this post was submitted on 29 Jun 2025
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1. Type of key?

The brand is Phillips but they make various types. The type here is (not sure of the correct jargon) without vertical ridges and notches. And both sides of the key are identical.

I've looked at some diagrams of key types and I'm not sure exactly. Is it a "dimple key"? Something else?

2. How to remove broken part from lock?

Location: Door between bedroom and garden.

Situation:

  • Someone bent the key a little, and it was stuck, couldn't get it out. On the inside of the door. At that point still able to lock and unlock from the inside only. Using other key from the outside does nothing, doesn't even turn.

  • I tried gently straightening it but it immediately snapped.

  • Now: can still open and close the door using the handle. Can still, with difficulty, lock and unlock the door (from inside only) by carefully pressing the head of the key against what is in the lock and turning.

A lot of info online for removing broken key blades from locks are for the "traditional" kind of key with vertical ridges and notches.

I have a screwdriver that fits all the screws and I can access all sides of the lock (inside, outside, edge), but I'm not sure if that's relevant. I've tried tweezers but it's too snug.

If I need more tools or equipment, I'll get them tomorrow.

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[–] marlowe221@lemmy.world 15 points 18 hours ago (1 children)

Yep. I’ve also used a paper clip, straightened out with a very small bend at the end.

I’ve also used chewing gum, though you have to wait it for it to harden a little. Duct tape might work too.

You only have to get it to move out a tiny amount. Then you can get a pair of needle nose pliers on it and pull it out.

That particular key looks challenging though.

[–] Lodespawn@aussie.zone 3 points 17 hours ago (1 children)

Tried a dab of super glue on a paper clip then held to the key?

[–] SreudianFlip@sh.itjust.works 10 points 17 hours ago* (last edited 17 hours ago) (1 children)

Not likely enough surface area for cyanoacrylate to do its magic, though one could try to glue the key pieces together and hope it holds long enough for a partial pull. Likely to just glue the broken piece in there by accident.

Hot glue is gooey and will grab the broken part.

[–] Lodespawn@aussie.zone 2 points 16 hours ago

I would have thought you'd struggle to get hot glue to bond sufficiently the metal or be able to get a small enough amount on a something thin enough quickly enough to get it to stick to the key end without getting all over the barrel.