It’s a frustrating and stressful situation when your key breaks off in the lock. It can happen for many reasons, such as wear and tear or a faulty lock. Whatever the reason may be, it’s essential to know what to do when your key breaks in the lock. In this blog post, we’ll explore some tips on how to handle this situation.

Assess the Situation

The first thing you should do when your key breaks in the lock is to assess the situation. Determine how much of the key is still in the lock and whether it’s possible to remove it. If a significant portion of the key is stuck in the lock, it may be challenging to remove it without the help of a professional locksmith.

Don’t Force the Key

It’s essential not to force the key out of the lock. Trying to pull or turn the key can cause further damage to the lock and make it even more challenging to remove the key. If the key is stuck, it’s best to leave it alone and call a professional locksmith.

Call a Professional Locksmith

A professional locksmith has the necessary tools and expertise to remove a broken key from a lock safely. They can also inspect the lock to ensure that there are no other issues that could cause a key to break off in the future. At My Key Guy Locksmith, our team of professionals is highly skilled and experienced in handling broken key situations.

Use Lubricant

If you’re unable to remove the key, you can try using a lubricant to loosen it. Spray a small amount of lubricant into the lock and try gently wiggling the key back and forth. This may help loosen the key and make it easier to remove. However, it’s essential to use a lubricant that’s safe for the lock and won’t cause any damage.

Consider Rekeying the Lock

In some cases, a broken key may be a sign of a more significant issue with the lock. If you’re experiencing regular problems with your key or lock, it may be time to consider rekeying the lock. Rekeying involves changing the pins and springs inside the lock, making the old key unusable and creating a new key that will work with the rekeyed lock.

Prevention Tips

Prevention is always the best course of action when it comes to broken keys. Here are some prevention tips to help you avoid this situation:

• Avoid using excessive force when inserting or turning your key.
• Don’t use your key as a tool to open or close other objects.
• Keep your key clean and dry to prevent rust and wear.
• Have your locks inspected and maintained regularly by a professional locksmith.

Conclusion

A broken key in the lock can be a frustrating and stressful situation, but it’s essential to handle it properly to avoid further damage. If you’re unable to remove the key yourself, it’s best to call a professional locksmith. At My Key Guy Locksmith, we have the necessary tools and expertise to remove a broken key from a lock safely. We also offer rekeying services and can inspect your locks to ensure that they’re working correctly. By following prevention tips, you can avoid this situation in the future. If you need a locksmith, give us a call at 951-227-7766 and let us help you secure your property.