What to Do If a Key Breaks in Your Lock in Manchester

Having a key snap in your lock is one of the most frustrating household emergencies. It usually happens at the worst possible time — when you're in a rush, it's raining, or it's late at night. Here's what to do if it happens to you in Manchester.

Step 1: Don't panic, and don't try to force it

The worst thing you can do is try to push the remaining key piece further in or attempt to turn the broken piece with pliers. This can push the fragment deeper and make professional extraction much harder.

Step 2: Try these simple methods

If part of the key is still protruding:- Try gripping it with fine-nosed pliers and pulling straight out- Use a strong magnet (this rarely works but is worth trying on steel keys)

If the key is flush or inside the lock:- Don't attempt DIY extraction — you'll likely push it deeper or damage the lock pins

Step 3: Call a professional Manchester locksmith

Our locksmiths carry specialised key extraction tools that can grip and remove broken key fragments without damaging the lock mechanism. In most cases, the lock itself is undamaged and can continue to be used with a new key.

What we do:

1. Carefully extract the broken key fragment 2. Inspect the lock mechanism for any damage 3. Cut a new key from the extracted piece (if it's a clean break) or from the lock code 4. Test the lock thoroughly 5. Advise if the lock needs replacing (only if damaged)

Why do keys break?

- Metal fatigue from repeated use- Turning a stiff lock with too much force- Using a worn or bent key- Cold weather making metal more brittle- Poor quality key copies

Prevention:

- Never force a stiff lock — lubricate it instead- Replace worn keys before they weaken- Use quality key copies from a professional locksmith- Maintain your locks with regular lubrication

Call Great Manchester Locksmiths on 07949 139 475 for emergency key extraction anywhere in Manchester.