Have you ever experienced the frustration of getting a key stuck in a lock? Whether it’s your car, or your house, a jammed key can ruin your day and cause a lot of hassle. If you are nervous because of not getting the key out, then here you will get the solution. You should read the article on how to get a key out of a lock: a comprehensive guide.
If you find yourself in this situation, you might be tempted to use physical force or improvised tools to get the key out. However, without any basic knowledge, you may injure yourself or break the key. You might also void the warranty of your lock or your insurance policy if you tamper with it.
That’s why we have created a how to get the key out of a lock: a comprehensive guide. In this article, we will be discussing the 4 methods to get a key out of a lock. Tips and tricks related to this will also be explored. Let’s dive into this article and explore the techniques to get a key out of the lock.
4 Best Methods: How to get a key out of a lock
We have selected the best techniques to take the key out of the lock for you. It is up to you to choose a suitable method at your ease.
Method 1: Use Lubricant:
One of the relaxed and most actual ways to get a key out of a lock is to use a lubricant. A lubricant can help reduce the friction and loosen the grip between the key and the lock, making it easier to pull the key out. There are different types of lubricants that you can use, such as WD-40, graphite powder, silicone spray, or even cooking oil.
Important Steps:
Step 1. Choose a suitable lubricant for your lock and key. If you are not sure, you can ask a locksmith or use a general-purpose lubricant like WD-40.
Step 2. Spray or apply a small amount of lubricant into the keyhole, around the key, and on the lock mechanism. Be careful not to use too much, as this can make the lock sticky or attract dirt.
Step 3. Wait for a few seconds to let the lubricant penetrate and work its magic.
Step 4. Gently wiggle the key back and forth, up and down, and side to side, without applying too much force. You should feel the key gradually loosening and sliding out of the lock.
Step 5. Once the key is out, wipe it and the lock with a clean cloth to remove any excess lubricant. You can also use a cotton swab or a toothpick to clean the inside of the keyhole.
Step 6. Test the lock and the key to make sure they are working properly. If not, you might need to repeat the process or try another method.
Some tips and warnings:
- Do not use a lubricant that is corrosive, flammable, or toxic, as this can damage the lock or harm you.
- Do not use a lubricant that is too thick or sticky, as this can clog the lock or make it harder to remove the key.
- Do not use a lubricant that is incompatible with your lock or key material, as this can cause corrosion or discoloration.
- Do not use a lubricant if your lock or key is already wet, as this can dilute the lubricant or cause rust.
- Do not use a lubricant if your key is broken off inside the lock, as this can make it harder to extract the key with other methods.
Method 2: Use Pliers:
The second technique is that you can try to get a key out of a lock is by using pliers. Pliers are handy tools that can help you grip the key and pull it out with more leverage and control. However, this method is only suitable for situations where the key is not completely inserted into the lock, and there is enough of the key exposed to grab with the pliers.
Important Steps:
Step 1. Choose a pair of pliers that are small enough to fit into the space between the key and the lock. You can use needle-nose pliers, locking pliers, or even tweezers, depending on the size and shape of the key.
Step 2. Carefully position the pliers around the exposed part of the key, as close to the lock as possible. Make sure the pliers are aligned with the key and not at an angle, as this can cause the key to twist or break.
Step 3. Gently squeeze the pliers to grip the key firmly, but not too tightly, as this can damage or bend the key.
Step 4. Slowly pull the key out of the lock, using a steady and even force. Do not jerk or yank the key, as this can cause the key to snap or the lock to jam.
Step 5. Once the key is out, inspect it and the lock for any damage or debris. You can use a cloth, a cotton swab, or a toothpick to clean the key and the lock if needed.
Step 6. Test the lock and the key to make sure they are working properly. If not, you might need to repeat the process or try another method.
Some tips and warnings:
- Do not use pliers that are too big, too small, or too sharp, as this can damage the key or the lock.
- Do not use pliers that are rusty, dirty, or oily, as this can contaminate the key or the lock.
- Do not use pliers if the key is completely inserted into the lock, as this can push the key further in or damage the lock mechanism.
- Do not use pliers if the key is broken off inside the lock, as this can make it harder to extract the key with other methods.
