Can the car key still be used after being washed in the washing machine?
2 Answers
Car keys can still be used after being washed in the washing machine. Here are some precautions regarding car key usage: 1. Smart car keys: The battery life of a smart car key is approximately one year. Due to varying usage frequencies, battery consumption differs. The power consumed also varies depending on the distance from which the key is used. Replacing the battery of a smart car key requires caution, as any mistake could damage the circuit board inside the key. 2. Follow the battery replacement diagram: Before replacing the battery, the car owner should carefully review the battery replacement diagram. When disassembling the key, pay attention to the original positions of all components and try to use original batteries. During installation, carefully identify the positive and negative poles of the battery to avoid incorrect placement. Also, be mindful of the sealing ring at the bottom of the key to prevent damage during replacement, which could otherwise burn out the circuit board.
I often come across this kind of issue—whether a car key still works after being washed in the washing machine depends on the specific situation. Traditional physical keys, usually made of metal, can generally be used without issue after being cleaned and dried. However, many modern car keys come with electronic chips and remote control functions. Exposure to water and detergent, combined with the tumbling action of the washing machine, can easily damage the circuit board and cause a short circuit. The key to handling this is speed: remove the key immediately, shake off excess water, and avoid testing it to prevent further damage from short-circuiting. If tools are available, disassemble the key to remove the battery, then use a hairdryer on the cool setting to dry it or place it in a drying agent like a sealed bag of rice for 24 hours to ensure complete drying. If the remote functions fail or buttons don’t respond during testing, the chip may be burned out, requiring repair or replacement. For some car models, repairing the key is simple, but replacing it may involve decoding fees ranging from hundreds to thousands, which can be costly. Preventive measures are recommended, such as checking pockets before washing or using a keychain to keep the key in a visible spot to reduce the chance of forgetting it. In short, acting quickly to minimize soaking time is the top priority—don’t delay.
