What are the tips for repairing a car key that has stopped working after getting wet?
3 Answers
Measures to take when a car key gets wet: Do not immediately press the buttons on it: Otherwise, it may cause moisture to enter the inner layers more quickly. Wipe the surface dry, and if possible, open its casing, remove the battery, and use absorbent paper towels to clean the internal components. Use a hair dryer on the cool setting to dry it—avoid using hot air: You can place it in a thin, breathable bag and then put it in a dry rice container (rice is dry and can absorb moisture). Precautions for using car keys: Do not leave the spare key in the car: If a smart key is lost due to improper storage, it can cause many inconveniences, and the cost of re-matching is high. Experts advise not to keep the spare key in the car or together with the smart key. Do not store it with electronic devices: Generally, the original battery of a smart key lasts about two years, but if the smart key is exposed to strong electromagnetic interference, it may malfunction. Avoid contact with metal items: Many car owners tend to keep their smart keys with other keys or accessories. However, contact with or coverage by metal items may cause the smart key to malfunction. Additionally, during bumps, other items may also damage the smart key.
I've dealt with the issue of wet car keys several times, and the repair technique is quite simple. The first step is to immediately open the key casing, remove the battery to prevent circuit short circuits and damage to internal components. Then use a clean, soft cloth to dry the moisture - don't rush to use a hairdryer as hot air may deform the plastic. Find a sealed bag filled with raw rice or silica gel desiccant, place the key inside and seal it well, leaving it for at least 24 hours to absorb moisture. Afterwards, reinstall the battery and test it. If it still doesn't work, the contacts might be corroded - gently clean them with a cotton swab dipped in anhydrous alcohol. To prevent future water damage, avoid exposing the key to rain or dropping it in water, and develop the habit of storing it in a dry place. If all methods fail, it means the circuit is damaged and you'll have to visit the 4S store to get a new key. Though troublesome, safety always comes first.
Last time my car key fell into a puddle and stopped working. I quickly dried it with a tissue and then put it in a rice bag for a whole day and night, and surprisingly it came back to life. Sharing my experience: if it gets wet, don't panic. First, removing the battery is key to prevent damaging the circuit board. For drying, place it in a rice container or with food desiccant and wait patiently—avoid using heat sources. Before testing, try installing a new battery, as the old one might also be drained. If it still doesn't work, find a roadside key repair shop; spending a little money can fix it, which is more cost-effective than buying a new one. Daily tip: keep the key away from damp places. I keep a waterproof bag in my car to avoid similar issues.
