Did you ever go downstairs to start your day, but then your key just snaps in the lock? Yeah, that can be a frustrating problem, especially when you’re in a rush for work.

It happens, though—keys break. However, calling on a locksmith will take time, not to mention cost money. So, what can you do? Well, tackle it yourself and save money—and stress.

Don’t worry, there’s a safe and simple solution to get back on track on time. What do you need? Just a few household items and then some.

Stick around and dive in for the full scoop!

Why Do Keys Break in Locks?

It’s so annoying when you’re running late, and then when you lock the door, the key breaks. Yeah, the joke’s on you, but why did this happen? Ugh, you’ve had your keys for years, and it was working just fine.

Well, there are many reasons, starting with…

Worn Out or Cheap Key Material

As time passes by, the keys you’re using wear out, particularly if they’re designed with cheap materials. This weakness makes them super vulnerable to snapping even in normal use.

Rusty or Poorly Maintained Locks

Rust or lack of proper maintenance can prevent the lock from turning smoothly. This strains the lock, which makes it likely to break.

Excessive Force or Misalignment

Once your key is misshapen or bent due to excessive force, your key can snap if extra pressure is applied.

Temperature/Weather Factors

In most cases, the fault rests upon natural deterioration. Due to the changing weather, going from scorching hot to icy cold, keys may become brittle and rust.

How to Remove a Broken Key Yourself (If Safe to Try)

Before diving into any of these broken key removal techniques, it’s crucial to stop if you’re unsure.

Now that that’s out of the way, let’s go through the different broken key removal processes.

Use Needle-Nose Pliers

When removing a broken key, this plier is best when the end of the key is sticking out from the keyway. It’s a handy tool with a strong grip for little objects or fragments.

Try a Broken Key Extractor Tool

This tool is perhaps the most effective method. How so? As the name suggests, a key extractor tool is especially created to take out broken keys from locks. If the broken piece is stuck deep inside, you might need professional key cutting services to create a replacement key afterward—especially if the original is damaged beyond repair.

Use the Superglue Trick (carefully!)

This works by inserting a heated glue stick into the lock. Afterwards, when it cools down, you can pull the key fragments out.

Tap Lock Gently to Loosen Key

Yes, you can lightly tap the area around the lock using a small tool. The gentle tapping can help loosen the stuck key fragments due to internal tension.

Use Lubricant Like WD-40

Spray a lubricant on the keyhole. We recommend using WD-40 because of its fast-drying properties. By lubricating the lock, you remove friction and make it easier to extract the broken pieces of the key.

When Not to Force it

If the key is solidly stuck and not moving, avoid twisting or driving it with force. This will push the key fragments even deeper and damage the lock, making the extraction even more difficult and costly.

When to Call an Emergency Locksmith

At times, our best efforts are simply not enough, and all our DIY methods are failing.

In situations like these, it’s paramount that you know when to call in a professional emergency locksmith. Why? To minimise the key getting stuck in the lock and stop further harm from happening.

When you’re facing one of these “broken key” scenarious, you better call in an expert—ASAP.

If the key is stuck deep inside and you can’t pull it safely without damaging the locking mechanism.
When a lock is damaged or old, it can leave you in a very compromising situation. Remember, faulty locks can fail at any time.
Attempting a do-it-yourself method with no tools or no confidence can make the problem even worse.
Emergencies don’t follow a schedule; they can happen at the crack of dawn or in the creeping dusk. For after-hours situations in Sydney, you need emergency locksmiths to handle the job fast.

What a Professional Locksmith Will Do

Have you tried all the DIY methods we mentioned above? You did, so did it work? If you’re still unable to pull that broken key out, maybe it’s time to seek a professional locksmith.

Here is what an expert can offer and do for you that your surface-level know-how can’t:

Use of nondestructive techniques that safeguard your locking system and door from any damage.
A safe and immediate key extraction process
Lock inspection for deeper damage and issues and smart replacement advice.
Key cutting on the spot if needed

Preventing Broken Keys in the Future

Get spare keys made

Get an extra set of keys so you don’t wear out your key by using it too often. Or, when your key suddenly breaks, you have an instant backup.

Use strong materials

Pick the keys with durable materials like steel or brass—the ones that can resist corrosion and don’t break easily or bend under pressure.

Avoid forcing locks

If a key doesn’t turn smoothly, don’t push it. Pushing the key too hard weakens it and damages the lock.

Regular maintenance & lubrication

Like everything else, your keys and locks need maintenance. Keep them dirt-free and lubricated so they don’t stiffen, stick and snap.

Upgrade to smart locks

Consider enhancing your locks to modern smart systems for better convenience and security. In doing so, you avoid using traditional keys and having them snap.

Why Choose Clockwork Locksmiths in Sydney?

Clockwork locksmiths bring years of expertise in “key snapped in door lock Sydney.” We have trained locksmith Caringbah with vast experience in handling all lock types. We offer 24/7 availability with mobile locksmiths ready for emergencies.

Our expert service comes with fast key extraction and repair with competitive pricing. Headquartered in Sydney, we understand the local security needs. Trusted by homeworkers and businesses, we maintain a solid reputation.

Final Thoughts!

Yes, keys break in locks, but you don’t have to panic since you have options. It can be really challenging, but with the right tools, knowledge and confidence—DIY is possible.

From glue sticks to needle-nose pliers, you can take your broken key removal method.

Remember, though, that even if DIY is safe, professionals are always available.
Call Clockwork Locksmiths for quick, affordable help in Sydney. We have the best locksmith Caringbah to conquer your broken key challenge!

Book a consultation today!

Key Snapped in the Lock? Here’s How to Get a Broken Key Out Safely