Ever found yourself at the end of the world’s most hectic day only to rock up to your front door, then have your door key break off in the lock? We’ve all been there.

Standing there, wondering what you did wrong in life while staring at that stubborn broken key inside and wondering… “how on earth do I get a broken key out of a lock?” 

Whether it’s a key snapped inside a lock or the mechanism has completely jammed due to an old, worn key stuck, worry not! Our comprehensive, in-depth guide is here to walk you through everything you need to know about removing a broken key from an external door lock.

Grab a cup of tea (or something stronger, if that’s your style) and let’s dive into removing broken keys!

What’s covered in this article?

Understanding Why Keys Break
Can I remove a broken key from a door myself?
Different Types of Door Locks and How They Affect Extraction
Essential Tools and Preparations
Step-by-Step Guide for Broken Key Removal
Tips and Tricks for Smooth Broken Key Removal
When to Call a Locksmith
How much does it cost to get a key out of a door lock?
Preventing Future Key Breakages
Summary

Understanding Why Keys Break

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty of the actual removal process, it’s helpful to understand why keys sometimes break in the first place.

There are several common culprits behind a key breaking off in a lock:

• Wear and Tear: Over time, the metal of your key can wear down from constant use. A well-used key can weaken and eventually snap. Wear on the serrated edge of the key can also mean it doesn’t quite work correctly, which could lead to you needing to use more force to unlock.
• Corrosion: Exposure to moisture, especially in damp climates, can cause the metal in both the lock and the key to corrode, making it brittle or stiff to use.
• Excessive Force: Forcing a key into a lock at the wrong angle, using an incorrect key or using too much pressure turn can cause it to bend and break.
• Low-Quality Materials: Cheaper keys or those made from substandard soft metals may not withstand regular use, leading to breakage.
• Misalignment: If the lock or key is worn out, it may not engage correctly, increasing the risk of a key breaking off.

Understanding these factors can help you not only prevent future breakages (more on this later) but also determine the best method for how to get a broken key out of a lock when it happens.

Can I remove a broken key from a door myself?

Yes, absolutely! Many people successfully remove a broken key from a door using the right tools and techniques. However, if you’re dealing with a complicated lock type or if your DIY attempts aren’t working or you’re not confident in your skills, it’s wise to consult a professional.

What is the best method for removing a broken key from a lock?

The best method will always vary depending on the lock type, but usually involves using a broken key extractor tool along with needle-nose pliers or tweezers. Start by lubricating the lock, then carefully insert the extractor tool alongside the key fragment and gently pull it out.

Always work slowly to avoid pushing the key further in. Patience is vital.

Different Types of Door Locks and How They Affect Extraction

Not all external door locks are created equal, and the process of removing a broken key can vary depending on the type of door lock you’re dealing with. Let’s take a look at some common lock types and what you might need to consider when removing a broken key:

Cylinder Locks

Cylinder locks are the most common type of locks found in homes. They’re relatively straightforward, and the key typically sits flush in the keyway.

• Extraction Tips: The visible part of the key is usually easier to grab with an extractor tool or tweezers. Apply plenty of lubricant and gently manoeuvre the tool alongside the key fragment.
• Common Issue: Sometimes, even in a cylinder lock, the key might be stuck due to wear and tear. Regular maintenance and timely lubrication can prevent this issue.

Deadbolt Locks

Deadbolt locks are often used for added security on exterior doors alongside cylinder locks and sometimes on interior doors such as those that lead to a garage.

• Extraction Tips: Deadbolt locks tend to have deeper keyways. This means the broken key may be lodged further inside. Use extra lubricant and patience, as forcing the extraction could damage the lock.
• Common Issue: The deeper recess of deadbolt locks can sometimes make it more challenging to see and grip the key fragment. A torch and magnifying glass can be your best friends here.

Electronic or Smart Locks

Although electronic or smart locks rely more on digital security, many still have a traditional key override mechanism.

• Extraction Tips: Given the complexity of these locks, any attempt at key extraction should be done with extreme care. The risk of damaging the electronic components means that if you encounter a key broken off in the lock, it may be best to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or contact a professional locksmith.
• Common Issue: The integration of digital components means that even a minor mistake during extraction could lead to malfunction. Always proceed cautiously with these systems.

Commercial Lock Systems

Commercial locking systems are built to withstand heavy use and often have more robust and secure mechanisms.

• Extraction Tips: These locks are designed to be tamper-resistant, so a broken key in a commercial lock can be particularly stubborn. Specialised extractor tools will likely be required here, and extra lubrication is often necessary.
• Common Issue: Due to their heavy-duty design, commercial locks can sometimes hold onto a broken key fragment very tightly. If multiple extraction attempts fail, it might be time to call in a professional.

Another common type of door lock you might encounter is the mortice lock. These locks are typically embedded within a pocket or cavity cut into the door, offering a sleek and secure design that’s most popular in traditional and period properties.

Because mortice locks are recessed into the door (much like a deadbolt), the broken key fragment can sometimes be lodged deeper in the mechanism, making extraction a bit more challenging than with surface-mounted cylinder locks.

