We remove the broken piece from the ignition, door or trunk lock with dedicated extraction tools and, if needed, cut and program a new key so you can drive away.
What to do if your key broke in the ignition
Stop turning it. Do not try glue, tweezers or a screwdriver, and do not keep inserting the other half. Keep both pieces, note the year, make and model, and call us. The less the lock has been forced, the simpler the extraction usually is.
Extraction first, then a working key
Once the fragment is out, we check the lock or ignition for damage. If the cylinder is fine, we cut a new key from the broken pieces or from the lock itself and program it if your car uses a transponder chip.
When extraction is not enough
Whether a fragment can be removed cleanly depends on how deep it sits and the condition of the cylinder. If the cylinder is damaged or was already worn, we may recommend repairing or replacing it, depending on the vehicle and what you prefer.
What affects the job
A piece sitting near the face of the lock comes out faster than one that has been pushed deep. A cylinder that was forced may need repair afterwards, and a new key, if you need one, is part of the same visit. See what affects the cost, and check the neighborhoods we cover across Bellevue.
Questions about broken key extraction
Can a locksmith get a broken key out of the ignition?
In most cases, yes, with dedicated extraction tools. How easy it is depends on how deep the piece sits and the condition of the cylinder.
Should I try to pull the broken key out myself?
It is best not to. Pliers, tweezers and glue can push the piece deeper or damage the wafers, which can turn a simple extraction into a cylinder replacement.
Can you make a new key from the broken pieces?
Often, yes. The broken pieces usually show the cut. If your car uses a chip, the new key is programmed to the car on site.