Leaving Car Key in the Ignition

[modineg44]

I have a 95 Honda Accord with 193,000 miles. The keys are hard to get in the ignition; so I decided to leave one in the ignition and use the other to lock the car. I turn the ignition off by turning the key to the first "stop." Will this drain the battery? The car dings when I open the door but stops dinging when I close the door.

Nancy

[Robotron]

No, won't drain the battery. But might make it a target for thieves.

[ninny]

Why don't you try using a little graphite powder on the key. Might make it a little easier to use.

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[Ozarks Tom]

Spray graphite into the ignition lock, work the key in and out.

[plowjockey]

When was the last time you replaced your keys (if ever)?

They do wear out, making them harder to work the lock and/or ignition.

I had original keys, that were never used and after 15-16 years, statrted using them, the ignition/locks work like new.

[joejeep92]

No it won't drain the battery. I don't know about where you live but where I am every car I own has the keys in the ignition and I know everyone around does too

[ninny]

Careful when leaving the keys in the ignition. There might be some liability questions should something happen to/with the car. Insurance wouldn't pay a claim if they found out keys were left in the ignition. Also, there might be some legal problems if your car were stolen and used in a robbery or had an accident. Might come back on you for leaving the keys in the ignition.

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[GoldenCityMuse]

Lubricate as mentioned, i twill help a lot. ANd get newer keys too, that should help.

[AtomicFarmer]

If the key is bent just a tad that could do it too. If you're still having trouble, try using the other key. I drive an '03 pickup and have used the same key since it was new. I got 2 with the truck, so the other key is essentially brand new. Try the other key in the ignition and see if that helps.