Yes, a heavy keychain can damage your car’s ignition over time

Key in ignition KHOU 11 12.07.2023

The Center for Auto Safety is the nation’s premier independent, member driven, non-profit consumer advocacy organization dedicated to improving vehicle safety, quality, and fuel economy on behalf of all drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

In an email, Michael Brooks, the executive director of The Center for Auto Safety, told VERIFY that GM and Nissan have previously cited heavy keychains as factors for damaged vehicle ignitions in recall notices.

By Erin Jones
December 7, 2023

“This weight puts extra strain on the ignition lock barrel. This can cause parts to wear out, and potentially prevent the car from starting,” Wynns Locksmiths says.

Do you have several sets of keys and other items hanging from the keychain you use to start your car?

Several social media posts claim having a heavy keychain can damage your car’s ignition. A VERIFY reader reached out to our team to ask if this is true.

Click here to view the full story from KHOU 11 News, Houston.