If your car key is stuck in the ignition switch, you can try a few things before you give up. Here we will show you how to get a broken key out of ignition switch.
Having a broken key in your ignition switch can be very frustrating. The good news is that removing the broken key yourself is possible without having to call a tow truck or a local locksmith. Be sure to follow these steps:
How to get a broken key out of ignition switch in 4 easy steps
Step #1: First, insert the key’s working part into the ignition switch. If you can do this, then you should be able to turn the ignition and start the car.
Step #2: If you cannot insert the key’s working part into the ignition switch, you will need to find something that can be used as a lever. A paperclip or a bobby pin can work well for this purpose. Bend the paperclip or bobby pin so that it has a 90-degree angle.
Step #3: Next, insert the paperclip or bobby pin into the hole on the side of the ignition switch. You may need to wiggle it around a bit until you feel it touch the broken key.
Step #4: Once you feel the paperclip or bobby pin touch the broken key, start pushing and twisting it to remove the broken key from the ignition switch. It may take some time and patience, but eventually, you should be able to get the broken key out.
With this tutorial, you should be able to get the key out, and if it happens again, here you can check the main causes for a key getting stuck.
If you couldn’t extract the key or feel like you may end up damaging your car, the best thing to do is to call a professional automotive locksmith to remove that key. Our team of experts is always ready to help you, so you can call us anytime.
We hope this blog post helped walk you through how to remove a broken key from an ignition switch. This can be a frustrating process, but with some patience, you should be able to do it yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions
Car key replacement in Phoenix typically ranges from $75 to $300 depending on the make and model. At West Phoenix Locksmith, we offer competitive pricing with on-site service across Phoenix, AZ—no need to tow your vehicle to a dealership.
Yes, a licensed locksmith can program transponder keys for most vehicle makes. West Phoenix Locksmith has the professional equipment to cut and program keys on-site throughout the Phoenix metro area.
Call a local locksmith immediately. West Phoenix Locksmith provides 24/7 car lockout service in Phoenix, AZ, with typical response times of 20–30 minutes. Avoid trying to force entry, as it can damage your vehicle.
Yes, we service all major brands including Toyota, Ford, Chevrolet, Honda, BMW, Mercedes, and more. Our Phoenix automotive locksmiths carry the tools and key blanks for virtually every vehicle on the road.
A local locksmith is almost always more affordable and faster than a dealership. West Phoenix Locksmith typically saves customers $100–$200 compared to dealership prices for car key replacement in Phoenix.
Most car key replacements take 20–60 minutes on-site. West Phoenix Locksmith comes to your location anywhere in Phoenix, AZ, so you don’t have to wait at a shop or dealership.
Yes. Our Phoenix locksmiths carry common key fob batteries and can replace them on-site in minutes. If your fob needs reprogramming after a battery swap, we handle that too.
A smart key uses proximity sensors to unlock and start your vehicle without inserting a key. West Phoenix Locksmith can duplicate and program smart keys for most vehicles right here in Phoenix, AZ.
Absolutely. West Phoenix Locksmith is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for emergency car lockouts, broken keys in ignition, and key replacements anywhere in the Phoenix, AZ metro area.
Signs include a key that won’t turn, a stuck key, or a worn key that no longer works. West Phoenix Locksmith can diagnose and replace ignition cylinders on-site in Phoenix, AZ, often faster and cheaper than a dealership.
🔒 Need a trusted locksmith in Phoenix? West Phoenix Locksmith provides 24/7 service across Phoenix and the West Valley. Explore our full range of locksmith services, contact us for a free quote, or find us on Google Maps.