Reasons Your Fiat 500 Key Fob Won't Work
A key fob for the Fiat 500 is a convenient way to open the doors and start the car. However, there are a variety of reasons why the key fob might stop functioning. This could be due to a dead battery or water damage, issues with the receiver module, and interference.
This listing is for a NEW replacement Fiat Flip Key Remote that looks like the Ilco brand. It has to be professionally programmed (click here to search for local automotive locksmiths). It includes trunk, lock and unlock buttons.
Dead Coin Battery
A dead battery is the most frequent cause of your 500 key fob not functioning. Key fobs of today have limited operating range and must be within only a few inches from the vehicle in order to function. If you're far away from your vehicle and you press the key fob button, the car will not 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 brand new one from a reputable brand such as Panasonic, Duracell, or Energizer. They can be found in your local hardware store, or on the internet.
After you've replaced the coin cell battery You can test it by standing near your Fiat 500 and pressing the buttons. The parking lights will flash and the key fob should operate the lock and unlock switches.
If the fob's remote doesn't function after replacing the battery, it might have water damage that stops it from connecting to the receiver module inside your car. Water damage can happen in a variety of ways, ranging from an accidental splash to submerging your fob in salt water at the beach. If you suspect that your fob was exposed to water, you can place it in a bag of rice to draw out the moisture. If that doesn't work, your fob is likely to require reprogramming by an experienced auto locksmith or the dealer.
Water Damage
The fob does have rubber seals to keep water from the electronic chip inside it, 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 fail. It's not a good idea to get the fob wet however, but don't give it up when 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 using isopropyl ethanol or a similar product and then dry it completely before replacing the battery. Check the fob to check if it's working. If the key doesn't function, it may need to be programmed again. This is usually handled by a professional or dealer auto locksmith.
If the key is a newer model and has not been programmed to your car It will most likely need to be replaced completely. This is an easy process that can be carried out by a professional automotive locksmith. The locksmith must cut the key to match the ignition in your vehicle. The locksmith will also have to reprogram the fob into the vehicle's system. This is a low-cost and quick process that could be completed the same day.
Receiver Module Issues
One of the main reasons why your 500 key fob won't be working is because it's out of range. The remote usually has 30 feet of range or less and if it's far away from your car it won't respond to your commands. It can be solved by moving closer to your vehicle until it starts responding.
If you've replaced the coin battery (commonly known as a "button" or "watch") and your fob doesn't function, it could have an internal circuit board issue. Reprogramming the fob typically resolves this problem. You can find the instructions on how to do this for all automobiles by searching YouTube or consulting the owner's manual.
It could be necessary to replace the metal clips that hold the coin batteries in the correct position. If they lose tension it can stop your coin battery from being properly seated and cause your remote to malfunction.
In rare instances, the fob could be out of sync with your vehicle because of hardware or software issues. It is possible to fix this issue by visiting your local dealer or auto-locksmith to reprogram your key fob. In some instances, the software may also require reinstallation to your body control modules.
Interference
In addition to a dead battery on a coin, the key fob may not be able to transmit or receive an signal due to interference. This could occur if the key fob is in close proximity to a radio transmitter, like a cellphone or radar detector. Other reasons why the key fob could not function include a poor connection to the buttons and internal chip, or water damage.
If the key fob been unable to function for a while suddenly and you've tried every option at home to resolve it e.g. replacing the battery, reprogramming, and using the spare key fob, you could have a malfunctioning receiver module on your 500. The receiver module, located beneath the dashboard, picks up radio frequency signals from your key fob. Then, it converts them into electronic commands that the vehicle interprets.
There is a straightforward method to reset the 500's in-board system, including the keyfob. Disconnect the battery 12 volt for about 15 minutes, by disconnecting the negative cable first then the positive cable. Reconnect the battery. This will eliminate any remaining electricity and restart the car's computers. This can help you the key fob to function again. If the issue continues, you should consult an expert technician. They will be able to identify the exact cause of problems.