Many car owners don’t realise that extreme weather conditions can impact their car keys and ignition barrels, potentially leaving them stranded at the worst possible moment. Whether it’s the cold of winter or the scorching heat of summer, changes in temperature and humidity can cause key and ignition-related failures. Understanding these issues can help you take proactive steps to keep your vehicle functioning smoothly all year round.
How Hot Weather Affects Car Keys & Ignition Barrels
During the summer months, high temperatures can cause metal components in your car’s ignition system to expand, leading to issues such as:
- Sticky or Stiff Ignition Barrels – As temperatures rise, the metal inside the ignition barrel expands slightly, sometimes making it harder to insert or turn the key.
- Worn-Out Internal Components – Prolonged heat exposure can dry out lubricants inside the ignition mechanism, leading to increased friction and wear.
- Damaged Key Fobs & Electronics – Heat can overheat key fobs, causing battery drain, damage to internal circuits, or even making buttons unresponsive.
- Warped Plastic Components – Some modern ignition barrels and key fobs include plastic elements that can become brittle or deformed due to prolonged heat exposure inside a car.
- Battery Failures in Keyless Entry Systems – Many car key fobs use small lithium batteries, which drain faster in high temperatures, reducing signal strength and range.
How Cold Weather Affects Car Keys & Ignition Systems
Winter brings its challenges for car keys and ignition barrels. Cold temperatures can cause:
- Frozen or Stiff Locks & Ignition Barrels – Moisture inside the lock can freeze, making it difficult to insert or turn the key.
- Brittle & Cracked Plastic Key Fobs – Extreme cold can make plastic key fobs and buttons more prone to cracking or breaking.
- Weakened Key Fob Batteries – Cold weather reduces the efficiency of batteries, meaning key fobs might not work unless you are closer to the car.
- Increased Risk of Key Breakage – In freezing temperatures, metal keys can become more brittle, increasing the chance of snapping inside the ignition if too much force is used.
How to Prevent Weather-Related Car Key & Ignition Issues
To keep your car keys and ignition barrels working properly throughout the year, consider the following tips:
For Hot Weather:
- Avoid leaving your keys in direct sunlight or inside a hot car. Store them in a shaded area when possible.
- WD40 silicone-based lubricants to prevent ignition barrels from drying out in high temperatures.
- Replace key fob batteries regularly to avoid heat-related failures.
- Consider key fob protective cases to shield them from extreme heat.
For Cold Weather:
- Keep your key fob in your pocket rather than leaving it in the car overnight to keep it warm.
- Use de-icer sprays on frozen locks instead of forcing the key inside.
- Apply a small amount of lock lubricant before winter sets in to prevent freezing inside the ignition barrel.
- Carry a spare key to avoid being locked out if your primary key fails due to cold weather.
What to Do If Your Car Key or Ignition Barrel Fails
If you find yourself struggling with a stuck key, a non-responsive fob, or an ignition that won’t turn, don’t force it! This could cause further damage. Instead, call a professional auto locksmith like 247 Auto Locksmith for expert assistance. We provide mobile key-cutting, ignition repairs, and emergency locksmith services across Sussex, Haywards Heath, Horsham, East Grinstead, Crawley, and Gatwick.
Why Choose 247 Auto Locksmith?
- RAC Accredited & Fully Insured – Unlike untrained locksmiths, we have years of hands-on experience and proper accreditation.
- Expert Ignition Barrel Repairs & Replacements – We can repair stuck ignitions or replace them entirely if needed.
- Fast Mobile Response – We aim to reach you within the hour, ensuring you’re not left stranded.
- All Car Brands Covered – We work with all makes and models, from Ford, BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, and Audi to Toyota, Nissan, Peugeot, and more.
Need Help? Contact 247 Auto Locksmith Today!
If your car key stops working, your ignition barrel is stuck, or your key fob is malfunctioning, contact 247 Auto Locksmith today at 07921365247. Our expert team is available to provide fast, professional service across Sussex, Haywards Heath, Horsham, East Grinstead, Crawley, and Gatwick. Don’t let the weather leave you stranded—call us now!