Have your car keys been broken? These incidents happen frequently and sometimes even when the key is in the ignition! Luckily you can get the broken key out without needing to call a locksmith.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Removing the Key with Metal Wire
Step 1. Clear any obstructions in the socket
Use compressed air to remove any debris that could clog the broken key. Do not spray cleaners or lubricants into the sockets as the chemical may damage the lock system. This malfunction is more common in newer model vehicles equipped with additional features.
Step 2. Put the entire key body back into the keyhole
This step can help you reach the broken key that is left inside.
Step 3. Tuck the flat but stiff wire next to the broken lock
In addition to wire, you can also use paper clips. Align the paper clip so that it can be tucked next to the key into the ignition. Sometimes, you'll need to bend the ends a bit so that the wire can more easily attach to the broken key.
Step 4. Remove the screw head from the ignition
Be careful not to pull the wire along. Keep the wire next to the broken key left in the ignition.
Step 5. Pin the key piece with wire
It's a good idea to twist the two wires so that the clamping force is stronger. You can also maneuver the wire as you would with chopsticks or tweezers.
You can also try bending the end of the wire downwards to increase the surface contact with the broken key. This step strengthens the clamping force so that the broken key is easier to pull out
Step 6. Pull out the broken key
While pulling it out, slightly wiggle the wire up and down to reduce the risk of clogging the broken key.
Method 2 of 3: Unlocking the Keyhole
Step 1. Use small tweezers to widen the mouth of the keyhole
Insert the jaws of the pliers into the keyhole, then spread them out so that the mouth of the keyhole opens wider. Do this only if the key is blocked because this can damage the keyhole or ignition. Opening the keyhole makes it easy for you to remove the broken key.
Step 2. Pinch off the key with pliers
Once the mouth of the keyhole has been widened, slide the pliers as deep as possible into the keyhole and try to clamp the keyhole. If the pliers don't go deep enough, try using wire or tweezers.
Step 3. Pull out the key piece
Once the key is clamped, pull it out of the hole. After that, you can use a spare key or buy a new one.
Method 3 of 3: Calling a Locksmith
Step 1. Find a locksmith
You can find a local locksmith in the phone book or online. You can ask acquaintances, people around, or the nearest gas station and police officers.
Step 2. Call more than one locksmith
Locksmiths often open their services 24 hours per day at no extra charge and will tell you the rate when called. Contact more than one locksmith to get a better rate. Make sure you ask if the locksmith provides services for the car as not all locksmiths can do this.
Step 3. Hire a locksmith of your choice
Once you've decided which locksmith you'd like to hire, call back and ask him to come fix your vehicle.
Step 4. Change your lock
Whatever method you use to remove the key from the ignition, the key is already broken. Therefore, you will need to use a spare key or buy a replacement.
