Key Stuck in the Lock? What to Do (and What Not to Do)

Don’t yank or twist hard. A key usually only comes out when it’s back in the straight-up position it went in. Turn it gently back to that position, push it in slightly, and wiggle it out straight. If it’s stuck half-turned or the key is bent or cracked, stop before it snaps.

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Safe steps to get a stuck key out

1. Return the key to the start position. On most locks, a key can only be removed at the same position it was inserted. If it’s turned even a little, it can be held in place.
2. Take the pressure off. If it’s a door lock, push or pull the door slightly toward you or away from you. Pressure on the bolt can bind the lock.
3. Push in a little, then pull straight out. Gently press the key in, then pull straight back while giving it tiny up-and-down wiggles. No big twists.
4. Use a dry lubricant if it’s gritty. A puff of graphite or a lock-rated dry lubricant in the keyway can help. Avoid heavy oil, which collects dirt.
5. Stop if it bends. A bent or cracked key is close to breaking. A broken key is a harder job.

Stuck half-turned

A key stuck half-turned is usually caught partway through its turn. Try turning it back to the start position while lightly pushing it in. On a deadbolt, check whether the bolt is rubbing the strike plate. If it is, gently pull or push the door to free it. The door won’t latch guide covers line-up problems that cause this.

Why keys get stuck

• Worn key. Rounded cuts can catch on the pins. See why keys wear out.
• Poorly cut copy. A copy that’s slightly off can go in but fight you coming out. Try a different key or the original.
• Dirt or old lubricant in the cylinder.
• Bolt binding on the strike, so the cylinder can’t turn freely.
• Wrong key. Similar keys can enter a lock they don’t operate.

If your key has started working only sometimes, read why keys stop working before it gets stuck for good.

If the key breaks

Don’t keep pushing more things into the lock. Pushing the broken piece deeper makes removal harder. If part of the key is sticking out, it may be possible to grip it carefully, but often this is a job for a locksmith with key extractors. Once the piece is out, a new key cut from a good original or code is the best fix. Our Lost-a-Key Guide covers what to do next if keys are missing or damaged.

Car keys

Car ignitions and door locks have their own quirks, like the steering wheel lock holding the key. If your car key won’t turn or come out, check that the car is in park and gently turn the wheel while turning the key. If it still won’t move, call a pro rather than forcing it.