When the first Atlantic squalls blow in, we all think about the boiler and the winter coats. But autumn in North Devon also brings cold, damp, and salty air — a perfect storm for weak key fob batteries, corroded buttons, and “Key Not Detected” warnings. A few simple checks now can save you a breakdown later.
Why autumn affects modern car & van keys
- Temperature swings: Moving from a warm house to a cold, wet driveway causes condensation inside key fobs.
- Moisture & salt: Rain, sea spray, and wet pockets drive corrosion on battery contacts and button pads.
- Low batteries: Cold weather reduces voltage, so borderline batteries tip over into failure.
- Rough use: Heavier coats, tool belts, and key bundles put stress on cases and buttons.
Signs your key needs attention
- Intermittent unlock/lock or reduced remote range
- “Key Not Detected” or immobiliser light flashing
- Buttons that feel mushy / cracked cases
- You’ve only got one working key (risky in any situation, especially bad weather!)
10-minute “Autumn Key Health Check”
- Test both keys — do they unlock remotely and start the vehicle?
- Replace the coin cell (commonly CR2032/CR2025). Make sure you always use a premium quality battery. If in doubt, we’ll fit the correct one, we always carry a huge selection.
- Inspect the case — look for splits, missing buttons, or a loose blade.
- Check button response — slow or sticky? That’s often moisture or worn pads.
- Keep it dry — don’t leave keys in wet coat pockets, on cold windowsills, or on van dashboards overnight. A very important point – it’s critical to have a spare working key in most instances as often a working key is required to add a spare key
- Store a spare in a safe place, not on the same keyring.
- If it got soaked: remove the battery, don’t use heat, and call us. We can often recover it if you act quickly.
Pro tip: Cheap, off-brand coin cells can sag or completely fail in cold weather. A quality battery usually lasts 12–24 months.
Smart / keyless entry tips
- Weak proximity response or repeated “key not found” is often just a low battery.
- Keep smart keys away from wet gear and metal toolboxes (they can block the signal).
- If you use a signal-blocking pouch, make sure it’s dry and not shedding fibres into the fob.
Van & fleet owners: avoid costly downtime
A single failed key can immobilise a van, stall a job, and cost a day’s work. We provide mobile spare keys, repairs and programming across Barnstaple, Bideford, Ilfracombe, South Molton, Braunton, Torrington, Lynton & Lynmouth, Combe Martin, Westward Ho! and surrounding areas — coming to your home, yard, or site.
What Key to My Car can do for you
- Spare keys cut & programmed (car and van)
- Key fob repairs: cases, buttons, batteries, moisture clean-ups
- Full replacements if your key is beyond repair
- Mobile diagnostics & coding at your location
- Honest advice — if a repair is smarter than a full replacement, we’ll say so
Water damage: what to do (and not do)
- Do: remove the battery, pat dry, keep the case open to air, and call us.
- Don’t: use a hairdryer, radiator, or leave it on a van heater vent — heat can warp components.
- Don’t: keep pressing buttons — that can push moisture deeper.
When to get a spare key
If you’re down to one working key, do it before winter. Spares are typically quicker and cheaper than an emergency replacement — and we can often replace and program on the same visit.
FAQs
- How often should I change my key battery? Every 12–24 months, sooner if range drops or you get warnings.
- Can the cold kill a healthy key? It exposes weak batteries and minor corrosion. A healthy, dry key with a good battery is usually fine.
- Do you come to me? Yes — we’re fully mobile across North Devon. We’ll agree a time and location that suits you.
- What if my key snapped or the case is cracked? We can often transfer your electronics into a new case and cut a new blade. If the board is damaged, we’ll advise on replacement options.
Book a visit or get a price
Want a quick key health check or a spare before winter?
Call 07884 285570 or message Key to My Car to book a mobile appointment in North Devon.
Local areas we cover
Barnstaple • Bideford • Ilfracombe • South Molton • Braunton • Great Torrington • Lynton & Lynmouth • Combe Martin • Westward Ho! • Fremington • Instow • Appledore • and surrounding villages
Disclaimer – Availability varies by vehicle make/model/year and security system. Photo ID and proof of ownership may be required. Some late-model vehicles have restrictions; we’ll confirm options when you get in touch.
