Help! key stuck in lock

[whizz_4]

My key is stuck in a Multi-lock deadbolt lock. I'd like to remove the whole cylinder to take it to the locksmith, but I can't get it out. Any suggestion? I know very little about this type of repair, so I'd appreciate it if you could be very specific with instructions.

thanks,
wendy

[cuedude]

Hi Whiz4,

Welcome to the board! Here's a little trick I know that may help you out. I don't know if you are right handed or left handed, but with your left hand, take your index finger and hold the center of the lock, while pulling on the key with your right. Simply put, hold the center of the lock in order to relieve pressure from pulling the key out.

Another way to do this is to hold the key betwen the pads of your index finger and thumb, and kind of roll them until you are holding the key with the tips of your finger and thumb.

I know this all sounds kind of funny, but what I suspect is that the locks center piece has become lose. (Wiggles in and out). By holding the center part in place, you actually can remove the key in a case like that. Hope this helps.

cuedude

[Jerry Stevens]

My son's key would not come out of the lock so I did a Google search "key stuck lock" and it brought me right here. I had the key out in a minute. Thanks for the tip!

Now that I'm here, I've decided to see what else I can find!

Jerry

[twelvepole]

Spray some WD-40 into lock. Often locks just need a little lubrication. If it is still difficult to operate after lubrication, then the problem lies in the lock. This could be a symptom of worn tumblers inside lock. If so, then it may be time for a lock replacement.

If your key is stuck in a lock, turn the key to an upright position; then pull out with one hand while pushing in the small core immediately surrounding the key. If the problem is the key, you must replace your key if the problem persists or if the key does not open the lock. Eventually your key may break off inside of the lock, requiring a lock change.

[dennism220]

I got here just like Jerry did. (via google.) Now, I guess I need to return the lock since its only 12 hours old! Shouldn't be worn yet.

Thanks again!
Den

[cuedude]

Hi Den,

Just a quick note here. (Before the Huricane blows me away). I would take it back to the people you bought it from, tell then the lock is lose, and should be tightened. (Key won't come out). And you are right, being so new, lubrication is not the issue. Nor should it be lose. Have them fix it for you.

cuedude

[dennism220]

Thanks for the reply cue. Best of luck with that storm!

Den

[jasmemphis]

Did a google on 'key stuck in lock' and the advice I found here did the trick. Phew! Thanks so much for the help, y'all.

[GlobalLocky]

Just as a follow up....No true locksmith or lock technician will ever recommend to use WD-40 on any lock part. It is a water displacement product only...and not a lubricant. More often WD-40 will cause further damage to your locks. Refrain from using it on locks unless you must.

[sabrina95030]

What should I use to use to lubricate my lock? I thought WD40, but was told that that would just make things worse.

[Wirepuller38]

Lubricate with graphite.

[GlobalLocky]

graphite or silicone based lubricants or Tri Flow. Graphite is most common but it can be messy.

[GlobalLocky]

In my opinion, greaseless lubricants can be useful, but often not so useful in lock cylinders. Teflon based or silicon based lubricants ore more often sought by the professionals because they are inexpensive and often longer lasting. Graphite is the most common form of lubricant for lock cylinders because it is a dry lubricant that leaves a protective film on the tumblers, but is also the messiest.

That being said, another lubricant excellent for metal on metal applications (like drilling holes in metal) is Penetrene. It is a petroleum based product that encourages drill bits to cut better through metal.