Reasons Your Fiat 500 Key Fob Won't Work

A Fiat 500 key fob makes it simple to open doors and click over here start your vehicle. However, there are many reasons why the fob may stop functioning. This could be due to a dead battery or water damage, issues with the receiver module, and interference.

This listing is for an NEW replacement Fiat Flip Key Remote - like the Ilco brand that must be programmed professionally by a local automotive locksmith (click here for Locksmith Search). It comes with lock, unlock and trunk buttons.

Dead Coin Battery

The most frequent reason that your 500 key fob will not work is an inactive battery. Modern key fobs operate with a limited operating range and should be within a few feet of the car to operate. If you are far from your vehicle and push the keyfob button it will not respond, and display the message "Key Fob Not Detected".

If this happens, replace the coin-cell battery (Part Number CR2032) by a brand new one from a reputable brand such as Panasonic Duracell or Energizer. You can usually find them at your local hardware store, or online.

You can test the battery on your coin-cell by pressing the buttons while standing near your fiat tipo key 500. The parking lights should light up and the key fob should operate the lock and unlock switch.

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

Water Damage

Water damage can occur when you immerse the fob in the ocean, or wash it in a washer. Saltwater can be particularly harmful to the circuit board of the fob that can cause it to short out and eventually die. In the event that you let your fob get wet, it's not a good idea however, if you drop it in the water in a cup or fail to remove it from your pants pocket prior to running the washer and you don't have a chance, don't give in.

Take the battery off first. Before replacing the battery clean the electronic chip using isopropyl, or a similar product. Test the fob afterward to verify if it's functioning. If the key doesn't function, it may have to be reset. This is usually done by an auto locksmith or dealer.

If your key is old and not programmed for your car it is necessary to replace it completely. A professional locksmith in the automotive industry can carry out this simple task. The locksmith will need the key cut to match your car's Ignition Repair. They will also need to reprogram the fob in the system of your car. This is a low-cost and fast process that can be completed on the same day.

Receiver Module Issues

One of the simplest reasons your 500 key fob may stop functioning is because it's out of range. The remote has a range of 30 feet. So in the event that you are far from your car, it won't respond to your commands. This can be easily fixed by moving 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 won't work It could be because of an internal circuit board issue. In the majority of cases, reprogramming your fob will solve the problem. You can find directions on how to do this for most vehicles by searching YouTube or looking through the owner's manual.

It could be necessary to replace the clips made of metal that hold the coin batteries in their place. If they loose tension, it could prevent your coin battery from being properly seated and cause your remote to malfunction.

In rare instances the fob could be disconnected from your vehicle due to software issues or hardware issues. You can fix this issue by visiting your local auto-locksmith or dealer to reprogram your key fob. In certain instances, they may need to reinstall the software in your body control module as well.

Interference

Interference can also cause the key fob to not be able to receive or transmit a signal. This can occur when the keyfob is in close proximity to a radio transmitter like a cell phone or radar detector. The key fob could not work due to a bad connection with the buttons, water damage or damage to the internal chips.

If the key fob suddenly stopped working, in the middle of the night or even after trying everything you can do at home to resolve it e.g. replacing batteries, reprogramming or using the spare key fob, you may have a defective receiver module on your 500. The receiver module is situated under the dash and picks up the radio frequency signals from the key fob. It transforms the signals into electronic commands that are then translated by the vehicle.

There is a simple way to reset the 500's in-board system, including the keyfob. Disconnect the battery for 15 minutes by taking off first the negative cable, then the positive cable. Reconnect the battery. This will clear out any residual electricity and restart the car's computer system, which could help get your key fob working again. If the problem persists you should consult an expert technician. They can identify the root cause of your issues.