It’s a frustrating moment when your key breaks off in the lock. Whether it’s from wear and tear or a sudden snap, dealing with a broken key can be tricky. However, it’s not the end of the world. With the right tools and steps, you can often remove the broken piece yourself and avoid calling a locksmith.
The good news is that with a little know-how and the right tools, most broken keys can be removed with minimal effort.
In this guide, we’ll go over the tools you can use, the steps to remove a broken key, and tips to prevent future breakages.
What tools can you use to remove a broken key from a lock?
When a key breaks off inside a lock, having the right tools can make the process much easier. You can often remove the broken key with a few common items you might already have at home.
Tools to Help You Remove a Broken Key:
Tool | Description | Use |
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Needle-Nose Pliers1 | Small pliers with pointed tips | Grip and pull out the broken key |
Key Extractor Kit2 | A specialized kit designed for key removal | Gently extract broken keys from locks |
Tweezers | Small, fine-tipped pincers | Pull out the broken key if it’s visible |
Lubricant (WD-40)3 | A spray lubricant | Lubricate the lock to ease the removal |
Jigglers/Lock Pick | Thin, flexible tools used to manipulate locks | Unlock and pull the key out if it’s stuck |
Screwdriver | A flathead or small Phillips screwdriver | Sometimes used to pry the broken piece loose |
These tools, especially when used together, can increase your chances of success. Let’s explore how each tool works and when to use them.
How to prevent a key from breaking in a lock in the future?
Breaking a key in a lock is often the result of either a worn-out key4 or a faulty lock mechanism5. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce the chances of this happening in the future.
Tips to Prevent Key Breakage:
- Regular Maintenance:
- Lubricate the lock every 6-12 months with a graphite-based lubricant6 to keep the mechanism working smoothly.
- Use the Correct Key:
- Ensure you are always using the correct key for the lock. Never force a key that doesn’t fit easily.
- Avoid Excessive Force:
- Turn the key gently. If it resists, stop and inspect the lock, as excessive force can weaken both the key and the lock.
- Replace Worn Keys:
- If the key is visibly worn or bent, it’s best to get a new one made before it breaks.
- Check for Lock Damage:
- Inspect the lock for any signs of damage or wear. A damaged lock can put unnecessary pressure on the key and cause breakage.
By taking these simple steps, you can prevent the frustration of a broken key in the future.
What are the steps to safely remove a broken key from a lock?
If you do find yourself with a broken key, you can follow these steps to remove it safely. The goal is to avoid damaging the lock further while extracting the broken piece.
Steps to Remove a Broken Key from a Lock:
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Assess the Situation
- Before trying to remove the broken key, examine the lock. Determine how deep the key has broken and whether the broken piece is visible.
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Apply Lubricant (Optional)
- Spray some lubricant, such as WD-40, into the keyhole. This can help loosen the broken key and make removal easier.
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Use Needle-Nose Pliers
- If the broken key is visible, use needle-nose pliers to grip it gently. Try to pull it out without bending it further.
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Try a Key Extractor Kit
- Insert the small hooks of a key extractor kit into the lock around the broken piece. Gently wiggle it to catch the teeth of the broken key, then pull it out slowly.
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Use Tweezers for Smaller Pieces
- If the key is broken into smaller pieces and some are visible, try using tweezers to pull them out one at a time.
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Turn the Lock (if necessary)
- In some cases, it might help to turn the lock slightly in the direction the key would normally turn while pulling on the key. This can help loosen the broken piece.
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Test the Lock
- Once you’ve removed the broken key, check the lock to ensure it’s still functional. Test it with a new key to make sure everything works properly.
When should you call a locksmith7 to remove a broken key?
While you may be able to remove a broken key yourself, there are times when calling a locksmith is your best option.
When to Call a Locksmith:
- The Key Is Deeply Stuck
- If the broken key is lodged deep inside the lock and you can’t access it with tools, a locksmith has specialized equipment to retrieve it.
- Lock Damage
- If your attempts to remove the key have caused damage to the lock, it’s better to have a professional assess and fix the damage.
- Too Much Force Was Used
- If you’ve tried using excessive force and suspect that the lock is now damaged, a locksmith can help repair or replace the lock.
- Complex Locks
- If your lock is a high-security lock or has a complicated mechanism, it’s best to call a locksmith who can safely handle it without causing further damage.
A professional locksmith has the right tools and experience to remove broken keys without damaging the lock or surrounding mechanisms.
Can WD-40 or other lubricants help with removing a broken key?
WD-40 and other lubricants can indeed be helpful in the process of removing a broken key, but it’s important to use them correctly.
How WD-40 Helps:
- Lubrication: WD-40 helps to lubricate the internal components of the lock, making it easier for the broken key to slide out.
- Corrosion Prevention: It can also help loosen any rust or grime that might be causing the key to stick.
- Ease of Removal: By reducing friction, WD-40 can make it easier for your pliers or key extractor to grip and pull the key out.
When Not to Use WD-40:
- If the Lock Is Already Damaged: Using too much WD-40 on a damaged lock can worsen the situation. It’s best to consult a locksmith in this case.
- In High-Security Locks: Some high-security locks can be sensitive to lubricants, so be cautious when using WD-40 on them.
Conclusion
Dealing with a broken key in a lock can be stressful, but with the right tools and techniques, you can often fix the problem yourself. Whether you use pliers, a key extractor kit, or lubricants like WD-40, knowing the correct steps can save you time and money. If you’re unable to remove the broken key or the lock is damaged, it’s always best to call a locksmith to ensure your lock is properly repaired.
Remember, regular maintenance and taking care when using your keys can help prevent breakages in the future.
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Discover expert techniques for using Needle-Nose Pliers effectively to remove broken keys, ensuring a smoother process. ↩
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Learn how a Key Extractor Kit can simplify the process of removing broken keys, making it easier and more efficient. ↩
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Explore the advantages of using WD-40 for lubricating locks, enhancing your key removal efforts and preventing future issues. ↩
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Understanding the impact of a worn-out key can help you take preventive measures to avoid key breakage. ↩
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Identifying a faulty lock mechanism is crucial for ensuring your keys and locks function properly, preventing breakage. ↩
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Exploring the benefits of graphite-based lubricant can enhance your lock maintenance routine and prevent key issues. ↩
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Find out the situations where a locksmith is necessary for broken key removal and lock repair. ↩