Keys and fobs work hard every day, yet most of us give them very little attention. They get dropped, squashed in bags and carried through weather, so wear builds up quietly. The good news is that a few easy habits can help you maintain your keys and fob for years. In this post, you’ll learn what to do, what to avoid and when to ask a professional for help.
Why it pays to maintain your keys
A modern key is more than a piece of metal. It often contains a chip, a battery and a circuit board. If one part fails, the whole key can stop working. Replacing a key costs far more than caring for it, so a little regular upkeep is well worth the effort.
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Clean your keys and fob regularly
Dirt, lint and grime collect around buttons and in key grooves. Over time, this can make buttons sticky and keys harder to turn.
- Wipe the fob with a soft, dry or barely damp cloth.
- Use a soft brush to clear dust from the key grooves.
- Don’t soak the fob or spray liquid directly onto it.
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Look after the battery
Common key fob problems include dead batteries, so it pays to be ready.
- Replace the battery when the range drops or the remote works only sometimes.
- Don’t wait until it dies completely, especially if you only have one key.
- Use the correct battery type for your fob.
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Keep your key and fob dry and cool
Moisture and heat are hard on electronics. Keep your fob away from water, steamy bathrooms and hot dashboards. If it does get wet, open it up, remove the battery and let it dry fully before using it again.
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Handle with care
Dropping your keys again and again can crack the case or loosen the parts inside. Treat them gently, and avoid using a key to pry, scrape or open things.
If the outer case has already cracked, you may not need a whole new key. A broken car key shell replacement can often fix the damage and keep your working electronics. -
Lighten your keyring
A heavy keyring hangs from your ignition and puts strain on it. Over time, it can wear both the key and the lock. So, keep only the keys you really need on your daily ring.
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Rotate your spare
If you have a spare, don’t leave it forgotten in a drawer. Use it occasionally and check that its battery still works. That way, you’ll know it’s ready if your main key goes missing.
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Watch for early warning signs
Catching a problem early can save you money. Look out for:
- Buttons that need a hard press
- A shorter range than usual
- A key that sticks or turns roughly
- Visible cracks, worn edges or loose parts
When to see a professional
Some problems can’t be solved with a cloth and a new battery. If your key stops working, wears down or gets lost, a local expert can help.
Tornooke Keys, at Westfield Shopping Centre in Mount Druitt, offers flip keys, fobs and standard keys as well as car remotes and transponder keys. Whether you need a spare or a replacement, it’s best to ask before you’re stranded.
Keep your keys working for longer
Learning to maintain your keys takes only a few minutes each month. Clean them, protect them, change the battery on time and fix small issues early. Do this and your keys and fob should serve you well for much longer.
Need help with a worn or damaged key? Visit us at Shop 83A, Westfield Shopping Centre, Mount Druitt NSW 2770, or call +61 421 661 176.
