Key Snapped in the Lock or Ignition? Do This, Not That

A broken key can cause a lot of trouble for a driver, especially if one of its parts is jammed in the lock or ignition. Luckily, most broken key scenarios can be solved rather quickly, and it starts with calming down and avoiding mistakes.

Do Not Force the Broken Key

Once the key breaks, do not use it, do not turn it, and certainly do not try to push it into the lock because using force may cause greater damage and may make it difficult for a professional to remove the broken key.

Why Do Keys Break

There is rarely no reason for the key to break suddenly. It wears with time and gets bent or broken. If a driver experienced problems while using the key, then it might have been about to break.

If One of Its Parts Remains Accessible

If the broken piece of the key protrudes, it can be extracted by simply pulling it out. But once a driver finds out that it doesn't work, he should stop pulling it to avoid damaging the lock.

What To Do When There is No Access to It

When the whole key broke and is now inside the lock or ignition, then the best way to solve the problem is to contact a locksmith. Professionals will know how to extract it using extraction tools, which will allow getting rid of it safely.

More Attention Should Be Paid to Ignition Keys

In case the key broke inside the ignition cylinder, then additional precautions are needed. As opposed to ordinary door locks, ignition cylinders are much more vulnerable and cost much to repair. Hence, one must avoid breaking them further.

Make Sure to Get a Spare Key After

A broken key is the signal that it's worn out. In this case, it's better to order the spare key, because it's better to have one and don't need it than need it and not have one.

Ways to Avoid a Broken Key Problem

To ensure that the key won't break, a driver should follow some simple rules:

• Replace old and worn-out keys.
• Never try to force a key to move if it doesn't want to.
• Repair locks and ignition cylinders that seem to be stiff.
• Try not to carry a heavy keychain as it puts strain on the key.

Broken keys are relatively easy to fix

A driver shouldn't force it, shove it any deeper and shouldn't experiment with the extraction process. In this case, a locksmith will be able to easily extract the key and replace it.

Need Help With a Broken Key?

Our mobile service provides quick extraction of the broken key in Seattle and neighboring cities and helps drivers get on the road as soon as possible.