How to Remove Broken Key from Thule Lock Cylinder

Updated 03/21/2018 | Published 03/19/2018

Question:

My thule key broke in the lock cartridge. I do have a spare key but cannot use it due to half of a key being lodged in the cartridge. How can I either get they broken key out or replace the cartridge and get an entirely new lock system?

asked by: SUSAN M

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 # TH450400, which includes 4 cylinders.

expert reply by: Jameson C