Symptoms
- Key turns fine but won't pull back out
- Key feels stuck at a specific point when removing
- Problem happens more with one particular key
Likely causes
- CommonWorn key with damaged groovesA key that's been used for years can wear down enough to catch on internal pins.
- CommonLock cylinder pins not resetting fullyDirt or wear inside the cylinder can prevent pins from returning to their resting position.
- PossibleKey not fully turned back to the original positionKeys usually only come out cleanly at the exact starting orientation.
- PossibleBent keyA slightly bent key can bind inside the cylinder.
What to do
- Make sure the key is turned all the way back to its original horizontal starting position before pulling.
- Wiggle the key gently up and down and side to side while applying light outward pressure, avoiding excessive force.
- Spray a small amount of dry lubricant around the key where it enters the cylinder and try again.
- Try turning the key very slightly past its normal stopping point and back, in case a pin is caught just past center.
- If the key still won't come out, avoid yanking hard, which can snap it; instead, try inserting a spare key alongside it if there's room, or call a locksmith.
- Once freed, compare the stuck key to a spare for visible wear or bending, and consider getting a fresh key cut.
Tools and parts
- Dry lock lubricant
Dry lock lubricantSearch: “graphite lock lubricant”
When to call a pro
Call a locksmith if the key won't come free with gentle wiggling and lubricant, rather than risking it breaking off inside the lock.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.