Reasons Your Fiat 500 Key Fob Won't Work
A key fob for the Fiat 500 allows you to easily open doors and start your vehicle. There are a myriad of reasons the fob may stop working. This includes a dead coin-battery and water damage, as well as problems with the receiver modules, and interference.
This listing is for a NEW replacement Fiat Flip Key Remote - similar to the Ilco brand that must be professionally programmed by a local automotive locksmith (click here for Locksmith Search). This remote includes lock, unlock and trunk buttons.
Dead Coin Battery
A dead battery is probably the most common reason for your 500 key fob that isn't working. Modern key fobs only have only a limited range of operation and must be within only a few inches from the vehicle in order to work. If you're far from your vehicle and you press the key fob button the car won't be able to respond, and will display an "Key Fob Not Detected" message in the instrument cluster.
If this occurs, replace the coin-cell battery (Part Number CR2032) by a brand new one from a reputable brand such as Panasonic Duracell or Energizer. They are typically available at your local hardware store, or online.
You can test the battery of your coin-cell by pressing the buttons while you're standing close to your Fiat 500. The parking lights should flash and the key fob should operate the lock and unlock switch.
If your key fob still does not work after replacing the battery, it may be water damage that is preventing it from communicating with the module inside your vehicle. Water damage can occur through a variety of methods, including an easy splash or submerging your key fob in saltwater at the beach. If you suspect your fob was exposed to water, try putting it in a dry rice bag to pull the moisture back out. If this doesn't work, your fob may need to be reprogrammed by a professional auto locksmith or the dealer.
Water Damage
While the fob has some rubber seals that keep water out of the chip's electronic circuit, submerging it in the ocean or washing it in a machine could cause water damage. Saltwater can cause the circuit board to short, and eventually die. In the event that you let your fob get wet, it's not a good idea but if you drop it in an empty cup of water, or do not remember to take it out of your pocket before you run the washing machine do not give up hope.
First, remove the battery. Clean the electronic chip using isopropyl alcohol or another similar product and dry it thoroughly before replacing the battery. Test the fob afterward to verify if it's functioning. If the fob doesn't function, it may need to be programmed again. This is usually handled by an auto locksmith or dealer.
If the key you have is older and not programmed for your vehicle You will need to replace it completely. This is a straightforward process which can be accomplished by a professional automotive locksmith. The locksmith will have to cut the key to match the ignition of your vehicle. They will also need to program the fob into your car's system. This is a cost-effective and quick process that can be completed the same day.
fiat 500 car keys Issues
The 500 key fob could stop working because it is out of range. The remote's range is of 30 feet. So in the event that you are far from your car, it won't respond to your commands. This can easily be resolved by moving it closer to your vehicle until it starts responding.
If you've replaced the battery in your coin (commonly known as a "button" or "watch") and the fob isn't working It could be because of an internal circuit board issue. Reprogramming your fob can resolve this issue. You can find the instructions for the majority of vehicles on YouTube or in the owner's manual.
You may need to replace the metal retaining clips that hold the battery of your coin in place. If they become loose, it can prevent your coin battery from sitting properly, causing your remote to malfunction.
In rare instances the fob might become desync'd with your vehicle because of software or hardware issues. You can fix this problem by visiting your local auto-locksmith or dealer to reprogram your key fob. In certain situations they may have to reinstall the program in your body control module, too.
Interference
In addition to a dead battery on a coin, the key fob may not be receiving or transmitting an signal due to interference. This may happen if the keyfob is located in close proximity to a radio transmitter, like a cellphone or radar detector. Other reasons why the key fob might not function could be due to a weak connection to the buttons and internal chip, or water damage.
If the key fob suddenly stopped working, without notice or even after trying everything you can at home to fix it e.g. You may have a faulty 500 receiver module if you've tried replacing the battery, reprogramming, or using a spare key fob. The receiver module is located under the dash and is able to pick up the radio frequency signals from the key fob. Then, it converts them into electronic commands that the vehicle interprets.
There's a simple method to reset the 500's on-board system including the keyfob. Disconnect the battery for 15 minutes by taking off first the negative cable and then the positive cable. Then reconnect the battery. This will clear any residual electric current, and also restart the computer in your car. This can help get your key fob to function again. If the issue continues, you should seek the advice of an expert technician. They will be able diagnose the root of any problems.