Simple Ways to Get a Broken Key Out of a Lock
Jul 01, 2021
Simple Ways to Get a Broken Key Out of a Lock
You are bound to be disappointed when you try gaining entry into your house, office, or car and the key breaks inside the lock. But you shouldn't feel restless or pissed for long because these things happen. And it could happen to anyone. As you think of the next line of action, don't make the mistake of trying to insert the rest of the key into the lock to open the door. This will worsen the situation as the broken portion will move further into the keyway.
The right thing to do is to employ the service of a professional in removing the broken key or you can choose to do it yourself. If you opt for the latter then you can use some simple techniques to make the removal.
However, the steps you would use depends on the location you are, the kind of door to be opened, how deep the key is, and the tools at your disposal. Before starting anything, apply lubricant to the keyway so the operation will be easier. One tool that is compulsory for you to have at hand is a pair of nose pliers. The pliers will help to get the broken key out much quicker.
Here are some of the Effective methods
Use of Tweezers
Tweezers that are pincer-like or tong-like in shape can be inserted into the keyway to remove the broken key from the lock. This technique works best when a part of the key is protruding out of the keyway. When using tweezers, ensure you select the one with the right thickness, which can fit around the key well. Failure to adhere to these precautions means that you might end up pushing the key deeper. And you wouldn't want that to happen, right?
Probe and Pull Technique
Though this technique takes time, it is effective. It requires the use of two thin pieces of metal to probe the keyway and pull out the key. The first step is to line up a metal piece on both sides of the key then apply pressure to it before pulling the key towards you. This will cause the key to come out a bit.
You will have to repeat the same process so that the key comes out bit by bit till it's finally removed from the lock.
Use a Broken Key Extractor
This method is popular among professionals. An extractor is a tool that is placed inside the keyway along the bitting of the key. It is composed of a hook that is attached to the teeth of the key. After this happens, turn the extractor and start pulling the key out. It is most likely the key doesn't come out at the first try but with time, it is bound to be removed.
Super Glue
This method is very effective when the key is still accessible. Apply the right amount of glue -it shouldn't be too much or too little- to a wire. Then hold the wire against the edge of the broken key and wait for a while so that it binds together. Once this happens, apply pressure on the wire and pull it away from the lock. The key should come out with it. In case you don't have access to a wire, you can always use a match stick. Contact Fast Austin Locksmith in Round Rock to get professional advice on what to do during such emergencies.
Simple Ways to Get a Broken Key Out of a Lock
You are bound to be disappointed when you try gaining entry into your house, office, or car and the key breaks inside the lock. But you shouldn't feel restless or pissed for long because these things happen. And it could happen to anyone. As you think of the next line of action, don't make the mistake of trying to insert the rest of the key into the lock to open the door. This will worsen the situation as the broken portion will move further into the keyway.
Jul 01, 2021
The right thing to do is to employ the service of a professional in removing the broken key or you can choose to do it yourself. If you opt for the latter then you can use some simple techniques to make the removal.
However, the steps you would use depends on the location you are, the kind of door to be opened, how deep the key is, and the tools at your disposal. Before starting anything, apply lubricant to the keyway so the operation will be easier. One tool that is compulsory for you to have at hand is a pair of nose pliers. The pliers will help to get the broken key out much quicker.
Here are some of the Effective methods
Use of Tweezers
Tweezers that are pincer-like or tong-like in shape can be inserted into the keyway to remove the broken key from the lock. This technique works best when a part of the key is protruding out of the keyway. When using tweezers, ensure you select the one with the right thickness, which can fit around the key well. Failure to adhere to these precautions means that you might end up pushing the key deeper. And you wouldn't want that to happen, right?
Probe and Pull Technique
Though this technique takes time, it is effective. It requires the use of two thin pieces of metal to probe the keyway and pull out the key. The first step is to line up a metal piece on both sides of the key then apply pressure to it before pulling the key towards you. This will cause the key to come out a bit.
You will have to repeat the same process so that the key comes out bit by bit till it's finally removed from the lock.
Use a Broken Key Extractor
This method is popular among professionals. An extractor is a tool that is placed inside the keyway along the bitting of the key. It is composed of a hook that is attached to the teeth of the key. After this happens, turn the extractor and start pulling the key out. It is most likely the key doesn't come out at the first try but with time, it is bound to be removed.
Super Glue
This method is very effective when the key is still accessible. Apply the right amount of glue -it shouldn't be too much or too little- to a wire. Then hold the wire against the edge of the broken key and wait for a while so that it binds together. Once this happens, apply pressure on the wire and pull it away from the lock. The key should come out with it. In case you don't have access to a wire, you can always use a match stick. Contact Fast Austin Locksmith in Round Rock to get professional advice on what to do during such emergencies.
