What to Do If Your Key Breaks in the Lock

Key Broken in Your Lock? Here’s What You Need to Do Next!

It’s happened to all of us: you’re trying to unlock your door, and suddenly, your key snaps in the lock. Don’t panic—this situation can be resolved quickly and easily. Read on to discover the best steps to take when your key breaks in the lock and how Pro On The Go Locksmith can help.

Need help now? Call us for immediate assistance at 813-534-2911

Introduction

Picture this: you’ve had a long day, you’re finally home, and you’re looking forward to a relaxing evening. But when you insert your key into the lock, it breaks off inside. Frustration sets in—what now? It’s easy to feel stuck when this happens, but there’s no need to worry. In this post, we’ll walk you through what to do if your key breaks in the lock and why it’s important to seek professional help.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first thing to do when your key breaks in the lock is to stay calm. Panicking won’t help! Take a deep breath, assess the situation, and check how much of the key is left in the lock. If the key is fully inside, you may need additional tools or professional help.

Tip: If only a small piece of the key is visible, you may be able to remove it on your own with the right tools.

Step 2: Try to Extract the Broken Key

If you feel comfortable doing so, you can attempt to remove the key yourself. Here are some methods you can try:

Tweezers: Use a pair of tweezers or needle-nose pliers to grab onto the visible part of the key and pull it out gently.

Lubrication: Apply a small amount of lubricant (like WD-40) around the keyhole to loosen the key and make it easier to remove.

Magnet: If the key is metal, you can try using a magnet to pull out the broken key.

Note: If the key is stuck deep inside the lock, these methods may not work. Proceed with caution to avoid damaging the lock.

Step 3: Call a Professional Locksmith

If you can’t get the key out yourself or the lock feels damaged, it’s time to call a professional locksmith. Locksmiths have the tools and expertise to safely extract broken keys without damaging the lock. They can also check the lock to make sure it’s still functioning properly after the key is removed.

Tip: Don’t try to force the key out or use excessive pressure, as this can cause further damage to the lock.

Step 4: Consider Rekeying or Replacing the Lock

Once the key is removed, it’s important to assess the condition of the lock. In some cases, it may be necessary to rekey or replace the lock entirely, especially if it was damaged during the extraction process. Rekeying is a cost-effective solution if you’re concerned about the security of your home.

Tip: If the lock is old or malfunctioning, replacing it might be the best option for enhanced security.

If you’re dealing with a broken key in the lock, don’t risk damaging your lock. Call Pro On The Go Locksmith for professional assistance. Our experienced locksmiths can safely extract your broken key and restore your lock’s functionality. Call us now at 813-534-2911.

FAQs

Q1: Can I fix a broken key in the lock myself?

If the key is easily visible, you can try using tweezers, a magnet, or lubrication to extract it. However, if the key is deep inside or the lock is damaged, it’s best to call a professional locksmith.

Q2: What happens if I force the key out of the lock?

Forcing the key out can cause further damage to the lock mechanism, making it more expensive to repair. It’s better to call a locksmith to avoid additional issues.

Q3: How much does it cost to extract a broken key?

The cost of key extraction depends on the lock type and how complex the job is. Contact us for an estimate based on your situation.

Q4: Can a locksmith fix a broken lock after key extraction?

Yes, locksmiths can assess the lock’s condition after the key is extracted. They can rekey or replace the lock if necessary.

Local Service Area

Serving homeowners and businesses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re dealing with a broken key or need a complete lock repair, Pro On The Go Locksmith is here to help.

Don’t let a broken key ruin your day. Call Pro On The Go Locksmith at 813-534-2911 for fast, reliable key extraction and lock services. We’ll have your lock working like new in no time!