BROKEN KEY HELP
Broken or Snapped Key in the Lock
A snapped key does not always mean the complete lock needs replacing. Depending on where the key has broken, the condition of the cylinder and whether the lock was already stiff, extraction may be possible. We also check why the key broke so the same fault is less likely to happen again.
Your options
Extract the broken key
If the fragment is accessible and the lock has not been damaged, we may be able to remove it and retain the existing lock.
Replace the cylinder
If extraction is not practical, the cylinder is damaged or the cylinder itself caused the problem, replacement may be the better option.
Diagnose a stiff door or mechanism
A key can snap because excessive force was needed to operate a door that is misaligned or a mechanism that is failing. We check this rather than treating the broken key as the only fault.
What not to do
Avoid repeatedly pushing the broken piece deeper into the lock or forcing another tool into the keyway. This can make extraction more difficult or damage the cylinder.
If you are locked out
Tell us whether the broken key is on the inside or outside, whether the door is locked and whether you have another working key. That helps us plan the appropriate entry and repair approach.
Key Snapped in the Lock?
Call us or WhatsApp a close-up photo of the lock and broken key.