How To Quickly Dry Out Your Wet Electronic Car Key Or Fob: Essential Tips & Tricks

How To Salvage a Wet Car Key or Fob: Step-by-Step Guide To Restoration

Ever dropped your car key or fob in water and felt that sinking feeling? Whether it’s a splash in the sink, a dip in the pool, or a rainy day mishap, it has happened to all of us at some time. But don’t panic! With the right steps, you can save your key from permanent damage.

If your key isn’t working after getting wet, a car locksmith can help, but first, try these essential tips to dry it out and potentially restore its function!

Immediate Actions To Take When Your Car Key Or Fob Gets Wet

Water and electronics don’t mix well, but acting fast can make all the difference in saving your car key or fob. Here are the first steps you should take if you ever wet your electronic car key or fob: 

• Remove The Key From The Water Immediately: The longer your key stays submerged, the greater the risk of irreversible damage. Grab the key as quickly as possible and get it out of the water.
• Turn The Keys Off If Possible: If your key fob has an on/off button, turn it off to prevent a short circuit. This step is essential to minimize more internal damage.
• Shake Off Excess Water: Give your key a gentle shake to remove as much surface water as possible; just be careful not to shake it too hard to avoid pushing water deeper into the electronics.
• Remove The battery: If your car key or fob has a removable battery, take it out immediately. This will stop the electrical current and prevent short-circuiting.
• Wipe It Down: Use a soft towel or microfiber cloth to pat the key dry. Pay special attention to seams and buttons where water might collect. Remember to do this gently to avoid worse damage.

Best Methods To Dry Out Your Wet Car Key Or Fob

Once you’ve taken the initial steps to remove excess water, it’s time to focus on drying your key properly. Here are the best methods to effectively dry out your wet electronic car key or fob:

Use a Soft Cloth

One of the most effective drying methods is a soft towel or microfiber cloth. Simply pat the key with any of these items to remove any surface water clinging to the exterior. Pay close attention to the seams, buttons, and any other crevices where water might have seeped in.

Be gentle during this process—excessive pressure can push water deeper into the device, making it harder to remove.

You can also try opening the key, but only if you feel confident enough for it. Opening the key promotes better airflow to the interior and speeds up the drying process. However, if you’re unsure how to do this safely, it may be better to proceed with external drying methods or consult a car key professional.

Place The Key In a Desiccant

One of the most effective ways to extract moisture is using a desiccant like uncooked rice or silica gel. Place the key or its disassembled components in a bowl of rice or alongside many silica gel packs. Ensure the key is fully surrounded by the desiccant, as this maximizes moisture absorption. 

For best results, leave the key in the drying agent for 24 to 48 hours. Patience is key here, as rushing the process can lead to incomplete drying.

Let It Air Dry

You can also air-dry the key in a well-ventilated space. Place it on a dry, flat surface in a cool area with good airflow. Just remember to avoid direct sunlight because it can cause overheating and potential warping of the plastic casing. Letting the key dry naturally can be effective, though it might take a little longer than using a desiccant.

Avoid Heat Sources

DON’T attempt to speed up the process with heat sources like hair dryers, microwaves, or ovens. Patience is essential here! So be sure to use proper methods if you don’t want to damage the delicate internal components or deform the casing.

What Are Some Of The Risks Of Water Damage?

Water can severely damage car keys and fobs because these devices rely on intricate circuits and delicate components to communicate with your vehicle. Here are some of the risks: 

Short Circuits

Water is an excellent conductor of electricity, and when it enters the internal circuits of your car key or fob, it can cause a short circuit. This is probably the most common damage associated with wet car keys, and it’s also the worst one because it can render the key completely inoperable, leaving you unable to start or unlock your car.

Corrosion

Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause corrosion in the internal electronic components and metal contacts of the key. Even after the key dries, corrosion can cause lasting damage, leading to intermittent functionality or permanent failure.

Battery Damage

If the key’s battery comes into contact with water, it may experience leakage or short-circuiting. A compromised battery can overheat, swell, or even burst, posing additional safety risks. 

Button Malfunctions

Water trapped inside the key or fob can interfere with the buttons, causing them to stick, become unresponsive, or trigger unintended actions.

Loss Of Signal

Modern car keys use radio frequency signals to communicate with the vehicle. Water can interfere with this transmission by damaging the antenna or other components responsible for emitting and receiving signals. 

When To Seek Professional Help For a Wet Car Key

Water damage to electronic car keys or fobs can be a frustrating and costly problem, but with quick action and the right techniques, it’s possible to restore their functionality. 

By taking immediate steps to dry your device properly, you can save yourself the hassle of replacing the key. However, if these efforts don’t solve the issue, professional help is always an option. 

A trusted car locksmith in Phoenix can repair or replace your key, ensuring you’re back on the road without unnecessary stress. Contact us today!

This article was written by Armor Lock & Safe, a top-rated emergency locksmith company in Mesa.

US Key Service
4065 E University Dr #500
Mesa, AZ 85205
Phone: 480-983-6149
Email: uskeyservice@gmail.com
Web: uskeyservice.com