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Damaged Key Fob for a 2024 Hyundai Palisade (US): What to Do Next

A damaged key fob on a 2024 Hyundai Palisade can cause intermittent locking/unlocking, remote start failures, or a “Key not detected” message. Because the Palisade uses a proximity smart key system, physical damage or moisture can affect both the buttons and the internal transponder. The good news: you can usually keep driving using the emergency key and in-vehicle backup methods while you arrange a fix.

Understanding Your Situation

The key fob’s case, buttons, battery contacts, or circuit board may be cracked, loose, corroded, or shorted (often after a drop, crush, or water exposure). Even if the fob still lights up, internal damage can reduce signal strength or prevent the vehicle from recognizing the smart key.

🚀 Immediate Steps to Take

  1. Confirm you can still access and start the vehicle: use the mechanical emergency key to unlock the driver door if needed, and try the vehicle’s backup start method (hold the fob against the start button area and press START) if the car won’t detect the fob.
  2. If the fob got wet: remove it from your keyring, dry the exterior, remove the battery if possible, and stop pressing buttons. Place it in a dry, ventilated area; avoid heat sources. If there’s visible corrosion or it was submerged, plan on replacement or professional cleaning.
  3. Protect yourself from getting stranded: replace the coin battery with the correct type listed in your owner’s manual (often CR2032), test both fobs if you have two, and keep the working fob separate from the damaged one.

Your Options

Replace the key fob battery (first-line check)

Cost: $5-$15 Time: Same day

Open the fob, install a new coin-cell battery, and verify lock/unlock and proximity start. This helps if the damage is minor or the drop jarred the battery contact.

âś“ Pros:
  • Fast and inexpensive
  • May restore range and reliability if the issue is low power or loose battery contact
âś— Cons:
  • Won’t fix water intrusion, cracked circuit boards, or broken buttons
  • Opening a damaged shell can worsen broken clips or seals

Replace the outer shell/case (reuse the internal electronics)

Cost: $15-$60 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

Transfer the circuit board and battery into a new fob shell when the problem is a cracked case, missing buttons, or a broken key ring loop—while the electronics still work.

âś“ Pros:
  • Cheaper than a full smart key replacement
  • No vehicle programming needed if you reuse the original circuit board
âś— Cons:
  • Not suitable if the circuit board is damaged or corroded
  • Incorrect shell style can cause poor button feel or fitment issues

Professional key fob repair/cleaning (electronics salvage)

Cost: $40-$150 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

A specialist inspects the circuit board, repairs solder joints, replaces microswitches, and/or cleans corrosion (common after drops or minor moisture exposure).

âś“ Pros:
  • Can save an original smart key that otherwise seems dead
  • Often less expensive than dealer replacement
âś— Cons:
  • Not always successful, especially after heavy water damage
  • Quality varies by provider; may not include warranty

Buy a new OEM smart key and have it programmed (dealer)

Cost: $250-$600 Time: Same day / 1-3 days

Purchase an OEM Hyundai smart key fob and have the dealer cut the emergency key (if needed) and program the new fob to your Palisade’s immobilizer/smart key system.

âś“ Pros:
  • Highest compatibility and reliability
  • Dealer can verify programming, remote functions, and proximity operation
âś— Cons:
  • Most expensive option
  • May require appointments, proof of ownership, and both existing keys (if available)

Mobile automotive locksmith replacement/programming (aftermarket or OEM)

Cost: $180-$450 Time: Same day

A licensed locksmith supplies a compatible smart key (sometimes aftermarket, sometimes OEM) and programs it on-site. They may also cut the emergency key blade.

âś“ Pros:
  • Convenient—service comes to you
  • Often faster and less expensive than the dealer
âś— Cons:
  • Aftermarket fobs can have shorter range or inconsistent button feel
  • Not all locksmiths can program late-model Hyundai smart keys—verify capability for 2024 Palisade

⚠️ What to Avoid

✕ Don’t keep pressing buttons on a wet or sticky fob—this can push moisture deeper and accelerate corrosion.

✕ Don’t use a microwave, oven, hair dryer, or high heat to dry the fob; heat can warp the shell and damage the circuit board and battery.

✕ Don’t buy a random used fob online assuming it will program; used smart keys may be locked to another vehicle or incompatible, and return policies vary.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Throwing away damaged key
  • Not salvaging electronics
  • Buying OEM when aftermarket works
  • Not considering case-only replacement

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still drive my 2024 Palisade if the key fob is damaged?

Usually yes, as long as the vehicle can read the smart key. If proximity detection fails, use the backup start method: hold the fob against the start button area and press START. If you can’t unlock the door remotely, use the mechanical emergency key inside the fob to unlock the driver door.

Will replacing the battery fix a dropped or cracked fob?

Sometimes. A drop can momentarily disconnect the battery or bend contacts, and a fresh battery can restore range. If buttons don’t click properly, the case is split, or functions are intermittent even with a new battery, the internal board or switches may be damaged and you’ll likely need repair or replacement.

What if the key fob went through the wash or was submerged?

Remove the battery as soon as possible (if you can), gently dry the exterior, and stop using it until it’s fully dried. If it was submerged or shows corrosion, replacement is often the most reliable fix. A professional electronics cleaning/repair may work if addressed quickly, but success isn’t guaranteed.

Do I need to replace the whole fob if only the buttons or shell are broken?

Not necessarily. If the electronics still work, you can often move the circuit board into a new shell/case and keep the same programmed smart key. This avoids programming costs, but you must match the correct shell style for your Palisade fob.

⏱️ Urgency Note: Moderate urgency: if the fob is intermittently failing, you could get locked out or unable to start the vehicle at an inconvenient time. If you’re down to one working key, prioritize replacement or repair soon—many programming processes are easier when at least one working smart key is available.

Related Information

Need Detailed Information?

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Last updated: 2026-01-04