Essex drivers warned heavy keychains damage car ignitions

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 11 Oct, 17:43 · Archive

Auto locksmiths warn that overloaded keychains place strain on car ignition barrels and can cause irreversible damage.

Essex drivers are being warned that heavy bunches of keys can cause irreversible damage to car ignitions. Auto locksmith specialists at PT Lock & Safe say overloaded keychains place continuous downward strain on delicate internal lock cylinders. Many modern keyrings carry weighty fobs, supermarket loyalty cards, trolley tokens, souvenirs, bottle openers and GPS trackers.

When driving over bumps, braking or taking corners, normal road vibrations turn a heavy bunch into a pendulum that accelerates mechanical wear. The weight of the keyring pulling down on the ignition causes the barrels inside the ignition lock to wear down. Over time, the downward drag creates loose or wobbly keys and makes it difficult to turn the barrel smoothly. In severe cases, keys can stick or snap off inside the cylinder, whilst electronic immobilisers may detect a fault and lock drivers out completely.

While carrying multiple keys is not an offence, motoring experts warn that clutter and loose items inside a vehicle can trigger legal penalties. Rule 148 of the Highway Code states that safe driving requires full concentration. If loose items, cabin clutter or mechanical obstructions impede safe control of the vehicle, police can treat the matter as careless driving, which carries an initial £100 on-the-spot fixed penalty notice and three penalty points on a driving licence.

How it is being reported

• Drivers across Essex issued warning over innocent accessory damaging carsAuto locksmiths warn that heavy, cluttered keychains can damage vehicle ignition barrels, while motoring clutter risks fines of up to £2,500.Colchester Gazette · 11 Oct, 17:00
• Drivers across Essex issued warning over innocent accessory damaging carsAuto locksmiths warn that heavy, cluttered keychains can damage vehicle ignition barrels, while motoring clutter risks fines of up to £2,500.Echo (Basildon) · 11 Oct, 17:00

In this story: PT Lock & Safe · Essex · Highway Code

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