Method 3: Use a Jigsaw Blade:
A more advanced method that you can try to get a key out of a lock is to use a jigsaw blade. A jigsaw blade can help you retrieve the key from the lock. Insert the thin and flexible blade into the keyhole, hook the key, and pull it out gently However, this method is only suitable for situations where the key is broken off inside the lock, and there is a small gap between the key and the lock.
Important Steps:
Step 1. Choose a jigsaw blade that is thin enough to fit into the keyhole, but thick enough to withstand some pressure. You can use a metal hacksaw blade, a coping saw blade, or even a metal file, depending on the size and shape of the keyhole.
Step 2. Carefully insert the jigsaw blade into the keyhole, along the same side as the teeth of the key. Make sure the jigsaw blade is facing the opposite direction of the key so that the teeth of the blade can catch the teeth of the key.
Step 3. Gently slide the jigsaw blade into the keyhole, until you feel it touch the key. Do not force the blade in, as this can damage the key or the lock.
Step 4. Slowly pull the jigsaw blade out of the keyhole, while applying a slight downward pressure. You should feel the blade hooking the key and dragging it out of the lock.
Step 5. Once the key is out, remove the jigsaw blade and check it and the lock for any damage or debris. You can use a cloth, a cotton swab, or a toothpick to clean the blade and the lock if needed.
Step 6. Test the lock and the key to make sure they are working properly. If not, you might need to repeat the process or try another method.
Some tips and warnings:
- Do not use a jigsaw blade that is too thick, too long, or too curved, as this can damage the key or the lock.
- Do not use a jigsaw blade that is dull, bent, or broken, as this can reduce its effectiveness or harm you.
- Only use a jigsaw blade when the key breaks off inside the lock. Otherwise, you might push the key deeper or harm the lock mechanism.
- Do not use a jigsaw blade if the key is flush with the lock, as this can make it impossible to hook the key or damage the lock mechanism.
Method 4: Use a Broken Key Extractor:
The most professional and reliable method that you can use to get a key out of a lock is to use a broken key extractor. A broken key extractor is a specialized tool that is designed to remove broken keys from locks. It consists of a metal handle and a spiral tip that can be inserted into the keyhole and twisted to catch the key and pull it out.
Important Steps:
Step 1. Choose a broken key extractor that fits the type and size of your lock and key. You can buy a broken key extractor online or from a hardware store, or you can ask a locksmith to lend you one.
Step 2. Carefully insert the spiral tip of the extractor into the keyhole, along the same side as the teeth of the key. Make sure the extractor is facing the same direction as the key so that the spiral tip can catch the key.
Step 3. Gently twist the handle of the extractor clockwise, until you feel it hooking the key. Do not force the extractor in, as this can damage the key or the lock.
Step 4. Slowly pull the extractor out of the keyhole, while maintaining the twist. You should feel the key coming out with the extractor.
Step 5. Once the key is out, remove the extractor and check it and the lock for any damage or debris. You can use a cloth, a cotton swab, or a toothpick to clean the extractor and the lock if needed.
Step 6. Test the lock and the key to make sure they are working properly. If not, you might need to repeat the process or try another method.
Some tips and warnings:
- Do not use a broken key extractor that is too big, too small, or too blunt, as this can damage the key or the lock.
- Do not use a broken key extractor that is rusty, dirty, or oily, as this can contaminate the key or the lock.
- Try not to use a broken key extractor if the key is not broken off inside the lock, as this can push the key further in or damage the lock mechanism.
- Do not use a broken key extractor if the key is flush with the lock, as this can make it impossible to catch the key or damage the lock mechanism.
Video Guidance:
Here is the video guidance to our topic how to get a key out of a lock: a comprehensive guide. Let’s uncover the useful methods and tips to use while getting a key out of a lock.
Conclusion
In this guide, how to get a key out of a lock: a comprehensive guide, we have shown you the possible solutions using four different methods: lubricant, pliers, jigsaw blade, and broken key extractor. Each method has its benefits and drawbacks, depending on the type and condition of your lock and key. We have also given you some tips and warnings on what to do and what to avoid when using these methods.
Getting a key out of a lock can be a frustrating and challenging task. But with some patience and caution, you can do it yourself without causing any damage or injury. However, if you are not confident or comfortable with trying these methods yourself, or if none of them work for you. You can always contact Patriot Locksmith Services for professional help. They are experts in key extraction, lock repair, lock installation, and more. They are available 24/7, and they guarantee fast, friendly, and affordable service.