A key breaking off inside a lock is one of those problems that feels a lot bigger in the moment than it usually turns out to be. The piece is stuck somewhere you can't easily see, the lock won't accept another key while it's in there, and pulling at it with pliers or a paperclip usually just pushes it in further. Can-Lock Security extracts broken keys cleanly, on residential doors, commercial hardware, and vehicles alike.
Why Keys Break in the First Place
- Metal fatigue from years of regular use, especially on an older key that's never been replaced
- A key that was already slightly bent being forced into the lock
- Turning a key with too much force in a lock that's stiff or poorly lubricated
- A cheaply cut duplicate key that was thinner or weaker than the original
- Cold weather making metal more brittle, particularly with older keys
What Not to Do
Resist the urge to dig at a broken key with tweezers, a paperclip, or anything else improvised. These attempts often push the broken piece deeper into the cylinder or damage the internal pins, turning a straightforward extraction into a more involved repair. If part of the key is still visible and grippable, it's worth a very light, careful attempt — but if it's flush with the lock face or won't budge, stop and call a professional.
How Professional Extraction Actually Works
We use specialized extraction tools designed specifically to reach into a lock cylinder and draw out a broken key fragment without damaging the surrounding pins or mechanism. In the large majority of cases, this is a quick, on-site fix that takes considerably less time than people expect.
After the Key Is Out
Once the fragment is removed, we test the lock to confirm it's still functioning properly — sometimes a break inside the cylinder can leave minor damage that needs addressing. If the original key was simply worn out, this is also a natural moment to have a fresh key cut, or to rekey the lock entirely if you'd like a clean set of new keys.
This Happens With Car Keys Too
Broken key extraction isn't limited to house and business doors — it's just as common in a car door lock or ignition. The same careful, non-destructive approach applies, and if the broken key was your only one, we can typically cut and program a replacement on site for most vehicle makes and models.
Why Choose Can-Lock Security for Broken Key Extraction
Can-Lock Security is a mobile, family-owned locksmith equipped to extract broken keys from residential, commercial, and automotive locks without unnecessary damage. We come to you rather than requiring the door, vehicle, or hardware to be moved anywhere.
Book Your Broken Key Extraction
Whether it's a house, a business, or a vehicle, Can-Lock Security can get the broken piece out and your lock working again. Reach out to schedule.
Related pages: Broken Locks | Lost Car Key | Key Duplication | Emergency Lockout Service
