It’s a scenario many drivers dread, but have likely experienced or worried about: accidentally dropping your car key fob into water. Whether it’s a puddle, a spilled drink, or the dreaded washing machine cycle, a wet key fob can be a moment of panic. You’re not alone if you’ve wondered, “Can Key Fobs Get Wet?” The answer is yes, they definitely can, and it’s more common than you might think.
But don’t immediately assume the worst. Just because your key fob has taken an unexpected swim doesn’t mean it’s destined for the scrap heap. With quick action and the right steps, you might be able to salvage your waterlogged car key and avoid the hassle of getting a replacement. Ideally, having a spare car key on hand is always a smart move, regardless of whether you successfully dry out the wet one. A spare ensures you’re not stranded while you’re dealing with the damp device.
Immediate First Aid for a Wet Key Fob
Water and electronics are notoriously incompatible. When your key fob encounters moisture – be it plain water, juice, or something stickier – prompt action is key to minimizing potential damage. For this guide, we’ll focus on water submersion, as this is the most frequent cause of wet key fobs.
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Quickly Dry the Exterior: Grab a highly absorbent material like a paper towel or a clean tissue immediately. Before you start wiping, try to remove any loose water trapped inside the fob. Turn the key fob button-side down and gently shake it to encourage water to escape through the button openings. Thoroughly dry the outer casing and around all the buttons, absorbing as much surface water as possible.
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Consider Battery Removal (If Possible): If you’re comfortable with a bit of DIY, removing the battery can be beneficial. Most key fobs can be carefully opened using a small screwdriver or a similar slim tool. Car key fob batteries are typically small, flat, silver disc-shaped batteries, much like those found in wristwatches. They are usually straightforward to remove once the fob is open. If you’re hesitant to open the fob, you can still proceed with the drying process, and it might still work. However, if you do remove the battery, wait until the fob is completely dry before reinserting a battery or putting in a new one.
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Thorough Drying is Crucial: Now, the goal is to eliminate all internal moisture. Several methods can work. Silica gel packets, those small packets found in shoe boxes and electronics packaging, are excellent for absorbing moisture. If you have some available, place them and your key fob in a sealed plastic bag. While silica gel is helpful, it might not be enough on its own for complete drying, so continue with further drying steps.
While some suggest using uncooked rice, it’s not the ideal solution. Starch from the rice can potentially get inside the fob and cause contamination. The safest and most effective approach is to simply leave the key fob in a warm, dry room for a couple of days.
Avoid the temptation to use a hairdryer or place the fob on a radiator. Excessive heat can damage the delicate electronic components inside. Patience is key here. You can slightly speed up the drying process by placing the key fob on a high shelf in the room. Warm air naturally rises, making the air higher up drier and warmer. After waiting for at least two days, or until you’re confident the fob is completely dry, try inserting a fresh battery and testing the key as you normally would.
If your key fob works after drying, congratulations! If it doesn’t, or if you prefer a guaranteed solution, getting a replacement car key from a specialized provider like Keys 4 Cars is a convenient and cost-effective option. Often faster and more affordable than dealerships, mobile key replacement services can even come to your location, saving you the inconvenience of travel.
