If you’ve ever had to deal with a key that snapped in a lock, you’ll know the feelings of utter frustration and helplessness that often come with this type of predicament – especially in the depths of winter.
Chances are you might be faced with a snapped key this very moment, and that’s why you’re reading this blog. If that’s the case, keep calm and carry on reading to find out how to remove a broken key from a lock.
NB: While we offer some practical tips here for dealing with a key that’s stuck in a lock, you should only ever attempt these methods if you’re confident that you won’t cause harm to yourself or your lock. If you have any doubts about your abilities, then please contact me for expert locksmith support as a first port of call.
Key stuck in the lock? The inconvenient truth
Broken keys that become stuck in locks can be majorly frustrating. Not to mention massively inconvenient; especially if you’re stuck outside in the freezing cold or driving rain in the middle of winter.
Whether the key snapped, got stuck, or bent, it can prevent you from getting into your home, office, or car. None of which are ideal. A snapped key can also pose a security risk if it’s left in the lock.
How to remove a broken key from a lock: 3 practical methods
So what can you do? Here are a few practical ideas you can try before calling in a professional locksmith:
Method 1: Using a key extractor tool
A key extractor tool is specifically designed for dealing with a key that’s stuck in a door. It typically has a hook-like shape that can be inserted into the lock to grasp the broken key fragment. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using one:
- Step 1 – Insert the tool: Carefully insert the extractor tool into the lock, aligning the hook with the broken key fragment.
- Step 2 – Grasp the fragment: Gently apply pressure to the extractor tool to hook onto the broken key.
- Step 3 – Remove the fragment: Slowly and steadily pull the extractor tool out of the lock, bringing the broken key fragment with it.
Method 2: Using needle nose pliers
If you don’t have a key extractor tool (and let’s face it, most people won’t unless they’ve encountered this type of problem before), needle nose pliers can sometimes* be used to grasp and remove a broken key fragment.
- Step 1 – Insert the pliers: Carefully insert the needle nose pliers into the lock, aligning the tips with the broken key fragment.
- Step 2 – Grasp the fragment: Gently close the pliers to grasp the fragment firmly.
- Step 3 – Remove the fragment: Slowly and steadily pull the pliers out of the lock, removing the broken key fragment.
* Bear in mind that using needle nose pliers can be risky because it can potentially damage the lock mechanism. If you’re going to attempt this method, please exercise extreme caution and avoid applying excessive force.
Method 3: Using a paperclip or bobby pin
In some cases, a straightened paper clip or bobby pin can be used to dislodge a broken key fragment. Here’s how:
- Step 1 – Straighten the metal: Straighten the paper clip or bobby pin as much as possible.
- Step 2 – Insert the metal: Carefully insert the straightened metal into the lock, trying to wedge it between the broken key fragment and the lock’s internal components.
- Step 3 – Manipulate the metal: Gently twist or wiggle the metal to loosen the broken key fragment.
This method requires patience and skill, and it may take multiple attempts to successfully dislodge the broken key.
Finally, I should mention that there are various other methods that you might see listed in other advice articles or videos which you really should avoid at all costs. Things like saw blades, screws, drill bits, super glue, glue sticks and knives have the potential to either injure you, cause untold damage to your lock, or both. Please, just don’t!
When to call in a locksmith to deal with a snapped key in the door
If you’re at all unsure about your abilities, it’s best to seek professional assistance. If you don’t feel capable of removing a snapped key yourself or have tried but are still unable to remove it, call in a skilled locksmith.
I’ve got the tools and expertise to handle these situations quickly, efficiently and without causing any further damage. Here are a few other scenarios where you might be better off skipping the DIY and calling me instead:
- Complex locks: If you have a high-security lock or one with intricate mechanisms, attempting to remove the broken key yourself could actually damage the lock more in the long run.
- Broken keys deep inside the lock: If the broken key fragment is lodged deep inside the lock, it can be really difficult to extract without the right specialised tools and expertise.
- Security concerns: If you’re worried about potential security risks associated with the broken key, a locksmith is going to be the best person to quickly and safely remove it.
How to prevent a snapped key in your door
As with most lock issues, prevention is definitely the best cure when it comes to snapped and stuck keys. To minimise the risk of broken keys, I recommend taking the following preventative measures:
1. Avoid excessive force
When inserting or turning a key, it’s best to always apply just a gentle pressure to avoid straining the key or lock.
As well as the risk of snapping or bending your key, using too much force can strain the lock’s internal mechanisms. This can lead to lock failure, which could lead to a repair or replacement bill further down the line.
It’s also worth remembering that over-turning a key is a common culprit for causing it to become stuck or jammed in the lock. Locks and keys are more delicate than you think, so treat them with care!
2. Use high-quality keys
A key is a key, right? Wrong! While most of us probably don’t give a second thought to the keys jangling on our keyrings, it’s a good idea to pay them some attention and invest in well-made keys that are less likely to break.
Most keys in the UK are made from brass or nickel-brass. These metals are popular choices because they’re pretty durable, resistant to corrosion, and affordable. As softer metals, they’re also easier to cut, which is crucial.
It’s not a simple case of recutting a brass key in a stronger metal (like steel) to make it stronger because most lock mechanisms are also made of brass. The high-strength key would shred the brass pins and other inner lock parts.
The trick is to make sure you have a good-quality lock installed with high-quality, precision cut keys (poorly cut keys are more likely to jam and snap). I can help you to assess your locks and keys if you’re at all unsure.
3. Regularly maintain your locks
Door locks aren’t the ‘fit and forget’ solution we all like to think they are. To keep your keys turning smoothly, and avoid the dreaded ‘snapped-key-in-door’ situation, it’s a good idea to lubricate your locks from time to time.
I recommend using a PTFE lubricant like GT85, which you should spray onto the key to work it carefully into the lock. Avoid WD40 at all costs! The ‘WD’ stands for ‘Water Displacement’, so rather than lubricate your lock it’s going to do the opposite. It also dries into a sticky gunk that can gum up your lock and make things worse.
Kew Locksmith Southport is here to help
Dealing with a snapped key that’s stuck in a lock can be stressful. But, when you understand what you’re dealing with and when to call in professional help from a locksmith, you can resolve the issue quickly and efficiently.
Remember, prevention is key (excuse the pun!). So take all necessary steps to protect your locks and keys to avoid any future problems from arising. For reliable support and solutions, call Kew Locksmith Southport today.
I can quickly diagnose the problem, remove the broken key from the lock, and offer any further advice or repairs as needed. I provide emergency locksmith services right across Southport, Formby and Ormskirk.
I’m available 24/7, 365 days a year and you’ll never pay a call-out fee. If your key has snapped and is stuck in the lock, call me on 07454 416582 for a speedy and affordable solution.
Don’t get left out in the cold, call Kew Locksmith today and I’ll be with you as soon as possible!
