Why a Car Key Breaks Inside the Ignition and What to Do About It

https://urbandrivernotes.alderbrief.com/posts/why-a-car-key-breaks-inside-the-ignition-and-what-to-do-about-it

A car key can snap inside the ignition due to worn teeth, weak metal, or forcing it when the cylinder is sticky. If it breaks, stay calm: try sliding the broken piece out with fine tweezers or a thin hook, or use needle-nose pliers if a bit protrudes. For stuck fragments, a bit of graphite lubricant can help, but if you can't extract it yourself, call a locksmith—they can remove it without damaging the lock. Avoid using glue or prying too hard.