Do this first
- Stop turning or pushing on what is left — it can drive the fragment deeper.
- Do not use glue, magnets or improvised tools; they often make extraction harder.
- Keep the broken half of the key. It helps us identify the key and, where needed, make a new one.
How extraction works
Extraction uses thin, purpose-made tools to catch the fragment and draw it out of the cylinder without damaging the wafers inside. Whether it can be done on site depends on the vehicle, how deep the fragment sits, and the condition of the ignition cylinder. We will tell you what we find before going further.
After the fragment is out
A key that broke once was usually worn or cracked. Once the ignition is clear, we can talk about making you a fresh replacement key so it does not happen again.
Why keys snap
- Years of wear thin the blade until it cracks
- A heavy key ring pulls on the key while driving
- Forcing a key that will not turn in a worn ignition
- Using the key as a pry tool
Extraction, then a fresh key
Once the fragment is out, the two halves of the old key are usually enough for us to identify the cut and make a new key on the spot — programmed to the car if it has a chip or remote.
If the ignition itself was damaged, see ignition repair and replacement.
Broken in a door lock instead?
A key can break in a door or trunk lock too. Tell us where it happened when you call, and we will tell you honestly whether it is something we can handle on site.
Common questions
Can every broken key be extracted?
Not always. Most can, but it depends on the vehicle, the depth of the fragment and the cylinder’s condition. We are upfront about that on the call and on site.
My key broke in the door lock, not the ignition. Can you help?
Call us and describe what happened. We will tell you honestly whether it is something we can handle.
Can I pull a broken key out with tweezers?
It is tempting, but pushing on the fragment or gripping it badly often drives it deeper. If it does not slide out easily, stop and call.
Will I need a new ignition after a key breaks?
Often not. If the fragment comes out cleanly and the cylinder is in good shape, a new key is all you need. If the cylinder was damaged, we explain the options on site.