Broken Key in the Lock? Here’s What to Do and Why You Should Call a Locksmith

There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to unlock your car or start the engine, only to have your key break off in the lock or ignition. Whether it happens in the middle of a busy day or late at night, you’ll need professional help to safely remove the broken key without damaging the lock. Aldo’s Key Shop specializes in fast and efficient broken key extraction services to help you get back to your routine without the stress.

Why Keys Break in Locks

Keys break for a variety of reasons, and understanding why can help you prevent it from happening in the future. Here are some of the most common reasons why car keys break in locks:

1. Key Wear and Tear: Over time, constant use can wear down the metal of your key, making it more likely to snap under pressure, especially when turning the key in an older or stiff lock.
2. Forcing the Key: If the lock is stiff or malfunctioning, it can be tempting to use extra force to turn the key. This can cause the key to bend or break inside the lock.
3. Cold Weather: In colder temperatures, metal contracts, and this includes both your key and the lock. A stiff lock combined with a cold, brittle key increases the chance of breakage.
4. Faulty Locks: Sometimes the problem isn’t the key itself but the lock. Dirt, debris, or damage inside the lock can make it harder to turn, putting extra strain on the key.

What to Do When a Key Breaks in the Lock

It’s natural to feel a bit panicked when a key snaps off in the lock, but there are a few steps you can take to prevent further damage:

1. Don’t Force It: If a portion of the key is still sticking out of the lock, resist the urge to force it further in or twist it. This can cause more damage to both the key and the lock.
2. Call a Professional Locksmith: Trying to extract the broken key yourself can lead to more damage. Professional locksmiths, like those at Aldo’s Key Shop, have the right tools and expertise to safely extract the key without harming the lock.
3. Stay Calm: Lockout situations can be stressful, especially if you're far from home or in a rush. Remember that help is only a phone call away, and Aldo’s Key Shop is ready to assist you with fast and efficient service.

How Aldo’s Key Shop Can Help with Broken Key Extraction

At Aldo’s Key Shop, we know how frustrating and inconvenient a broken key can be. Our expert locksmiths are here to help with safe and reliable key extraction services. Here’s what we offer:

• Non-Destructive Key Extraction: We use specialized tools to remove the broken key from your car door or ignition without damaging the lock, saving you from needing more extensive repairs.
• On-Site Services: We offer mobile locksmith services, meaning we can come to your location to extract the key on-site and provide any additional services you might need, such as making a new key or repairing the lock.
• Key Replacement: If your key breaks, we can quickly provide a new one, cutting and programming it on the spot to match your vehicle.

Why Choose Aldo’s Key Shop for Broken Key Extraction?

Here’s why Aldo’s Key Shop is the go-to choice for broken key extraction:

• Skilled Technicians: Our locksmiths have extensive experience handling broken keys and extracting them safely, so you can trust that your lock and car will remain intact.
• Fast Response Time: We understand how inconvenient it is to be stuck with a broken key, which is why we offer fast, reliable service to get you back on the road as quickly as possible.
• Affordable Pricing: Our broken key extraction services are competitively priced, ensuring you get high-quality work at a reasonable cost.

Preventing Future Key Breaks

While broken keys can happen to anyone, there are some steps you can take to reduce the risk:

1. Lubricate the Lock: Keeping your car’s locks well-lubricated helps ensure they function smoothly and reduces the strain on your key.
2. Don’t Force the Key: If a lock feels stiff or difficult to turn, don’t force the key. Instead, contact a locksmith to assess the problem and avoid a potential break.
3. Replace Worn-Out Keys: If your key is showing signs of wear or is bent, have a new one made before it breaks off in the lock.

‍