AUTOMOTIVE Q & A

At AutoDome, we take the time to explain all of the repairs and give you the most objective information about the automotive situation at hand and allow you to make the most informed decision possible.

So, until we see you next time, here are some of our most interesting questions and answers.

Is it true that too many keys on a keychain are bad for you car?
Yes. The excessive weight of large key chains and key ornaments causes damage to the ignition lock mechanism. The damage is done over the course of about 2-3 years when a constant excessive load of keys causes the ignition lock to loosen up while driving. The driver usually doesn’t notice any trouble until the key inside the ignition lock has a difficult time turning the ignition lock mechanism. It may get stuck in one position or another or not turn at all.  After such dangling damage has occurred, it may be possible to start the car with a totally random key, which is good news for carjackers. About 90% of the time, the ignition lock cylinder needs to be replaced as a direct result of excessive keys on the key chain and the damage it causes over years of driving.

How long should you let your car warm up in the morning during the winter?
We recommend 5 minutes when it is extremely cold (-10 -15 F) When the engine first turns on in the cold weather, the air/fuel mixture is more rich than of what it would be under proper operating temperature. A rich mixture means the fuel/air ratio is larger, with a
little more fuel injected and a little less air taken. Revving the engine and driving when the mixture is rich will make engine wear out faster.
   When driving, the first 2-3 miles need to be very smooth. That way all moving parts, like ball bearings, differentials, etc. may warm up as well. Also import point to remember is that the transmission & torque converter need to warm up as well for proper operation. You may have noticed when driving in cold temperature that the transmission doesn't shift properly causing higher engine RPM (revolution per min) and excessive engine & transmission wear.