Broken Key Extraction — Snapped Keys Removed Without Damage
The Problem We Solve
Once a key has broken off inside a lock, that lock can't be operated at all — the vehicle is effectively immobilised. The temptation is to try tweezers, a cocktail stick, or a small screwdriver. This almost always makes things worse by pushing the broken section further into the barrel. A badly lodged broken blade can damage the lock pins inside the barrel, turning what should be a quick extraction into a much more expensive barrel replacement. Calling a professional early is almost always the cheaper option.
How the Service Works
- Call and describe whether the key is in a door lock or ignition barrel
- We attend your vehicle with specialist extraction tools
- The lock face is cleaned and inspected under proper illumination
- The correct extraction tool is selected for the barrel type and key depth
- The broken blade is carefully gripped and drawn out without disturbing the pins
- The barrel is inspected for any damage caused by the broken key
- A new key is cut on site from the decoded lock profile
- The new key is tested in the lock and ignition before we leave
Vehicles We Cover
We carry extraction tools designed for the most common automotive barrel types found in cars, vans and light commercial vehicles across East Yorkshire. The tools used depend on whether the key is in a door lock or ignition barrel, and on how far the broken section has migrated. If there's any uncertainty about extractability before we attend, we'll tell you honestly on the phone — we won't attend if extraction isn't viable.
Why Choose East Coast Keys
- Specialist extraction tools — not improvised workarounds
- No damage to the lock or barrel in the vast majority of jobs
- Replacement key cut and tested on the same visit
- Honest assessment — if barrel replacement is needed, we'll say so
- Available across East Yorkshire — car park, roadside or driveway
- Fixed price quoted before we attend
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you always remove a broken key without replacing the barrel?
In the majority of cases yes — provided the key hasn't been pushed too far in or the barrel pins haven't been damaged by DIY extraction attempts. We'll give you an honest assessment on the phone and will say upfront if a barrel replacement is the more realistic option.
My key snapped in the ignition and the car won't start — can you help?
Yes. A key broken in the ignition barrel will leave the vehicle immobilised. We can extract the broken section, cut a replacement key, and have you back on the road in a single visit.
I tried removing it myself and may have pushed it further in — can you still help?
Possibly, but the deeper the broken section the more difficult the extraction. Call before any further DIY attempts — the sooner we attend, the better the chance of a clean extraction without barrel damage.
What if the barrel is damaged during the extraction?
If extraction isn't possible or the barrel has already been damaged, we can carry out an ignition or door lock barrel replacement on the same visit. We'll always discuss the options and costs before doing any additional work.
How long does broken key extraction take?
A straightforward extraction where the key is accessible and not too deeply lodged typically takes 20 to 45 minutes. If the barrel needs more careful work the job can take longer — we'll give you a realistic estimate when we assess the situation.