Are Car Keys Waterproof?

The short answer is no. modern car keys with transponder chips are not waterproof, however they may be weatherproof. We will explore this further in the blog and give some advice on what to do if your car key gets wet.

Waterproof or Weatherproof?

Traditional Keys- if you have a traditional car key that are just metal, then yes, they will be waterproof. They may rust over time if they get continually wet, but generally you don’t have to worry about traditional keys getting wet.

Key Fobs/ Smart Keys- these are the most common type of modern car keys. These tend to be weatherproof not weatherproof. Weatherproof means they key fobs will survive a splash of rain or a leaked drink in a bag. But they probably won’t survive full submersion in water, dropping them down the toilet or put in the washing machine. Submersion in water can damage the electronic components inside your key fob or smart key.

What To Do If Your Car Key Gets Wet

1.      Remove the Battery- If you have the skills and are confident, then take the battery out of the key fob as quickly as possible to prevent damage and possibly short circuiting.  

2.      Dry the Exterior- dry the outside as much as you can with a paper towel or dry towel. Make sure there is no visible moisture left on the casing.

3.      Dry the Interior- you need to gently dry the interior. It’s important that you gently pat the inside with a dry cloth or tissue. If it’s available, use compressed are to blow any moisture out of the hard-to-reach spaces. Do NOT use a hairdryer or similar, as the heat can damage the circuit board.

4.      Place in a Drying Agent- place both the casing and the removed battery into a bowl of uncooked rice, or with silica gel packets (if you have them) for a minimum of 24-48 hours. This can help absorb any internal moisture that you can’t reach.

What Not to Do

1.      Don’t press any buttons while your key fob is still wet.

2.      Do not put it in the oven or microwave or oven to dry

3.      Don’t reinsert the battery until you are sure it is fully dry

After Your Key Fob is Dry

1.      Reinsert the battery and test the fob

2.      If the fob is not working, try replacing the battery

3.      If it still doesn’t work there may be a problem with the internal circuitry and you might need a new fob or reprograming if there is still signs of life in your fob.