Is Having a Heavy Keychain Bad for Your Car
When it comes to looking after the car, most people think about the basics: engine health, tires that are properly inflated, and basic maintenance. But there’s one factor you might be overlooking that may cause more harm than good: your keychain. If you’ve ever asked yourself the question, “Is Having a Heavy Keychain Bad for Your Car?”, you’re not alone. In this blog, we will dissect why this tiny accessory can wreak more havoc than you realise, and if it’s worthwhile weighing up the lighter options. Let’s dive in!
Why Does the Weight of Your Keychain Matter?
You may be saying to yourself, ‘Well, it is just a keychain. How can this tiny thing make a difference?” So it appears that your keychain can affect more than just your pants, particularly in relation to what happens when you stick it into your car’s ignition. Let’s examine the science.
The Effect on the Ignition Switch
Your ignition switch is a reliable auto part that starts your vehicle nicely every time. But when a full keychain is added to your car key, the weight may place pointless pressure on the ignition. Over time, the repetitive pressure can wear down the switch to the point where it is difficult to turn your vehicle’s key and eventually becomes inoperable.
Affecting Key Turn Effectiveness: As the number of keys in your key ring increases, it becomes more difficult for the ignition switch to turn. This can cause your key to get lodged in the ignition, making a struggle to start your vehicle. At worst, the ignition switch may break or fail and can be quite costly to fix.
Potential Damage to the Key Fob
If your car is fitted with a key fob, you may not even be utilizing a traditional key. Yet, putting a bulky keychain on your fob can present the same issues. The force may stress the interior of the fob, causing damage to the buttons or actuating circuits. This can result in a malfunction of your vehicle, such as your car not recognizing the fob or having remote entry problems.
Wear and Tear on the Steering Lock
Most newer cars have a steering lock that engages when the key is removed. This lock is good to safeguard against theft and help protect your car. But, like the ignition switch, it is also sensitive to excessive weight. Eventually, a big key chain with heavy keys on it can make the lock wear out. This could cause the wheel to be hard to turn, or in some cases, it could make it impossible to remove the key from the ignition.
Additional Strain on Your Keyring and Keychain
Your keyring can also wear out from the weight of your keychain. This may cause the keyring to flex or snap, especially when you’re squeezing up against your car keys. Should the keychain get damaged, you will need to replace it, and you could find yourself left in a position where your car keys are no longer attached securely.
How Can You Prevent Keychain Damage?
Now that we’ve got an idea about why heavy keychains can cause problems, you’re probably sitting there wondering what you can do to protect your car and your keychain. Thankfully, there are a couple of easy ways to protect against damage and prolong the life of your car’s ignition system.
1. Opt for a Lightweight Keychain
The first and most obvious solution is to choose a lighter keychain. At Cardopes, we have several sleek and minimalist keychains that are practical and stylish yet gentle on your car’s ignition. Opt for lightweight keychains, such as ones made of soft rubber, plastic, or aluminum, to put less stress on your ignition switch.
2. Limit the Number of Keys and Accessories on Your Keychain
Another way to reduce the weight of your keychain is to limit the number of items attached to it. While it’s tempting to have every key and accessory on one keychain, the more you add, the heavier it gets. Would You Like Your Keys Too Keep It Simple with only the keys you need and a light accessory or two to save that ignition tumblin’?
3. Regularly Inspect Your Keychain and Keyring
Check your keychain and keyring every once in a while for wear and tear. Check for bent rings, frayed edges, or cracks in the rubber. If you see any damage, it’s time to replace the keychain before it impacts your car’s ignition system. This small maintenance can save you from expensive repairs in the future.
4. Use a Key Fob Holder or Remote Control
Consider a key fob holder or remote control case to protect the fob if yours is of the key variety. These cases aim at minimizing the risk of damaging your console and fob, waking up without having to put too much pressure on the keychain. And, a case can add some style to your keys!
Read More: Are Seat Belt Pads Safe
The Benefits of Choosing a Lightweight Keychain
Transitioning to a lighter keychain benefits more than just your car, and that’s what you should know. Let’s take a look.
Convenience and Comfort
The lighter the keychain, the less it will pull at your pockets or purse. You’ll also see that the new keys are slightly less bloated or clumsy-looking, making them easier to reach when you need them. And with fewer objects to keep track of, you’re bound to reduce the time spent in your entryway looking for your keys.
Better Fuel Efficiency
While it might sound far-fetched, there is a very small correlation between the weight of your car keychain and your car’s fuel efficiency. If you’re carrying a heavy keychain in your car, it could slightly affect the overall weight that your car has to carry. And although this impact is minimal, removing dead weight can further improve the use of your car in future performances.
Longer Lifespan of Your Car’s Ignition System
By choosing a lighter keychain, you’re reducing wear and tear on your ignition switch and other essential car components. This can help you avoid costly repairs and prolong the life of your car’s ignition system. A little investment in a tiny, pocketable keychain today can save you hundreds on the replacement tomorrow.
Keep It Light for Your Car’s Health
So there you have it, as small and insignificant as it may seem, the weight of your keychain can make a world of difference to your car’s ignition and even steering lock. By utilizing a light and easy-to-carry keychain, you will be minimizing the damage inflicted on your car whilst simultaneously enjoying the ease of carrying and comfort that our product provides. In Cardopes, we provide a variety of nice and pretty key chains with premium material at an affordable price. The change can be made today, which will give you peace of mind that your car is being looked after.
So the next time you’re wondering, “Is Having a Heavy Keychain Bad for Your Car?” remember, less is more. So remember: Keep it light, keep it simple, keep your car happy. Head on over to Cardopes for the top lightweight keychains that keep your car safe and add style to your keys.