Broken Key Extraction in Simi Valley

Common reasons keys break:

• Worn keys — Metal fatigues over time. A key used daily for years develops weak points.
• Bent keys — A slightly bent key puts stress on the wrong spots when turned.
• Damaged lock cylinder — Worn pins or a misaligned cylinder force the key to work harder.
• Jammed lock mechanism — Dirt, rust, or debris inside the keyway creates resistance.
• Forcing a stuck lock — Applying too much torque to a stubborn lock snaps the key.
• Cold weather — Metal contracts and becomes more brittle in freezing temperatures.
• Wrong key — Inserting a similar-but-wrong key and forcing it can cause breakage.

Whatever caused the break, the immediate problem is the same: a key fragment stuck in your lock, blocking access and compromising security.

Our process:

• You call. Describe the situation—which lock, how much of the key broke off, and whether you have a spare key. We provide an upfront quote.
• We dispatch. A mobile technician heads to your location with a complete extraction kit, lubricants, and replacement hardware if needed.
• We assess. On-site, we examine the lock to determine how deep the fragment is lodged and the best extraction method.
• We extract. Using specialized probes, tweezers, and extraction tools, we carefully remove the broken key fragment from the lock cylinder. Lubricant helps loosen stuck fragments without forcing them deeper.
• We test. After extraction, we test the lock mechanism with a working key to ensure it operates smoothly.
• We secure. If you don’t have a spare key, we can duplicate or cut a new one on-site. If the lock is damaged, we can repair or replace it immediately.

Most extractions take 10–20 minutes. You’re back inside with a working lock and a functional key.

Risks of DIY extraction:

• Pushing the fragment deeper — Improper tools force the broken key further into the cylinder, making professional extraction harder.
• Damaging the lock mechanism — Scraping or jabbing inside the keyway can bend pins, scratch the cylinder, or misalign internal components.
• Breaking the fragment further — Gripping a small piece of metal with household tools often snaps it into smaller pieces.
• Lock replacement becomes necessary — What started as a simple extraction becomes a full lock replacement after DIY damage.

Professional locksmiths use purpose-built extraction tools—spiral extractors, hooked probes, and fine tweezers—designed to grip key fragments and pull them out along the keyway without damaging the cylinder.

The cost of professional extraction is almost always less than replacing a lock damaged by amateur attempts.

Post-extraction services we offer:

• Lock testing — We verify the lock cylinder, pins, and mechanism function correctly after removal.
• Key duplication — If you have a spare key (even the broken pieces), we can duplicate a working copy on-site.
• Key cutting by code — If you have no spare, we can cut a new key using the lock’s code or by decoding the cylinder.
• Lock lubrication — Lubricant cleans the keyway and helps prevent future jamming.
  Lock repair — If extraction reveals a damaged cylinder or worn pins, we can repair or replace components.
• Lock replacement — If the lock is too damaged or worn to trust, we install a new one immediately.
• Rekeying — If you want to change the key that operates the lock, we can rekey it during the same visit.

You leave with a working lock, a working key, and confidence that the problem won’t recur tomorrow.

What to expect:

• Immediate dispatch — We send the nearest available technician to your location.
• Rapid arrival — Most locations within 30 minutes.
• Fully equipped vans — Extraction kits, lubricants, key cutting equipment, and replacement hardware.
• On-site resolution — We extract, test, duplicate, and repair without leaving your property.
• Upfront pricing — You know the cost before we begin work.

Don’t leave a broken key fragment stuck in your lock overnight. It’s a security risk, and the problem won’t fix itself.

Once we’ve extracted your broken key, you’ll want to avoid a repeat. Here’s how to reduce the risk:

• Replace worn keys — If your key is bent, worn smooth, or showing cracks, get a fresh duplicate cut before it breaks.
• Lubricate your locks — A dry, sticky lock puts extra stress on keys. Annual lubrication keeps the mechanism smooth.
• Don’t force stuck locks — If your key doesn’t turn easily, stop. Forcing it risks breakage. Call for service instead.
• Use the right key — Similar-looking keys can partially insert but won’t turn correctly. Forcing them causes breaks.
• Fix jammed locks promptly — A lock that’s getting harder to operate is warning you. Troubleshoot it before your key pays the price.
• Avoid extreme key rings — Heavy keychains put lateral stress on keys inserted in locks, accelerating wear.

We’re happy to inspect your locks and keys during any service call and flag potential problems before they strand you.

• Difficulty turning the key — Resistance or grinding indicates internal wear or debris.
• Key doesn’t insert smoothly — Obstructions or cylinder damage.
• Lock requires jiggling to work — Worn pins or a misaligned mechanism.
• Loose handle or cylinder — Mounting hardware or internal components are failing.
• Bolt doesn’t extend fully — Misalignment or a damaged bolt mechanism.
• Smart lock behaves erratically — Battery issues, firmware problems, or failing electronics.
• Visible rust or corrosion — External damage that will spread internally.

A lock showing these symptoms will eventually fail—often at the worst possible moment. Proactive repair is cheaper and less stressful than emergency service.