How To Remove Broken Key From Ignition

Ah, the dreaded broken key in the ignition – a frustrating and seemingly insurmountable problem that can leave you stranded and in a panic. But fear not! This predicament is not as hopeless as it seems. With the right tools and a little elbow grease, you can extract the broken key and restore your car’s ignition to working order. In this article, we will guide you through a step-by-step process, empowering you to tackle this automotive dilemma with confidence and ease.

Before embarking on this mission, gather the necessary tools: a pair of tweezers, a small flathead screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a flashlight. These tools will serve as your trusted companions in the key extraction process. With the tools in hand, you’re now equipped to venture into the realm of key retrieval. Let’s dive right into the nitty-gritty of removing that broken key and regaining control of your vehicle.

To initiate the key extraction process, you’ll need to create a small hole in the exposed portion of the broken key. This hole will serve as the anchor point for your extraction tools. Using the small flathead screwdriver, gently tap into the key until you’ve created a small indent. Next, carefully insert the tweezers into the indent and wiggle it around to widen the opening. This widened opening will provide a stronger grip for the pliers, enabling you to grasp the broken key securely.

Assess the Situation

Before attempting to remove the broken key, it is crucial to thoroughly assess the situation:

1. Determine the Extent of Damage

Carefully examine the key and ignition to gauge the severity of the damage. Note where the key broke and whether any pieces are missing. Check if the keyway (the slot where the key goes) is deformed or blocked by any fragments.

2. Check for Obstacles

Inspect the ignition area for any loose wires, debris, or obstructions that may hinder the removal process. Carefully remove any items that could potentially interfere with your efforts.

3. Evaluate Your Tools

Gather the necessary tools for the removal, such as tweezers, a small hook, or a key extractor. Assess the suitability of these tools based on the condition of the key and ignition. Consider the shape of the broken key and whether it requires a specialized tool.

4. Safety Precautions

Always exercise caution when working with ignition systems. Disconnect the car battery before beginning any removal attempt to prevent accidental electrical shocks.

5. Environmental Conditions

Choose a well-lit and stable environment to perform the removal. Ensure there is sufficient space to work comfortably and avoid distractions.

Possible Damage	Impact on Removal
Key snap near the keyhead	Easier removal, as keyhead provides leverage
Key break deep in the ignition	More challenging, may require special tools
Keyway deformed or blocked	Removal may be obstructed, require precise tool usage

Safety First

Before attempting to remove a broken key from the ignition, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Ensure the vehicle is parked in a secure location, the parking brake is engaged, and the engine is turned off. Additionally, gather necessary tools like pliers or tweezers and a flashlight if working in low-light conditions.

Using Pliers

Pliers offer a secure grip on the broken key. Carefully insert the tips of the pliers into the broken key’s groove or serrations. Ensure the pliers are firmly positioned and minimize the risk of slipping. Once secure, gently pull the key fragments outward, wiggling them slightly if necessary. If the pliers struggle to grasp the key, try wrapping a small piece of cloth or rubber band around the broken piece for better traction.

Additional Tips for Using Pliers

Tips for Using Pliers
Use Needle-Nose Pliers:	Provide precision and better access to tight spaces.
Maintain Grip Strength:	Avoid using pliers with loose or worn handles.
Protect Key Fragments:	Place a cloth under the pliers to prevent scratching or damaging the key.
Rotate Key While Pulling:	Gently twist the key as you pull to loosen it up.

Gather Necessary Tools

Assembling the right tools is crucial for a successful key extraction. The following are essential items you’ll need:

3. Needle-Nose Pliers

Needle-nose pliers, also known as long-nose pliers, play a pivotal role in gripping and manipulating the broken key fragment. Their slender and pointed jaws are specifically designed to reach into tight spaces and provide a secure hold. It’s best to choose a pair with a non-serrated tip to avoid damaging the key or ignition cylinder. Here’s a detailed explanation of how to choose the ideal needle-nose pliers:

a. Jaw Shape

Needle-nose pliers come with various jaw shapes, each suitable for different tasks. For key extraction, opt for pliers with straight jaws. This type provides optimal access and allows you to apply force directly to the broken key fragment.

b. Jaw Length

The length of the jaws is equally important. Ideally, choose pliers with long, slender jaws that can reach deep into the ignition cylinder. This will ensure you have enough room to maneuver and securely grip the broken key.

c. Tip Type

As mentioned earlier, a non-serrated tip is essential to prevent damage to the key or ignition cylinder. Non-serrated jaws provide a smooth and secure grip without causing scratches or indentations.

Property	Ideal Choice
Jaw Shape	Straight Jaws
Jaw Length	Long and Slender
Tip Type	Non-Serrated

Try Using a Magnet

If the broken key fragment is made of metal, you can try using a magnet to retrieve it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Gather Your Materials

You will need a strong magnet, such as a rare-earth magnet or a refrigerator magnet with a powerful grip.

2. Insert the Magnet into the Ignition

Carefully insert the magnet into the ignition lock where the key fragment is stuck. Gently move the magnet around to locate the fragment.

3. Retrieve the Key Fragment

Once the magnet has attached to the key fragment, slowly pull it out of the ignition. Be careful not to use excessive force, as this could further damage the ignition.

4. Repeat if Necessary

If the key fragment is not fully retrieved, you may need to repeat the process. Use small, gentle movements with the magnet to avoid damaging the ignition.

5. Inspect the Key Fragment

Once you have successfully retrieved the key fragment, inspect it for any damage. If the fragment is too damaged to be repaired, you may need to get a replacement key from a locksmith or dealership.

