Few situations are more frustrating than hearing the snap of a key breaking inside its lock, whether at home, work, or with your vehicle. Knowing how to respond promptly is essential, especially if you are locked out of your home or car.
This article by KBO Lock & Safe outlines what to do if your key snaps in the lock, provides guidance on how to prevent this issue in the future, and explains why KBO is a trusted choice for professional locksmith services.
Key Takeaways
- If your key snaps in the lock, it is highly recommended that you seek professional locksmith services, such as KBO Lock & Safe. However, there are some DIY techniques you can try, such as pulling with tweezers, using a broken key extractor, and lifting with a magnet.
- To prevent your keys from snapping in the future, avoid excessive force, keep locks clean and lubricated, check keys regularly for wear, avoid using keys for non-lock tasks, use the correct key for each lock, perform regular lock maintenance, and consider upgrading to high-security cylinders.
- KBO Lock & Safe is a trusted professional locksmith serving Aldershot and the surrounding areas, offering fast, expert assistance, including extracting broken keys, replacing keys, and carrying out lock repairs and replacements.
What Should You Do if Your Key Snaps in the Lock?
When your key snaps in the lock, it can be easy to panic or act rashly. However, fiddling with a broken piece can make the situation worse and harder to fix. Below, we outline the best steps to take to prevent further damage and ensure a quick resolution.
Contact a Professional Locksmith
The safest solution for a key snapping in the lock is to call a qualified locksmith, such as KBO, as soon as the key breaks. Professionals possess the expertise and specialised tools to effectively extract the broken piece, cut a replacement key if needed, and determine whether the lock needs repair or replacement.
KBO Lock & Safe is a team of professional locksmiths in Aldershot, offering prompt and expert services, including assistance with broken keys. Here are a few reasons why we are such a trusted choice:
- We offer a comprehensive range of services, including lock repairs and replacements, car key replacement, smart security solutions, safe supply and installation, and master key systems.
- As a 24/7 emergency locksmith in Aldershot, we provide fast and skilled assistance whenever you need us. We can repair or replace locks on the spot, and because we carry a large variety of locks, cylinders, and mechanisms, we can fix the majority of issues in just one visit.
- We use non-destructive methods when possible, avoiding damage to your locks or doors.
- KBO holds numerous accreditations and is a member of the Master Locksmith Association (MLA). This means you can trust that we meet the top standards of skill, integrity, and professionalism.
- Our prices are competitive, transparent and fair, with no hidden fees.
“A broken key can be stressful, especially if you’re locked out or in a hurry. At KBO, we respond quickly and handle every situation with care, safely removing the key and providing a replacement if needed, so our customers can get back to their day,” says Stefan Berry, Director.
Serving Aldershot and the surrounding areas, KBO Lock & Safe guarantees a fast and professional response.
How to Try Removing a Broken Key Yourself
We highly recommend hiring a professional locksmith, but if you are confident in your DIY skills, below are a few ways you may be able to extract a broken key. Bear in mind that even if you use these methods, you may still need a locksmith to replace the key.
| Method | Tools Needed | How To Do It | Risk Level | Caution / Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pull With Pliers or Tweezers | Needle‑nose pliers or fine tweezers | If a portion of the key is sticking out, grip it with pliers or tweezers, then pull straight out along the keyway. | Low | Pull slowly, straight, and do not twist. Stop immediately if it feels tight or the fragment cracks. |
| Use a Broken‑Key Extractor | Broken‑key extractor | Insert the extractor beside the fragment, hook it, then pull out in a straight line. | Medium | The tool is thin and can snap if forced. Read the manufacturer’s instructions and stop if it resists. |
| Lubricate, Then Extract | Lock lubricant or graphite powder + pliers/extractor | Spray a small amount into the lock, wait several seconds, then attempt extraction with pliers or an extractor. | Low–Medium | Use lock lubricant or graphite; do not use household oils. Lubricant helps, but don’t overapply. |
| Magnet Lift (If the Key Is Magnetic) | Strong magnet on a thin cord or magnetic pickup | Lower the magnet into the lock and pull slowly; the metal fragment may cling to the magnet. | Low–Medium | Only works for magnetic fragments that are not jammed. Do not leave the cord inside the lock. |
| Glue On a Toothpick (Last Resort) | Wooden toothpick or match + a very small drop of superglue | Put a microscopic dot of glue on the toothpick tip, touch it to the fragment, wait to bond, then pull straight out. | High | Very risky, as excess glue can ruin the lock. Only attempt if the fragment is right at the mouth of the lock and you accept the risk. |
How Can You Prevent Keys From Snapping?
Being aware of simple precautions can help prevent a key from snapping in the lock, avoiding future lock issues. Here are some practical tips to reduce wear and tear and extend the longevity of your locks and keys:
- Avoid Excessive Force: Never force a key into a lock if it feels stuck. Doing so can bend or weaken the key, damaging the lock.
- Keep Locks Clean and Lubricated: Dust and dirt can create resistance. Regularly clean locks and use graphite powder or lock lubricant to keep the mechanism smooth.
- Check for Worn Keys: Inspect your keys often. Bent, cracked, or worn keys should be replaced before they snap.
- Avoid Using Keys for Non-Lock Tasks: Keys shouldn’t be used as screwdrivers, bottle openers, or other tools, as this can weaken them.
- Use the Right Key: Ensure you’re using the correct key for the lock. Forcing a wrong key can damage both the key and the lock mechanism.
- Regular Lock Maintenance: Periodic inspections by a professional locksmith can catch internal issues like corrosion or misalignment before they lead to broken keys.
- Consider High-Security Cylinders: Upgrading to high-quality locks and cylinders reduces the chance of key breakage and improves overall security. KBO offers professional cylinder upgrades that are anti-snap, anti-pick, and anti-bump for total peace of mind.
FAQs
What are the main causes of keys snapping in locks?
Keys can snap due to general wear and tear, bending, or forcing them into a stuck or stiff lock. Corrosion inside the lock, using the wrong key, or very cold conditions are other common causes.
Will I always need to replace the lock after a key breaks?
Not always. In many cases, the broken key can be safely removed and the lock repaired. Replacement is only needed if the lock is worn, damaged, or somehow compromised.
Does KBO offer emergency locksmith services if my key snaps outside of business hours?
Yes. KBO Lock & Safe provides 24/7 emergency call-outs, so a qualified technician can assist you promptly, whatever the time of day or night.
Can KBO replace broken car keys as well as house keys?
Absolutely. KBO handles car key replacement and programming, alongside all types of residential and commercial locks, ensuring holistic, dependable support.
If a key snaps in your lock, don’t panic. Contact us now at KBO Lock & Safe for prompt, expert help to safely resolve the problem.
