The short answer
What the question actually means
A broken key means the metal snapped inside your lock cylinder. Most people think the lock is ruined, but usually, the lock is fine—the key is just blocking the plug from turning. To fix this, the broken piece has to be pulled straight out without pushing it deeper. If you try to dig it out with a paperclip or glue, you will likely jam the pins or scratch the internals. Once the fragment is removed, the lock usually works again, though you will need a new key cut from the remaining pieces.
The brands that matter
Some locks are easier to clear than others. We see a lot of Kwikset and Schlage residential locks across Northwest Florida. These are standard and usually respond well to extraction tools. High-security brands like Medeco or Mul-T-Lock are a different story because their internal pins are more complex. If you have a vehicle lock, the brand of the car matters less than the type of ignition. Regardless of the brand, the goal is the same: get the metal out without damaging the wafers.
Pricing — what to expect
How to choose
Common follow-up questions
You will pay for the technician's time and the tools used to clear the cylinder. Do not trust a company that quotes a flat low rate over the phone without knowing the lock type. Ask if the price includes cutting a new key. A common question is whether the lock needs replacing. The answer is no, unless the key snapped because the lock was already seizing up. Choose a local tech who can get to you quickly so you are not stranded in the heat.
How locksmiths actually work the job
We do not just poke at the key. First, we use a tension tool to align the lock pins so the plug can move. Then, we slide a specialized extraction tool—a thin piece of sprung steel with a tiny hook—past the broken fragment. We hook the edge of the key and pull it straight back. If the key is buried too deep, we might have to disassemble the cylinder from the back. It is a process of patience and feel, not force, to avoid ruining the lock.
When to call vs when to wait
Call us immediately if you are locked out of your house or car. This is an emergency that requires professional tools. If you are still inside your home and have a spare key, you can wait until business hours, but do not try to use the spare while the broken piece is still inside. Pushing a second key in will wedge the fragment against the back of the cylinder, making the extraction much harder and potentially turning a simple job into a full lock replacement.
Bottom line
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