. I realized that my daughter was terrified so I calmed down and went in the restaurant. The family in front of us said they were terrified also. The manager had to come out and calm the guy down, very unprofessional. I think before you send a worker out in the field you should make sure he's mentally ok because that situation could've been worse if I was someone who was having a day worse as his. read more

I wish no star was an option - I called I checked if I could come I got there before 4:30, door was open- only to be turned down service - I really hope to find an alternative to this monopole in the area. Everybody who does this should look at what modern service like Uber does to proud but unfriendly 100 year business read more

When our new patio door wasn't locking properly (or at all) I visitedRex key for a new part. Reality set in when we saw what was involved. Again I called on Rex and Victor came out that same day! Amazing! He was so polite and kind and professional, it is with pleasure that I write this review. Best service EVER from Rex as a business and Victor as a technician! 5 stars! read more

The folks at Rex really know their stuff. I've had some pretty complicated issues with a double cabinet, and they fixed me up very quickly with a new lock on one door matched to the old one on the other. Very weird keys and all. I also had them come out to rekey a gun safe, thinking that I'd lost the key. It turned out that I'd just not been using the key correctly. I felt like an idiot, but they were really nice and reassured me that I wasn't. To top that off, they didn't charge me anything for their trouble, though they'd spent half an hour at my place, even moving stuff around for better access to the safe. I would trust this company and its locksmiths to handle anything lock-related, to explain things really clearly, and to be decent, hardworking people. I don't have many lock or key problems, but when I do, you know where I go. read more