Why Your Key Fob Stopped Working After Going Through the Washing Machine
If your key fob accidentally went through the laundry, you’re probably dealing with a fob that won’t unlock the doors, won’t start the car, or works only part-time. As a leading automotive locksmith in Utah County, we see this problem all the time.
Here’s what’s actually happening inside your key fob and what to do about it.
1. Moisture Damages the Internal Circuit Board
Even a quick wash cycle can push water inside the shell, shorting out the circuit board. Hot water, agitation, and detergent speed up the damage.
2. Detergent Causes Corrosion
Laundry soap leaves behind residue that sticks to metal contacts. This residue can corrode the battery terminals or the board itself, causing permanent failure.
3. The Battery Usually Dies
Water-damaged batteries lose voltage instantly or short out completely. If the fob is totally unresponsive, the battery is often the first casualty.
4. Buttons Become Sticky or Weak
Water gets under the button pad and prevents the contacts from clicking like they should. This is why some washed fobs only work intermittently.
Can a Washed Key Fob Be Saved?
Sometimes, yes. If the board isn’t fully damaged, a professional locksmith can often:
Clean the corrosion
Replace the battery
Dry internal components
Test the fob’s signal
Reprogram or repair the electronics
If the board is destroyed, replacement is the only option.
What to Do Right Away
Remove the battery
Let the fob dry for 24–48 hours
Don’t try to use it while wet
Bring it in for testing
Get Professional Fob Repair or Replacement in Utah County
At Payson Lock & Key, we repair and replace key fobs for Ford, Toyota, Chevy, Honda, Nissan, Jeep, Hyundai, Kia, and many more. Washed your key fob? We can help.
📍 Serving Payson, Spanish Fork, Salem, Santaquin, Elk Ridge, Mapleton, and all surrounding Utah County areas
📞 801-465-9621
🚐 Mobile service available
FAQ: Key Fobs and Water Damage
Can a key fob survive a trip through the washer?
Sometimes. Light moisture might not ruin the electronics, but detergent and heat create damage fast. A technician can test the fob to confirm.
FAQ: Key Fobs and Water Damage
-
Sometimes. Light moisture might not ruin the electronics, but detergent and heat create damage fast. A technician can test the fob to confirm.
-
Water, heat, and detergent reach the circuit board, battery contacts, and buttons. This creates shorts, corrosion, and power loss.
-
You can remove the battery and let the fob air out for 24–48 hours, but drying alone does not remove corrosion. A technician should inspect it. -
No. Rice does nothing for corrosion, and small bits of rice may fall deeper into the fob. A hair dryer can warp the shell or push moisture deeper into the fob.
-
Yes. A locksmith can clean the contacts, replace the battery, test the signal, or program a new fob if the board fails.
