When a key breaks off inside a lock, it can be a frustrating experience. However, there are several methods you can try to remove the broken key without calling a locksmith. Here are four tips to help you extract the broken key from the lock:
1. Use Tweezers or Needle-Nose Pliers
- What You Need: Fine-tipped tweezers or needle-nose pliers.
- How to Do It:
- Step 1: If part of the key is sticking out of the lock, use the tweezers or pliers to gently grasp the visible part of the key.
- Step 2: Be careful not to push the key further into the lock. Firmly but gently, pull the key straight out.
- Tip: If the key is barely visible, you may need to carefully work the tweezers or pliers into the lock to grab it. Patience is key here—move slowly to avoid damaging the lock.
2. Use a Broken Key Extractor Tool
- What You Need: A broken key extractor tool, available at most hardware stores.
- How to Do It:
- Step 1: Insert the extractor tool into the lock along the side of the broken key. The tool is designed with tiny hooks that catch on the key’s cuts (the ridged part).
- Step 2: Once the tool is inserted, gently twist and pull the tool back towards you, bringing the broken key with it.
- Tip: These tools are specifically designed for this purpose and can be very effective, but require a bit of finesse to use correctly.
3. Use a Strong Magnet
- What You Need: A powerful magnet, like a neodymium magnet.
- How to Do It:
- Step 1: Hold the magnet near the lock to attract the metal key. The magnetic force may be enough to pull the broken key out of the lock, especially if the key is close to the lock’s surface.
- Step 2: Slowly move the magnet away from the lock, bringing the key out with it.
- Tip: This method works best if the key is made of a metal that is attracted to magnets (e.g., iron or steel).
4. Use Super Glue
- What You Need: Super glue and a small metal object like a nail or a thin wire.
- How to Do It:
- Step 1: Carefully apply a small amount of super glue to the end of the nail or wire.
- Step 2: Gently insert the glued end into the lock so that it touches the broken key. Hold it in place for a few seconds until the glue sets.
- Step 3: Once the glue has bonded with the key, gently pull the nail or wire to extract the key.
- Tip: Be cautious not to get glue on the lock itself, as this could cause further issues.
Additional Tips:
- Lubricate the Lock: Before trying any method, spray a small amount of graphite or WD-40 into the lock to lubricate it. This can make it easier to extract the key.
- Turn the Lock to a Neutral Position: If possible, try to turn the lock back to its original, neutral position. This can make it easier to remove the broken key.
- Avoid Pushing the Key Further: When attempting to remove the key, be careful not to push it further into the lock, as this will make removal more difficult.
