Key Broken in Lock? 5 Methods + Costs [2025]

You turn your key, hear a click, and BAM – you’re left with half of it in your hand.

No!! That was my reaction when it happened. The first time I called a locksmith (€175 paid). The second time I knew better – within 5 minutes I got it out with a key extractor for €3.49.

5 Methods: From Free to €4

1. Tweezers Method (€0 – Works 70%)

Only if the key sticks out 2-3mm. Spray WD-40 in the lock, wait 2 minutes. Grab fine tweezers (for nail straps), grip on both sides, pull straight out. This only works if the key is still sticking out a little bit.

2. Toothpick + Superglue (€2 – Works 40%)

A SMALL drop of glue on the toothpick tip. Two toothpicks can help for extra adhesion. Press against the middle or top part of the key. Wait 60 seconds. Pull slowly. Crucial: Only touch the key part, otherwise you glue the whole lock (€150 repair).

3. Hacksaws (€5 – Works 55%)

2 thin saws (0.5mm) on either side of the key. Teeth facing you. Move up/down until you get grip, pull at the same time. Frustrating and time-consuming (10-20 min), but it eventually works.

4. Professional Extractor (€3.49 – Works 90%)

This is what I always use now. A thin metal tool with hooks. Slide along the key inside, turn a quarter turn (hooks grab the ridges), pull straight out. Done in 2-5 minutes.

Why this is the best choice:

• ✅ Works in 90% of cases (used 7 times, succeeded 7 times)
• ✅ Does not damage the lock
• ✅ Costs €3.49 vs €150+ locksmith
• ✅ Also works if the key is fully in the lock

Which extractor:

• Budget: SouthOrd SP13 €3.49
• Best choice: Basic Set €19.95 (5 sizes)
• Complete: Pro Set €39.95

5. Vacuum Cleaner Trick (€0 – Works 15%)

By good luck! Powerful vacuum cleaner against the keyhole, tap on the lock. It hasn’t worked for me, but according to some, it helped. Only try if you are really desperate.

Costs: DIY vs Locksmith

*Tweezers: only if the key sticks out 2mm+

My savings after 2 years: Complete set €40. Used 7 times. Estimated locksmith costs: €1,120. Net savings: €1,080.

❌ 4 Fatal Mistakes

1. Pushing the key further in – If it completely disappears, it becomes 10x harder
2. Spraying superglue IN the lock – Glues everything. Lock broken. €150-400 repair
3. Prizing with a screwdriver – Damages the cylinder and pins. €75-200 damage
4. Drilling into the lock – Unless you’re a pro: this ends in tears and a €250+ bill

When to Call a Locksmith?

• Expensive security cylinders (Abus €200+, Mul-T-Lock €300+)
• Car locks (modern or classic – too risky, €500-1500 damage possible)
• 3+ failed attempts (stop, you’re making it worse)
• Key twisted stuck (pins under pressure)
• Time pressure (work, flight, important appointment)

Prevention: Stop It Before It Happens

My routine:

• ✅ Lubricate locks 2x a year (March + September) with graphite spray €7
• ✅ Replace keys every 7-10 years automatically (€10-20)
• ✅ NEVER force if the lock turns stiff – lubricate immediately
• ✅ Check keys every quarter for cracks
• ✅ Winter: extra attention, cover locks

Why keys break: Wear (0.02mm/year), too much force, dry lock (40% of cases), frost. Easily preventable with maintenance.

Special Situations

Locked out of front door: Check back door/window first. No access? Call someone with a spare key. Only then call a locksmith (€140-350).

Bicycle lock: Use the thinnest extractor (0.4mm). Doesn’t work after 10 min? Cut the lock with bolt cutters (€15), buy a new lock (€25-60). Faster and cheaper.

Car: ALWAYS call a car locksmith (not a regular locksmith!). Modern ignition + electronics = €500-1500 damage if you mess it up.

FAQ

Does the toothpick with glue really work?

40% success rate if the key part sticks out 3mm+. But just ONE drop at the point – otherwise, you’ll glue the lock (€150 repair). I did this wrong once – the locksmith still came.

Can I use WD-40?

Yes for extraction (works quickly), but not for maintenance (attracts dust). Use Abus lock spray €9.50 for regular lubrication, doesn’t attract dust, perfect.

Where can I buy an extractor?

Online specialist: Lockpickings €3.49-40. Gamma has them too, but that’s a lot more expensive (€15-25). If in doubt: Gamma for immediate, Lockpickings from tomorrow, and for the best price.

Conclusion

That first time when I was still unfamiliar with key extractors, I paid the locksmith €175 for 5 minutes of work. Now I do it in 3 minutes with a tool that costs a few tens. I have helped myself and others at least seven times and saved at least €1,080.

Conclusion: Buy an extractor, follow the steps, you solve 90% of these problems in 5 minutes. It pays for itself on the first use.