Can a car key still work after being washed in the washing machine?
2 Answers
After a car key has been washed in the washing machine, it can still be used. If you find that your car key has been washed, do not shake it back and forth, as this will spread the water inside the key, making the situation worse. How to handle a wet car key: Do not press the buttons immediately, as this will allow water to seep into the inner layers more quickly. First, use a dry cloth or paper towel to clean the surface. If you have replaced the battery before, you can open the key's casing, remove the battery, and use absorbent paper towels to wipe away any internal moisture. Then, use a hairdryer on the cool setting to dry it—never use hot air, as the circuit board inside the key should not be exposed to excessive heat. Alternatively, you can place the key in a breathable bag and then put it in a dry rice container, as rice is highly absorbent and can help remove moisture. How car keys work: Car keys mainly consist of two parts: a transmitter and a receiver. The receiver is located inside the car, while the transmitter is on the key. When you press the button within the remote's range, the receiver demodulates and matches the signal. If the match is successful, the car door will unlock.
I've been driving for almost twenty years and have seen this kind of thing a lot. Whether a car key still works after being washed in the washing machine depends on the type of key. A regular mechanical key without electronic components can still be used after being dried. However, remote keys or smart keys have chips inside that can short-circuit and become useless if soaked in water. Immediately take it out, wipe it dry with a cloth, and place it in a bag of rice to absorb moisture for a day or two, or use a fan to blow it dry for a few hours. Don't rush to test it—wait patiently. Using it while wet could damage the internal components. Once it's completely dry, press the buttons to check the lights. If there's no response, it's likely broken and needs to be repaired at a professional shop. Don't neglect spare keys—I always keep a spare in the car to avoid emergencies. Mishandling a wet car key can increase repair costs, so it's not worth skimping on this small expense.
