Stuck keys are a common problem a locksmith in Tulsa has to help out with. There are different reasons a key would get stuck and need different fixes. It is best to call in the professionals to help you with such a problem because experience has shown us that stuck keys are the biggest reason for broken keys in ignitions and locks, so to prevent further damage, call the professionals.
Well, chances are even after calling the locksmith in Tulsa, you are still going to try and fiddle with the key in an attempt to get it out. We think you should try the right things to avoid causing further damage, so here are some things you can try as you wait or just before you a professional.
Oil the Lock
If you are using a copy, there is a possibility that the key has rough edges that are preventing it from sliding smoothly within the lock. There is also a possibility that the lock has been used for a long time and so it has rough edges, in such a situation, you need to just lubricate the lock. The problem, though maybe that you do not have any in your car, or you are locked out of your car in the middle of nowhere or it is in the house and you are locked out with a stuck key. In this case, you may have to run to the store to get lubricant, or you need to get on the phone and call a locksmith to come to your assistance. Anyway, if the lubricant is present, use it and the key should be able to slide out with ease and then you should have a locksmith smooth the edges after that.
Push the Plug
This is a solution that usually works for deadbolt locks and key in knob locks. The plug is a small circular part that surrounds the keyhole. It is cylindrical if you can see the whole of it. Sometimes this plug may get loose and this makes it hard to remove the key from the lock. It may be a sign that you will need a lock replacement, but for the moment, you may want to focus on removing the key.
Start by pushing in the key as deep as it can go, and then turn it to align the keyhole in the position it usually is when you insert the key. Now, using the tip of your thumb – while still holding onto the key with the other hand, push the plug in as far as it can go and then gently, note, we say gently jiggle the key out of the lock. If this still fails to work, then the problem is probably more complicated and you need to wait for the locksmith to come and help you.
Points to Note
- Don’t twist the key sideways, that is usually what results in broken keys if you must shake the key, do it up and down instead.
- Even after you get the key out, you need to have a locksmith look at the lock and key to see what the problem is
- Regularly lubricate your locks