How to Remove a Stuck Latch

If your knob, lever, or handle set latch is stuck in the door and cannot be removed, follow the steps below to resolve the issue:

What You'll Need

Pliers or Needle-Nose Pliers

Phillips-head screwdriver

1. Uninstall the Lock

• Remove the lock from the door, leaving only the latch in place.
• If you need assistance uninstalling the lock, please visit the Installation Page for detailed instructions.

2. Attempt to Manually Retract the Latch

• Pinch the latch at the top and bottom.
• Pull the latch in the direction of the hinges.
• If this does not unlock the door, you will need to implode the latch.

To Implode the Latch

1. Locate the tabs at the end of the latch.

   There is one tab visible from the interior side of the door and the other is visible from the exterior.

2. Using pliers or needle-nose pliers, grip the tabs and rotate until they are in a vertical position.
   
3. Repeat with each tab.
4. Grip the latch the "figure 8" holes.
   
5. Pull toward you with some force to pry apart both halves of the latch.
6. The latch some come apart, and the back half will fall out, exposing the "legs" of the latch.
   
7. Grab the two "legs" and pull them towards the hinges.
8. This will retract the bolt, opening it and allowing you to remove it.