How to fix water-damaged car keys

Modern car keys often function electronically. While this has its benefits, the electronic keys can also be extremely susceptible to water damage. Whether you drop the keys in a water puddle or you are stuck in the rain with it, fixing water damaged car keys is no joke. Here, we share some of the tips and tricks you can use to fix such car keys. 

1. Act quickly: 

The faster you take action, the better chance you have of saving your keys.

• Dry gently: You have to quickly dry the key’s surface using a lint-free cloth. Gently blot the water instead of rubbing the wet area. Rubbing carelessly can cause the water to penetrate deeper inside the key.

• Remove the battery: As soon as the key gets wet, try and remove the battery from within the car key. This should help minimise the water damage to the electrical components.

1. Drying methods:

Choose one of the following drying techniques -

• Air drying: this process involves keeping the car key in a well-ventilated and warm environment for at least two days. Do not place the key in direct sunlight or inside ovens, as the intense heat can damage the electrical components.

• Silica gel packets: You can find silica gel packets in various packaging materials. If you have access to these packets, keep the car key and these packets in an airtight container. The silica gel is known to absorb water effectively.

1. Important warnings:

• Do not use rice: There is a popular myth that keeping electronics in uncooked rice can help remove any internal moisture. This is not true. Also, the rice starch can get trapped inside the electronic components and cause corrosion.

• No hair dryers or compressed air: Hair dryers or compressed air sources can push the water deeper inside the key and make matters worse. So, avoid using these.

1. After drying:

• Test the key: After drying the car key for 48 hours as instructed, you should test it out on your vehicle.

• Seek professional help: If the key is still not working, you should consult a professional automotive locksmith for further assistance. These professionals have the expertise and the tools necessary to deal with water-damaged car keys.

Looking to learn more about how to repair car keys?

Explore our automotive locksmithing services. Our licensed professionals know exactly how to repair broken car keys. Whether it is water damage or the car key has simply broken inside the keyway, we can help with all such situations. Our emergency locksmith services can also help you regain access to your vehicle after car lockouts.