To successfully remove a broken piece from a lock, try spraying some lubricant and removing the part with tweezers. However, this is only possible if the broken piece is sticking out. If the broken piece is stuck inside the lock, calling the locksmith would be the right thing to do. Professional locksmiths have the right tools that will allow them to safely extract the broken part without causing any further damage.
Why Do Keys Break Inside Lock or Ignition?
01. Wear and Tear
Keys and locks are used multiple times throughout the day, so it is normal to expect that they will develop tiny cracks over time. These damages might not be clearly visible, but will definitely result in the key breaking more easily, especially if the lock is hard to turn. Old locks and rough handling can speed up wear and tear, making breakage more likely.
02. Key Quality
Keys are made from different materials. Sometimes, the materials used are very cheap or soft metals that are not very resistant or durable. These keys can bend and snap inside a lock more easily than the ones made from stronger materials. Using good-quality keys lowers the chance of damage and helps locks work smoothly for a longer period of time.
03. Wrong Key Usage
Often, people accidentally try to unlock a lock with the wrong key. Using a different one can be harmless, but in most cases, it can cause serious damage. Even slight and small differences in key shape can stop it from turning properly, get jammed, and snap under further pressure. To avoid this, just be extra careful with the key you are using.
04. Weather Damage
Most locks and keys are exposed to the weather and cold. Since they both are made from metal, it makes them prone to damages casused by low and high temperatures, moisture, or rust. For example, moisture can freeze inside the locking mechanism, causing the key to jam and break while trying to lock/unlock.
05. Dirt and Debris
Since locks are exposed to the outside conditions, it is normal to expect that at some point, there will be a lot of dirt and debris build-up inside the mechanism. When keys are forced through dirty locks, they may bend or break. Keeping locks clean helps prevent that issue.
How to Get a Broken Key Out of A Lock?
01. Avoid Forcing the Key Further
Finding yourself in a situation where the key is broken inside the lock is very stressful, and the first reaction is usually to try to force the key out. This can only cause further damage to the lock and the mechanism and result in very costly repairs. Remain calm and avoid any additional pressure on the lock.
02. Remove the Broken Piece
If there is a piece sticking out of the lock, you can gently remove it with tweezers. If it comes out easily – great, if not – do not try to force it out. Avoiding any pressure or sudden moves also reduces the risk of further damage. This step is recommended only if the broken part comes out easily; you should not force it.
03. Apply Lubricant
Applying a small amount of lubricant inside the keyhole can sometimes ease the extraction of the broken key. If applied correctly, it can make the removal process simpler and smoother. However, bear in mind that you should use only lubricants specifically designed for locks. Using WD-40, for example, would do the job, but WD-40 will also attract dirt and help with the grease build-up, and cause damage in the long run.
04. Call a Locksmith
Of course, regardless of whether you managed to remove the broken part from the lock or not, calling the locksmith is a must. Professional locksmiths have the right tools and expertise to successfully remove the broken part from the lock, without making any more damage, to fix the internal mechanism, and restore the lock’s functionality. Also, they can make a new key to replace the broken one.
How Locksmiths Can Help
01. Key Extraction
Professional locksmiths have specialized tools such as key extractors, broken key removal kits, and fine-tipped pliers to carefully remove broken keys from locks. These tools are designed to remove the broken key precisely without causing any further damage to the locking mechanism.
02. Lock Repair or Replacement
Broken keys can damage the lock and the mechanism. Even though sometimes the damage is not clearly visible, some micro-damages can cause the lock to deteriorate and lose its functionality. Professional locksmiths will assess the damage and replace the broken or damaged parts. In some cases, when the damage is extensive, the locksmith will replace the entire lock.
03. Key Duplication
When a key breaks inside the lock, that means that you need a new key. Locksmiths can duplicate the key even when there is no spare key available. With professional and advanced tools, they successfully issue a functional key without the need to replace the entire locking mechanism.
04. Prevention
If the locksmith evaluates that the existing lock is too old or faulty, they would suggest lock replacement. This is also ga reat time to think about upgrading the locks to more advanced ones. To extend the duration of the lock, don’t force the keys and be gentle when turning them. Storing keys in a dry place with constant temperature also helps preserve the key strength and extend its duration.
Final Thoughts
When a key breaks inside a lock, the first instinct one has is to try to remove it. This is often the main reason why extensive damage is caused, since pushing and forcing the broken part damages the internal locking mechanism, sometimes even beyond repair. The first and most reasonable thing to do would be to call a locksmith who has professional tools and knowledge to remove the broken part and keep the lock functionality.
Your Key Is Broken Inside the Lock? We’re Here to Help You – Call Us Today
We at A1 Locksmith Service LLC have the professional tools and the proper knowledge to easily extract a broken key from the lock, identify if there are any damaged parts in the process, and successfully restore the lock’s functionality. Call us at +1 (813) 817-5576 to schedule your locksmith service.
