A broken car key stuck in the ignition or door lock is a common but stressful problem. It often happens without warning and can leave your vehicle completely unusable if handled incorrectly.
If this happens to your car or van, acting quickly — and correctly — can prevent further damage and avoid costly repairs. This guide explains what to do when a key breaks in the ignition or door lock, and when to call a professional auto locksmith.
Why Car Keys Break in Ignitions and Door Locks
Car and van keys usually break due to a combination of age, wear and internal lock resistance.
Common causes include:
- Worn or weakened key blades
- Forcing the key when it will not turn
- Ignition barrel or door lock wear
- Cold weather increases internal resistance
- Heavy key rings put stress on the key
Once a key starts to weaken, it can snap suddenly inside the lock.
First Things First: Do Not Force It
If part of the key has broken off inside the ignition or door lock:
- Do not try to turn the lock
- Do not push the broken piece further in
- Do not use glue, tape or improvised tools
Forcing the lock can damage:
- Ignition barrels
- Door lock mechanisms
- Steering lock systems
- Immobiliser components
This can turn a simple extraction into a much more expensive repair.
What You Should Do Immediately
1. Leave the Key Where It Is
If part of the key is still visible, leave it untouched. Movement can push it deeper into the lock.
2. Check If You Have a Spare Key
If you have a spare key:
- Do not insert it into the same lock
- Wait until the broken key is removed
Using a spare too early can jam the lock completely.
3. Contact a Car and Van Auto Locksmith
A professional auto locksmith has specialist tools designed specifically to:
- Extract broken keys safely
- Avoid damage to the ignition or door lock
- Restore full function without replacement where possible
Can a Broken Key Be Removed Without Replacing the Lock?
In many cases, yes.
A skilled auto locksmith can often:
- Extract the broken key
- Inspect the lock for damage
- Cut a replacement key
- Test the lock before leaving
However, if the lock is heavily worn or damaged, replacement may be recommended to prevent repeat failures.
Broken Key in the Ignition vs Door Lock
Broken Key in the Ignition
This is more serious because:
- The steering lock may be engaged
- The vehicle may be immobilised
- Forcing the ignition can damage electronic components
Ignition key extraction should always be handled professionally.
Broken Key in the Door Lock
This is usually easier to resolve, but:
- Internal lock wafers can still be damaged
- Central locking systems can be affected
Professional extraction is still recommended.
Can I Fix This Myself?
DIY methods often cause more harm than good.
Common DIY mistakes include:
- Using super glue
- Forcing tweezers or screwdrivers into the lock
- Removing trim without proper tools
These attempts frequently result in complete lock or ignition replacement, which is far more expensive than professional extraction.
How Long Does Broken Key Extraction Take?
Most broken key extractions take:
- 20–45 minutes for door locks
- 30–60 minutes for ignitions
Times vary depending on how deep the key is and the condition of the lock.
Does a Broken Key Mean My Ignition Is Faulty?
Not always, but it can be a warning sign.
If the ignition feels:
- Stiff
- Rough
- Inconsistent when turning
It may indicate internal wear. Replacing the ignition barrel early can prevent future breakdowns.
Mobile Broken Key Extraction for Cars and Vans
A mobile auto locksmith can attend:
- Your home
- Workplace
- Roadside location
This avoids recovery costs and dealership delays.
We regularly assist drivers in:
- Crawley
- Horsham
- East Grinstead
- Redhill
- Reigate
- Haywards Heath
- Burgess Hill
- Worthing
- Brighton
- Guildford
- Croydon
- Tunbridge Wells
If you are within roughly one hour of Crawley, same-day assistance is often available.
Need Help With a Broken Car or Van Key?
If your key has snapped in the ignition or door lock, do not risk further damage.
247 Auto Locksmith provides professional broken key extraction for cars and vans only, with mobile service and no unnecessary replacements.
Call 07921 365247 for fast, expert assistance.