How to Remove a Broken Key from a Lock
First things first, when part of your key is stuck in your lock, it’s important not to panic. There are several ways to remove the broken key without having to call a locksmith. Dependent on the type of lock you are dealing with, how far the key is lodged and how much time you have, will determine the right method for you to take.
Remember, there are many different locks out there and each is slightly different so you may have to try a variety of methods to find out what works best for you.
To lend a helping hand, we have added a selection of different home methods for you to give a go!
Things you will need
WD-40® Smart Straw
Needle nose pliers
Clean rag
Paper towels
Ice
Step 1
Pinch the broken key out
First step is to check the alignment. The key can only be removed from the lock when the jagged or cut side is aligned with the top of the cylinder. So, in this case, try turning it 180 degrees. On some occasions, the broken key won’t come out because the bottom pins don’t align properly, and this occurs if the retaining cap is loose. Try and make sure the key is in the same position it was in when you inserted it. Next, with your fingers, try pushing on the face of the plug, and attempt to pinch the key out. Tip: You can use the tips of your fingers on the other hand to push in on the plug while you try to pull the key out.
If this doesn’t work, grab a pair of needle nose pliers. Try to grab the broken key with the pliers and get a good hold to pull it out the rest of the way. You may have to attempt another method to get to this point if there is not enough of the broken key to grab hold of. If you don’t have needle nose pilers to hand, alternatives include a pair of sharp scissors or even tweezers (but with caution!). You don’t want to push the broken half into the keyway further.
Step 2
Lubricate the lock
If the alignment adjusting didn’t work, it might not be a loose plug causing the problem. In most cases, new keys and poor copies are often responsible for hanging up on tumbler pins.
Next step is to try and ease the extraction. To do this, go to your trusty blue and red can of WD-40® Smart Straw and lubricate accordingly. Thanks to the smart nozzle you can simply spray directly into the keyhole and other tight spaces to help the key slide out more easily. Keep a clean rag to hand to catch any spills. Now, attempt to wiggle the broken key up and down (not side to side) to work it out of the lock. If this is successful and once it’s out, spray the lock again and work your key in and out to distribute the lubricant.
Step 3
Ice is key!
If your key refuses to wiggle free, did you know you can use ice as another method to remove your key? This is another quick and inexpensive solution. The cold temperature of the ice makes the metal contract, so applying it to your key should cause it to shrink and allow it to slide more easily from the lock.
We recommend doing this by simply wrapping a piece of ice in a paper towel to prevent drips and press it to the head of the key. Hold it down and wait for a few minutes, then attempt to remove the broken key again by jiggling it slightly, if necessary. It’s important to bear in mind that this method is less effective in colder weather.
Step 4
Clean the lock
If the above methods have worked, it’s important to remember to clean your lock regularly. Locks are full of dirt or debris that has accumulated over time and if not cleaned, can prevent it from working properly. That said, it’s simple to remedy! WD-40® can also act as your cleaning tool in this case, as well as lubricate a broken key. Apply the fast-acting formula to the key and keyhole and re-insert the key a few times to work it down into the lock. Remember, keep a clean rang handy to collect any drips.
If none of the above steps worked, you may have a different problem that needs resolving. It’s important that you don’t make the problem worse and the best option, at this stage, would be to call on the professionals for assistance and avoid damaging the lock yourself.
Key Gone!
You should now be well-equipped to remove any broken key from any lock! And remember, if you are struggling then it is always best to call a professional for help rather than break the lock itself. For more useful tips and how-to’s check out our blog! We have everything from How to Fix a Doorbell to Waterproofing Shoes, so get reading and learn how WD-40 can make your everyday tasks that much easier.
The uses shown and described for WD-40 Multi-Use Product were provided to WD-40 Company by the users themselves. These uses haven’t been tested by WD-40 Company and do not constitute a recommendation of suggestion for use by WD-40 Company. Common sense should be exercised whenever using WD-40 Company products. Always follow the instructions and take heed of any warnings printed on the packaging.
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