How to Get a Broken Key Out of a Lock?

A broken key in a lock can be an annoying and uncomfortable scenario. You can avoid wasting time, money, or stress by knowing how to manage this scenario skillfully, whether at your house, place of business, or automobile. 

This thorough article will show effective and safe methods for removing a broken key from a lock without doing more harm. But remember that you can always call an emergency locksmith if everything else fails. 

Understanding the Problem

A key could break in a lock for a few reasons: misaligned lock mechanism, excessive effort, or wear and tear. 

Whatever the reason, the first thing to do is to keep your composure and evaluate the circumstances. 

A broken key may be forced farther into the lock or damaged if you use too much force. 

Tools You Might Need

Before learning about the methods, gather some essential tools you might need:

• Needle-nose pliers or tweezers
• Lubricant spray (e.g., WD-40)
• Key extractor tool
• Small jigsaw blade or mini hacksaw blade
• Super glue and a matchstick or thin wire
• Strong magnet

Safety First

Work in a well-lit location to prevent harm and follow the appropriate safety measures. If you can’t handle the problem, don’t hesitate to call emergency locksmith services. 

Step-by-Step Techniques to Remove a Broken Key

Analyze the Lock Position

Verify the lock’s position before attempting to remove the broken key. If the lock isn’t in the neutral position, straight up and down, turn it back to the proper position with a flathead screwdriver. This may facilitate the extraction of the broken key.

Use tweezers or needle-nose pliers.

If shattered material sticks out of the lock, you can extract it using tweezers or needle-nose pliers. Here’s how to do it: 

• Apply a lubricant spray to the keyhole to reduce friction.
• Carefully insert the pliers or tweezers into the keyhole.
• Gently grasp the broken key piece and pull it out slowly, ensuring not to twist or apply too much force.

Check this blog: Common Lock Problems and How Locksmiths Can Help.

Apply Lubricant

Lubricant can make it easier to remove the broken key by reducing friction between the key and the lock. WD-40 or a similar product works well:

• Insert the nozzle of the lubricant spray into the keyhole.
• Spray a small amount inside, ensuring it reaches all lock parts.
• Use pliers, tweezers, or another tool to extract the key.

Try a Key Extractor Tool

Most hardware stores sell essential extraction tools for this kind of work. This is how to apply it:

• After breaking the key, insert the key extractor tool into the lock above it.
• To hook onto the teeth of the key, slightly rotate the tool.
• Extract the broken key and the tool from the lock.

Mini Hacksaw Blade or Small Jigsaw Blade 

• Could you insert the serrated edge of the blade into the lock if it faces the broken key?
• Ensure the blade catches on the key by carefully inserting it into the lock.
• Draw the knife out slowly, taking the broken key with you.

Super Glue Trick 

This method requires precision and patience:

• Apply a small amount of super glue to the end of a matchstick or thin wire.
• Carefully insert it into the lock, ensuring it contacts the broken key.
• Hold it in place until the glue sets and bonds with the key.
• Pull the matchstick or wire out, bringing the broken key with it.

Magnet Method

If the broken key is not too deep inside the lock, a strong magnet might help:

• Place a strong magnet at the keyhole.
• Move it around to attract the broken key piece.
• Once the key moves toward the magnet, pull it out gently.

When to Call an Emergency Locksmith

Even if the methods listed above can work, there are situations in which you should contact an emergency locksmith:

• If the key is stuck quite firmly in the lock.
• If there is damage or a problem with the lock.
• If, despite your best efforts, you cannot remove the key.

An emergency locksmith can remove a broken key quickly and safely without doing more harm to your door or lock, thanks to their specialized tools and experience.

Look at this article: How Often Should a Business Rekey Their Locks?

In search of a professional locksmith?

Even though handling a broken key stuck in a lock can be uncomfortable, if you have the necessary tools and know-how, you can solve the issue independently. 

Try the suggested methods, maintain your composure, and avoid using force. If all else fails, seek expert assistance from an emergency locksmith. They’ll ensure your lock isn’t damaged and let you back in as soon as possible. 

Keep checking your locks and keys to prevent issues down the road. For any skilled key services in Virginia and Maryland, contact Payless Locksmith DC, the best in the business. They are adept in solving modern lock problems.