Remove broken key from lock

If you have discovered a broken key loose in your lock, there is still hope you’ll be able to use the lock further. Of course, there’s a bigger chance to have the lock fully functional if you are calling a locksmith to try a key extraction and lock picking.

But if you are willing to take your chance into DIY and travel to a hardware store to give the lock picking a try, we will offer you some alternatives. Be careful, some of these methods are most likely to ruin the lock if you don’t know how to approach it and maybe you will need a locksmith to change the lock for you at the end.

So, here we’ll go through the various methods you can use to remove a broken key, and the very few speciality tools you’ll need to try getting broken key out of lock yourself. So, you can try to get a broken key snapped in the lock by following the next steps:

1. Visually Inspect the Broken Key

   The first step in removing a broken key is to take a close look at the door lock and the key. Analyze the problem and try to determine where the break occurred. If the key broke near the tip, you may be able to remove it with pliers from the key hole. However, if the break occurred further down the key, you’ll need to use a different method. A snapped key into a high-security lock will be pretty hard and you’ll need to use the specialty tools required to unlock the door lock.

2. Gather the Right Tools To remove the broken key

   In order to try and remove the broken key or the broken key inserted into the lock, you’ll need a few tools:

• Needle-nose pliers

• A small flat screwdriver

• A broken key extractor tool

  A specialty broken key extractor tool is a handy device used to remove broken or stuck keys from locks. It consists of a series of hooks, probes and extractor pins that are designed to grip and remove broken pieces of a key that are lodged inside a lock. These tools are an essential tool for locksmiths, as they provide a simple solution to the common problem of broken keys.

3. Try Using Pliers

   If the break in the key is near the tip, you may be able to remove it using pliers. Needle-nose pliers are a type of pliers with a long, thin, pointed nose designed for gripping small objects or reaching into tight spaces.

   Simply grip the broken key with the pliers and gently wiggle it back and forth. If you’re lucky, you may be able to extract the key without further tools.

4. Use a Screwdriver

   If the pliers don’t work, you can try the key extraction with a screwdriver. So, you can insert a small flat screwdriver into the lock beside the broken key. Gently push the screwdriver in and try to lever the broken key out. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this can damage the lock.

5. Try a Broken Key Extractor Tool

   If the above methods don’t work, it’s time to try a broken key extractor tool. This tool is specifically designed to remove broken keys from locks. Simply insert the extractor into the lock and gently turn it to grab onto the broken key. Once the extractor has a firm grip on the key, gently pull it out.

6. Call a Professional Locksmith

   Sometimes, despite the key protruding from the lock, the lock wouldn’t budge, signaling that the key was either broken or the lock was damaged. So, if you’re unable to remove the broken key, it’s best to call a professional locksmith.

   A locksmith will have the tools and expertise to safely remove the key and prevent any damage to the lock. They may also be able to provide you with a replacement key.

In conclusion, removing a broken key from a lock can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and a little patience, it can be done. However, if you’re unsure or not comfortable with the process, it’s always best to call a professional locksmith to get the job done right. Getting broken key out of lock is not an easy process for someone with no experience with locks, so maybe it’s best to call a professional if you wanna be sure you are doing it right. 

By calling us, you can be sure our locksmith will be able to remove the broken key without damaging the lock, ensuring that your locks continue to function properly. So, if you find yourself in a situation where you have a broken key, remember that there’s a solution. Just take a deep breath, gather your tools, and follow these steps to get your lock working again.

If you are looking to try removing a broken key from a lock, you can try the suggestions above but you have to know that you risk making it worse – in case it’s not working. Trying to remove a broken piece out of a jammed lock can be a frustrating experience for anyone, but with a few simple tools and a bit of patience, it can be done.

Before starting, it is important to note that some broken keys may be easier to remove from the lock core than others. Of course, it all depends on the type of lock you have and on its level of security. For example, if the broken key is still partially inserted into the lock cylinder, it may be easier to extract than a key that has broken off completely and is now inside the lock.

Additionally, the type of lock can affect the difficulty of removing the broken key. Sometimes, if the lock is too secured, it can’t be extracted. To get a broken key extracted, you need to be sure your lock is basic. Also, it could be a problem if you have inserted the incorrect key into the lock as the key fragment left inside can damage the lock. Ley us handle your door lock and have your broken key piece removed professionally.

Steps in removing a broken key from a door lock

The first step in removing a broken key from a lock is to gather the tools you will need. A broken key extractor is a specialty tool that is designed specifically for removing broken keys from locks. If you don’t have one, you might be able to buy one at a hardware store. Also, a needle nose pliers and a rag or paper towel can be helpful for lock picks.

Once you have your tools, insert the broken key extractor into the lock cylinder and position it so that the hooks of the extractor are aligned with the broken key. If the key is still partially inserted, you may be able to use your needle nose pliers to grasp the broken part and gently pull it out. If the key is completely inside the lock, you will need to apply pressure firmly with the extractor tool to try to remove it.

Lock picks with your own tools

It’s important to avoid using too much force as this could cause further damage to the lock. If the broken key does not come out easily, you may need to try several attempts or use a double hooked key extractor or a single hooked key extractor, depending on the type of lock and the position of the broken key.

If you have a failed attempt and you have a hard time in removing the broken key, it may be helpful to lubricate the lock with oil-based lubricants. This can help to loosen the broken key and make it easier to remove. If you are still having trouble, it may be best to call a professional locksmith.

Try Lock Picking or Other Technique

In some cases, people may try to remove a broken key using lock picking techniques. However, this is not recommended, as attempting to pick a lock can cause damage to the internal components and make it more difficult to remove the broken key.

If you have tried all of the above methods and are still unable to remove the broken key, you may need to take more drastic measures. In some cases, you can use super glue to attach the broken piece to a solid surface and then gently pull it out. However, be cautious with the amount of glue you use, as too much glue can make it difficult to remove the key and may cause damage to the lock.

In conclusion, removing a broken key from a lock can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it can be done. If all else fails, it is best to seek the help of a professional locksmith, who will have the tools and expertise to extract the broken key without causing further damage to the lock. He will also be able to replace your lock on the spot if that’s the case. If you are looking for a South West London locksmith, get in touch and we will rescue you in minutes.

Don’t forget: sometimes keys break, and you can end up in a frustrating situation. There are a few reasons why keys break, such as wear and tear, corrosion, or improper handling. It is essential to have spare keys in case of emergencies, but prevention is also crucial. So, regular maintenance of your keys and locks can help your lock extend their lifespan and prevent them from breaking. Additionally, if you do find yourself with a broken key, it is best to seek professional help rather than attempting to fix it yourself, as further damage could occur.