Forgetting the combination to your Rimowa Classic or Original aluminum suitcase is a stressful experience. These high-end cases are built with precision TSA-approved locks that offer maximum security. If you find yourself unable to remember your password, you do not need to force the locks or damage the iconic aluminum shell. This guide provides the most effective, non-destructive ways to identify your forgotten code and reset your Rimowa lock.
Test the Standard Default Numbers
Before attempting mechanical bypass methods, ensure that the lock is not set to its original factory state. If your Rimowa is new or has recently been serviced, it may have reverted to a default setting.
- Align the dials to 0-0-0.
- Press the release button or lift the latch.
- If that fails, try 1-1-1 or 9-9-9, as these are sometimes used during initial quality inspections.
The Visual Notch Identification Method
Most Rimowa locks feature a mechanical “tell” that allows owners to recover a lost combination by inspecting the internal gates.
- Use a bright light to look into the narrow space on the side of each numbered dial.
- Rotate the dials slowly until you see a small, flat indentation or “notch” on the axle underneath the wheel.
- Align all three notches so they are facing the exact same direction (usually pointing toward the front or the left side of the lock).
- Once aligned, shift each dial simultaneously two positions to the right. Attempt to open the lock. If it remains engaged, continue shifting all dials one position at a time until the latch releases.
Resetting Your Rimowa Combination
Once you have successfully opened your suitcase, you must reset the code to a new 3-digit number that you will remember.
- Keep the lock in the open position with the correct opening code showing.
- Locate the reset lever or button, which is typically found on the back of the lock mechanism inside the suitcase.
- Move the lever to the “Reset” or “B” position.
- Set your new 3-digit combination.
- Move the lever back to the original “A” or “Lock” position to save your new password.
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I forgot the code for my TSA006 lock, what should I do?
TSA006 locks (often found on hard-shell cases like older Rimowa) can be decoded using a thin feeler tool. Insert the tool next to the dials to find the flat spots, align them, and usually shift the combination by 3 numbers to unlock.
How do I reset the combination on a TSA006 lock?
Many TSA006 locks have a reset lever located on the back of the lock (inside the suitcase).
1，Open the suitcase.
2，Move the lever from position A to B (or “Set”).
3，Change the dials to your new code.
4，Move the lever back to the original position.
Will a TSA007 key open a TSA006 lock?
No. TSA keys are not interchangeable. A TSA007 key only fits 007 locks. For a TSA006 lock, you must use a specific TS
My TSA006 latch is stuck and won’t lift.
This is common with frame locks. Ensure the code is correct first. If it’s still stuck, apply downward pressure on the suitcase lid (compressing the seal) while trying to lift the latch. This relieves pressure on the internal hook.