Can a Car Key Still Work After Getting Wet?
3 Answers
Car keys can still work after getting wet. Here are the relevant details: How to Handle a Wet Car Key: Do not press any buttons immediately, as this can cause moisture to penetrate deeper into the key. First, dry the surface. If you know how, open the casing, remove the battery, and use absorbent paper to clean the internal components. Then, use a hairdryer on the cool setting to dry it—avoid hot air, as the circuit board inside should not overheat. Alternatively, place the key in a thin, breathable bag and then into a dry rice container (rice is highly absorbent and can help draw out moisture). Three Key Usage Precautions: 1. Do Not Keep the Spare Key in the Car: If a smart key is lost due to improper storage, it can cause significant inconvenience, and replacement costs are high. Experts advise against storing the spare key inside the car or alongside the smart key. 2. Avoid Storing Near Electronic Devices: Typically, the original battery in a smart key lasts about two years. However, severe electromagnetic interference can cause the key to malfunction. 3. Avoid Contact with Metal Objects: Many car owners habitually store their smart keys with other keys or accessories. However, contact with or coverage by metal objects can cause the smart key to malfunction. Additionally, in rough conditions, other items may damage the key.
Last year, I accidentally dropped my car key into a pool and was panicking at the time. If the key gets wet, quickly retrieve it and wipe off the surface moisture. Avoid pressing any buttons to prevent short circuits. The crucial step is to open the key casing and remove the battery, then use a tissue to absorb the internal moisture and let it air-dry naturally in a ventilated area for two to three days. That's the method I used, and luckily, it still worked after drying. However, be aware that some high-end keys with chips might be permanently damaged due to circuit board corrosion. If you're unsure, it's best to have an auto repair shop check the circuit board with professional tools to avoid sudden failure when driving next time. For prevention, using a waterproof cover for the key is quite effective.
The severity of water damage to car keys depends on the key type and exposure level. Basic mechanical keys usually just need air-drying, whereas smart keys with remote functions are more problematic. I once accidentally washed my key in the washing machine, resulting in water short-circuiting the PCB and burning out the infrared transmitter. The science behind this is that water causes circuit board shorts or component corrosion, especially when battery compartments get wet and accelerate metal contact oxidation. If the key casing can be opened, immediately removing the battery, drying it thoroughly, then placing it in a rice container for moisture absorption works effectively. However, high-end vehicle keys have complex circuitry where even minor water exposure can disable anti-theft modules, leaving you with no choice but to spend hundreds on replacement keys. Develop good habits - avoid keeping keys in back pockets where they're prone to damage from sitting.
