Do your keys weigh too much?

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Here is a maintenance tip to help prevent an unnecessary trip to the Service Department 

Look Familiar?!

Everyday we see key chains loaded up with everything from the obvious handful of keys, to knives, pictures frames, flashlights, bottle-openers, knick-knacks and everything in between. Although key chains are a great way to organize all the little things you need in day-to-day life,  adding too much to yours could damage your ignition and prevent you from starting your car. 

How much is too much? Probably less than you might think.  3 Lbs is often the weight ignitions are designed to bear without undue wear.

Why is weight bad for your ignition? The extra weight will put additional stress on the tumblers, particularly as the car bounces and shakes down the road, causing them to wear irregularly and prematurely fail. A worn tumbler does not engage the locking mechanism properly, meaning your key will no longer be able to turn the lock.

To extend the life of your ignition system, drive with only the ignition key hanging off of your switch.

You should separate your car key(s) from the remaining clump, leaving just the car key and key fob to place as little load as possible on the ignition. A key ring like the one above, makes this simple.

Your car will thank you for following this advice (as well as your nerves and checkbook).

GM Vehicles get new OnStar Buttons for 2013

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GM redesigns OnStar buttons in 2013 vehicles

 

DETROIT – With all the new features inside 2013 General Motors models, new OnStar buttons may not be the first thing drivers notice. However, the first OnStar redesign of what customers have seen in years will reflect more than just new logos.

Previous OnStar Buttons

Voice Command Button
The button previously dubbed the “Hands-Free Calling button” – a white phone with a circle around it or a plain white dot– is now the “Voice Command button,” featuring a general speech icon. The new button allows for more than just placing or receiving hands-free phone calls. It allows drivers to access a saved route; check Hands-Free Calling minutes or access OnStar Virtual Advisor, which includes saved MapQuest directions or traffic, weather and stock updates. And it will still allow a driver to place or receive a phone call.
 
The Voice Command button also better integrates with infotainment systems like Chevrolet MyLink, Cadillac CUE and Buick/GMC IntelliLink.

Infotainment System

 
Emergency Button
The Emergency button, previously represented by a white cross embedded in a red circle, is now the internationally recognized “SOS” symbol, reflective of OnStar’s upcoming expansion into new global markets.
 
OnStar Button
The blue OnStar button, which serves as the emblem for the 16-year-old telematics company, switched to the company’s new logo which was introduced in late 2010. Some GM models and OnStar FMV already use the new logo.
 

The new OnStar buttons will be rolled out on most 2013 GM models with some based on vehicle program timing.

“While the new buttons are cool, it’s what’s behind the button that is most impressive. The buttons were changed for a few different reasons, but one was to better reflect the software updates that have gone into this current generation of OnStar.” said Douglas McKibbon, engineering group manager, in a statement.

 
OnStar, a wholly owned subsidiary of General Motors, is the leading provider of connected safety and security solutions, value-added mobility services and advanced information technology. Available on more than 40 MY 2012 GM models globally, OnStar is now also available for installation on most other vehicles on the road through a new retail product called OnStar FMV (For My Vehicle). The OnStar RemoteLink Mobile App is a recipient of the 2011 Edison Award for Best New Product in the Remote Driving Aids segment. OnStar safely connects its more than six million customers, in the U.S., Canada and China, in ways never thought possible. More information about OnStar can be found at www.onstar.com.