How to Remove a Broken Key from a Lock: 5 Tricks to Avoid Disassembling the Lock Plate

Open the lock as far as possible.

Grip the exposed part of the key with needle-nose pliers.

Pull slowly and steadily to avoid pushing the key further inside.

Tip: Wiggle gently while pulling to loosen the key from the pins.

2. Try a Key Extractor Tool

Best For: Keys broken deep inside the lock.

How to Do It:

Insert the key extractor tool (available at hardware stores) into the lock alongside the broken key.

Hook the teeth of the tool around the key’s grooves.

Carefully pull the key out.

Tip: Key extractors work best with pins facing upward; you may need to rotate the tool while pulling.

3. Apply Superglue to Another Key (Use With Caution)

Best For: When a second key is available and the broken piece is deeply stuck.

How to Do It: