Locksmith
How to Get a Broken Key Out?
A Step-by-Step Guide
- 24/7 Service
- Satisfaction Guaranteed
A broken key can turn a simple day into a frustrating nightmare. Whether it’s in your car door, ignition, or trunk, knowing how to handle this situation is essential. This guide will walk you through some tried-and-true methods for getting a broken key out before you consider calling a professional car key locksmith.
Why Keys Break and What to Do First
Before diving into removal techniques, it’s important to understand why keys break. Over time, keys can weaken due to daily use, metal fatigue, or using the wrong key. When a key snaps, don’t panic. First, ensure your vehicle is in a safe place. If it’s not, consider moving it to a secure location or call a 24/7 car key locksmith.
Tools You Might Need
Gathering a few items can help improve your chances of success:
- Needle-nose pliers
- Tweezers
- A broken key extractor
- WD-40 or a similar lubricant
- Paperclips
- Super glue (for emergencies)
If you don’t have these on hand or need help, remember that professional car key locksmiths are available 24/7.
1.
Use Needle-Nose Pliers or Tweezers
If the broken key is protruding from the lock, needle-nose pliers or tweezers might be all you need to remove it. Make sure to:
- Avoid damaging the lock: Gently grip the part of the key sticking out and pull straight out.
- Don’t force it: Excessive pressure can cause the key to break further inside the lock.
Remember, if you’re struggling, it’s best to contact a nearby car key locksmith. A professional can remove the broken key without harming the lock.
2.
Apply Lubricant for Stuck Keys
If the broken key is lodged deep in the lock, lubrication can help loosen it:
- Use WD-40: Spray a small amount of lubricant into the lock to reduce friction.
- Wiggle the key out: Try using pliers or a broken key extractor.
If this method fails, don’t force the key. You don’t want to damage the lock further and end up needing remote car key repair near you.
3.
The Paperclip or Key Extractor Method
If the key isn’t accessible with pliers, a paperclip or a key extractor may be your best bet:
- Straighten a paperclip: Create a hook to insert into the lock.
- Slide it alongside the key: The goal is to hook onto the teeth of the broken key.
- Gently pull: Wiggle and pull to extract the key.
A key extractor is more efficient and available at hardware stores. However, if you find yourself stuck, calling a 24/7 car key locksmith is wise.
4.
Super Glue Hack (Use with Caution)
Desperate times call for creative measures. Super glue can sometimes work, but it’s a risky option:
- Apply glue carefully: Use a tiny amount on a thin wire or toothpick.
- Hold it to the key: Press the wire against the broken key piece and wait for the glue to dry.
- Pull it out gently: Be very careful; you don’t want glue in the lock mechanism.
This hack is a last resort. If the glue trick fails or damages your lock, car key specialists near you can repair it.
Why You Should Consider a Professional Solution
Attempting to fix a broken key issue yourself can save money, but it also comes with risks:
- Damage to your vehicle: Improper handling can worsen the situation.
- Costly repairs: A simple extraction can turn into a lock replacement if done incorrectly.
Professional car key locksmiths have the expertise to minimise damage and get you back on the road quickly. Some even offer remote car key replacement near you if needed.
We’re Here to Help
We hope these techniques help you get a broken key out safely. However, if nothing works or you’re worried about damaging your vehicle, we’re just a call away. Our expert locksmiths are ready to assist with car key extraction, replacement, and remote car key repair near you. We pride ourselves on being 24/7 car key locksmith specialists with years of experience.
Need assistance now? Call us for immediate help and get back on the road stress-free.