Key Extraction · No-Damage
Broken Car Key?
We Extract It & Cut a New One
The single most important thing: don't try to extract it yourself. WD-40, pliers, screwdrivers, and drilling all damage the lock. We have specialist tools that remove the broken piece in 10–40 minutes without damaging the wafers. Then we cut you a new key on the spot.
Don't try this yourself
DIY extraction is the #1 cause of needing a full barrel replacement. If the broken piece has been jammed, sprayed with WD-40, or drilled, the wafers inside the lock can be destroyed — turning a £150 extraction into a £350+ replacement job. Call us first.
Where Keys Snap Most Often
Ignition barrel
The classic spot. Turn the key, hear a 'crack', the head comes off in your hand, the blade stays in the barrel. The immobiliser light stays on and the car won't start.
Driver's door lock
Especially on older cars with worn cylinders. The key goes in fine, turns halfway, then snaps — usually because the key was cut slightly off-centre or the cylinder has worn pins.
Boot lock
Less common but more painful — you can't get into the car at all and the spare is often inside. We see this with hatchbacks where the boot is the only way in.
Steering column lock
On older cars without electronic steering locks, the key can snap in the steering column. This is rarer but harder to deal with — we have the tools for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Key Snapped Right Now?
Call us. Don't try anything yourself — we'll have the broken piece out and a fresh key in your hand within the hour.
Call 01723 817140