When dealing with a key broken off in a mortice lock, the principles remain the same: patience, proper lubrication and the right tools for the job. However, due to the design of mortice locks, you may need to take extra care when manoeuvring within the confined space of the lock body.

Understanding these different lock types can impact your approach to how to remove a broken key from a lock. Tailoring your method to the specific lock not only improves your chances of success, but also minimises the risk of further damage too.

Essential Tools and Preparations

Before you embark on your broken key extraction adventure, it’s vital to gather the right tools and make some initial preparations. Having the correct equipment to hand can be the difference between a smooth extraction and a frustrating ordeal:

Must-Have Tools for Broken Key Extraction

• Broken Key Extractor Tool: This specialised tool is designed to latch onto the broken key fragment. While not on everyone’s must-buy list, they can definitely come in handy.
• Needle-Nose Pliers: Perfect for gripping pieces of a key protruding out of a lock – allowing you to slowly pull the key easier than if you were to just use your hands.
• Tweezers: Great for delicate manoeuvres, especially in tight spaces.
• Super Glue: Only to be used if a decent amount of the broken key is protruding from the lock.
• Lock Lubricant: A suitable lubricant such as silicone-based spray works wonders by loosening up the key in the lock mechanism. Avoid using oil-based lubricants such as original WD-40, as they can affect the long term performance of the lock mechanism. But if this is all you have available, it’s OK in an emergency, just be sure to re-lubricate the lock with a silicone lubricant after removing the broken key piece.
• Magnifying Glass: To get a closer look at the snapped key and determine your next move.
• Torch/Light: Essential for illuminating the keyway, particularly in dim or shadowy conditions.
  

Can a magnet pull a broken key out of a lock?

A magnet can sometimes pull a broken key out of a lock, but it really depends on a few things.

Firstly, the key must be made of a magnetic metal like iron or steel. Unofrtunately, many modern keys are made from non-magnetic materials such as brass or nickel silver as they’re cheaper to produce, so in those cases, a magnet won’t help.

If however your key is magnetic and the broken part is still near the edge of the lock and not too far inside, and you’re using a strong magnet (like a neodymium magnet) you might be able to pull it out. Just be cautious though because if the fragment is deep inside, tightly jammed, or the lock is particularly tight or dirty, a magnet propbably won’t be effective.

Preparing Your Work Area

1. Clear the Space: Make sure your work area is well-lit and clutter-free. This will help you focus on the task at hand.
2. Stay Calm: Yes, we know it’s frustrating when a key breaks. Take a deep breath and remember… Many people have successfully extracted broken keys without a hitch.
3. Plan Your Approach: Before diving in, assess the situation. How much of the key is visible? Is the lock in an accessible position? Knowing these details will help you decide on the best extraction method.
   

Armed with the right tools and a clear head, you should be ready to tackle the broken key situation.

Step-by-Step Guide for Broken Key Removal

Let’s break down the process of how to get a broken key out of a lock into clear, manageable steps. Follow along and you’ll soon have that pesky broken part out of your lock and your day back on track!

1. Assess the Situation

First things first: take a good, hard look at the lock. Is the key broken off in the lock with a significant portion sticking out, or is it nearly flush with the surface? This initial assessment will dictate the extraction method.

• Visible Fragment: If a substantial part of the key is visible, it’s a good sign – you’ll have a better chance of gripping it.
• Hidden Fragment: If the key is almost entirely inside the lock, you may need to use more specialised tools and extra lubricant.

Remember, knowing exactly what you’re dealing with is half the battle. A little patience and a close inspection can save you a lot of hassle later on as well as help avoid damaging the lock.

2. Lubricate the Lock

Before you try to pull out the key, it’s essential to lubricate the lock. Lock lubricant helps reduce friction and makes it easier to slide the broken piece out.

• Apply a Silicone-Based Lubricant: Spray a small amount directly into the keyway. Avoid over-saturating – just enough to coat the internal mechanism.
• Let It Set: Wait a few minutes to allow the lubricant to work its magic. This will help loosen any debris or corrosion that might be causing the key to stick.

3. Extract the Broken Key

Now, for the main event: getting that broken key out of the lock…

• Using a Broken Key Extractor Tool: If you have one, insert the extractor tool alongside the broken key fragment. Gently manoeuvre it until you feel it latch onto the key. Once you have a grip, slowly and steadily pull the tool out. The goal is to hook onto the key and pull it out without forcing it further inside.
• Alternative Methods: If you don’t have a dedicated extractor tool, you can try using needle-nose pliers or tweezers. However, caution is key here: be gentle to avoid pushing the fragment deeper into the lock.
• Use Super Glue: Using super glue to remove a broken key is a method that should only be reserved for when a good portion of the broken key is sticking out of the lock. Apply a small amount of super glue to the key and “reattach” the piece you have, or something that will allow you to twist the key in the lock effectively. DO NOT allow super glue to get into the lock as this will damage the lock mechanism and prevent it from working at all.
• Gentle Persistence: If the key doesn’t budge right away, don’t panic. Reapply a little more lubricant and try again. Sometimes a few gentle attempts are all it takes to free the key.

