How to Remove Broken Key from Thule Lock Cylinder

Updated 12/29/2010 | Published 12/28/2010

Question:

Temperatures below Minus fifteen and the key broke in half in the Thule lock cylinder. Part of the key is in the lock. Whats the best way to remove this lock, since I cannot a universal key changer? I look forward to your advice. Thank you.

asked by: Kelvin

Expert Reply:

I spoke with my contact at Thule, and she did have a few suggestions for you to try. She said some people have had success retrieving broken keys using a paperclip. Try wiggling the key out using the paperclip along the ridged side of the key. I have had luck in the past using dental picks to work broken keys out of a lock cylinder. If enough of the key stem is protruding from the lock, you could also try grasping the key with needle nosed pliers and removing it that way.

If you are unable to get the key out, the last option would be to have a locksmith drill out the lock cylinder. This would need to be done very carefully to avoid damaging the lock housing.

If needed, we do offer the Thule lock cylinders in keyed-alike packs like part # TH450600, which includes 6 cylinders.

expert reply by: Sarah L