Fourth of July 2024 I managed to do what to do what so many others have done. I took my key fob for a swim — literally. Took off the sunglasses, took off the shirt, took off the shoes and jumped in for about 10 minutes — forgetting my keys were in the swimsuit pocket!
The fob survived and I will detail what I did to save it and how its construction likely helped. So while I describe here may not work with yours, it will definitely be worth a try.
Important! Don’t push any buttons until the key fob is dried!!
The fob is from a Polestar, which is a duplicate of the latest Volvo fob. Once I realized the fob had been possibly compromised, I immediately moved to take it apart. You should do the same as quickly as possible. The video that takes you through the process for this fob is linked at the end of the video. And we likely have one for whatever make and model you have.
This particular fob features the cover that had to be removed to get at the battery, as you see. Behind the cover is a rubber O-ring that likely saved this fob. Regardless, I wiped down all the pieces and set them on a windowsill that had full sun and left them for an hour. Waiting was the hardest part. Do the same, drop the pieces in rice, use a hair drier or anything you can think of to dry yours out. Wait long enough for the fob to be completely dry!
Don’t touch any electronics with your fingers. Skin oils will lead to corrosion eventually negating the drying work.
Afterwards, I reassembled the fob — and I now had a photographer. Once assembled, we stepped out to the car. The video below shows the car responding to the fob and me announcing it was time to celebrate!
Hopefully this helps rescue your fob.
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The information on this website is provided for information sharing purposes only, and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.
Remember that only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.
Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.
The author has 30+ years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s, ME: MS, RPI, NY
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