6 Simple Ways How to Remove a Broken Key from Inside the Lock

• Use Tweezers or Needle-Nose Pliers 
• Hairpin or Paperclip Trick 
• Lubricate the Lock 
• Glue It Together, Pull It Out 
• Use the Key Extractor Tool 
• Call a Locksmith 

Nothing is more irritating than breaking a key off inside a lock. It can be heartbreaking to find yourself locked out of your house, car, or office in NYC. But don’t worry! With patience and the right equipment, you may be able to remove the damaged key yourself. Here are six basic techniques you may try: 

Use Tweezers or Needle-Nose Pliers 

If the broken key sticks far enough, tweezers or needle-nose pliers can be useful. This process requires a steady hand and patience. Here’s how: 

1. Use a flashlight to better look at the damaged key. Check if you can reach the broken piece with your selected tool. 
2. Clean the tweezers or pliers to prevent debris from entering inside the lock. 
3. Insert the points of the tweezers or pliers into the keyhole. 
4. Using a firm, soft grip, attempt to grasp the broken piece. 
5. Slowly and steadily remove the key from the lock. Avoid jerking or tugging too forcefully, since this may destroy the lock. 

If you can’t see the broken key clearly or it’s too deep, don’t try to force it. You risk pushing the key farther into the lock or destroying it. It’s best to try another way or contact an emergency locksmith in NYC. 

Hairpin or Paperclip Trick 

Also Read: Can an Automotive Locksmith Remove a Broken Key from Ignition in an Emergency Lockout Situation? 

Who would have imagined a hairpin or paperclip to be your lockpicking savior? While not as exact as a professional lockpick, these tools can perform wonders. 

Here’s how: 

1. Straighten the hairpin or paperclip. Bend one end to create a little hook form. 
2. Carefully put the hooked end of a hairpin or paperclip into the keyhole. 
3. Try to connect the broken key fragment with the bent end of your tool. 
4. Once you’ve connected the key, gently remove it. 

This procedure demands patience and skills. It may need multiple attempts, and there is a danger of destroying the lock. 

Lubricate the Lock 

A small amount of lubricant, such as WD-40, can easily remove a broken key in a tough lock.  

How to do it: 

1. Spray WD-40 or other similar lubricant into the keyhole. Be sure to cover the whole area surrounding the broken key. 
2. Let the lubricant enter the lock for a few minutes. It can help loosen the broken key. 
3. Retrieve the damaged key with tweezers or needle-nose pliers, as directed before. The lubricant should make the process go more smoothly. 

Avoid over-lubricating the lock, as extra oil will collect dirt and grime and create future issues. 

Glue It Together, Pull It Out 

This process needs time and precision, but it is successful. You will need super glue or epoxy and a small, durable item like a paper clip. 

Here’s how: 

1. Clean the broken key and the object you plan to connect to it. 
2. Apply a small quantity of super glue or epoxy to the end of a paperclip. 
3. Place the glued end into the broken key to ensure a strong connection. 
4. Allow the glue to dry following the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s important for successful extraction. 
5. Once the glue has dried, use the paperclip or item to remove the broken key from the lock. 

Be cautious when using super glue or epoxy, since they can be messy and difficult to remove.  

Use the Key Extractor Tool 

If you’ve tried all the DIY ways and still can’t get that broken key out, it’s time to use a key extraction tool. A key extractor is a small tool equipped with hooks and grabbers intended to collect and remove broken key pieces. 

How to use a key extractor: 

1. Choose the hook or grabber that best fits the shape of the broken key. 
2. Insert the extractor into the keyhole and aim for the key fragment. 
3. Insert the key into the hook or grabber and gently draw it out. Be patient and don’t force the instrument. 

Remember that even with a key extractor, you risk destroying the lock. If you’re having trouble, it’s always a good idea to contact a locksmith in NYC. 

Call a Locksmith 

If you’ve tried all your DIY options and the broken key remains stuck in the lock, it’s time to call the experts. A locksmith has the necessary equipment and skills to manage even the most complex lockout situations. Locksmiths are trained and experienced in removing damaged keys without damaging the lock. Knowing that a professional is managing the matter can reduce stress and avoid further damage.

While DIY strategies may be useful, attempting to remove a damaged key without the necessary equipment or skills can result in frustration and lock damage. In many cases, the time and effort put into DIY solutions can outweigh the cost of hiring a locksmith. 

Stuck with a Broken Key? 

Don’t let a broken key flip your life upside down! When irritation sets in and DIY tactics fail, The NYC Locksmith comes to your rescue. Our emergency locksmith in NYC is available 24/7 to solve any lock and key problems quickly and reliably. With the latest equipment and unparalleled knowledge, we’ll have you back in control in no time. Stop worrying and contact The NYC Locksmith now for all your locksmith needs.