Key broke off in the ignition: what to do (and what not to)

Do this

• Leave the ignition in the position it broke in
• Keep both pieces of the key. They help match a new one
• Note your year, make and model and call an automotive locksmith

Don’t do this

• Don’t try to turn the ignition with the stub or a screwdriver
• Don’t use superglue on the piece. It bonds to the cylinder
• Don’t dig at it with tweezers or a pin. It pushes the fragment deeper

How a locksmith gets it out

We use thin extraction tools made to slide alongside the fragment and hook its cuts. Most pieces come out in one visit. If the cylinder is worn or damaged, we’ll explain the options for repairing or replacing the ignition.

Stop it happening again

• Replace keys that look thin, bent or cracked
• Keep the keyring light. Weight hanging from the ignition wears the key and cylinder
• If the key sticks, get the ignition checked before the key snaps

Common questions