Forums Forums Enthusiast Forums A - Z Autowirral key snapped in ignition

just wandering what the best way to get half my key out the ignition barrel? Its a clean snap halfway down the key. I can still start my car using the other half that not stuck but obviously i need to get a new key cut as i cant keep doing that forever but i cant seem to get it out

any ideas?

Hi Karl try using a pair of long nose pliers with a magnet alongside the pliers or an electricians screwdriver with a magnet alongside the metal of the driver

Proper way is to remove the lock assembly and dismantle it, most locksmiths and garages will do this, some locksmiths will have tools that "might" tease it out..

If you can see the key bit down the lock then there is a method that sometimes works but you have to be extremely careful and patient.

Depending on the size of the hole you need a matchstick or cocktail stick - whichever fits down the hole without touching the sides.

Put the lock in the steering lock position so that the key could be removed if it was intact.

Cut the end of the matchstick cocktail stick ensuring you have a flat end.

Put a VERY small amount of superglue on the end of the stick.

Push the stick firmly onto the end of the broken key, making sure you dont get any glue on the sides of the key hole. Hold it still for at least 20 seconds and then try and withdraw the key.

Best place to push against is the thickest part of the key near the middle.

Needless to say I don't hold any responsibility if this goes wrong (glue in lock) but I have succeeded in doing this on more than one occasion. Reason for cutting the matchstick is that they are wax covered but sometimes its worth a first attempt without cutting it. After cutting it the wood is sometimes very absorbent and superglue dries almost instantly if it is absorbed.

Sorry off topic but sounds like a milatry operation Lol

Funnily enough, I learnt the trick on a military base

Lol thought along them lines dd

Now the half has stopped working and i cant see the other end of the snapped key to try and get it out.

Any ideas before having to pay for a locksmith?

Can you get your ignition to turn to postion 1, if so, i sent you pm telling you how to get it out.

Willo it wont turn at all now. Steering lock is on aswell

Think im gonna have to ring a locksmith mate. Thanks anyway

It will be a lot chaeaper to take ignition off, and get one from scrappy and put it on. 30 min job.

this is me your talking too mate i couldnt even fit my own lighter haha!

Can i take ignition off with the steering lock on?

You can yes, I can come do it if you want.

I thought you were a true Birko Karl? You should be able to hotwire that baby in a minute!

I've known a couple of girls who could suck it out for you. Not been in contact for a while though...