Car Key Extraction: What Happens When Your Key Breaks in the Ignition in Phoenix, AZ
You turn the key—and suddenly it snaps. Now half of it is stuck inside your ignition. It’s a situation no driver wants to deal with, especially in the Arizona heat or when you’re far from home.
At Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm, we specialize in broken key extraction and ignition repair—and we come to you. If you’re dealing with a stuck or broken key, check out our Phoenix car key and ignition services for fast mobile help across the Valley.
Here’s what to expect when your car key breaks, and how a professional locksmith fixes it without damage or towing.
Why Do Car Keys Break?
Keys can break off in the ignition due to:
- Wear and tear (flattened or thinned-out grooves)
- Forcing a jammed ignition
- Low-quality duplicate keys
- Cold mornings or heat expansion
- Metal fatigue over time
Once a key breaks, it’s critical not to jam or force the ignition further—you could cause more internal damage.
Step 1: Assess the Situation
Before calling a locksmith, avoid:
- Using tweezers, glue, or pliers (this can push the key deeper)
- Trying to start the car
- Forcing a new key into the ignition
We’ve seen many extractions turn into full ignition replacements because the driver made things worse trying to fix it themselves.
Step 2: Call a Mobile Locksmith
When you call us, we’ll ask:
- What kind of vehicle you drive
- Where the key broke (door lock or ignition?)
- If you still have the broken half
- Whether you have a spare key
We dispatch to your location, and most extractions take 30–60 minutes from arrival to fix.
Step 3: Precision Extraction Tools Are Used
We use specialized tools designed for:
- Fishing out broken key tips from tight lock cylinders
- Removing pieces without scratching or damaging the ignition
- Resetting or realigning the lock if needed
No drilling. No unnecessary replacement. Just expert, safe extraction.
Step 4: We Test and Inspect the Ignition
After the broken piece is removed, we:
- Inspect for any cylinder or tumbler damage
- Test a spare or new key
- Ensure the ignition turns smoothly
- Recommend replacement only if internal damage is found
In most cases, your ignition is still usable with a new key.
Step 5: We Cut a New Key On-Site
If you don’t have a spare:
- We can cut a new key from your VIN or door lock
- Program a new transponder chip (if applicable)
- Rekey the ignition if it was damaged by the break
We never leave you stranded.
Cost of Broken Key Extraction in Phoenix
- Basic key extraction: $75–$120
- Extraction + new key: $120–$250
- Extraction + ignition rekey: $150–$300
- Smart key or fob replacement (if damaged): $200–$350
All prices include mobile service to your location with no hidden fees.
We Respond Fast Across Phoenix
We handle broken key issues in:
- Downtown Phoenix
- Maryvale
- Arcadia
- Ahwatukee
- Biltmore
- North Mountain
- South Phoenix
- Camelback East
- And surrounding neighborhoods
Don’t Try to Pull It Yourself — Let Us Help
Broken keys happen to everyone. But if you force it, you risk damaging your ignition and adding hundreds to your repair bill. Let our team safely remove the broken key and cut a replacement on the spot.
Affordable Security Locksmith And Alarm – Phoenix
Call now: (602) 854-2766
Book online: https://affordablesecurityphoenix.com
Related Service Page
Need help with ignition issues, key cutting, or repairs?
Visit: Automotive Locksmith Phoenix, AZ