Smart keys and water sports

**discomarsh** · 2nd August 2016, 03:10 PM

I'm a canoeist with a smart key, which means I have a lot to lose. What to do?

In the old days I could stash my key with its remote under the car, thus keeping it safe from water ingress or losing it on the river. Lately, I've been double-bagging my key and pocketing it whilst paddling. But that risks wetting the electrics and being stranded in the bush with an inoperable key.

Any suggestions from other paddlers or surfers or smart folk out there?

**Oztourer** · 2nd August 2016, 03:28 PM

When I replaced the fob on one of my my key,s I examined the original case and found that it was sealed very well around the case seam. I seem to remember reading somewhere (owners manual???) that Land Rover claim the fob is waterproof to 75 feet. The problem I had was that the membrane buttons were split/missing. In my opinion, the hassle and expense of having your key fail (replacements are ordered from the UK and cost around $300) isn't worth taking it for a dip un-protected. I double bag mine in double seal zip lock sandwich bags. You can also buy small waterproof cases. The advantage of those is that if you ever lose the key in the water, it floats and you have some chance of finding it again.

**PKD4** · 2nd August 2016, 03:28 PM

I use one of these. And put it on the recovery point at the back.

http://www.****ingsurf.com/shop-all/fk-key-safe

Having said that, I still have to push a button to unlock my vehicle, ie I do not have keyless entry.

Pat

**scarry** · 2nd August 2016, 06:09 PM

Have a look at this

Emergency Key 02-05 L322

and this
http://www.aulro.com/afvb/l319-disco...n-surfing.html

**kenl** · 2nd August 2016, 08:55 PM

My key has been through the wash a few times and still works, I think a half reasonable dry bag will work, and even if the key does get toasted you won't be stranded, as you can still open and start the car.

But you won't be happy because new keys are expensive!

**RobA** · 2nd August 2016, 09:13 PM

Been using an amphibian product for years now sailing and canoeing which works very well. Came in handy on the Kimberley trip as well. Surf shops normally have them or a simple google search will find a few options. Make sure they have a cam lock system to seal the bag with strong top and clips.

Rob

**Meken** · 3rd August 2016, 08:30 PM

The spiel on the new jaguar mid size suv says they have developed a flexible waterproof wrist strap (looked like one of those fit bit things) that allows you to lock your keys inside by swiping it near a spot on the tailgate - disables the key function so even if someone breaks in they can't start car or use the key and you can go surfing.
If I leave my keys near the car (within 1m) anyone can unlock it by touching the door handles!!