What should you do if you washed your car key in the washing machine?

Foreign objects often end up in the washing machine drum, sometimes even expensive and important items, and damage can have serious consequences. A common question is: what should I do if I washed my car key in the washing machine? Unfortunately, this situation is not uncommon, and it's not always possible to save the key fob from damage, so it's important to act as quickly as possible.

What will happen to the key?

A regular washing machine key won't be damaged, but if it's a key fob, the car owner will likely get off with more than a rude awakening. Exposure to household chemicals can cause the contacts on the circuit board inside the unit to oxidize, causing the car to become unusable, even if the batteries are replaced.

Is it possible to save a washed item? Yes, it is possible if you act immediately. This is the moment when speed of reaction makes all the difference.

Important! The sooner emergency measures are taken, the higher the chance of maintaining the key fob's functionality.

Algorithm of actions

By following all the experts' recommendations, the chances of a favorable outcome increase. Rescue measures must be approached not only promptly but also wisely. What should you do when the wash is finished?

1. Take out the keychain, examine it carefully, and assess the “scale of the disaster.”
2. Disassemble the structure, remembering the sequence of actions.
3. Carefully clean the board, avoiding damage to the semiconductor elements.
4. Dry the insides thoroughly; there should be no traces of moisture left.
5. Replace faulty parts if necessary.

After completing all the above steps, reassemble the key and test its functionality. It should function fully, performing all tasks. If you remember the key fob during the wash cycle, don't wait until it's finished. Stop the cycle, drain the water, and remove the key fob.

Disassembling and cleaning the key fob

Once the key is removed from the machine's drum, it is not recommended to turn it on under any circumstances. When unplugging the machine, remove the battery and place it on a clean, dry cloth or paper towel. Then, begin disassembling the machine immediately. What will you need for this?

• Screwdrivers for watches of different calibers.
• Sufficient artificial or natural lighting.
• Nippers.
• A special compound for processing and cleaning circuit boards (if you cannot purchase such a product, medical alcohol will do).

What should be done?

• Open the "box." The unmolded structure is secured with a knife at the joints. If the key fob is molded, careful inspection against the light will reveal the chip's location. It is carefully cut out of the plastic casing.
• Unscrew the housing bolts, spread the elements apart with a flat-head screwdriver and remove the chip.
• Detach the blade from the ejection mechanism. Remove the buttons.

Then comes the most crucial moment, which requires an almost jeweler’s approach. It is necessary to clean the board as quickly as possible, as it may oxidize after contact with the detergent solution. Oxidation processes have begun if the part has become cloudy or has a green tint. It's important to handle everything carefully to avoid mechanical damage.

Which remedies are the most effective and safe:

• baking soda, which neutralizes oxidation and eliminates corrosion;
• ammonia;
• aqueous solution of isopropyl alcohol in a 1:1 ratio;
• distilled water.

All liquids are applied using a cotton swab soaked in the solution. A phosphate-free household cleaner can be used. JELT7251 is the best option for circuit boards. The solution is applied using a spray bottle, then the board is gently wiped.

Must be dried

Do not assemble or turn on the key fob immediately after cleaning. It is important to thoroughly dry the device's internal components. Drying should be done naturally at room temperature, without the use of artificial heat sources. The longer the key is left to dry in a dry, warm place, the better. The optimal time is 12 hours.

Once all the parts are dry, you can begin reassembling, insert the battery, and test the key. Sometimes, only the battery oxidizes during washing. In this case, simply replace it with a new one.

Key replacement required

If all attempts fail, the key fob will need to be replaced. It's best to act promptly, as in some situations (such as theft), law enforcement may raise questions about the car owner. Here's the procedure:

• collect a complete package of documents for the car that are available;
• leave a request at the car dealership;
• wait for a new key to be made (this period is about 2 weeks or more).

If the car was recently purchased, a discount on key replacement may be available. This is possible if the service is covered by the warranty. The final cost depends on several factors: the complexity of the device, the car model, the dealership's pricing policy, and other factors. Drivers will have to fork out at least several tens of dollars.

   

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