Can you extract a key without damaging the lock?

Yes. In the vast majority of cases, we remove the broken key piece without any damage to the lock cylinder. Our specialized extraction tools are designed to grip the fragment and slide it out cleanly. We'll inspect the lock afterward and let you know if there's any wear that needs attention.

Can you make a new key after extracting the broken one?

Absolutely. We cut new keys on-site using either the extracted pieces as a reference or your lock's key code. You'll have a working key before we leave.

Why did my key break in the first place?

Keys break from metal fatigue (years of use), using excessive force on sticky locks, extreme cold weather, or cheap key copies with thin metal. After extraction, we can identify the cause and recommend preventing it from happening again.

Can you extract a broken key from a car ignition?

Yes. Vehicle ignition cylinders require specialized extraction tools due to their tight tolerances and internal wafer design. We extract the fragment without damaging the ignition mechanism, and can cut a replacement car key or program a transponder key on-site if needed.

Should I replace the lock after a key breaks inside it?

Usually not. If the extraction is clean and the lock cylinder is undamaged, your existing lock will continue to work perfectly with a new key. However, if the break was caused by internal lock damage or if prior DIY attempts scratched the cylinder, we may recommend rekeying or replacement. We'll give you an honest assessment.

Broken Key Extraction in Delaware | Kwikey Locksmith

0+ Years Experience

Certified & Insured

Fast Response Times

5-Star Rated

Delaware & SE Pennsylvania

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Diagnose First

We assess the break location, fragment depth, and lock condition before selecting the right extraction method

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Upfront Pricing

Transparent diagnostic quote covering extraction, new key cutting, and any lock repair needed — approved before we start

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Fix It Right

Non-destructive extraction that preserves your lock, plus a fresh key cut on-site so you're fully operational in one visit

Problems We Solve

Common Broken Key Situations

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Key Snapped Right in the Deadbolt

You felt it give. Now half the key is in your hand and the other half is jammed inside the lock. You can't lock or unlock the door. We extract the piece without damaging the cylinder and cut you a new key on-site.

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Broken Piece Pushed Too Deep

Tried tweezers or pliers? That usually pushes the fragment deeper. Now it's really stuck. Our extraction tools grip from behind the fragment and slide it out cleanly — even when it's deep inside.

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Worn Key Finally Gave Out

Old keys develop stress fractures from years of use. When they finally snap, it's always at the worst time. We extract the piece, cut a fresh key from code, and recommend replacing worn spares.

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Key Broke Off in the Car Ignition

A key fragment stuck in your ignition cylinder prevents you from starting your vehicle and can damage the ignition if forced. Our automotive extraction tools are designed specifically for the tight tolerances of ignition cylinders.

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Padlock or Mailbox Key Snapped

Smaller keyways in padlocks, mailboxes, and filing cabinets are notorious for snapping thin keys. The tight cylinders make DIY extraction nearly impossible. We have micro-extraction tools designed for these compact locks.

Locksmith extracting a broken key from a residential door lock cylinder

verified Certified (DE-LCK-19805 / PA-HIC-15820)

Need Broken Key Extraction?

Call us for prompt, professional service across Delaware & Greater Philadelphia.

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Our Process

How We Extract Your Key

1

Call Us — Describe the Situation

Tell us which lock the key broke in (front door, car ignition, mailbox). We'll dispatch the nearest tech with the right extraction tools.

2

Tech Arrives with Extraction Kit

Our technician assesses the lock, locates the broken piece, and selects the right extraction tool for your specific lock type.

3

Clean Extraction — No Damage

Using specialized hook and spiral extractors, we remove the broken key fragment without scratching or damaging the lock cylinder.

4

New Key Cut & Lock Tested

We cut a fresh key on-site, test the lock thoroughly, and make sure everything works smoothly before we leave.

Why Choose Us

The Kwikey Difference

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Non-Destructive Extraction

Our precision extraction protocols preserve your existing lock cylinder, preventing the unnecessary expense of full hardware replacement.

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On-Site Key Restoration

We don't just remove the fragment; we cut a fresh, high-quality key right at your location, ensuring you are immediately mobile again.

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Universal Hardware Support

From high-security deadbolts to complex vehicle ignitions and mailbox locks, we handle extraction across all residential and automotive platforms.

