Turning your key in a lock and hearing the dreaded snap is one of the most frustrating experiences. A snapped key stuck in a lock not only leaves you locked out but can also damage the lock further if you try to force it. Luckily, there are several ways to remove a snapped key—some you can do yourself with basic tools, and others may require professional help.
“The quickest solution is to use a pair of needle-nose pliers or a broken key extractor tool. If part of the key is visible, grip it and gently pull it out. If it is stuck deeper inside, you can use a paperclip, a thin piece of metal, or even hot glue to pull the key fragment out. In stubborn cases—such as a UPVC or car ignition lock—calling a lockout locksmith is the safest choice.”
Now, let’s walk through the various methods to extract a snapped key from a lock, be it a house door, car ignition, or even a locker.
Step-by-Step Methods: How to Remove a Snapped key from a Lock
1. Use Pliers (Best for Visible Keys)
If part of the key is sticking out of the lock, you’re in luck.
- Grab a pair of needle-nose pliers.
- Gently grip the broken key fragment.
- Pull slowly—avoid twisting, as it can push the key deeper.
This method works well on uPVC door locks, wooden door locks, and deadbolts.
2. Use a Broken Key Extractor Tool
A broken key extractor is a thin, hooked tool designed to slide into the lock alongside the broken key.
- Insert the extractor into the keyway.
- Hook onto the broken piece.
- Pull out gently until the key fragment comes free.
Locksmiths use this method most often, and extractor kits are inexpensive online.
3. The Paperclip Trick
If you don’t have pliers or an extractor:
- Straighten a paperclip into a thin wire.
- Insert it along the top of the keyway.
- Hook behind the broken piece and pull it forward.
This is one of the most common DIY methods in the UK (Birmingham).
4. The hot glue or glue stick method
This method works if the key is stuck deep and you have no tools.
- Melt a small amount of hot glue on the end of a stick or metal rod.
- Insert it carefully into the lock so it bonds with the broken key.
- Let it harden, then pull gently.
Be cautious—too much glue can damage the lock mechanism.
5. Magnet Method
A common question is whether a magnet can pull out a broken key.
- The answer: Sometimes. If the key fragment is made of magnetic metal and not too deep, a strong magnet may work.
- However, most UK keys are not strongly magnetic, so this strategy is not reliable.
6. Without Tools (DIY Hacks)
If you’re stuck without any proper tools, you can try:
- Tweezers
- Safety pins
- Small screwdriver
- Knife tip
These can sometimes work, but be careful not to damage the lock pins.
Special Situations
Key Snapped in UPVC Door Lock
- Use pliers or an extractor first.
- If stuck deep, a locksmith may need to replace the cylinder barrel.
How to Get a Snapped Key Out of a Deadbolt Lock
- Use pliers or an extractor if they are visible.
- If not, remove the lock cylinder and push the key out from the back.
How to Remove a Snapped key from Car Ignition
Car ignitions are delicate.
- Try tweezers or a paperclip if the fragment is visible.
- Avoid glue methods (they can ruin the ignition).
- The best solution is to call an auto locksmith, because trying to force it can lead to repairs costing hundreds of dollars.
How to Remove a Snapped key from a Car Door Lock
Similar to UPVC door locks—use an extractor, pliers, or paperclip. If the lock is damaged, replacement may be needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you remove a broken key from a lock?
If the broken key is visible, use pliers; if it is stuck deeper, try a broken key extractor, a paperclip, or the glue method.
How to remove a Snapped key from a door lock in the UK (Birmingham)?
Try extractor tools first. If you can’t, then call an expert because most Birmingham, UK, locksmiths can remove it quickly without damaging the lock.
How do you get a snapped key out of a lock with a paperclip?
Straighten the clip, insert it into the keyway, and hook it behind the broken piece to pull it out.
What should you do to remove a stuck key from a lock?
If it isn’t broken, try wiggling it gently with lubricant like WD-40. Don’t force it, or it may snap.
Can a magnet pull a snapped key out of a lock?
Not usually. Most keys in the UK are not strongly magnetic.
How can you remove a snapped key from a lock using a glue stick?
Apply hot glue to a thin stick, insert it into the lock, let it harden, then pull gently.
How to remove a snapped key without tools?
Use household items like tweezers, safety pins, or even a knife tip.
Can you open a lock with a snapped key?
No, a snapped key fragment cannot turn the lock—it must be removed first.
Why would a key break in a lock?
- Old or weak key metal
- Rusty or jammed lock
- Forcing the key too hard
Which tool is commonly used to remove broken keys from locks?
A broken key extractor is the professional standard tool.
How can you open a broken lock without a key?
You may need to drill the lock or call a locksmith if it’s faulty.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Snapped key Out of a Lock in the UK?
- DIY: Free to £10 (if you buy an extractor kit).
- Locksmith: £60–£120, depending on time and type of lock.
- The cost for a car ignition repair ranges from £100 to £200, as it may require the use of specialist tools.
Final Words
With these methods, you now know how to get a snapped key out of a lock—whether it’s your house, UPVC door, deadbolt, locker, or even car ignition. Start with simple tools like pliers or a paperclip, and if that fails, don’t risk damaging the lock—call a professional locksmith.
Tips for Preventing Snapped key
- Don’t force a stiff lock—use lubricant.
- Replace worn or bent keys before they snap.
- Have a spare key made for emergencies.
- Regularly service or replace old locks.
