A key that snaps in a lock is stressful, but usually recoverable. What you do in the first minute makes the difference between a quick extraction and a damaged lock.
What to do right away
- Stop. Do not push the piece in further.
- Look. Is part of the key sticking out?
- If you can grip it, use needle-nose pliers to pull straight out, gently.
- If it’s flush or deep, leave it and call for help.
What not to do
- Do not use glue or superglue to fix a key.
- Do not insert another key or a tool to push the piece.
- Do not spray heavy oil or WD-40 into the lock.
- Do not hammer or force the cylinder.
Why keys break
Cold weather, wear, a bent key, a sticky lock or force. Keys are usually brass, which fatigues over time. A key that already shows bending or cracking will fail.
What a locksmith does
We use thin extractors to grip the piece and pull it straight out. We check the cylinder afterwards and, if it is damaged, replace it. If a working key is left, we test the lock with it; if not, we rekey or replace the cylinder.
Padlocks, mailboxes and cabinets
A key broken in a padlock, mailbox or cabinet lock is a similar job, with extra care, because the parts are small. See our broken key extraction page.
Prevent it
Replace a worn key with a fresh copy. Lubricate stiff locks with a dry lubricant. Never use a key to pry or turn a stuck lock hard.
Need it fixed today?
We handle broken keys around Brampton, Vaughan, Caledon, Etobicoke and Halton Hills. Keep the broken piece and tell us where it broke.
Questions about a lock or key problem? Apna Locksmith is a Brampton-based mobile locksmith serving Brampton, Vaughan, Caledon, Etobicoke and Halton Hills. Call (289) 406-1500 or see our service areas.