Have you ever turned a key to unlock a door, only for the key to break, with a chunk of it stuck inside the lock? Dealing with this problem can be quite stressful, as no one really expects their key to break when in operation. However, not all hope is lost, as it is possible to retrieve that broken key piece from inside the lock. The question: what exactly does the broken key extraction process entail? Luckily, you will learn those answers by continuing to read this blog.
A Guide To Broken Key Extraction
While you might be tempted to extract the broken key piece yourself, you shouldn’t attempt to do so without prior practice and experience. For this reason, we urge you to call a professional locksmith to proceed with the broken key extraction. Of course, you still want to understand what the locksmith is doing to retrieve the broken key, so check out these steps involved in the extraction process.
1. Having The Right Tools
First, the locksmith will ensure that they have the right tools with them before coming to help retrieve the broken key from either a door lock or ignition switch. Most locksmiths will have an oil-based lubricant and a key extractor tool with them to retrieve the key. If they don’t have a key extractor, they might use pliers and a screwdriver, but more often than not, they’ll have access to an actual extractor. Once the locksmith has everything they need, they will meet you where you are to rescue your key.
2. Inspecting The Lock
Before diving in headfirst with a key extractor, the locksmith will inspect the lock briefly to get an idea of whether or not it has sustained any damage or might need to also be replaced. Sometimes, but not usually, an old or damaged lock can contribute to a key breaking inside it.
3. Applying The Lubricant
In order to ensure that the broken key can slide out of the lock easily, the locksmith will apply an oil-based lubricant to the inside of the lock. This substance will be cleaned up afterward, but it will make a difference in ensuring progress during the broken key extraction process.
4. Using The Key Extractor
When the extractor is inserted into the lock, the locksmith will press it against the lock pins to create space between them and the broken key piece. One of the prongs should be able to latch onto the key, allowing the locksmith to finally pull it out with ease. After removing the lubricant from the lock and retrieving the broken key piece, there might sometimes be one more step involved in the broken key extraction process.
5. Replacing The Broken Key
Removing the broken key from the lock has made that door or ignition switch usable again, but you’re still left with a broken key. The good news is that you can have a locksmith obtain a replacement for you as soon as possible if you don’t already have a backup copy.
Call ASAP Locksmith For Our Broken Key Extraction Service!
We hope this blog has helped you better understand what to expect during a broken key extraction service. On top of that, you also know how a key extractor tool works. Whether you’re trying to start your car or get back inside your home, only to be unpleasantly surprised by your key breaking, you should count on your local locksmith to retrieve the key. If you happen to live in Denver, then you have access to the best locksmith service: ASAP Locksmith. Contact us today, and our team will happily extract and replace your broken keys.