If this problem has not happened to you until today, then you are very lucky. In this article we are going to tell you how to remove a splintered key from a lock if you ever find yourself in this uncomfortable situation. If this scene happens to you, the first thing we recommend is to stay calm and do not force it. We tell you that there is a solution to remove it without having to call a locksmith using these homemade tricks.
Have you ever broken the key in the lock? Once again, Tododisca brings you the answers to your needs. These are simple methods that anyone can put into practice, but they don’t always work. At least you can try. If not, we recommend you call a professional.
What to do? There are several options, but first you should keep in mind that it is better to play it safe. Therefore, we recommend that you periodically check the keys you are using and watch for signs of wear and tear. Over time, they all begin to weaken and crack with daily use. If you notice cracks or thinning where the head meets the notches, it’s time to replace the key.
How to remove a broken key from a lock?
- First you should check to see if the cylinder is in the locked or unlocked position; that is, upright in the lock. If not, you should put it on.
- Use a screwdriver or scissors to turn the cylinder slot vertically. Alternatively, some needle-nose pliers or scissors can do the job.
- This is the easiest way to set the lock to the default open or closed position. This is important since a broken key cannot be removed from the lock from any other position.
LUBRICATE THE LOCK
- Once you have the lock cylinder mechanism in the correct position, you can proceed to the next step.
- Lubricate the lock with a lubricating oil. This makes it easier to remove the key from the lock. This product penetrates the cylinder where the locked lock resides, reducing internal friction points.
REMOVE THE BROKEN KEY FROM THE LOCK
- The broken key should protrude slightly from the lock cylinder. In this case, you can try to pull the broken key out of the lock with pliers.
- With the lock well lubricated and aligned in the correct position, you can release the broken key by gently pulling it out.
- You can also try loosening the key with a chisel and then use pliers to remove it.
REMOVE THE BROKEN KEY FROM INSIDE THE MECHANISM
- Use a strong magnet. This can help free the loose key from the anchored door lock. You don’t usually have such a magnet at home, but you can buy one at a hardware store.
WITH OIL AND CLAMP
- With lubricating oil, a pair of tweezers or needle-nose pliers and a little patience, we can remove the broken key. First pour the oil into the lock to lubricate the contact surface between the broken key and the cylinder. We let the oil work for a few minutes and then, with a pair of needle-nose pliers, we try to grab the end of the broken piece of the key and pull it out piece by piece and carefully. If we cannot extract the key on the first attempt, we can try again.
YOU CAN ALSO DO IT WITH A MAGNET
- We can also try to remove the split key from the cylinder with a strong magnet. We put it on the lock and try to remove the figure through the cylinder. Previously, we lubricated the lock with oil so that the fragment would move more easily.
Why do keys break and how can we prevent it?
Most keys are made of soft metals such as nickel or brass. Lack of lubrication and temperature fluctuations are the most common causes of key breakage. Keep in mind that locks are metal parts that are subject to mechanical wear and effects such as rust. Because they are not lubricated, more force is applied than necessary and the key can eventually break.
The solution in these cases is always to perform proper preventive maintenance, which consists of applying a good oil every two or three months. This will prevent rust and other deposits that make it difficult to insert the wrench. It is also possible that the friction between the key and the cylinder is reduced and we have to use more force than necessary.
Breaking a key while trying to open a door is a more common accident than it seems. Although there are some tricks to get a broken key out of a lock, remember that if they do not work, it is best to contact a professional locksmith who will do the job without causing further damage. In any case, good preventive lock maintenance will help avoid this annoying problem.
How can these common problems be prevented?
Door locks are one of the most neglected items, however, it is important to maintain them from time to time to avoid serious damage. All kinds of dirt can accumulate in these cavities, which is responsible for clogging, inhibiting opening and breaking keys.
It is important that locks remain lubricated to ensure their proper functioning and prolong their service life. For this reason, the use of lubricants for screws should be an unavoidable habit that will help reduce the presence of dust and the formation of oxides.
It is best to seek the advice of a specialist on what type of lubricant will not discolor your tresses and will provide quality protection.
