How to Remove a Broken Key from a Lock  

A broken key in a lock can be considered as an emergency and can cause feelings of dread and helplessness. But in most cases, your first instinct will be to forcefully open the door.

Please do not proceed!

You could end up damaging both the lock and the door. All you need to do in such a situation is to be calm and consider available options. If you’re a bit technically savvy, you can remove the broken key by following the tips in this article.

However, if you’re in a hurry and don’t have the time fumbling with tools, then call expert locksmiths from Columbus Locksmith Pro for help. We will send a locksmith in Columbus OH to your location within the shortest time possible.

For those that prefer the DIY option, you should consider using any tool you can lay your hands on. We have suggested tried, tested, and possibly fastest methods of removing broken keys in this article. Do yourself the favor of reading through.

However, before considering the key removal methods, do not insert the rest of the key in a bid to remove the broken part. Reinserting the key will push the broken part of the key further into the lock.

One or two of these tools are needed to get your key out of the lock.

• Paper clip
• Safety pin
• Bobby pin
• Screwdriver (optional)
• Needle-nosed pliers
• First aid kit
• Swiss army knife
• Metal hair clip
• Button pin and
• Broken Key Extractor

Unfortunately, most times, these mentioned tools are inside while you are locked out because of the broken key. Unless you foresee such an emergency and drop those tools inside your car. If the latter is not the case, then use our first recommended method for removing a broken key stuck in a lock.

The Needle Nose Plier Method
This is one of the preferred methods for removing a broken key. Nevertheless, you need to return the cylinder to its normal position before proceeding.
However, this method is recommended when a reasonable part of the key is sticking out. Then look for a pair of needle-nose pliers and grab it gradually. The downside of this method is that you may push the key in further. So, you just have to be very careful.

The Small Jigsaw Blade or Paper Clip method
If you’ve got a paper clip, then this method can be fast and effective. You need to check if there’s space in the lock cylinder to get them in. The method follows almost the same process as the needle nose plier method. You can also check out for any other rounded smaller object to use for the removal of the broken key.

Glue Gun Stick Method
Contrary to popular opinion, you don’t need hot glue to get out your broken key because you could end up having a broken key and glue stuck in your lock. All you need is to get a rounded stick and buy super glue from the nearby store. Then, apply a small drop of the super glue to the end of your tool and carefully insert inside the lock. Wait for fifteen to twenty seconds and get out the broken part of the key.

All the methods suggested in this article will help you save some cash and solve the problem yourself. However, do not be give up if you can’t get the broken key out of the lock on your first try. Be optimistic and try again. If none of the methods works for you, then call expert locksmiths from Columbus Locksmith Pro for help.