Reasons Your Fiat 500 Key Fob Won't Work

A key fob for Fiat 500 makes it simple to open doors and start your vehicle. However, there are numerous reasons why the key fob might stop functioning. This includes a dead battery and water damage, as well as problems with the receiver modules, and interference.

This listing is for a NEW replacement fiat 500 key Fiat Flip Key Remote that is similar to the Ilco brand. It needs to be professionally programmed (click here to find local locksmiths for your vehicle). It comes with lock, unlock and trunk buttons.

Dead Coin Battery

A dead battery is the main reason for your 500 key fob being inoperative. Modern key fobs have a very restricted operating range, and must be within only a few feet from the vehicle to operate. If you are far from your car and hit the keyfob, it will not respond and display the message "Key Fob Not Detected".

If this occurs then replace the battery for your coin-cell (Part Number CR2032) by a brand new one of a trusted brand such as Panasonic Duracell or Energizer. They are available at the local hardware store or on the internet.

You can test the battery of your coin-cell by pressing the buttons while you're standing close to your Fiat 500. The car should blink its parking lights and the key fob will operate the lock and unlock switches.

If the key fob doesn't function after replacing the battery, it may be damaged by water, which prevents it from communicating with the receiver module inside your car. Water damage can happen through a variety of methods, including the simple splash or submerging the key fob saltwater at the beach. If you suspect your fob has been exposed to water, try putting it in a dry rice bag to pull the moisture back out. If this isn't working, you'll need to have your fob replaced by an auto locksmith or a dealer.

Water Damage

While the fob has some rubber seals that keep water from the electronic chip inside and out of the ocean or washing it in a machine can cause water damage. Saltwater is especially dangerous to the circuit board of the fob and can cause it to short out and eventually end up dying. It's not the best idea to soak the fob in water, but don't give it up even if you accidentally drop the fob 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. Check the fob to determine if it's working. If the key isn't working, it may need to be programmed again. This is typically handled by a professional or dealer auto locksmith.

If the key you have is older and has not been programmed for your car then you'll need to replace it completely. A professional locksmith for cars can carry out this simple task. The locksmith will need to cut the key to match the ignition of your vehicle. The locksmith will also need to program your fob into the vehicle's system. This is a simple and cost-effective procedure that can usually be completed the same day.

Receiver Module Issues

One of the most common reasons your 500 key fob might stop working is because it's out of range. The remote has a maximum range of 30 feet. Therefore, if you are too far from your vehicle it won't be able to respond to your commands. This can easily be resolved by moving it closer to your vehicle until it starts responding.

If your fob does not work after replacing the battery inside the coin, which is also called a "button", "watch" or "button" It could be a problem with the internal circuit board. In most cases, reprogramming the fob will fix the problem. The instructions are available for the majority of vehicles on YouTube or in the owner's manual.

It's possible that you need to replace the metal clips that hold the coin battery. If they lose tension it may prevent your battery from being properly seated, causing your remote to malfunction.

In rare instances, the fob might be out of alignment with your vehicle because due to hardware or software issues. This can be a major issue, but you are able to usually fix it by visiting an auto locksmith to reprogram your fob for you. In some cases the software may require reinstallation in your body control modules.

Interference

Interference can also cause the key fob to not be able to receive or transmit an signal. This may happen if the keyfob is in close proximity to a radio transmitter like a cell phone or radar detector. The key fob may not work because of a problem to the buttons, water damage or damage to the internal chips.

If the key fob stopped working one day out of the blue, or after trying everything you can at home to solve it e.g. replacing the battery, reprogramming it and using the spare key fob, it could have a malfunctioning receiver module on your 500. The receiver module, which is located under the dashboard, detects radio frequency signals from your key fob. It converts the signals into electronic commands that are then translated by the vehicle.

Fortunately, there's an easy method of resetting all of the on-board systems in your 500 device, including the key fob. Disconnect the battery 12 volt for about 15 minutes, by disconnecting the negative cable first then the positive cable. Reconnect the battery. This will clear out any residual electricity and restart the car's computers. This can help you get your key fob working again. If the problem persists you should seek out an expert technician. They'll be able to determine the root of your issue.