4. Inspect and Clean the Lock

Once you’ve successfully removed the broken key, take a moment to inspect the lock. Look for any remaining debris or metal shavings that could interfere with the mechanism.

• Clean Out Debris: It’s important to clear out any small fragments of broken key to prevent further issues. Use a small brush or a burst of compressed air to remove any loose particles.
• Test the Lock: Insert a spare key to ensure the lock operates smoothly. If it feels stiff or unresponsive, a little more lubrication may be needed. But DO NOT force it if the lock won’t budge, you may end up in the same position again.

By following these steps, you should be able to effectively remove a broken key from a door lock and get back to your day without a hitch.

Tips and Tricks for Smooth Broken Key Removal

Here are some extra tips and tricks to help you remove a broken key successfully:

• Stay Patient: We can’t stress enough how important this is. It’s easy to panic when locked out of your house but rushing the process can lead to further complications. Take your time and work methodically.
• Use the Right Tools: Investing in a quality broken key extractor tool can save you a lot of frustration, or at least make sure you have some needle nose pliers and a bit of super glue handy.
• Double-Check Your Work: After extraction, always inspect the lock thoroughly to ensure no remnants of the broken key remain. If anything is left behind, it’s only going to be a matter of time before you have issues again.

These practical tips could be the difference between a smooth extraction and a prolonged, stressful ordeal. With the right approach, you’ll soon be well-versed in how to get a snapped key out of a lock without breaking a sweat.

When to Call a Professional Locksmith

It’s OK to admit defeat and while DIY methods can often do the trick, there are times when calling a professional is the best – and safest – option. Consider seeking professional help if:

• The Fragment is Deeply Lodged: If the broken key is completely hidden or wedged too tightly within the lock cylinder, forcing it might damage the internal mechanism more.
• The Lock is High-Value or Antique: For valuable or antique locks, the risk of causing irreversible damage when removing broken keys is high. A reputable professional locksmith will have all the specialised tools and expertise to handle such delicate situations.
• Repeated Attempts Fail: If you’ve tried all the methods multiple times without success and the key remains stuck inside the lock, it’s a sign that professional intervention may be necessary.
• You’re Unsure of the Lock Type: Especially with electronic or smart locks, if you’re uncertain about the extraction process, it’s safer to let a professional take over.

If you’re not confident in your own abilities to remove the broken key or don’t have the necessary tools, a professional locksmith can offer peace of mind – making sure that your lock is restored to full functionality without any collateral damage. Choosing a locksmith with things like the Trustmark accreditation is a good indication of their workmanship and reliability, they should also guarantee their work.

How much does it cost to get a broken key out of a door lock?

The cost to remove a broken key from a lock can vary but on average, you can expect to pay between £60 and £120 in the UK to have a locksmith remove a broken key. The final price can depend on a few things, like where you live, the time of day and how tricky the job turns out to be.

Need help in the middle of the night or on a Sunday morning? Emergency call-outs during unsociable hours usually cost a little extra. Live in a big city? Locksmith prices there can be a bit steeper too. And if the broken piece is stuck deep inside or has damaged the lock mechanism, you might be looking at a slightly higher bill for that too, especially if a full lock replacement is needed (which could add another £100+ or more for labour and materials depending on the type of lock).

Some locksmiths offer a simple flat fee for broken key removal, while others charge an hourly rate. It’s always a good idea to ask for a full estimate upfront – and don’t forget to check whether VAT is included!

Preventing Future Key Breakages

Prevention is always better than cure, right? Here are some ways to help avoid future key breakages:

• Invest in Quality Keys: Cheaper, low-quality keys are more prone to breakage as they’re made from softer metal compounds. Investing in high-quality, durable new keys can make a significant difference.
• Avoid Excessive Force: If your key is resistant when turning the lock, don’t force it. Instead, check for any obstructions or signs of wear.
• Regular Maintenance: Clean and lubricate your locks regularly. A well-maintained lock is less likely to cause undue stress on your key and will keep the mechanisms moving smoothly to reduce friction.
• Replace Worn-Out Keys: If you notice signs of wear such as bending or fading edges, consider replacing your key before it breaks.
• Keep Spare Keys: Always have a spare key made so that you’re not caught off guard in the event of a breakage.
  

By taking these preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of encountering the dreaded nightmare situation of a key broken in your door, keeping your locks – and your sanity – in check.

You’ve Got the Key, We’ve Got the (Trade) Secrets

There you have it – a hopefully useful guide on how to get a broken key out of a lock that covers everything from initial assessment and door lock types to preventive measures for the future. We hope our guide will mean that even a frustrating situation like a key broken off in lock becomes a manageable straightforward process for you.

The most important things are to stay patient, use the right tools and know when it’s time to seek professional help.

Remember, the goal is to restore your lock to its former glory without causing any further damage. And while DIY methods can be very effective, sometimes it’s perfectly acceptable – and even wise – to call in a locksmith if several attempts and various methods haven’t worked.

With the insights and tips shared in this guide, we hope you’re now ready to handle almost any broken key mishap with confidence and a smile.

Happy extracting, and here’s to smooth locks and stress-free days ahead!