Dropped in the Pool? The Truth About Whether Your Key Fob Will Survive

Introduction: Why Water and Key Fobs Don’t Always Mix

Keys used to be just metal. Now, many keys—called key fobs—are more like little computers. They tell your car to unlock, start, or do special things. But water can be dangerous for them.

Accidents happen—your key fob falls in the washing machine, a puddle, or even the pool. This post will answer every question you might have about key fobs and water. You'll learn what to do, how to protect them, and what to expect if water gets in.

 

How Modern Car Key Fobs Are Built

Key fobs are small electronic gadgets. They include:

·         A battery (often a coin cell)

·         A tiny computer chip

·         Radio parts (to talk to your car)

·         A plastic case with rubber seals to keep out water

·         These seals help a bit—but not fully. If water sneaks inside, it can damage the electronics.

 

Water-Resistant vs. Waterproof: What’s the Difference?

·         Water-resistant = can handle small, quick water exposure (like rain).

·         Waterproof = can be underwater for a long time without damage.

Most key fobs fall under water-resistant only—so don’t test them underwater. Even big brands with better seals aren’t always fully waterproof.

Remember: water-resistant ≠ waterproof. If your fob stays too long in water, it may stop working completely. Some makers say their fobs resist small splashes, but they generally do not survive full submersion.

 

What Really Happens When a Key Fob Gets Wet

Water can do a few things:

1.       Water inside electronics can cause short circuits—the device stops working.

2.       Corrosion can build up, even after drying, and ruin the circuitry.

3.       Battery damage—if the battery unit gets wet, it may leak or short out.

4.       Buttons stop working—if water gets between them.

5.       Remote signals fail—water can mess with the fob’s ability to talk to your car.

 

Saltwater, Rain, and Pools: How Different Types of Water Affect Your Fob

Not all water is the same:

·         Freshwater (rain or puddle) is less dangerous but still risky.

·         Saltwater (like at the beach) is very damaging. It speeds up corrosion and can ruin electronics fast.

·         Soapy or dirty water (like swimming pools or soup spills) may leave residue that can trap water inside.

If your key fob touches saltwater or soap-filled water, you'll need extra cleaning.

 

What To Do Immediately If Your Key Fob Gets Wet (Step-by-Step)

1.       Take it out of water fast.

2.       Remove the battery (if you can).

3.       Dry the outside with a soft towel or cloth—very gently.

4.       Don’t use heat like hairdryers—they can melt plastic parts.

5.       Use silica gel packs if available. They suck moisture out better than rice 

6.       Let it dry thoroughly, in a warm, dry place.

7.       Test it once fully dry. If it doesn’t work, get help from a locksmith or dealer.

 

How To Clean and Dry a Water-Damaged Key Fob

Here’s a simple way to clean and dry your fob after water damage:

1.       Open the hard shell carefully (so you don’t break it).

2.       Remove the battery.

3.       Rinse inside with isopropyl alcohol—especially if saltwater or soap was involved.

4.       Dry with a soft cloth.

5.       Place both parts (shell and board) in a bag with silica gel packets—better than rice.

6.       Let dry for 1–2 days.

7.       Never use heat—it’s too risky for delicate parts.

 

Repair or Replace? Understanding Your Options

Try drying and testing first.

If it still won’t work, you need to decide:

·         Repair, if possible—but may cost more than buying new.

·         Replace with a new key fob—this means you’ll need programming.

 

Tips to Prevent Water Damage to Your Key Fob

Here are ways to keep your key fob safe:

1.       Use a waterproof key cover or pouch (like KGUARD, Aquapac, etc.).

2.       Store it in a sealed holder, away from spills or wet places.

3.       Keep a spare key fob somewhere dry, just in case.

4.       Check the battery regularly—a weak battery can make faults worse.

5.       Use silica gel packs in storage areas to keep humidity low.

6.       Avoid places like the pool, beach, or sink area where water exposure is likely.

Also—some users recommend testing waterproof cases. One person reported that widely sold cases like Pelican (rated IP67) failed sometimes—so read reviews and maybe double-layer your protection (e.g., case inside a dry bag)

 

The Future of Key Fobs: Will They Ever Be Truly Waterproof?

Today’s key fobs are water-resistant, not fully waterproof. But the future could bring:

·         Better sealing technology or materials.

·         Smartphone digital keys that remove the physical key entirely—solves the water problem altogether.

·         Trends will move toward models that are more durable, especially in wet or rainy climates.

 

Conclusion: Protecting Your Key Fob and Avoiding Costly Mistakes

Here’s what to remember:

·         Most key fobs are not fully waterproof—only water-resistant.

·         Water can break them at the circuit level. Saltwater and long exposure are especially risky.

·         If yours gets wet: act fast, dry carefully (silica gel > rice), and avoid heat.

·         If drying doesn’t work, consider professional help or replacement—dealers cost more than locksmiths.

·         Prevent damage with waterproof cases, dry storage, backups, and regular maintenance.

·         And always check your warranty—some extended plans may cover water damage.

You now have everything a beginner needs to know about key fobs and water. Stay dry, stay smart, and you won’t get stuck without a working key!