It’s a scenario many drivers dread, but most experience at some point: that sinking feeling when you realize your car key fob has taken an unexpected swim. Whether it’s a drop in a puddle, a splash in the sink, or an accidental cycle through the washing machine, a wet key fob can be a real cause for concern. But don’t panic! Before you rush to the dealership for an expensive replacement, there are steps you can take to try and salvage your waterlogged device. And remember, having a spare car key is always a smart move for situations just like these.
The good news is, with swift action and a little patience, you might be able to dry out your key fob and get it working again. Water and electronics are a notoriously bad combination, so speed is of the essence. For this guide, we’ll focus on the most common culprit – water – to help you through the drying process.
Immediate Actions: What to Do Right Away
When your key fob encounters water, the first few moments are crucial. Here’s what you should do immediately to minimize potential damage:
Step 1: Dry the Exterior
The first step is to stop any more water from seeping into the delicate internal components. Grab a highly absorbent material like a paper towel or tissue. Before you start wiping, turn your key fob button-side down. Gently shake it to encourage any loose water trapped inside to escape through the button openings. Once you’ve shaken out as much as possible, thoroughly dry the outer casing and concentrate on soaking up moisture around the buttons.
Step 2: Consider Removing the Battery (If Possible)
If you’re comfortable with a bit of DIY, removing the battery is highly recommended. Most key fobs can be carefully opened using a small screwdriver or a similar thin, flat tool. Car key batteries are typically small, silver, disc-shaped batteries, similar to those found in watches. They are usually easy to pop out once the fob is open. If you’re hesitant about opening your fob, don’t worry – you can still proceed with the drying process, but removing the battery reduces the risk of short-circuiting. Crucially, if you do remove the battery, don’t replace it until you are absolutely sure the fob is completely dry.
The Drying Process: Patience is Key
Now that you’ve taken immediate action, the next phase is all about thorough drying. Here’s how to effectively dry out your wet key fob:
Gentle Drying is Key
While it might be tempting to use quick-drying methods, harsh heat can actually damage the sensitive electronics within your key fob. Therefore, the best approach is gentle, natural drying. Although some suggest using uncooked rice, we advise against this. Rice starch can sometimes leave residue and potentially harm the internal circuitry.
Avoid Heat: No Hairdryers or Radiators
Resist the urge to use a hairdryer on a hot setting or place your key fob directly on a radiator. Excessive heat can warp plastic components and damage the electronic circuits. Gentle warmth is acceptable, but direct, high heat is detrimental.
Time is Your Friend: Give it a Couple of Days
The most effective way to dry your key fob is simply to let time and air do their work. Place your key fob in a warm, dry room for at least 48 hours. To slightly expedite the process, you can position the fob on a high shelf in the room. Warm air naturally rises, so the air higher up will be drier and warmer, aiding in moisture evaporation.
Testing and Next Steps: Will it Work?
After waiting patiently for a couple of days, it’s time to test your key fob.
Reassemble and Test
If you removed the battery, now is the time to replace it with a fresh one. Carefully reassemble your key fob. Then, try using it as you normally would to unlock, lock, and start your car.
When to Consider Replacement
If you’re lucky, your key fob will be back to its old self and function perfectly. Congratulations! However, if it doesn’t work, or if it’s behaving erratically, it’s likely that water damage has affected its internal components. In this case, getting a replacement key fob from Keys 4 Cars is a reliable and cost-effective solution. Compared to dealership prices, Keys 4 Cars offers competitive pricing and the convenience of mobile service. We can come to you, saving you the hassle of towing your car or visiting a dealership.
By acting quickly and following these drying steps, you give yourself the best chance of reviving your wet key fob and avoiding the need for immediate replacement.
