A key snapped in the lock can quickly turn into a frustrating situation, especially if you’re trying to get into your home or secure the property before leaving. While it can be tempting to start pulling at the broken key or pushing tools into the lock, this can sometimes make the problem worse.
The good news is that a snapped key doesn’t necessarily mean the entire lock needs replacing. Here’s what you should do if part of your key has broken off inside the lock.
Why Do Keys Snap in Locks?
Keys can weaken over time through everyday use. Small bends, cracks and worn edges may eventually cause the key to break when pressure is applied. The lock itself can also contribute to the problem. If a lock has become stiff, damaged or difficult to turn, you may find yourself applying more force to the key than usual. Cold conditions, dirt inside the mechanism and general wear can also affect how smoothly a lock operates. If you notice that a key is becoming difficult to turn, it’s worth dealing with the problem before it breaks completely.
Don’t Force the Remaining Key
If part of the key is still sticking out of the lock, avoid repeatedly twisting or forcing it. You could push the broken section further inside the mechanism or cause additional damage to the lock. You should also avoid trying to use the remaining part of the key to operate the lock. Once a key has snapped, the safest approach is to assess where the broken section is before attempting anything else.
Can You Remove a Broken Key Yourself?
Sometimes, a broken key may be removable if enough of it remains outside the lock to grip easily. However, you need to be careful. Using unsuitable tools can push the key deeper into the cylinder or damage components inside the lock. If the broken section is completely inside the lock, repeatedly inserting screwdrivers, pins or other objects isn’t recommended. What starts as a simple key extraction could become a damaged lock that requires additional repair or replacement.
Don’t Try to Glue the Key Back Together
One DIY solution you may come across online involves putting glue onto the remaining part of the key and attempting to attach it to the broken section, this is risky. Glue can enter the locking mechanism and potentially cause further damage. Even if you manage to make contact with the broken key, there’s no guarantee the bond will be strong enough to remove it. Professional broken-key extraction is generally a much safer option when the key cannot easily be removed.
Is the Door Locked or Unlocked?
What you should do next can depend on the position of the door. If the door is already open, avoid closing it until you’ve dealt with the broken key and confirmed that the lock works correctly.
If you’re locked outside your property with part of the key stuck inside the lock, a locksmith can assess the situation and determine the best way to regain access while minimising unnecessary damage.
Will the Lock Need to Be Replaced?
Not necessarily, in many cases, a locksmith may be able to extract the broken key and check whether the existing lock continues to operate correctly. However, replacement may be recommended if the lock itself caused the key to break, the mechanism is damaged, or the lock is worn and unreliable. It’s also worth considering the condition of your spare key. If your keys are heavily worn or bent, having new ones cut could help prevent the same problem from happening again.
What If My Key Keeps Getting Stuck?
A key that’s regularly difficult to insert, remove or turn shouldn’t be ignored. It could indicate a problem with the key, lock cylinder, door alignment or another part of the locking mechanism. Continuing to force the key could eventually result in it becoming stuck or snapping. Getting the lock checked sooner could save you from an inconvenient lockout later.
When Should You Call a Locksmith?
If you can’t easily remove the broken key without forcing it, it’s sensible to contact a professional locksmith. A locksmith will have specialist tools designed to extract broken keys and can inspect the lock afterwards to identify why the key snapped.
Professional help is particularly worthwhile when:
- The broken key is completely inside the lock
- You’re locked outside your property
- The lock was already difficult to operate
- The door won’t lock securely
- You’ve already attempted to remove the key without success
- You suspect the lock itself is damaged
Need Help With a Key Snapped in the Lock?
If you’ve got a key snapped in the lock, avoid forcing the mechanism or trying potentially damaging DIY methods.
Complete Locksmith Services can assess the problem, remove broken keys where possible and determine whether your existing lock can be repaired or needs replacing.
Whether you’re dealing with a broken key, a faulty lock or you’re unable to access your property, getting professional assistance can help resolve the problem without causing unnecessary damage to your door or locking system.
