The humble keychain is often a repository for numerous essentials – house keys, car keys, loyalty cards, and trinkets that hold sentimental value. While it may seem convenient to have everything in one place, overloading your keychain with excessive items can have unintended consequences, especially when it comes to your vehicle’s ignition. In this blog post, we explore the potential risks and damages that can occur when you have too many things on your keychain and how it can impact the functionality of your ignition system.
- Excessive Weight: One of the primary concerns with a bulky keychain is the added weight it places on your ignition system. When you have a cluster of keys, key fobs, and other objects dangling from ignition, it can exert unnecessary pressure on ignition switch and related components. Over time, this constant weight can cause wear and tear, leading to an increased likelihood of ignition switch failure or damage.
- Ignition Switch Malfunction:The ignition switch is responsible for initiating the electrical systems in your vehicle and allowing it to start. Having heavy keychain pulling on the ignition switch can disrupt its proper alignment and operation. The added strain can cause the ignition switch to malfunction, leading to issues such as difficulty starting the vehicle, intermittent power loss, or even complete ignition failure. Ignoring there warning signs can leave you stranded and in need of costly repairs
- Wear and Tear on Key Components: In addition to the ignition switch, excessive weight on your keychain can impact other key components within the ignition system. The tumblers inside the ignition cylinder, which are responsible for accepting and turning the key, can become worn or misaligned due to added stress.This can result in difficulty inserting or removing the key,as well as the potential for the key to get stuck in ignition. Excessive wear on these components may require ignition cylinder replacement or repair.
- Increased Risk of Ignition Cylinder Damage: The ignition cylinder is a critical part of the ignition system, and its proper functioning is vital for starting and operating your vehicle. Having too many items on your keychain can cause the key to be inserted at an angle or put excessive pressure on the cylinder during ignition. This can lead to internal damage, such as bent or broken wafers or a damaged keyway, impairing the ignition cylinder’s ability to engage properly. Repairing or replacing a damaged ignition cylinder can be a time-consuming and costly endeavor.
- Safety and Security Concerns: Having a bulky keychain not only impacts the functionality of your ignition but also raises safety and security concerns. The added weight can create distractions while driving, as the jingling and swinging of the keychain can be a source of annoyance and distraction. Moreover, an overloaded keychain increases the risk of accidentally dropping or losing your keys, potentially leaving you locked out of your vehicle in an inconvenient or unsafe situation. A cluttered keychain can also make it easier for thieves to grab your keys unnoticed.
While it may be tempting to adorn your keychain with an assortment of items, it’s essential to consider the potential risks and damages they can cause to your vehicle’s ignition system. The added weight, strain, and wear on key components can lead to ignition switch failure, ignition cylinder damage, and overall ignition system malfunctions. By keeping your keychain free of excessive items, you can help maintain the proper functioning of your ignition, prevent unnecessary repairs, and ensure a safer and more reliable driving experience. Remember, a lighter and less cluttered keychain means a happier and healthier ignition system.