A broken and snapped key is something that happens to everyone at least once in their lifetime. If you find yourself in this uncomfortable situation, it is best to find a find a reliable local locksmith Brisbane to pay you a visit and assess the damage. A locksmith can assist with removing the broken or snapped key and quote you for extracting the broken key from the door lock. Common locksmith call outs for snapped keys in door locks are euro cylinder or Yale locks.

Should you attempt to extract the broken key from the lock yourself?

We would not recommend extracting the key yourself since you might damage the internal components in the lock which could mean replacing the entire lock. You could also end up pushing the broken section of the lock further into the lock mechanism which could make extraction more time-consuming and more expensive.

Can a locksmith remove the key if it is broken and snapped in the lock?

A professional locksmith can usually remove the broken key that snapped inside the lock. They have the right tools in their arsenal which is not usually the case with general tradespeople or householders. Locksmiths are familiar with various different kinds of locks and will know the quickest and most straightforward method of solving the issue.

A skilled locksmith can remove a snapped key for every lock type

Locksmiths are skilled at removing keys from all lock types, for example:

  • Removing snapped keys from door locks like Euro cylinders and Yale locks.
  • Padlocks.
  • Car door locks and ignitions (usually auto locksmiths).
  • Window locks.
  • Doors of garage doors.

Why do keys snap in locks?

The reasons for keys breaking and snapping in locks can be due to any of the following scenarios:

  • A key turning without being fully inserted.
  • Keys sustaining damage without your knowledge (for example, using keys to open paint tins).
  • Trying to use a wrong key.
  • Holding onto the key while opening the door, resulting in it bending and then breaking.
  • Trying to force open a lock that is jammed.

How long does it take for locksmiths to remove a snapped key from a lock?


This question is a tricky one to answer outright since it depends on various factors like:

  • How far the broken piece of key is stuck inside the lock and the reason for the breakage.
  • If the lock is faulty or damaged, it typically takes longer to remove a key.

On average, if the broken key is broken as a result of user error, inside a working lock, it takes anything from half an hour to an hour to take out.

Can you make a new key from a broken one?

Typically, yes you can make a key from a broke one, however, it depends if the break was a clean one. Keep in mind that key duplication machines can make a copy as close to the original key. If the key is not fitting back together properly, the new key will not be cut correctly. Both parts of the key must be retained to cut a new one.