What does “keyed alike” mean?
Normally every lock cylinder is supplied with its own unique key — more doors means more keys on your keyring. Keyed alike means we pin two or more cylinders to the same key code, so a single key operates all of them.
Every Avocet ABS cylinder we sell — euro, thumb turn and rim (night latch) — can be built to the same code. Mix any of them in one order and they’ll all open with the same key.
Two ways to order — pick the one that fits
You’ll choose one of these under Cylinder Configuration on every cylinder’s product page.
Keyed-alike and keyed-to-code cylinders are pinned by hand to order — please allow 5–10 working days for dispatch.
How to measure your cylinder
Euro cylinder sizes are two numbers in millimetres — internal and external, measured from the centre of the cylinder. Two minutes with a tape measure gets you the right size first time.
Undo the single fixing screw in the edge of the door and slide the cylinder out (turn the key slightly to free the cam) — or measure your old cylinder.
Measure in millimetres from the centre of the screw hole to each end. The side facing into your home is the internal size, the outside face is the external size — e.g. 35/35.
For security, the fitted cylinder should sit flush with your door furniture — not sticking out more than about 3mm.
Garage doors: these usually take a half cylinder — a fixed 10mm on the inside with your external size, e.g. 10/35. Choose the half cylinder sizes on the euro cylinder product page.
Build your set — pick a cylinder for each door
There’s an ABS cylinder for every door in the house: euro for uPVC, composite and garage doors, thumb turn where you want to get out without a key, and rim for a night latch on a timber door. Order any mix — keyed alike, one key opens them all.
How ordering works
Add every cylinder you need
Pick the size, colour and type for each door. Sizes and finishes do not have to match.
Choose the same option on each
Under Cylinder Configuration, select either “Build new keyed-alike set” or “NO KEYS – match existing key code” on every cylinder in the basket.
We pin them and dispatch
Every cylinder in the order is pinned to the one code, then sent out with your keys and key code card.
The two options at a glance
| Build a NEW set | Match an EXISTING code | |
|---|---|---|
| Keys supplied | 3 keys per order | None — you use your own |
| Key code needed at checkout | No — we create one | Yes — from your key code card |
| Works with locks you already own | No — it’s a new code | Yes |
| Key code card sent | Yes — keep it safe | You already have yours |
| Dispatch time | 5–10 working days | 5–10 working days |
Why Avocet ABS?
One key for every door is only worth having if the lock behind it is serious. ABS is the most accredited euro profile cylinder on the market — and every cylinder in your keyed-alike set carries the same protection.
Patented anti-snap protection
If the cylinder is attacked, the patented locking cam blocks access to the lock case — the door stays locked.
Beats picking, drilling & bumping
Eight pins plus a magnetic ninth pin defend against every common attack method used on standard cylinders.
Diamond-grade accredited
Sold Secure Diamond SS312 and TS007 3 Star Kitemark — the highest security ratings a euro cylinder can hold.
Police-approved security
Accredited by Secured by Design, the official police security initiative, and tested to BS EN1303 and PAS 24.
The code in the white box is what you’ll enter when ordering.
Your ABS key code card — keep it safe
Every ABS cylinder that isn’t built to an existing code arrives with a key code card. The code printed on it is what you’ll need to order matching cylinders or extra keys in future.
Store it somewhere safe — not on your keyring. Lost it? Get in touch and we’ll do our best to help.
Frequently asked questions
How many keys will I receive?
Building a new set: 3 keys per order, however many cylinders you buy. Matching an existing code: no keys — your current keys will operate the new cylinder.
Why are no keys supplied when matching an existing code?
Your new cylinder is re-pinned to your code, which makes the keys it left the factory with obsolete — there are simply no working keys to send. The keys you already own do the job.
Can I mix euro, thumb turn and rim cylinders in one set?
Yes — all three can be pinned to the same code. Front door euro cylinder, back door thumb turn and a night latch, all on one key.
Do the cylinders need to be the same size or colour?
No — sizes and finishes can differ. It’s the key code that’s matched, not the cylinder itself.
Can I add more cylinders or keys later?
Yes. Keep your key code card safe and order any time using the “NO KEYS – match existing key code” option — the new cylinder will work with the keys you already have.
How long will my order take?
Cylinders pinned to a code are made to order — please allow 5–10 working days for dispatch.
Ready to put every door on one key?
Still unsure which option you need? We’re happy to talk it through before you order.