Broken Key Extraction in North Dallas

Keys wear thin over time, and a worn key can snap without warning, usually while it’s halfway into a lock. The good news is that a broken key can usually be removed without replacing the lock, as long as nobody forces it first.

First, what not to do

• Don’t keep turning what’s left of the key. It can push the broken piece deeper or damage the lock.
• Don’t use glue to stick the pieces back together inside the lock.
• Don’t push anything else in, whether it’s a hairpin, a screwdriver or your spare key.
• Keep both pieces. The part you’re holding helps us make a new key.

How we remove a broken key

1. Call us and tell us where the key broke — door, ignition or trunk — and the year, make and model.
2. Get a clear quote before we come out.
3. We extract the piece with key extraction tools that grip the blade without forcing the lock.
4. We check the lock once it’s clear. If it’s worn or damaged, we explain your options before doing anything more.
5. We make a new key if you need one, cut to fit and programmed if it has a chip.

What to have ready

• Both pieces of the broken key, if you have them
• The year, make and model
• Where the vehicle is parked
• Photo ID and proof of ownership if you need a new key

Good to know

Broken in a door or the trunk?

Door and trunk extractions are usually simpler than ignition ones, but the same rule applies: don’t force it. If your remote still unlocks the car, you can keep using it until we arrive.

Why keys break

Most keys break because they’re worn or bent, because they’ve been used as a lever, or because the lock itself has become stiff. If a lock has been getting harder to turn, it’s worth having it looked at once the piece is out — see car door lock repair.

If it broke in the ignition

Leave the ignition in whatever position it’s in and don’t force it. Don’t try to start the car with the piece that’s left, even if it seems to turn. Tell us which position the ignition is in when you call. If it turns out to be damaged, we can help with ignition repair too.

Your spare may be worn too

If the key that broke was worn down, your spare may not be far behind — especially if it was copied from the worn key. A fresh key can save you from going through this again.

Related services

• Car key replacement for a fresh key
• Ignition repair for stiff or damaged ignitions
• Car door lock repair for worn door and trunk locks
• Spare key duplication for a backup key

We remove broken keys across North Dallas and nearby cities, including The Colony, Southlake and Rockwall. See all of our service areas.