Heavy keychains risk damaging car ignitions, locksmiths warn

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 11 Oct, 06:14 · Archive

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

Auto locksmith specialists at PT Lock & Safe have warned Hertfordshire drivers that heavy bunches of keys can cause irreversible damage to car ignitions. Overloaded keychains place continuous downward strain on delicate internal lock cylinders. Modern keyrings often carry weighty fobs, supermarket loyalty cards, trolley tokens, souvenirs, bottle openers and GPS trackers. The weight of a cluttered key ring coupled with gravity can weigh down a vehicle's ignition and cause it to fail.

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

While carrying multiple keys is not an offence, motoring experts have warned 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, with motorists urged to avoid distractions and hazards. If loose items, cabin clutter or mechanical obstructions impede safe control of the vehicle, police can treat the matter as careless driving. This carries an initial £100 on-the-spot fixed penalty notice and three penalty points on a driving licence.

How it is being reported

• Hertfordshire drivers 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.The Comet · 11 Oct, 05:00
• Hertfordshire drivers 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.Watford Observer · 10 Oct, 05:00

In this story: PT Lock & Safe · Hertfordshire

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