What To Do When My Key Breaks In The Lock: Step-By-Step Guide To Fixing The Problem
By: River City Keys Edmonton Locksmith
Dealing with a broken key in a lock can be frustrating and inconvenient. Whether it happens at home, in your car, or at work, it can disrupt your day and leave you feeling helpless.
Keys can break due to age, excessive force, or even cold weather, making it essential to know how to handle the situation quickly and safely.
This article provides a detailed step-by-step guide on what to do when your key breaks in the lock, common mistakes to avoid, and when to call a locksmith for professional assistance.
Let’s get right into it!
The Fastest Way To Get Key Out Of Lock
The fastest and easiest way to remove key in lock is to call a professional locksmith near you.
If you’re in Edmonton, you can call River City Keys locksmiths at 780-265-0062 and one of our experts will be on-site within 30 minutes.
Why Do Keys Break In Locks Common Causes
One of the main reasons keys break inside locks is due to wear and tear. Over time, metal fatigue weakens the key, making it more susceptible to breaking when turned.
Another common cause is applying too much force, especially when the lock is stiff or jammed.
Cold weather can also contribute to key breakage as metal contracts in freezing temperatures, increasing brittleness.
Dirt and rust inside the lock can make turning the key difficult, leading to unnecessary strain.
Poorly made key copies are another factor, as low-quality duplicates may not fit properly and can snap easily.
Step By Step Guide How To Remove A Broken Key From A Lock
Assessing the situation is the first step when dealing with a broken key. If part of the key is still sticking out, avoid pushing it further into the lock as this will make removal more difficult. If the key is visible, tweezers can be used to carefully grip and pull it out.
Fine-tip tweezers work best as thicker ones may push the key further inside. Needle-nose pliers are another effective tool, especially for keys that protrude slightly.
A broken key extractor tool is a professional option used by locksmiths, designed to slide into the lock and hook onto the broken piece for removal.
Applying lubrication such as WD-40 or graphite powder can help loosen the key and make extraction easier. The super glue method is another technique that works if part of the key is exposed.
A small amount of super glue is applied to a toothpick or wire, held against the broken key for a few seconds, and then pulled out.
A fine hacksaw blade can also be inserted into the lock with the serrated edge facing down to hook onto the key fragment and gently pull it out. If none of these methods work, calling a professional locksmith is the safest option to avoid damaging the lock further.
What Not To Do When Your Key Breaks In The Lock
One of the most common mistakes people make is continuing to turn the key after it has broken. This only pushes the broken piece further into the lock, making extraction more difficult.
Spraying oil-based lubricants like cooking oil can attract dust and dirt, worsening the problem.
Using excessive force with random tools such as paperclips or knives can damage the internal components of the lock, leading to costly repairs or replacement.
When To Replace Your Lock Instead Of Repairing It
If the lock is old, rusted, or frequently jams, replacing it may be a better option than repairing it. Internal damage caused by a broken key can make the lock unreliable even after the key is removed.
Multiple key breakages within a short period indicate a deeper issue with the lock mechanism. Outdated locks that lack modern security features should also be replaced for better protection.
Preventing Future Key Breakages Expert Tips
Using graphite lubricant regularly helps keep locks functioning smoothly and prevents key breakage.
Replacing worn-out keys before they snap can save you from an inconvenient lockout situation. Avoiding excessive force when turning a key is crucial, as resistance often indicates an issue with the lock that should be addressed rather than forced.
Keeping locks clean by removing dust and debris prevents internal blockages. High-quality key copies made by professional locksmiths last longer and fit better than cheap duplicates.
Installing a smart lock eliminates the risk of key breakage entirely while enhancing security.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do If My Key Breaks In My Car Lock?
If possible use tweezers or pliers to extract the key If it is fully stuck inside calling a locksmith or roadside assistance is recommended
Can I Remove A Broken Key Without Damaging The Lock?
Yes if done carefully using the right tools such as tweezers pliers or an extractor tool Forcing the key out improperly can damage the lock.
How Much Does A Locksmith Charge To Remove A Broken Key?
Prices vary but in Canada locksmith services for key extraction typically range from seventy five to one hundred and fifty dollars depending on the complexity of the removal
What If My House Key Breaks And I Am Locked Out?
If no spare key is available contact a locksmith for emergency lockout services. Some home insurance policies may cover locksmith costs.
Can WD 40 Help Remove A Broken Key?
Yes WD 40 can loosen the broken key inside the lock but avoid using it frequently as it can attract dust and dirt over time.
Should I Try Using A Magnet To Remove The Key?
Regular household magnets are usually not strong enough to pull out a broken key but a strong neodymium magnet may work in some cases.
Is It Better To Repair Or Replace The Lock After A Broken Key?
Incident If the lock is in good condition and the key was successfully removed without damage repair is fine However if the lock is old or compromised replacement is advisable.
Can A Locksmith Make A New Key From A Broken One?
Yes a locksmith can create a duplicate key by using both broken pieces as a reference. If the key is completely lost they may rekey the lock instead.
What Type Of Locks Are Less Likely To Break Keys?
High quality deadbolts smart locks and electronic keypads eliminate the risk of key breakage entirely Well maintained modern locks also reduce strain on keys.
How Often Should I Lubricate My Locks To Prevent Key?
Breakage It is recommended to apply graphite or silicone-based lubricant every six months to keep locks functioning smoothly and prevent stiffness
Conclusion
Dealing with a broken key can be stressful but knowing the right steps to take can make all the difference.
Safe removal techniques can help retrieve the broken piece without damaging the lock but if DIY methods fail professional locksmith assistance is the best option.
Preventative measures such as regular lubrication and key replacement can help avoid future key breakages.
Taking the right approach ensures that your lock remains functional and secure making your home or vehicle safer and more accessible.
If you have any questions about our article “What To Do When My Key Breaks In The Lock: Step-By-Step Guide To Fixing The Problem” or need locksmith services in Edmonton contact us at 780-265-0062 or connect with us on social media.
