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:

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:

1. Regular Maintenance:
   • Lubricate the lock every 6-12 months with a graphite-based lubricant⁶ to keep the mechanism working smoothly.
2. Use the Correct Key:
   • Ensure you are always using the correct key for the lock. Never force a key that doesn’t fit easily.
3. 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.
4. Replace Worn Keys:
   • If the key is visibly worn or bent, it’s best to get a new one made before it breaks.
5. 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:

1. 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.

2. Apply Lubricant (Optional)

   • Spray some lubricant, such as WD-40, into the keyhole. This can help loosen the broken key and make removal easier.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.