Car keys and key fobs are essential tools for vehicle access and operation. Most drivers use them multiple times every day, but few think about how to protect them. Damage to these items can lead to expensive repairs or the need for full key replacement.
In the Los Angeles area, where people rely heavily on their vehicles, taking care of your car keys and key fobs helps prevent breakdowns and avoids unnecessary inconvenience. With the right habits, you can extend the life of your keys and avoid common problems that lead to failure.
Handle Keys with Care
Many drivers treat their car keys as casual items they can toss or drop, but repeated impact adds up. Excessive force can damage the internal chip, crack plastic parts, or misalign the metal blade. Always handle your keys gently. Avoid placing them where they can fall or get crushed.
Keychains overloaded with extra weight also contribute to damage. A heavy set of keys puts pressure on the ignition switch while driving, causing wear in the ignition and the key over time. To reduce this risk, keep your car key on a light, separate keychain.
Avoid Water and Moisture
Most key fobs contain sensitive electronics that do not respond well to moisture. Rain, sweat, or humidity exposure can short-circuit the circuit board inside. If you accidentally get your key wet, remove the battery (if possible) and let the fob air dry completely before using it again.
Storing keys in bags or clothing during workouts, beach trips, or rainy days increases risk. Use a waterproof pouch or keep your keys in a dry compartment in your car when weather is a concern.
Replace Batteries on Time
A weak battery causes signal delays or failure to unlock or start your car. Most car key fobs use small coin-style batteries that need replacement every 1–2 years. If you notice reduced range or sluggish response, it’s time to swap it out.
Keep a spare battery on hand or ask your local locksmith to test the fob for battery strength. In Los Angeles, West Coast Locksmith offers battery checks and fob repairs to help you stay on the road.
Watch for Physical Wear
The metal blade of a traditional or switchblade-style key can wear down over time. Constant use, dirty locks, and poor alignment cause edges to dull or bend. Keys that don’t fit smoothly into the ignition or door may further damage the lock and key.
Get the key inspected at the first sign of grinding or difficulty turning. You may need a replacement cut using the original code rather than a worn copy. A skilled locksmith can decode your car’s key system and create a new, accurate version.
Protect Fobs from Impact and Heat
Key fobs are compact but not indestructible. Dropping one on a hard surface can crack the housing or dislodge the internal components. Leaving one inside a hot vehicle—especially in summer—can also shorten its life.
Extreme heat affects the plastic shell and the battery inside. In Los Angeles, summer heat can rise quickly in parked vehicles. Keep your keys out of direct sunlight and avoid storing them in the glovebox for long periods.
Don’t Ignore Warning Signs
If your key stops working occasionally or needs extra pressure to function, that’s a signal that something is wrong. Some drivers try to “make it work” longer than they should. This usually leads to full failure, sometimes in the worst moments, like during a lockout or engine shutdown.
Get your key or fob inspected at the first sign of trouble. Prompt attention often prevents full key replacement or lock repair.
Store Spare Keys Safely
A spare key is your backup plan. Always store it somewhere safe but accessible, just not inside the car. Avoid keeping it in obvious spots like your glove compartment or under the bumper.
Consider storing a spare at home, with a trusted person, or in a lockbox. The spare will save time and money if your original key gets damaged, lost, or locked inside.
Extend the Life of Your Car Key System
Caring for your car key or fob protects more than just the device—it protects your access to your vehicle. With simple steps, you can prevent the most common causes of failure and avoid unexpected car key emergencies.
At West Coast Locksmith, we help drivers across Los Angeles with key replacement, fob programming, battery replacement, and key repairs. If your key looks worn, acts strange, or no longer works, our mobile locksmiths come to your location and provide a solution.
Ready to make sure your car key and fob stay reliable? Contact West Coast Locksmith to inspect, replace, or repair your keys before problems happen.
