How to Remove Rust from Car Keys?
2 Answers
Methods for removing rust from car keys: 1. If there is a significant amount of rust on the key, you can use steel wool to scrub it while wiping away the rust with water. After scrubbing, dry it with a towel or soak it in vinegar before drying. 2. If there is only a small amount of rust, soak the key in vinegar for about 40 minutes to loosen the rust. Ensure the vinegar fully covers the key. After soaking, dry the key and apply a layer of engine oil. 3. Use sandpaper to scrub the rust off, which can also make the key smoother. Place the key between two layers of sandpaper and rub it back and forth. 4. You can purchase a rust remover, spray it on the key, and then wipe it clean.
Last time my car key got rusty, I easily handled it with household items. First, prepare white vinegar, pour it into a bowl, and soak the key for about 10 minutes to soften the rust. Then, use an old toothbrush to gently scrub off the rust. After brushing, rinse it with clean water and immediately blow dry or wipe it dry to avoid water stains. Once completely dry, apply a thin layer of Vaseline or olive oil to prevent rust. Keys often rust due to humid environments, such as getting wet in the rain or sweating in pockets, so I recommend hanging them in a dry place or placing a dehumidifier bag in the car. For electronic keys, be careful to avoid liquid seeping in and damaging the chip—wrap the chip part with plastic wrap when soaking in vinegar. This method saves money and effort while preventing rust from recurring. My experience is that early treatment won’t affect starting the car.
