It’s frustrating when a key breaks inside a door lock. Whether it happens when you’re rushing out the door or coming home late, a broken key can quickly become a major inconvenience. Fortunately, professional locksmiths deal with this issue regularly. But one of the most common questions people have is: how much does it cost to get a broken key out of a door lock?
In this blog, we’ll break down the typical costs involved, what affects the price, and what you can expect during the process.
Average Cost to Remove a Broken Key
The cost to remove a broken key from a door lock generally ranges between $80 and $150. This price can vary depending on several factors, including the time of day, the complexity of the lock, and whether the broken key is easily accessible or deeply lodged.
If the incident occurs after-hours or on a public holiday, you can expect to pay more due to call-out surcharges for locksmith emergency services. On the other hand, daytime removals tend to be more affordable.
What Influences the Price?
1. Time of Service
Emergency locksmiths charge more for services outside standard business hours. Night-time, weekend, and public holiday call-outs can increase the total cost by 20–50%.
2. Lock Type and Condition
Some locks are easier to work with than others. A basic residential lock is often simpler to manage than a high-security or electronic system. If the lock is old or damaged, the process of extracting the key may take longer, raising the labour cost.
3. Extent of Damage
If the key broke cleanly near the edge of the lock, the removal is relatively straightforward. However, if the key is jammed or the lock has been damaged during the break, the locksmith may need to use more advanced tools or techniques, which could cost more.
4. Location of the Key Break
A key broken off in a car door, security screen, or internal lock may have different pricing. Each scenario presents its own level of difficulty, especially if panel removal is required to access the lock properly.
Will the Lock Need to Be Replaced?
Not necessarily. In many cases, a skilled locksmith can remove the broken key and preserve the lock. However, if the lock has been damaged during the break or becomes compromised during removal, replacement may be recommended. This would add to the overall cost, typically ranging from $100 to $300 depending on the type of lock.
Is New Key Cutting Required?
Yes—if you only have one copy of the broken key, you’ll likely need a replacement made. A key cutting locksmith can replicate the original or provide a new key based on the lock’s profile. Key cutting usually costs between $10 and $30, depending on the type of key.
In some cases, if the broken key cannot be pieced together, the locksmith might need to disassemble the lock to create a replacement key. This would slightly increase the cost and time required.
Can You Remove the Key Yourself
Some people attempt to remove broken keys using tweezers, glue, or small hacksaw blades. While these DIY methods occasionally work, they often cause more harm than good—damaging the lock or pushing the key further inside. Hiring a professional ensures a cleaner, safer result and avoids unnecessary lock replacement.
Final Thoughts
A broken key doesn’t have to ruin your day. Knowing the typical costs and what influences the price helps you prepare for the situation if it arises. Whether it’s a simple extraction or a more complex removal with key replacement, trained professionals can usually resolve the issue quickly and safely.
For reliable locksmith emergency services and expert key cutting locksmith solutions, contact the team at Emergency Locksmith Adelaide today.
