Causes of Broken Keys
Lock is Stuck
A stuck lock is one of the most common causes of a key breaking and getting stuck inside. It can be caused by prolonged use, exposure to hot and humid weather, rusting of the lock from the inside, excessive usage of a cam lock, using the wrong key, or a bent or warped key. If faced with a stuck lock, it is recommended not to try opening it as it may further damage the key and lock.
Unlocking Too Hard Causes the Lock to Break
Using excessive force while unlocking can also cause the key to break inside the lock. It can be due to the user’s lack of awareness of any obstruction inside the lock and applying excessive force. Poor quality locks can also easily break even with moderate force.
Keys and Locks without Guaranteed Quality
Keys and locks available in the market vary in quality. If not carefully examined for origin and brand, one may end up purchasing poor quality products contaminated with various substances. Such brittle products can easily break even with moderate force. Therefore, it is essential to buy from reputable stores and ensure the best quality for your locks.
Rusty Lock Leads to Broken Key
Common causes of rusted locks include keeping the key inside the lock for an extended period, not using the lock for a long time, and exposure to corrosive weather conditions. If the lock is rusted, it is advisable not to remove the key immediately to prevent breaking it and getting it stuck.
The Key Was Broken Because the Thief Failed to Crack the Lock
If the key is stuck in the lock, it could be due to a thief’s unsuccessful attempt to break the lock. This can happen if the thief lacks sufficient skill in unlocking, the lock has damaged internal components making it difficult to remove the key, or if the lock is of poor quality and breaks easily under forceful unlocking.
Simple Methods to Retrieve a Broken Key from a Lock
Using Tweezers and Pliers
Preparation: Stapler, pair of tweezers
Steps:
- Step 1: Use tweezers to pull out the broken key from the lock.
- Step 2: Secure the key to prevent it from going back inside.
- Step 3: Use pliers to pull the key out.
Note:
- This method requires coordination between two people for quick key extraction.
- It requires dexterity and careful application of moderate force.
Using a Piece of Plastic
Preparation: Hard plastic piece (0.2cm width), 502 glue, scissors
Steps:
- Step 1: Cut a 0.2cm wide piece of plastic.
- Step 2: Scrape one end of the plastic piece and apply 502 glue to it.
- Step 3: Insert the glued tip into the broken key, allow the glue to dry for about 10 minutes, and then pull the key out of the lock.
Note:
- Exercise caution when pulling out the key.
- This method is not suitable for keys stuck deeply in the lock.
- It only works for flat keys, not round keys.
- Be careful not to let the glue get in your eyes or stick to the outside of the lock, as it can hinder extraction.
Using Scissors
Preparation: Pointed scissors
Steps:
- Step 1: Use both ends of the scissors to fold the broken key out of the lock.
- Step 2: Take one of the scissors to remove the broken key.
Note: Exercise caution as the sharp point of the scissors can cause injury. Gentle extraction is necessary to prevent the key from being pushed further in.
Using an Iron Bar
Preparation: Iron rod and pliers
Steps:
- Step 1: Use a hammer to flatten the iron bar to fit the slot on the key core plane.
- Step 2: Bend a small end of the iron bar.
- Step 3: Carefully insert the iron bar into the lock and use the bent end to pull the broken key out.
Using a Drill
Preparation: Drill, small drill bit (1.5mm – 2mm)
Steps:
- Step 1: Securely position the lock.
- Step 2: Drill a small hole in the lock and use the bit to extract the broken key. This method facilitates easy removal of the stuck key.
Using Candle Glue
Preparation: Lighter and candle glue
Steps:
- Step 1: Melt the glue using a lighter and allow the melted glue to flow into the area where the key is stuck in the lock.
- Step 2: Wait for the glue to dry for about 5 minutes, and then gently pull out the key.
Attention:
- This method is suitable for keys that are not deeply lodged and have a flat shape.
- Patience and manual dexterity are required.
If the above methods fail to retrieve the broken key or if the key is deeply stuck, it is advisable to seek the assistance of professional locksmiths or consider replacing the lock with a new one for enhanced safety and convenience.
We hope the above article helps you easily and quickly retrieve a broken key from a lock at home. If you have any questions, please leave a comment below!
