Broken key extraction in Knoxville
Key snapped off in the ignition or door lock? Knox Car Keys safely removes broken key fragments on-site without damaging your vehicle - and we can cut a new key before we leave.
A broken key can go from bad to worse in a hurry
It usually happens without warning. You turn the key and it snaps. Half of it is in your hand. The other half is stuck inside the ignition or door lock.
The first instinct is to grab some pliers or tweezers and try to pull it out yourself. That almost always makes it worse. The fragment gets pushed deeper, the pins inside the lock get damaged, and now you're dealing with a bigger problem than a broken key.
Super glue is another common attempt - and one of the worst things you can do. Once glue gets inside a lock or ignition cylinder, it can cause permanent damage that turns a simple extraction into a full replacement.
The safest move is to leave the fragment where it is and call someone with the right tools to remove it properly.
How we extract a broken key
Call us
Let us know what happened - where the key broke and whether it's in the ignition, a door lock, or the trunk. A technician will call you back to get the details.
We come to you
We arrive at your vehicle's location with professional extraction tools designed specifically for this type of work.
Safe extraction
We carefully remove the broken fragment from the lock or ignition without damaging the internal components. No forcing, no drilling, no unnecessary damage.
Inspection
Once the fragment is out, we inspect the lock or ignition cylinder for any damage. If everything looks good, you're back in business. If there's wear or damage, we'll let you know what's needed.
New key if needed
If you need a replacement key, we can cut and program one on-site before we leave.
What you get with broken key extraction
Professional extraction tools
We use specialized tools designed to grip and remove broken key fragments without pushing them deeper or damaging the lock pins.
No damage to your vehicle
The goal is always to extract the fragment cleanly and preserve the existing lock or ignition cylinder. We don't drill unless it's absolutely necessary - and it rarely is.
Lock and ignition inspection
After extraction, we check the cylinder for wear or damage and let you know if anything else needs attention.
New key cut on-site
If you need a replacement, we can cut and program a new key right there - even if the broken pieces are the only key you had.
Ignition repair if needed
If the break caused damage to the ignition cylinder, we can repair or replace it on-site during the same visit.
6-month warranty
All work is backed by a 6-month warranty.
Broken key extraction FAQs
We don't recommend it. Pliers, tweezers, and DIY tools usually push the fragment deeper or damage the lock pins. Super glue is even worse - it can permanently damage the cylinder. The safest approach is to leave it alone and call us.
In most cases, no. We use professional tools designed to remove fragments without damaging internal components. If we find existing damage or wear during the process, we'll let you know.
In many cases, yes. We can also generate a new key from your vehicle's information if the fragments aren't usable. Either way, you'll leave with a working key.
Call us right away. We can typically extract the fragment and resolve the situation on-site without needing a tow.
Most extractions are completed in under an hour. If a new key needs to be cut and programmed as well, add another 30 minutes to an hour depending on the vehicle.
Key broke off? Don't force it - call us.
We'll come to your location, extract the fragment safely, and cut a new key on the spot if you need one.
Call Us Directly
Operation Hours
Monday - Friday : 8am - 6pm
Saturday : 8am - 3pm
Sunday : By appointment only