Drivers across the UK have been urged to avoid using a certain part of their car incorrectly to prevent the risk of being stranded when away from home.
While many motorists see their vehicle as an implement for getting around town and visiting loved ones across the country, a significant number of motorists use their car’s key as a tool in its own right.
However, Craig Andres, a professional locksmith at The Perspicacity Life, warned that drivers who use their car key as a tool for tasks such as cutting tape and prising lids run the risk of it breaking.
He advised: “Keys are not designed to be multi-tools. They’re precision-cut to fit your lock exactly.
“When people use them to open packages, lever paint can lids, or even as bottle openers, they weaken the shape and risk damaging the key – or worse, the lock itself.”
While a metal car key may seem particularly sturdy, if one of the many notches on the blade becomes deformed, drivers may be unable to get into their vehicle.
If a driver breaks their key by using it for another purpose, they would likely be faced with a charge of between £100 and £200 when calling out a locksmith to rectify a broken key or a stuck lock.
Moreover, since a modern car key features an electronic transponder for remote central locking and keyless entry, drivers may also be faced with a charge of up to £350 for a replacement.
Craig also suggested that a handful of motorists are using their key to handle various forms of powder, which can accumulate inside the lock itself, creating further damage.
He added: “More recently, we’ve noticed keys being used for recreational purposes too – including handling powders or other substances. Residue from this can easily build up inside the lock cylinder, leading to blockages or seizing over time.
“Think of your key like a tool that fits a single lock – not a multipurpose tool. With proper care, your key and lock will last for years. But if you use it to open beer bottles, scoop substances, or force packaging, you’re asking for trouble.”
In addition to only using a car key for its intended purpose, drivers were also advised by The Perspicacity Life to avoid fitting heavy items to the keyrings.
While many drivers like the convenience of having all their keys and accessories in one place, the additional weight of these items can put more strain on the vehicle’s ignition barrel, causing the lock to be gradually damaged.
Motorists should also clean their vehicle’s key regularly, which can easily be done by soaking a cotton ball in warm soapy water and applying it to the metal blade.
