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How to Remove a Broken Key from a Lock: 5 Tricks to Avoid Dismantling Everything

It happens to the best of us—you’re in a hurry, insert a key into a lock, twist a little too hard, and snap! A piece of the key breaks off inside. Panic might be your first reaction, especially if it’s your front door, car, or office. But don’t reach for the toolbox just yet. There are several clever tricks you can try before dismantling the entire lock or calling a locksmith.

Here are 5 effective methods to remove a broken key from a lock—no lock teardown required.

1. Use Tweezers (If Enough Key Is Visible)

If a bit of the broken key is still sticking out, tweezers might do the trick.

How to:

Use thin, pointed tweezers—not the wide beauty kind.
Gently grip the exposed piece and pull it straight out.
Avoid pushing it deeper into the lock.

Pro Tip:

Use a flashlight and magnifying glass to assess how much of the key is exposed before attempting.

2. Try a Broken Key Extractor Tool

This is a go-to tool used by locksmiths. If you don’t have one on hand, many hardware stores sell inexpensive sets.

How to:

Insert the extractor along the cut side of the key.
Hook the teeth of the tool onto the key fragment.
Pull gently until the broken piece comes out.

Pro Tip:

Lubricate the lock with graphite powder or a silicone-based spray before trying. Avoid WD-40—it can gum up the mechanism.

3. Super Glue Hack (Use with Caution)

This may sound risky, but if done carefully, super glue can help bond the broken pieces.

How to:

Dab a tiny bit of glue on the end of the broken half you still have.
Insert it into the lock and press it against the broken piece.
Wait 30–60 seconds and try to pull both parts out together.

Warning:

Avoid letting glue drip into the lock, or you’ll make the problem worse.

4. Use a Jigsaw Blade or Mini Hacksaw Blade

This trick works if the key is deeper inside the lock.

How to:

Get a thin jigsaw or hacksaw blade, ideally one used for metal.
Insert the blade into the lock with the serrated side facing the key fragment.
Twist gently to catch the key and pull it out.

Pro Tip:

Use pliers to trim the blade for better control.

5. Tap It Out (For Padlocks or Vertical Locks)

If you’re dealing with a padlock or something portable, gravity can help.