You slide your key into the ignition, turn it like always, and snap. Part of the key is in your hand, the rest stuck inside the ignition. Whether you’re late for work or stranded in a parking lot, a broken car key can throw off your entire day.
In this blog, we’ll discuss what to do if your car key breaks in the ignition and how an auto locksmith in Rochester can help.
What to Do If Your Car Key Snaps Off in the Ignition
Stay Calm and Avoid Quick Fixes
Breaking a car key in the ignition can certainly be stressful, but panicking often leads to even bigger problems. Many drivers act on instinct and try to pull out the broken piece or fit in a spare. That usually causes more damage to the ignition cylinder or pushes the key deeper.
Take a moment to breathe and assess the situation. If any part of the key is still visible, don’t touch it just yet. Forcing it can snap the key further or damage internal ignition components.
Do Not Try to Start the Car Again
If the key broke while turning the ignition, trying again won’t help. It could actually make the situation worse by locking up the ignition or bending the remaining fragment.
Turning the ignition with a broken key risks damaging the internal mechanism. You could end up needing ignition repairs, which are far more expensive than a key extraction.
Check How Much of the Key Is Stuck
Before trying any tools, visually inspect how deeply the broken part is lodged. If a decent portion is sticking out, you might be able to remove it yourself. If it’s deep inside, stop and don’t go further.
Using pliers or sharp objects without knowing what you’re doing could scratch or jam the ignition. It’s a delicate area, and in many cases, better left to professionals.
Use a Lubricant, Not Force
If the key is only slightly stuck and not wedged in too deep, a small spray of lubricant like WD-40 can help loosen it. Make sure the ignition is turned off and the car is in park before applying anything.
Let the lubricant settle in for a few seconds. If you try to remove the piece, gently use needle-nose pliers to pull it out. Avoid twisting or forcing it if it feels stuck.
Don’t Use Super Glue or DIY Tricks
Using super glue to attach the broken key and pull it out might sound clever, but it almost always causes more harm than good. The glue can drip inside the ignition and harden, damaging the lock permanently.
DIY tricks may seem convenient, but they often backfire. It’s not worth risking long-term damage for a quick fix that might not even work.
Have a Spare? Don’t Use It Yet
It might seem like an easy solution to just use your spare key, but it’s not a safe move. Inserting a new key while the broken piece is still inside can push the fragment deeper into the ignition.
Even if your spare key works temporarily, it could worsen the internal damage. Always wait until the broken piece is fully removed before using a backup.
Call a Professional Auto Locksmith in Rochester
If the key is stuck deep or you’re not confident about removing it yourself, your safest option is to call a professional. A trained auto locksmith in Rochester will have the right tools to remove the key without damaging your ignition.
Many locksmiths offer mobile service and can arrive quickly to fix the problem on the spot. They can also cut and program a new key for you, often faster and cheaper than a dealership.
Also Read: What to Do When You’re Locked Out of Your House
Stuck with a Broken Key in the Ignition?
If your car key snaps off inside the ignition, trying to remove it yourself can lead to more damage. At Speed Locksmith, our experienced technicians offer professional ignition key extraction services in Rochester, using the right tools to safely remove the broken key without harming your ignition. Whether it’s a quick fix or a full key replacement, our team is ready to assist you on the spot.
Don’t let a broken key ruin your day—contact us today to schedule your service!
