Oklahoma Locksmith Practice Exam

What should be done if a key becomes stuck in a lock?

1. Use force to remove it

2. Apply lubricant

3. Leave it and try later

4. Cut the key

The correct answer is: Apply lubricant

When a key becomes stuck in a lock, the appropriate response is to apply lubricant. Lubricant can help alleviate friction between the key and the lock, making it easier to extract the key without causing damage to either the key or the lock mechanism. This method is typically safe and can prevent potential breakage or jamming that might occur with the use of more aggressive techniques, like force. Using force to remove the key could lead to bending or breaking the key, which can result in fragments being left inside the lock and causing more complicated problems. Leaving the stuck key will not resolve the issue, and attempting to cut the key could create hazardous debris or damage the lock itself. Applying lubricant is a straightforward and effective method for addressing the situation.