Reasons Your Fiat 500 Key Fob Won't Work
A key fob for Fiat 500 allows you to easily open doors and start your car. However, there are a variety of reasons why the fob won't be functioning. This could be due to a dead coin battery, damage to the receiver module, issues, and interfering.
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). It includes lock, unlock, and trunk buttons.
Dead Coin Battery
The most common reason the 500 key fob won't work is a dead battery. Modern key fobs operate with a restricted operating range, and must be within just a few feet of the vehicle to operate. If you are far from your vehicle and you press the key fob button, the car won't be able to respond, and will display the "Key Fob Not Detected" message in the instrument cluster.
If this happens then replace the battery for your coin-cell (Part Number CR2032) by a fresh one of a reputable brand such as Panasonic Duracell or Energizer. You can typically find them in your local hardware store or online.
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 will operate the lock and unlock switches.
If the fob's remote doesn't work after replacing the battery, it may be damaged by water that blocks it from connecting to the receiver module in your car. Water damage can happen in a variety of ways, ranging from a light splash to submerging the fob in salt water at the beach. If you believe your fob was exposed to water, put it in a bag of rice to draw out the moisture. If this doesn't work, you will require your fob to be replaced by an auto locksmith or a dealer.
Water Damage
Water damage can occur when you immerse the fob in the ocean or wash it in a washing machine. Saltwater poses a particular risk to the fob's circuit board, causing it to short out and eventually die. It's not good to let the fob get wet, but 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.
Take the battery off first. Clean the electronic chip with isopropyl ethanol or a similar product and dry it completely before replacing the battery. Test the fob afterward to check if it's working. If the key still doesn't function, it may need to be reset. This is usually handled by an auto locksmith or dealer.
If lost fiat 500 key have is older and has not been programmed for your car it is necessary to replace it completely. This is an easy process which can be accomplished by a professional locksmith for automotive use. The locksmith will have to cut the key to match the ignition on your vehicle. They will also need to reprogram the fob to the system of your car. This is a cheap and quick process that can be completed within the same day.
Receiver Module Issues
One of the main reasons why your 500 key fob may stop functioning is because it's out of range. The remote typically has 30 feet of range or less, and if it's too far away from your car it will not respond to your commands. It's easy to solve this problem by moving the remote closer to your vehicle until it responds.
If your fob does not work after you replace the battery inside the coin, which is also called a "button", "watch" or "button", it could be due to a problem with the circuit board inside. Reprogramming your fob can resolve this issue. You can find the procedure for the majority of vehicles on YouTube or in the owner's guide.
It's possible that you need to replace the metal retaining clips that keep the coin battery. If they lose tension, it may prevent your battery from sitting properly, causing your remote to malfunction.
In rare cases, the fob may become disconnected from your vehicle due to software or hardware issues. This can be a major trouble, but you could frequently fix this issue by visiting an auto locksmith to reprogram your fob for you. In some instances the software may need to be reinstalled in your body control modules.
Interference
In addition to a dead battery on a coin, the key fob may not be able to receive or transmit an signal due to interference. This may happen if the keyfob's location is in close proximity to a radio transmitter, like a cellphone or radar detector. Other reasons the key fob may not function include a weak connection to the buttons or the internal chip or water damage.
If your key fob suddenly stopped working, or if you've tried everything at home to resolve it (e.g. replacing batteries, reprogramming or using the spare key fob, it could have a faulty receiver module on your 500. The receiver module is situated under the dash, and it picks up the radio frequency signals from the key fob. It converts the signals into electronic commands which are then read by the vehicle.
Luckily, there is an easy method of resetting every single system on board in your 500 keys, including the key fob. Disconnect the battery for 15 minutes by taking off first the negative cable and then the positive cable. Reconnect the battery. This will remove any residual electricity and restart the car's computer system, which can help get your key fob working again. If the problem persists you should seek the advice of an expert technician. They'll be able to determine the exact cause of your problems.