Sometimes, people need locksmiths for the most abrupt and unexpected reasons, like a key breaking in a lock. Your key could be fine one moment, but as soon as you turn it in the lock, it snaps in half, and you don’t know why. Since this problem could happen anytime, it’s good to be informed about why it occurs and what steps you should take. 

Why Do Keys Break in Locks? 

Keys are mainly fashioned from soft metal, such as brass or nickel. Though tough, they’re still vulnerable to breakage if used with excessive pressure. For example, a dry or unlubricated lock may force you to push your key harder than it should be pushed, so it could snap. It’s also possible for a lock to be distorted by extreme heat, humidity, or the simple passage of time. Consequently, the key may break if it can’t fit correctly when you exert pressure. 

What Can You Do About It? 

Should your key break in the lock, get some WD-40 and a pair of pliers, if available. After spraying some WD-40 into the lock, try extracting the remainder of your key with the pliers. If that doesn’t work, contact a locksmith to free the broken piece and provide both lock repair and key replacement. 

To prevent the problem altogether, lubricate the lock with WD-40 anytime you notice that it’s harder than usual to turn your key. If you think the lock might be warped, ask a locksmith to fix it. In any case, always use a key gently; there should never be a reason to force it. 

Anytime you need help with a broken key, contact a locksmith at Lincoln Lock & Safe. Based in Lincoln, NE, we’ve been assisting customers throughout the community with all their lock and key needs for more than 50 years. Even if your key breaks in the middle of the night, don’t worry; our emergency locksmiths are available 24/7 to help. Contact us at (402) 475-0002 or send us a message online.