Do not use a paperclip and glue on a snapped key
When a key breaks inside a lock, the first steps are to avoid glue, stop turning the key, and not push a screw into the lock. Keys usually snap because old has become weak, the is getting stuck from dirt or worn pins, or someone forces a stiff lock with too much pressure. The break usually happens at the thin neck where the key blade meets the part you hold.
If part of the broken key is still sticking out, grip it with fine needle-nose pliers or wire cutters and pull straight out without twisting. If the broken piece is level with the opening or deeper inside the , it is harder to remove. A broken key extractor, a thin hooked tool that costs about £6 online, can slowly pull the piece back out.
A tiny a of or ite powder in the keyway can reduce so the broken piece slides instead of catching. A or matchstick with superglue can glue the pins inside the lock and damage it.
Key points
- Do not use glue, keep turning the key, or push a screw into the lock.
- If the broken piece sticks out, pull it straight out with fine pliers or wire cutters.
- If the piece is inside the , use a broken key extractor and work slowly.
- Use only a tiny a of or ite powder to reduce .
- A with superglue can glue the lock pins and damage the lock.