How to Remove Broken Keys from Locks

How to Remove Broken Keys from Locks

It’s happened to all of us. We’re trying to get into our house or car, and our key snaps off in the lock. Don’t panic! It may not always be simple and easy to get the key out, especially if it is lodged deep inside the lock. But there is a way to remove a broken key from a lock.

In this blog post, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to do it, as well as some valuable tips and tricks that will make the process effortless. We will also provide tips on preventing this from happening in the first place. So don’t worry – we have you covered! We will walk you through the steps necessary to get that pesky key out.

5 Methods for Removing a Broken Key from a Lock

If you find yourself in the frustrating situation of having a broken key in your lock, don’t despair. There are a few steps you can do to remove the broken key and get your lock working again.

Using Needle-Nose Pliers

First, try using needle-nose pliers to grab onto the end of the key that is sticking out of the lock. If you can get a good grip, you may be able to pull the key out.

Using a Pair of Tweezers

If that doesn’t work, try using a pair of tweezers to remove the broken key. Insert the tips of your tweezers into the lock and see if you can grab onto the end of the key. Again, if you can get a good grip, you may be able to pull the key out.

Using a Paperclip

You can also try using a paperclip if you don’t have needle-nose pliers or tweezers. Unfold the paperclip, so you have a long, thin piece of metal. Insert this into the lock and see if you can wiggle it around, so it grabs onto the end of the key. Once you have a good grip, you can try to pull the key out.

Using a Drill

If none of these household tools and methods work, then your last resort is to use a drill. Drill a small hole into the broken key and then use a pair of pliers to grab onto the key and pull it out. Be sure to lubricate the drill bit with WD-40 before drilling.

Call a Locksmith

With any luck and a little patience, one of these methods will work for you, and you’ll be able to remove the broken key from your lock. If not, you may need to call a locksmith. But don’t worry; they’ve seen it all before and can help you get your lock working again in no time.

More Tips and Tricks on Removing a Broken Key from a Lock

If you find yourself in a situation where you have a broken key in your lock, don’t panic – just follow these steps, and you’ll be able to remove it in no time.

  • If you have tried the steps earlier and still having trouble removing the broken key, try utilizing a magnifying glass to get a better view of what you’re doing.
  • If you have WD-40 or another lubricant handy, you can try spraying it into the lock to see if it will loosen the broken key and make it easier to remove.
  • If you have a spare key, you can try using that to push the broken key out from the other side only if there’s a hole on the other side.
  • And if all else fails, calling a locksmith is really the way to go. They can help you get your lock working again quickly and easily.
How to Avoid Broken Key from a Lock

If you want to avoid a broken key in your lock, you can do a few things.

  1. Make sure that the lock is lubricated correctly. A dry or sticky lock is more likely to cause a key to break when it is inserted. You can buy a special lubricant for locks at most hardware stores.
  2. Avoid using excessive force when inserting or removing the key from the lock. If the key feels stuck, try wiggling it back and forth before trying to turn it.
  3. If you have a home or car key that is bent or otherwise damaged, replace it as soon as possible. A broken key that has been stuck in a lock can be a significant inconvenience, but if you take some early precautions, you can avoid it.
  4. Using the edge of your key may be tempting when you need something sharp, like cracking open plastic packaging or scraping a sticky substance of a book or card. However, this will wear away the teeth of your key and damage the edges, which will misalign the key in the lock. Use your key only for locked doors to maintain their structural integrity.
  5. Keys will naturally deteriorate and weaken with time, even if you take excellent care of them. Replacing your key with new duplicates at least once every two years helps to keep the metal strong and minimize the risk of problems in your locks when you don’t expect them. You may get keys created by a local locksmith.
How a Locksmith Can Help You Remove Broken Keys from a Lock

It is not uncommon to break a key while attempting to unlock a door or lock. If this happens, it is vital to remove the broken key from the lock as soon as possible to avoid any further damage. A locksmith can help you remove a broken key from a lock quickly and efficiently.

You should choose a locksmith to remove a broken key from a lock for several reasons. A locksmith is trained adequately to remove a broken key from a lock without causing any damage. In addition, a locksmith has the tools and equipment necessary to remove a broken key from a lock quickly and efficiently.

If you have broken a key while attempting to unlock a door or lock, contact Absolute Locksmith servicing Santa Ana, CA. Our experienced and certified locksmiths can help you remove a broken key from a lock quickly and efficiently. We also deliver emergency locksmith services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for residential and commercial residents. Contact Locksmith Santa Ana CA today to schedule an appointment.