how do you get a broken key out of the lock?

Question

i was turning the key and it broke inside the keyhole. i have the "turning end" still but i need the broken off part...

Answer 1

If you take the knob and parts completely off you may be able to work it out from the inside.

Answer 2

Use two utility knife blades. Insert the triangular points of each blade on either side of the broken key. Grab the key with the tips of the pointy blades. Gently push the lock tumbler inwardly while applying enough pressure on the key with the two blades to hold it. Pull the key out.

I've done it a couple of times.
If you've already pushed the key in too far, this method won't work. A locksmith can extract the broken key for you.

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Answer 3

If a pair of tweezers wont go in far enough then try to prize it out with a seal pic. You can get one at any auto parts store for a couple of bucks.

Answer 4

If the aforemention tweezer option doesn't work, I've found that a sledgehammer works wonders for getting at the internals of the knob mechanism.

Of course, you'll need to replace the knob...

Answer 5

You might laugh at me but I gotten mine out with gum then a bobby pin.It took a while but it's worked.

Answer 6

Just break down the door!

Answer 7

try twisers or needle nose pliers