You might have dealt with scenarios while your key is stuck inside the ignition, and the worst part is that it is broken. Even with a spare key, you can’t start your car until you extract the broken part.
In times of need, you might ask for DIY solutions on how to get broken key out of ignition. Some household tools, like a broken key extractor, a bobby pin, a jigsaw blade, pliers, and tweezers, can help you extract the broken key. However, in complex situations, you might need help from an expert locksmith.
Now, let’s get into the details of how you can remove broken key from ignition on your own using some household tools!
Broken Ignition Key Removal Methods: 7 Tricks to Follow
As solutions to how to get broken key out of ignition, we have combined 8 effective methods that we have tried. You can use the following techniques, whichever seems convenient to you:
Use A Broken Key Extractor Tool
Most people who struggle with broken ignition key removal first try this method using a broken key extractor. Even professional locksmiths use this to get broken key out of ignition. This method is the most effective, efficient, and least damage-prone solution in this case.
Insert the tool facing the cut side of the piece. You need to use the teeth of the tool to grip the teeth of the key. Afterward, you need to twist the tool in the keyway and pull out alongside the piece.
If you are confused about which key extractor you need to use, you can use tools like spiral, hook extractors (single hooked key extractors and double hooked key extractors).
Use A Jigsaw Blade
Another helpful technique to use for how to get a broken key out of the ignition is a small jigsaw blade. If you don’t have a broken key extractor, it can be super handy.
First, trim the end of your blade so the barbs are right at the end. Also, remove the bottom portion of the blade to make it fit into the keyway.
At this point, you need to put it inside the keyway on the cutting side of the key piece. Afterward, attach its teeth to your key’s teeth. After getting a firm grip, pull the key out by gently wiggling.
Use Thin Wire
This is quite an ancient method people use to remove a broken key from locks. Once you can grab the edge of your broken key, use a wire to wedge it out.
Use a sliding paper clip or a length of wire hanger between the bottom of the key and the ignition cylinder. Next, slowly jiggle the wire and tug on the key with pliers to grab it.
Using Pliers
Pliers are something almost all of us have in our households. When it comes to removing broken key from ignition, these tools are very handy.
You need to grip the protruding part of the broken key using the nose pliers. Then, you need to rotate the key vertically. Afterward, gently wiggle the key out of the lock.
If you use this technique after using a lubricant, this becomes even easier. However, if the key is too deep into the keyway so that you cannot grip it, this technique might not work.
Paperclips or Bobby Pins (Hair Pins)
Another common household solution for removing key parts from your keyway is bobby pins or paper clips. You need to straighten out the paperclip or bobby pin first. After that, you need to bend the paperclip or bobby pin into a pick shape.
Once you’re done shaping it, you have to insert it into the lock and move it so you can hook it onto the key parts. If it properly grips the key, you need to wiggle it and get it out of the keyway.
Call Professional Locksmiths
Sometimes, even if you have tried every method, the situation might be so critical that these may not work. In such a case, you should avoid attempting DIY techniques and call professionals like Auto Car Locksmith. This will prevent further damage to the lock and allow them to extract the key easily using specialized tools.
Things to Avoid When Removing a Broken Car Key from the Ignition
We know you can’t just wait to remove the broken parts of the key from the keyway. However, in this case, you should have some patience as rushing it can worsen the situation. Here are a few things that you shouldn’t do during broken ignition key removal.
Don’t Use Force
Ruining the ignition can be like a nightmare, as you can’t even claim insurance for repairing this part. So, if you notice that the job is too tough for you to handle, don’t use any force. Instead, call a professional to remove the key skillfully.
Don’t Use Magnets
A common thing people try to do is to use magnets to remove the broken key. However, if you bring a magnet near your ignition, you’re putting the electrical components at risk. Also, sometimes it may even push the key further inside the lock.
Don’t Use a Screwdriver
Screwdrivers are quite thick and can’t provide the necessary mounting or grip to remove your broken keys. Instead, it may even push the key further- making the situation worse.
Don’t Use Super Glue
Many TikTok videos are showing that hack to use super glue to remove your broken key in the car. However, if the glue gets inside the ignition, you need to change the complete ignition system.
Don’t Over-Lubricate the Ignition
You might need to lubricate the ignition for easy removal of the key. However, overlubricating the system can damage your ignition. Also, ensure you’re using lubricants like WD-40, which is specially designed to handle such situations.
Wrapping Up
So, as you have reached the end of our discussion on how to get broken key out of ignition, the best method so far is to use a broken key extractor tool. If you don’t have this in your home, try using other methods.
However, in complex situations, don’t attempt DIY methods. Instead, call up a professional locksmith near you to handle the job.