Tweezer Maneuver

Gather Necessary Tools

Acquire a pair of long, thin tweezers or needle-nose pliers. These instruments can easily reach and manipulate the broken key fragment.

Locate the Broken Piece

Identify the broken key piece within the ignition lock. Use a flashlight if necessary to illuminate the area. The broken fragment may be visible at the top or bottom of the lock.

Secure the Tweezers

Firmly grip the tweezers between your thumb and forefinger. Position the tips of the tweezers around the key fragment, ensuring a tight grip.

Extract the Broken Key

Carefully pull the tweezers upward, applying gentle pressure. If the key is firmly lodged, wiggle the tweezers slightly to loosen it. Continue pulling until the broken key piece is completely removed from the ignition lock.

Additional Tips

– For stubborn key fragments, try using a small amount of lubricant on the tweezers. This can help reduce friction and ease the extraction process.

– If you encounter any resistance, avoid excessive force. This could further damage the ignition lock.

– If the key fragment is too small or deep to reach with tweezers, consider consulting a locksmith for professional assistance.

Coat Hanger Hook

This method requires a wire coat hanger and a pair of pliers. Straighten the coat hanger and bend one end into a small hook. Insert the hook into the ignition and try to hook onto the broken key. Use the pliers to gently pull the key out of the ignition.

Here are some additional tips for using this method:

Make sure the coat hanger is strong enough to withstand the force of pulling the key out.
Be careful not to bend the key further when trying to hook onto it.
If you can’t get the key out using this method, don’t try to force it. Call a locksmith for assistance.

Here’s a table summarizing the steps involved in using a coat hanger hook to remove a broken key from the ignition:

Step	Description
1	Straighten the coat hanger and bend one end into a small hook.
2	Insert the hook into the ignition and try to hook onto the broken key.
3	Use the pliers to gently pull the key out of the ignition.

Jigsaw Method

This method involves using a jigsaw to cut a slot into the broken key. Once the slot is created, you can use a flathead screwdriver to pry the key out of the ignition.

To use the jigsaw method, follow these steps:

Gather your materials. You will need a jigsaw, a flathead screwdriver, and a pair of safety glasses.
Put on your safety glasses.
Insert the jigsaw blade into the slot in the broken key.
Cut a slot into the key. Be careful not to cut too deep, as you could damage the ignition.
Once the slot is cut, insert the flathead screwdriver into the slot and pry the key out of the ignition.

Tips:

If the key is broken off flush with the ignition, you may need to use a drill to create a small hole in the key before you can insert the jigsaw blade.
Be patient and take your time. Rushing the process could result in damage to the ignition.
If you are not comfortable using a jigsaw, you can take your vehicle to a locksmith or mechanic to have the key removed.

Paperclip Assist

This method is effective for keys that have snapped cleanly in the ignition without leaving any jagged edges. Follow these steps carefully:

Straighten out a paperclip into a small, hook-like shape.
Insert the hook into the ignition cylinder and try to engage with the broken key.
Gently pull on the paperclip to extract the broken key.
Ensure that you have the correct angle to avoid damaging the ignition cylinder.
If the key remains unbroken, try using force with the paperclip to push the key into the ignition.
Once you feel the key engage, turn the ignition to the “ON” position.
If the engine starts, gently pull out the broken key with the paperclip.
If the engine does not start, the key may not be fully engaged. Try repositioning the paperclip and repeating the process.

Tips

Use a small and sturdy paperclip with a fine tip.
Be patient and persistent. It may take several attempts to extract the key.
If you encounter any resistance, do not force the paperclip. Adjust your angle or try a different method.

Compressed Air Attempt

Using compressed air, you can try to blow the broken key fragment out of the ignition cylinder. To do this, you’ll need an air compressor or a can of compressed air. Here’s the step-by-step guide:

Materials Required:

Item	Quantity
Air compressor or compressed air can	1
Small nozzle attachment (if using an air compressor)	1
Towel or cloth	1

Steps:

Insert the nozzle of the air compressor or the compressed air can into the ignition cylinder, over the broken key fragment.
Apply short bursts of air into the cylinder to attempt to dislodge the key fragment.
Tilt the vehicle slightly towards the driver’s side to assist in the fragment’s movement.
Cover the ignition cylinder with a towel or cloth to prevent key fragment debris from scattering.
Repeat steps 1-4 several times, checking occasionally to see if the key fragment has been dislodged.
If the key fragment remains stuck, avoid excessive air pressure that could damage the ignition cylinder.
Consider using another method, such as a key extraction tool or a locksmith.
If successful, remove the dislodged key fragment carefully.
Test the ignition cylinder to ensure it’s functioning properly.

Professional Help

If you’re not comfortable removing the broken key yourself, you can seek professional help. Here are some options:

Locksmith

A locksmith can remove the broken key for you, either at your location or at their shop. They have the tools and expertise to do it quickly and safely. The cost will vary depending on the locksmith’s rates and the complexity of the job.

Mechanic

If your car is still under warranty, you may be able to take it to a mechanic to have the broken key removed. They may be able to do it at no cost to you. Otherwise, they will charge a fee for their service.

Towing Service

If you’re unable to remove the broken key yourself and don’t have anyone to help you, you can call a towing service. They can tow your car to a mechanic or locksmith who can remove the key.

Roadside Assistance

If you have roadside assistance, you may be able to call them to remove the broken key. They will usually send a technician to your location to help you. The cost of this service will vary depending on your roadside assistance plan.

Option	Cost	Convenience
Locksmith	Varies	High
Mechanic	Free (if under warranty), otherwise varies	Moderate
Towing Service	Varies	Low
Roadside Assistance	Covered by plan	High