Summary
Your key has broken off inside the lock cylinder and you are stuck outside with no way to access your room? Here are some tips that will allow you to easily remove the piece of key stuck in your lock.
Key Stuck In Lock ? Try This Easy Solution!
How to remove a piece of key stuck in the lock?
You can remove a broken key from a lock using some tools you already have at home. If the key is not too far inside the lock, tweezers or a small pair of needle nose pliers will remove it. If it’s further in, you can use a small jigsaw blade or paper clip to remove it.
You can also use a glue gun stick to seal the key and remove it. If this technique doesn’t work, there are still some more complex options, such as disassembling the lock to remove a broken key.
How do I disassemble the lock?
The back of the lock cylinder has holes that you can drill to push the key through. To access the lock cylinder, remove the lock from the door. Look at the part where you normally slide the key (the cylinder) in from the back. Do you see a hole? In many cases, you can simply insert a paper clip or other small rod into the back of this cylinder. You need to insert it through this hole to get the broken key out.
Sometimes you have to remove the C-clip (or nut) on the back of the lock to access the access hole. This will not work for Kwikset locks and some other brands, as their backs do not have holes through which you can access the inside of the cylinder to get the key out.
Note, however, that disassembling a lock can seem difficult if you don’t have the knack. At the same time, it can also be quick and easy to do. All you have to do is follow the procedure described above.
Can a locksmith be called in when a key is stuck in the lock?
In the event that the above tips don’t work, you can contact a locksmith. Calling a professional locksmith does require some expense. However, it will save you money because the locksmith can easily remove the stuck items without damaging the lock itself. Also, he can more easily get you a new key or even replace the whole thing.
At any time, you may find yourself in a situation where your key will be stuck in the lock of your door. The common causes of this problem are usually the rough condition of the key or the aging of the locks. To remove the piece of key stuck in your lock, the easiest solution is to call a professional locksmith. If you don’t want to call in a professional, you can still replace your lock with a new one from a local vendor.