Broken Key Stuck in Lock? We'll Extract It Safely

Yes, in 95% of cases we can extract broken keys without damaging the lock mechanism. We use specialized extraction tools (broken key extractors, pick tools, hook tools) designed to grab and pull key fragments without harming lock pins or cylinder. The key to success is not forcing it - we carefully work the broken piece out. Only if the key is severely jammed or lock was already damaged do we need to drill the lock cylinder (rare - less than 5% of extractions). After extraction, your lock works normally with a new key.

Most broken key extractions take 15-30 minutes: Simple extractions (tip of key visible, broke near opening): 10-15 minutes. Moderate extractions (key broke inside cylinder, some visible): 15-25 minutes. Difficult extractions (key deep inside, broken flush with opening): 25-45 minutes. After extraction, cutting new key adds 10-15 minutes. Total time including travel: 45-75 minutes from your call to having working lock and new key.

Broken key extraction pricing: Standard extraction (key visible, straightforward removal): $75-$125. Difficult extraction (key deep inside, requires lock disassembly): $125-$175. Car ignition extraction (more complex): $125-$200. After-hours service (nights, weekends, holidays): add $50-$75. Price includes extraction service and cutting one new key. Additional keys are $5-$15 each. If lock needs replacement due to damage (rare): $75-$250 depending on lock type. We provide exact quote before starting work.

No, don't try to drive with broken key in ignition. If broken key is stuck in ignition: Car won't start (key fragment blocks ignition cylinder), steering wheel may be locked, you can't remove the key fragment yourself, trying to force it can damage ignition permanently ($300-$800 ignition replacement). Call us immediately at (512) 777-0915 - we'll extract the broken piece on-site and cut new key so you can drive. Most car ignition extractions take 30-45 minutes and you're back on the road.

Keys break for several reasons: Worn keys (metal fatigue from years of use - most common cause), forcing stuck locks (if lock is stiff, forcing key causes snap), extreme cold (metal becomes brittle in freezing temps), cheap key copies (hardware store copies use softer metal than originals), turning key wrong direction (too much torque breaks key), lock problems (if lock is jammed, key takes all the stress). Prevention: Replace worn keys before they break ($5-$15 per key), never force stuck locks (spray lubricant first), get keys copied by professional locksmith not hardware store (we use harder brass).

We strongly advise against DIY extraction: What typically happens: (1) You try tweezers or pliers (pushes key deeper into lock), (2) You try super glue on key shaft (glue spills into lock mechanism, ruining it), (3) You try to pick at it with pin or paperclip (damages lock pins), (4) You spray WD-40 hoping key will slide out (attracts dirt, makes extraction harder). Result: You transform a $75-$125 extraction into a $150-$300 lock replacement. Professional extraction in 15-30 minutes costs less than the damage you'll cause trying DIY methods. Call (512) 777-0915 - save money and prevent damage.

Rarely. We drill locks in less than 5% of broken key extractions - only when: (1) Key is completely shattered into multiple pieces deep in cylinder, (2) Lock was already damaged before key broke (pre-existing cylinder damage), (3) Key broke because lock is failing (lock needs replacement anyway), (4) Key fragment is fused/corroded to cylinder (extremely rare). In 95% of cases, we extract using professional tools without drilling. If drilling is necessary, we tell you upfront before proceeding and provide cost for lock replacement. Most extractions are non-destructive.

No problem. After extracting broken key: (1) If key broke at the blade (chip is in your hand), we can use that chip in new key blade we cut ($10-$15 key transfer). (2) If key broke at the head (chip is lost with broken fragment), we program new transponder chip to your vehicle ($150-$250 for new key with chip). For car keys, we carry transponder key blanks for all major brands and can program on-site. Total time: extraction (20-30 min) + key cutting (15 min) + programming (20-30 min) = 55-75 minutes. You drive away with working key.