What to Do If You’ve Gotten Your Car Keys Wet?

Accidentally getting your car keys wet can happen in countless ways. Perhaps you dropped them in a puddle, or they were in your coat pocket when you got caught in a downpour. Regardless of how it happened, water can damage the sensitive electronics in modern car keys, potentially rendering them useless. In these situations, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes and follow the right steps to save your keys if possible.

How to Dry Out Wet Car Keys

When your car keys get wet, it’s important to act quickly but cautiously. Some DIY methods can help dry out the keys, but certain approaches should be avoided.

What Not to Do: Avoid putting your keys in the microwave. While it might seem like a quick solution, microwaving car keys can be dangerous. The heat can damage the electronic components or even cause a fire. Likewise, avoid using an oven or placing keys on a radiator, as this can lead to similar issues.

Effective Drying Methods:

• Rice: Place your car key in a bowl of uncooked rice. Rice is known for its ability to absorb moisture and can help draw water out of the key. Leave the key in the rice for 24–48 hours for best results.
• Silica Gel Packets: If you have silica gel packets (the type often found in product packaging), place them in a sealed container with your key. These packets are designed to absorb moisture and can work even more effectively than rice.
• Air Drying: After shaking out any visible water, let the key air dry in a warm, well-ventilated area. This process can take time, but it’s a safe and effective option.
• Hairdryer (Low Heat): Use a hairdryer on a low heat setting, holding it at a safe distance to prevent overheating. Move the dryer around the key to avoid applying too much heat to any one spot.

Test Your Car Key After Drying

Once you’ve dried the key, it’s important to test it carefully to see if it works as expected. Try locking and unlocking the car, starting the engine, and checking all functions to ensure they’re operational.

Even if your key seems to be working fine, it’s advisable to consult a professional for a full diagnostic. Water damage can sometimes cause a delayed effect, where the key initially functions but then stops working unexpectedly later on. A professional check-up can give you peace of mind and help you avoid future lockouts.

Where to Go If Your Car Key Has Been Damaged by Water

If you have any concerns about the functionality of your key after it’s been wet, it’s best not to take risks. Phoenix Car Keys provides professional car key replacement services to get you back on the road with minimal hassle. Our skilled locksmiths can cut and program a new key that’s identical to your original, ensuring the highest quality and reliability.

Here’s why Phoenix Car Keys is your top choice for a car key replacement:

1. Superior Customer Service: From your first call to the final replacement, we prioritise customer satisfaction, providing a smooth, hassle-free experience.
2. High-Quality Equipment and Expert Locksmiths: Our team uses advanced tools and is thoroughly trained, ensuring every key replacement is done professionally and accurately. We cover locations across the UK, so help is never far away.
3. 12-Month Warranty: All of our replacement keys come with a 12-month warranty, giving you confidence in your purchase.
4. 24/7 Availability: Key emergencies don’t follow a schedule, so we’re available anytime you need us.

To learn more, check pricing, or book our services, simply fill out our callback form (we respond within a minute) or call us on our 24/7 hotline: 03330065210.

Following these steps after water exposure and knowing where to turn for expert assistance can help protect your car key from further damage and keep you on the road without interruption. Phoenix Car Keys is here to provide the highest quality replacement services, whenever you need them.