Reasons Your Fiat Keys Replacement 500 Key Fob Won't Work

A key fob for the fiat keys 500 makes it easy to open doors and start your car. There are many reasons the key fob might stop working. It could be due to a dead battery or damaged receiver module, water damage problems, and 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 automotive locksmith (click here for Locksmith Search). Includes trunk, lock and unlock 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 come with a limited range of operation, and must be within a few feet of the vehicle to function. If you're far away from your vehicle and you press the key fob button the car won't respond, and will display the "Key Fob Not Detected" message in the instrument cluster.

If this happens, replace the battery on your coin cell (Part number CR2032) with a fresh one from a reputable brand like Panasonic, Duracell, or Energizer. You can find them at your local hardware store or on the internet.

You can test the battery on your coin-cell by pressing the buttons while standing close to your Fiat 500. The parking lights should light up and the key fob should operate the lock and unlock switches.

If your fob's key doesn't work even after replacing the battery, it may be water damage which hinders it from communicating with the module in your vehicle. Water damage can occur in a variety of ways, ranging from small splashes to submerging your fob in salt water at the beach. If you suspect your fob was exposed to water, put it in a dry rice bag to pull the moisture out. If this isn't working, you'll need to have the fob reprogrammed either by an auto locksmith or a dealer.

Water Damage

Damage to the water supply can occur if you immerse the fob into the ocean, or wash it in a machine. Saltwater is especially dangerous to the fob's circuit board that can cause it to short out and eventually die. It's not the best idea to get the fob wet, but don't give it up if you accidentally drop it in water, or fail to take it out of your pocket.

Remove the battery first. Before replacing the battery clean the electronic chip with isopropyl or another similar product. Next check the fob to see if it works. If the key doesn't work, it may have to be reset. This is usually done by an auto locksmith or dealer.

If your key is older and is not programmed to work with your vehicle You will need to replace it completely. A professional locksmith for automotive can carry out this simple task. The locksmith will need the key to be cut to match the car's ignition. The locksmith will also need to reprogram your fob in the car's system. This is a simple and affordable process that can usually be completed in the same day.

Receiver Module Issues

One of the main reasons your 500 key fob may stop working is because it's out of range. The remote has a maximum range of 30 feet. So in the event that you are far from your vehicle it will not respond to your commands. It is possible to solve this problem by moving the remote closer to your car until it responds.

If you've replaced your coin battery (commonly known as a "button" or "watch") and your fob still won't work, it could have an internal circuit board problem. In most cases, reprogramming the fob can resolve the problem. The instructions are available 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 could prevent your coin battery from being properly seated and cause your remote to malfunction.

In rare instances the fob could be desync'd with your vehicle because of software or hardware issues. This could be a huge issue, but you are able to usually resolve this issue by visiting an auto locksmith to reprogram your fob. In some cases, they may need to reinstall the software in your body control module, as well.

Interference

In addition to a dead coin battery The key for fiat 500 fob may not be able to receive or transmit signals due to interference. This could occur if the key fob is in close proximity to a radio transmitter, such as a cell phone or radar detector. The key fob might not work due to a bad connection with the buttons water damage or damage to the internal chips.

If your key fob suddenly stopped working, or if you have tried everything at home to resolve it (e.g. replacing the battery, reprogramming, and using the spare key fob, you may have a faulty receiver module on your 500. The receiver module, located beneath the dashboard, picks up radio frequency signals from your key fob. It converts them to electronic commands that the vehicle interprets.

Luckily, there is an easy way to reset 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 remaining electric current, and also restart the car's computer. This could help you get your key fob working again. If the issue persists you should speak with an expert certified technician. They'll be able to diagnose the exact cause of your problem.