Quick Answer: You don’t always need a tow truck when your key breaks in the ignition. If part of the key is sticking out, you might extract it yourself. If the key is completely stuck inside or the ignition is damaged, call a locksmith first. Only tow if the locksmith can’t fix it on-site.
What To Do
Stop trying to turn the key. You’ll make it worse and potentially damage the ignition cylinder. Even one hard twist can push a broken key fragment deeper into the cylinder, turning a $100 locksmith call into a $400 cylinder replacement.
Check what’s visible. If part of the broken key sticks out even a few millimeters, grab it with needle-nose pliers and pull straight out. Don’t twist. Grip as close to the cylinder face as possible so you don’t bend the fragment.
Try the magnet method. If you have a strong rare-earth magnet (the flat ones from hardware stores work well), hold it directly over the keyhole. This works best when the fragment is near the surface and the key is a basic metal type without electronic components.
Use super glue carefully. Dab a tiny amount on the end of the visible key piece, let it set for 60 seconds, then pull straight out. Don’t use too much glue. If any adhesive gets into the cylinder itself, you’ve created a much bigger problem. This method only works when there’s enough key protruding to make contact.
Call a locksmith, not a tow truck. Most locksmiths carry broken key extractor kits specifically designed for this job. The tool looks like a thin hooked wire that slides in alongside the key fragment and snags the blade teeth. They can also cut and program a replacement key on the spot in many cases. They’re faster and cheaper than towing.
Contact a tow truck only if: The locksmith can’t extract the key, the ignition cylinder is damaged, or you need to get to a dealership for a complex electronic key replacement. Transponder keys and key fobs tied to immobilizer systems often require dealer-level programming equipment that a mobile locksmith won’t always carry.
Document everything. Take photos for insurance if you have roadside assistance coverage. Some policies cover locksmith calls and even key replacement under roadside assistance benefits, which means you might pay nothing out of pocket.
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What It Might Cost
- Locksmith key extraction: $75-150
- New key cutting: $25-75 (standard keys)
- Programming electronic keys: $150-300
- Tow truck: $100-200 for local towing
- Ignition cylinder replacement: $200-500
A few things that push costs higher: if you’re calling after midnight, expect a $25-50 after-hours surcharge from most locksmiths. If the broken key has a transponder chip embedded in the head and that chip stays stuck in the cylinder, the locksmith may not be able to program a new key until the old chip is out. On newer vehicles with push-button start and proximity fobs, there’s usually no physical ignition cylinder to worry about, but the key blade used for manual door unlocking can still break off in the door lock, which follows the same extraction logic.
Common Questions
Q: Can I drive my car after getting the broken key extracted? A: Yes, as long as the ignition cylinder turns smoothly and wasn’t damaged during the break. Have the locksmith test it before they leave. If the cylinder feels stiff, grinds, or won’t return to the off position, replace it before driving.
Q: Why did my key break in the ignition in the first place? A: Keys wear down and develop stress fractures over years of use, especially if you carry a heavy keychain that puts constant side-load on the key blank. Cold weather makes metal more brittle, so breaks happen more often in winter. If your key was already bent or visibly worn, that’s the likely cause.
Q: Will my car insurance cover a broken key in the ignition? A: Standard liability or collision coverage won’t help here, but if you have a roadside assistance rider or comprehensive coverage that includes lockout services, you may be covered for the locksmith call and sometimes partial key replacement. Call your insurer before paying out of pocket so you know what to submit.
Photo: Pexels
Stay Safe
- Turn on hazard lights if you’re stuck in traffic
- Move to a safe location if the car still rolls
- Keep doors locked while waiting for help
- Have your registration and ID ready for the locksmith
- Don’t leave valuables visible in the car
Need roadside help? Visit Tow With The Flow for real answers when your car breaks down.