Reasons Your Fiat 500 Key Fob Won't Work
A key fob for the Fiat 500 is a convenient way to unlock the doors and get started the car. There are a myriad of reasons why the fob won't be functioning. It could be due to a dead battery damage to the receiver module, water issues, or interference.
This listing is for an NEW replacement Fiat Flip Key Remote - similar to the Ilco brand that needs to be programmed professionally by a local locksmith (click here to search for a Locksmith Search). This remote includes lock, unlock and trunk buttons.
Dead Coin Battery
A dead battery is the most frequent reason for your 500 key fob being inoperative. Modern key fobs have a limited range of operation, and should be within just a few feet of the car to operate. If you are far from your vehicle and press the keyfob button it won't respond and display the message "Key Fob Not Detected".
If this happens, simply replace the coin cell battery (Part number CR2032) with a fresh one from a reputable brand such as Panasonic, Duracell, or Energizer. You can find them in the local hardware store or on the internet.
You can test the coin-cell battery by pressing the buttons while standing close to your Fiat 500. The car will blink its parking lights and the key fob should operate the lock and unlock switches.
If the key fob won't function after replacing the battery, it may have water damage that prevents it from communicating with the receiver module in your car. Water damage can occur through a variety of methods, including the simple splash or submerging the key fob in saltwater at the beach. If you think your fob was exposed to water, put it in a rice bag to draw out the moisture. If that doesn't work your fob is likely to require reprogramming by an experienced auto locksmith or by the dealer.
Water Damage
Water damage can happen if you immerse the fob into the ocean, or wash it in a washer. Saltwater can be particularly harmful to the circuit board of the fob which causes it to short out and eventually die. It's not the best idea to submerge the fob in water however, don't give it up in the event that you accidentally drop it in water or fail to take it out of your pants pocket.
Remove the battery first. Before replacing the battery, clean the electronic chip with isopropyl, or a similar product. Then try the fob and verify if it is working. If the fob doesn't function, it may need to be programmed again. This is typically done by a professional or dealer auto locksmith.
If the key is more recent and has never been programmed to your car It is likely that it needs to be replaced completely. This is a straightforward process that can be completed by a professional automotive locksmith. The locksmith will require the key cut to match your vehicle's ignition. The locksmith will also have to reprogram your fob in the car's system. This is a cheap and quick process that could be completed in the same day.
Receiver Module Issues
One of the simplest reasons why your 500 key fob might stop functioning is that it's out of range. The remote has a maximum range of 30 feet, so if you are too far from your car it won't be able to respond to your commands. This can be easily fixed by moving closer to your vehicle until it begins responding.
If you've replaced the battery on your coin (commonly called"button" or "button" or "watch") and the fob isn't working It could be because of an internal circuit board issue. In the majority of cases, reprogramming your fob will fix the issue. You can find the instructions on how to do this for all automobiles by searching YouTube or consulting the owner's manual.
It's possible that you need to replace the metal retaining clips that hold the coin battery. If they loose tension they could stop the battery from being properly seated and can cause the remote to malfunction.
In rare instances the fob could be disconnected from your vehicle due to software or hardware issues. This issue can be fixed by visiting your local auto-locksmith or dealer to reprogram your key fob. In certain instances the software may require reinstallation into your body control modules.
Interference
In addition to a dead battery on a coin, the key fob may not be able to transmit or receive a signal due to interference. This could happen when the keyfob is located in close proximity to a radio transmitter, like a cell phone or radar detector. The key fob may not function because of a weak connection with the buttons water damage or damage to the internal chips.
If the key fob failed to work one day in the middle of the night or after trying everything you can do at home to resolve it e.g. replacing the battery, reprogramming, and using the spare key fob, you could have a damaged receiver module on your 500. The receiver module is located under the dash and receives the radio frequency signals from the key fob. It transforms the signals into electronic commands which are then read by the vehicle.
There's a simple method to reset the 500's on-board system, including the keyfob. Disconnect the battery for 15 minutes, removing first the negative cable and then the positive cable. Then reconnect spare fiat 500 key . This will get rid of any remaining electricity and restart the car's computers, which could allow you to the key fob to function again. If the issue persists you should seek out an expert certified technician. They will be able to identify the exact cause of any issues.