W203 key fob got wet, now doesn't work
 

A friend had the key fob for his W203 C240 in his pants pocket when the pants went in the laundry. They unlocked the car once after getting wet but now doesn't work despite a couple of battery changes.

Is it possible to clean and dry it more thoroughly?

What are his options in terms of a replacement? Dealer wants $250-350.

Thanks,
Sixto
87 300D

Must order from dealer! NO other option!

Try other dealers, or this. The keys should be around $200
http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w210-e-class/1370217-120-smartkeys-available.html

You can try a hail Mary:

1) Take the battery out
2) Cook the key in an oven set on low. Or set it on your dashboard in the sun. Basically you want to get it very hot but don't melt it!

Then put in a known-good battery.

If that doesn't work, then considering you have "nothing to lose", take it apart, down to the circuit board. scrape off any obvious corrosion you find. Make sure to check the battery contacts.

Electronics are generally fine with water. They can be washed and dried no problem. The problem is if they get wet WHILE POWERED (battery in). This is what causes the damage. For example, if you drop a cell phone in water REMOVE THE BATTERY IMMEDIATELY. Then dry it out and it should be fine. Electronic boards are washed in manufacture so they don't mind at all.

Good luck!

Check the contacts on the battery tray part of the key.



The contacts were bent on my G Wagon key, and it wouldnt unlock or lock the car. Bent then back so they make contact, and voila, unlock and lock work again.

Just today ....
 

the key fob for my '97 E320 went through the washing machine. Found it just before wife started the dryer. I took it apart and dried it with a hair dryer. Put in new batteries as the originals appeared to be damaged. Went thru the re-sync procedure in the owner's manual amd all is fine now. Pay careful attentinon as you disassemble the case. Mine has a tricky little spring to make the key extend when a putton on the fob is punched. You have to put that back just so and actually wind the spring a couple of turns before putting the case together.

I would have put it in distilled water so to rinse the mineral deposits from the regular water.Then let it air dry after cracking it open.
I've done it with a few iPods and they still work to this day.