You can change a Master Lock combination yourself in about two minutes
Master Lock makes several types of locks, and the process for changing the combination depends on which model you own. The most common type — the padlock with a dial or numbers on the front — can be reset without tools or a key, as long as you know the current combination. If you have lost the combination entirely, you will need to contact Master Lock directly or cut the lock off.
This guide covers the three main types you are likely to encounter: dial combination locks, three-digit number locks, and four-digit number locks. Each one resets differently, and the steps take between two and five minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Dial locks reset by turning the dial three times, stopping on the first number, then entering the rest of the combination in a specific order.
- Three-digit number locks require you to hold down a small reset button on the back while entering your new combination.
- Four-digit number locks have a reset lever or button that you must hold while setting the new code.
- You must know the current combination to change it — if you have forgotten it, contact Master Lock with proof of ownership.
- After you set a new combination, test it several times before relying on the lock.
Resetting a dial combination lock
Dial locks are the traditional padlocks with a spinning dial face. To change the combination, start with the lock in the open position. Turn the dial at least three full rotations clockwise (to the right) to clear it.
Stop on your first new number. Turn the dial counterclockwise (to the left) one full rotation, then stop on your second number. Turn the dial clockwise again and stop on your third number. Pull up on the shackle (the U-shaped metal part at the top) — it should lift slightly. If it does not, you entered a number incorrectly; start over from the beginning.
Once the shackle lifts, close the lock and test your new combination three times. Open it, close it, and open it again to make sure the numbers work consistently. If the lock does not open on the third try, repeat the reset process.
Changing the code on a three-digit number lock
Three-digit number locks have three rotating dials with numbers 0 through 9 on each one. Look at the back of the lock — you will see a small button or lever marked "RESET" or "SET." This is what you will hold while entering your new combination.
Open the lock using your current combination. While holding down the reset button on the back, rotate the three dials to your new numbers. Keep the button pressed the entire time. Release the button and close the lock. Test the new combination by opening and closing the lock three times.
If the lock does not open with your new numbers, the reset did not take. Open it again with the old combination and repeat the process, making sure you hold the reset button firmly throughout.
Resetting a four-digit number lock
Four-digit locks work similarly to three-digit locks but have an extra dial. Open the lock with your current combination. Locate the reset lever or button — on most Master Lock four-digit models, this is a small lever on the back or side of the lock body.
Hold the reset lever in the "set" position (usually pulled outward or held down, depending on the model). While holding it, rotate each of the four dials to your new numbers in order from left to right. Keep the lever held the entire time you are setting the numbers. Release the lever and close the lock.
Test your new combination at least three times before you stop. If it fails on any test, open the lock with the old combination and try the reset process again.
What to do if you have forgotten the combination
If you do not know the current combination, you cannot reset the lock yourself. Contact Master Lock directly through their website or by phone — they can help you verify ownership and either reset the lock or send you a replacement. Have your proof of purchase or a photo of the lock's serial number ready.
If you need the lock open immediately and cannot reach Master Lock, you will need to cut it off with bolt cutters or an angle grinder. This destroys the lock, so only do this if you own it and have no other option.
Common mistakes that prevent the reset from working
The most frequent problem is not holding the reset button or lever long enough. If you release it before you finish entering all the numbers, the lock will not save your new combination. Hold it firmly throughout the entire process.
The second mistake is not testing the new combination immediately after setting it. Some locks require you to close and reopen them once before the new code takes effect. If you do not test right away, you may not realize the reset failed until you need to open the lock later.
A third issue is entering numbers in the wrong order. On dial locks especially, the sequence matters — if you skip a step or go the wrong direction, the reset will not work. Follow the exact steps for your lock type and go slowly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change the combination without opening the lock first?
No. You must open the lock with the current combination before you can set a new one. This is a security feature — it prevents someone from changing your lock code without knowing the old one.
What if I set a new combination but it does not work?
Close the lock and try opening it with the old combination. If that works, the reset did not take. Open the lock again and repeat the reset process, making sure you hold any buttons or levers the entire time. Test immediately after closing.
Do I need any tools to change the combination?
No. Dial locks and number locks reset by hand only. You do not need a key, screwdriver, or any other tool. If a lock requires tools to reset, it is not a standard Master Lock combination lock.
Can I use the same combination I had before?
Yes, but there is no reason to. Since you are resetting the lock, choose a new combination that is easy for you to remember but not obvious to others. Avoid birthdays or simple sequences like 1-2-3.
How do I know which type of Master Lock I have?
Look at the front of the lock. If it has a spinning dial with numbers around the edge, it is a dial lock. If it has three or four small rotating dials stacked vertically, it is a number lock. The reset process is different for each type, so identifying yours first will save time.