Is a Car Key Still Usable After Falling into Water?
3 Answers
Car keys can still be used after falling into water as they are waterproof. Precautions to take when using a car key after it has fallen into water include: 1. Buttons: Do not press any buttons on the remote immediately to prevent short-circuiting and damaging the key's chip. 2. Power off: Disassemble the key to cut off the power, dry it with a hair dryer, and then test it. A car key is a tool for locking/unlocking and starting a car, and its functions include: 1. Closing windows: After turning off the engine and exiting the car, long-press the lock button on the key to remotely close the windows. 2. Automatic opening: Long-pressing the trunk unlock button will automatically pop it open.
Oops, I'm the type who loves tinkering with gadgets, and dropping keys in water happens often. Modern car remote keys contain micro circuits that can short-circuit and burn out when soaked. Even if you fish it out and dry it, the battery might corrode the insides. I suggest removing the battery immediately, using a hairdryer or burying it in rice for 24 hours to dry, then reinserting the battery to test. If it's completely dead, you'll have to visit a 4S shop or professional store to get a new one—some high-end keys even require programming. A regular key without electronic components might still work, but for safety, don't just stick it in the car in case it causes ignition issues. Remember to buy a waterproof case or keep it elevated to prevent accidents.
I remember last weekend when I took the kids to the beach, I accidentally dropped the car key into the swimming pool, which really freaked me out. After fishing it out, the remote buttons were completely unresponsive, and I couldn't unlock the door. Luckily, I had a spare key at home to drive back, and it cost me 300 bucks at the repair shop for a check-up. They said the circuit board got fried from the water and needed a complete replacement. Actually, if your remote key gets wet, don't press any buttons immediately. Take out the battery, dry the exterior, and leave it in a dry place for a few days—it might just come back to life. The mechanical part is usually fine. Now, I always attach the keychain to my pants to avoid making the same mistake again. Keeping a spare key in your bag is absolutely essential—it saves the day when you need it most.
