More often than not, when this happens to you it will be at a really bad time, when you’re short of time and possibly in a location far away from home. First things first: if you have the time, you can follow the steps below to try and get your key out of the ignition. However, if you don’t have the time, or if you’re alone in a remote place, please call a local auto locksmith for help.
What you will need to get your key out of the ignition:
- Long nose pliers
- Compressed air
- WD40
- 2 thin & rigid but bendable metal pieces, like an unravelled paperclip
- A rag
Steps By Step: How to Get Your Car Key Out Of The Ignition
Step 1. Spray the compressed air into and around the ignition to remove any dust and dirt that may cause an issue in removing the snapped key.
Step 2. Spray a small amount of WD40 or lubricant into the lock and wipe away the excess with a rag
Step 3. Slide the other half of the key back into the ignition, making sure the ignition is in the off position and hold it in place
Step 4. Insert the unravelled paperclip down into the ignition, being careful to slide the paperclip within the main groove. You may have to twist the metal as you push
Step 5. Making sure you have reached the end of the key repeat on the other side of the key
Step 6. Once you have two wires running along side the key, take out the other half of the key, leaving two wires coming out of the ignition
Step 7. Slowly pull both wires out of the ignition. It may help to wiggle up and down or, if tough, use the pliers to grip and pull
The above steps should help you get your key from the ignition. However, if you’re still having trouble, please call an auto locksmith. We deal with issues like this regularly and can retrieve your car key, and make you a new one while you wait.
If you recognise that your car key is becoming worn you may want to think about using your spare and getting a replacement. You will be able to tell if you need a replacement as your key will have lost it’s rigidity and definition for example the “shoulders” of the key may not be as prominent as they once were. We offer a car key replacement service if this is something you require call us on 0115 914 2434 / 07970 194 809 or Send an email
Who are CAT Autokeys?
We are a family run auto locksmith based in Nottingham servicing a 300km radius around the midlands and South Yorkshire. We have been running for over 18 years and our services include but are not limited to reprogramming and replacing car keys, gaining an entry for cars, trucks and motorbikes.