Broken Key Extraction by Kwikey Locksmith

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Trusted Professionals

Serving Delaware & Greater Philadelphia

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Service Features

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Specialized extraction tools — no lock damage
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Fresh key cut on-site after extraction
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All lock types: deadbolts, knobs, padlocks, car ignitions
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Lock cylinder inspection after extraction
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Rekeying available if lock was compromised
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Mobile service — we come to you

Client Testimonials

Customer
Reviews

4.9 out of 5

Google

"The master key for our commercial building broke inside the main entrance lock. Kwikey extracted it during business hours with minimal disruption and had a new master key cut immediately."

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Adam Y. Greenville, DE

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Google

"Broke my key inside the deadbolt trying to open a stubborn lock. Kwikey got the fragment out in minutes, lubricated the mechanism, and showed me how to prevent it from happening again."

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Anthony X. New Castle, DE

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Google

"Garage side door key snapped when I tried to force it in freezing weather. Kwikey extracted the piece, checked the lock pins for damage, and cut a new properly aligned key."

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Chris T. Glasgow, DE

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Google

"Snapped my front door key right off in the lock at 7am before work. Kwikey extracted the broken piece without any damage to the lock cylinder and cut me a new key on the spot. Saved me from replacing the entire lock."

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Derek M. Wilmington, DE

Verified

Google

"Broke my key in the front door lock. Kwikey extracted the broken piece, tested the lock (still worked!), and cut me new keys on the spot. Crisis averted in professionally!"

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Elizabeth G. New Castle, DE

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Google

"Key fragment was lodged deep in my mailbox lock. Kwikey used specialized extraction tools to remove it without replacing the entire lock. Saved me money and the mailman could deliver again."

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Jacob P. Brookside, DE

Verified

Google

"Garage entry door key broke off flush with the keyhole. I thought for sure the lock was ruined. Kwikey got the piece out cleanly and the lock works like new. They also made me two fresh keys as backups."

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Karen D. Springfield, PA

Verified

Google

"Snapped my office key right in the lock at 7am before anyone else arrived. Kwikey extracted the broken piece and made a new key from the pattern. I was inside within 30 minutes."

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Kevin F. Elsmere, DE

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Google

"Old key snapped in our back door lock. I tried tweezers and made it worse. Kwikey's technician extracted the fragment, tested the lock mechanism, and confirmed everything still worked perfectly. Professional and patient."

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Marcus J. Media, PA

Verified

Google

"My house key broke inside the deadbolt and I couldn't get the broken piece out. The tech used a specialized extractor tool and had it out in under five minutes. He even filed down my spare key so it wouldn't happen again."

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Natalie S. Newark, DE

Verified

Google

"Half my key was stuck in the padlock on my storage unit. Kwikey brought the right extraction tools, removed it cleanly, and replaced the worn padlock for good measure."

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Paul B. Claymont, DE

Verified

Google

"My bedroom door key broke inside the knob lock. Kwikey removed the fragment carefully without damaging the interior hardware and duplicated a fresh key from my spare."

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Ronald K. Pike Creek, DE

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Frequently Asked

Broken Key Extraction FAQs

Do I need to prove I own the property during a lockout?

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Yes, for your protection and ours. We require valid ID matching the address, registration for vehicles, or other proof of residency. This protects you from unauthorized entry. If you're a renter, a lease or utility bill works too.

I locked my keys in my running car. Is this an emergency?

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Yes! A running car lockout is our highest priority. We'll prioritize your call to prevent overheating, fuel waste, or carbon monoxide buildup in enclosed spaces. Call us right away and we'll get our nearest tech headed your way.

Are your locksmiths background-verified?

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Yes, every technician on our team undergoes rigorous multi-stage background verification and carries comprehensive professional insurance. We prioritize your security by ensuring our staff are verified experts in residential, commercial, and automotive lock systems.

Are your locksmiths background checked?

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Yes, every technician undergoes a thorough background check before joining our team. We also carry full insurance. You're trusting us with access to your home or business—we take that responsibility seriously.

Can you get me in through a window instead of the door?

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We prefer to enter through your locked door using professional tools—it's safer and doesn't risk window damage. However, if you have an unlocked window, we can advise you. Our goal is getting you in without any damage.

What areas do you serve?

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Our mobile service units provide professional coverage across New Castle County, Delaware, and the Greater Philadelphia region, including Chester and Delaware counties. Whether you are in Wilmington, Newark, West Chester, or Media, we bring our specialized equipment directly to your location.