Reasons Your Fiat 500 Key Fob Won't Work

A replacement fiat 500 key fob 500 key fob is a handy way to open the doors and begin the car. However, there are numerous reasons the fob could stop working. This includes a dead battery and water damage, as well as issues with the receiver module, and interference.

This listing is for an NEW replacement key for fiat 500 Fiat keys Flip Key Remote that looks like the Ilco brand. It must be professionally programmed (click here to search for local automotive locksmiths). It comes with lock, unlock and trunk buttons.

Dead Coin Battery

The most common reason your 500 key fob doesn't work is the battery is dead. Modern key fobs come with a limited range of operation, and must be within some feet of the car to operate. If you are far from your vehicle and 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 of your coin cell (Part number CR2032) with a new one from a trusted brand such as Panasonic, Duracell, or Energizer. You can usually find them in your local hardware store, or online.

After you've replaced the battery in the coin cell, you can test it by standing close to your Fiat 500 and pressing the buttons. The car should blink its parking lights and the key fob will operate the lock and unlock buttons.

If the fob's key doesn't work after replacing the battery, it could have water damage that prevents it from connecting to the receiver module in your vehicle. Water damage can occur in a number of ways, ranging from an accidental splash to submerging the fob in salt water at the beach. If you suspect that your fob has been exposed to water, you can place it in a bag of rice to draw out the moisture. If this fails, you'll have to get your fob replaced by an auto locksmith or dealer.

Water Damage

Water damage can occur when you submerge the fob in the ocean, or wash it in a washing machine. Saltwater can cause the circuit board to short, and eventually cease to function. The fob getting wet is not an ideal idea, but if you drop it into a glass of water or do not remember to remove it from your pants pocket before running the washer do not give up hope.

Remove the battery first. Clean the electronic chip with isopropyl ethanol or a similar product and dry it thoroughly before replacing the battery. Then, test the fob to see if it works. If the key isn't working it could need to be reset. This is usually handled by an auto locksmith or dealer.

If the key is older and was not programmed to your vehicle, it will likely need to be replaced completely. This is a straightforward process that can be completed by a professional automotive locksmith. The locksmith will require the key to be cut to match the car's ignition. They will also need to program the fob into your vehicle's system. It's a simple and inexpensive process that can usually be completed on the same day.

Receiver Module Issues

One of the main reasons why your 500 key fob may 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. You can easily solve this problem by moving the remote closer to your vehicle until it responds.

If your fob isn't working after replacing the battery for the coin, also known as a "button", "watch" or "button", it could be due to an issue with the circuit board inside. In most cases, reprogramming the fob can resolve the issue. You can find instructions on how to do this on the majority of vehicles by searching YouTube or checking out the owner's manual.

It is sometimes necessary to replace the metal clips that hold the coin batteries in the correct position. If they loose tension, it can prevent your coin battery from being properly seated, causing your remote to malfunction.

In rare cases the fob might be out of alignment with your vehicle because of hardware or software issues. This issue can be fixed by visiting your local auto-locksmith or dealer to reprogram your key fob. In some instances, the software may also require reinstallation into your body control modules.

Interference

In addition to a dead coin battery the key fob could not be receiving or transmitting an signal due to interference. This could occur if the keyfob is in close proximity to a radio transmitter like a cell phone or radar detector. Other reasons the key fob might not function could be due to a weak connection to the buttons, damage to the internal chip or water damage.

If the key fob been unable to function for a while without notice, or after trying every option at home to solve it e.g. replacing batteries, reprogramming or using the spare key fob, you may have a malfunctioning receiver module on your 500. The receiver module is located under the dash and picks up the radio frequency signals from the key fob. It converts them into electronic commands that the vehicle interprets.

Fortunately, there's an easy method to reset all of the onboard systems in your 500 keys, including the key fob. Disconnect the battery for 15 minutes, removing first the negative cable, then the positive cable. Then reconnect the battery. This will clear any residual electric current, and also restart the computer of your car. This can help you get your key fob to function again. If the problem persists you should seek out an expert technician. They will be able to determine the root of your problem.