My Key Is Stuck in the Lock, What Should I Do?

When your key gets stuck in your door lock and you can’t get it out, you might not be able to get inside your home or lock your door safely behind you.

In some cases, the key won’t move at all. In others, it might turn slightly but just won’t come out.

This is often caused by dirt inside the lock, wear within the mechanism or problems with alignment. Either way, you need to be careful not to snap the key, as this can cause further problems.

We’ve put together a quick guide for how to remove a stuck key from a door lock.

But if you can’t get it free, you can call DB Locksmiths on 07772 962 247 for 24-hour emergency locksmith services in Bristol, Bath and the surrounding areas.

What not to do when your key is stuck in the lock

If your door key won’t turn in the lock and you can’t pull it out, forcing it usually makes the situation worse. So:

• Don’t yank the key aggressively: Sudden force can break your key inside the lock
• Don’t twist it harder: This can snap the key or damage the internal pins and spring
• Don’t use pliers: Even if you remove the key, it might bend out of shape so you can’t use or get another copy cut
• Don’t apply oil-based lubricant: Oil attracts dirt and debris, blocking up your keyhole

In most cases, we can repair your lock quickly and easily if the key hasn’t snapped. But if it has, you might need door handle replacement and repair.

How to fix a stuck door key quickly

If your key still moves in the lock or the mechanism hasn’t fully seized, a few small adjustments could help you release it:

• Gently wiggle the key while pulling lightly outwards to help the internal pins settle into position
• Push or pull the door slighting while turning your key, as soft pressure on the frame can correct alignment
• Lift the handle fully on uPVC doors before removing the key, as the locking points might still be engaged
• Apply a small amount of graphite or silicone lubricant to reduce friction inside the lock mechanism

These quick fixes for a stuck door key often work when the issue is caused by alignment, dirt or minor wear. Just be sure to clean and maintain your lock properly once the key comes loose, and you won’t even need locksmith services.

There are also a few steps you can take to prevent your key from breaking in the lock if it happens again.

What to do if you key is still stuck

If these quick fixes for a stuck door key don’t work, it’s time to call a locksmith.

A broken key inside the cylinder is a lot more difficult to remove than a key that’s just stuck.

But a professional local locksmith can safely remove the key, check your lock for damage and fix the problem that caused your stuck door key in the first place.

That way, you can keep using your door locks safely without worrying whether your key will get stuck in your door lock again.

Call DB Locksmiths for fast and friendly locksmith services in Bristol

Our team provides 24/7 emergency locksmith services across Bristol, Bath and the surrounding areas.

We have over 15 years’ experience and plenty of 5-star reviews on Yell. So whether your key is jammed, bent or close to snapping, we can safely remove it and get your lock working properly again.

Call us now on 07772 962 247 to fix your stuck key right away.