Reasons Your Fiat 500 Key Fob Won't Work
A key fob from Fiat 500 allows you to easily open doors and start your vehicle. There are a variety of reasons why the key fob might stop working. These include a dead battery, damage to the receiver module, water issues, or 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 comes with lock, unlock and trunk buttons.
Dead Coin Battery
The most frequent reason why the 500 key fob won't work is the battery is dead. Modern key fobs have a very restricted operating range, and should be within a few feet of the vehicle in order to function. If you're far from your vehicle and you push the keyfob button it will not respond, and display the message "Key Fob Not Detected".
If this happens, simply replace the coin cell battery (Part number CR2032) with a new one from a reliable brand such as Panasonic, Duracell, or Energizer. You can find them in the local hardware store or on the internet.
You can test the battery on your coin-cell by pressing the buttons while you're standing close to your Fiat 500. The car should flash its parking lights, and the key fob should operate the lock and unlock buttons.
If the fob's key doesn't work after replacing the battery, it may have water damage that prevents it from communicating with the receiver module inside your car. Water damage can happen in many ways, such as the simple splash or submerging the key fob in saltwater at the beach. If you suspect that your fob was exposed to water, you can try placing it in a dry rice bag to draw the moisture back out. If this doesn't work your fob will probably require reprogramming by a professional auto locksmith or the dealer.
Water Damage
Water damage can occur when you submerge the fob in the ocean, or wash it in a machine. Saltwater is particularly dangerous to the circuit board of the fob that can cause it to short out and eventually die. The fob getting wet is not a good idea but if you accidentally drop it into a cup of water or do not remember to remove it from your pants pocket prior to running the washer, don't give up hope.
Remove the battery first. Clean the electronic chip with isopropyl alcohol or another similar product and then dry it thoroughly before replacing the battery. Next check the fob to verify if it is working. If the key doesn't work, it may have to be reprogrammed. This is typically handled by a dealer or professional auto locksmith.
If fiat replacement key fob is older and has not been programmed to your vehicle, it will likely need to be replaced completely. A professional automotive locksmith can complete this simple process. The locksmith will have to cut the key to match the ignition of your car. They'll also have to reprogram the fob to your vehicle's system. This is a cheap and quick process that can be completed on the same day.
Receiver Module Issues
Your 500 key fob might stop working because it is out of range. The remote has a maximum range of 30 feet. So in the event that you are far from your car it won't respond to your commands. You can easily remedy this by moving your remote closer to your car until it responds.
If your fob doesn't work after you replace the coin battery, also known as a "button", "watch" or "button" it could be due to a problem with the circuit board inside. Reprogramming the fob is usually the solution to this problem. You can find the instructions for the majority of vehicles on YouTube or in the owner's manual.
It is possible to replace the metal clips that keep the battery of your coin in place. If they lose tension it can stop your coin battery from being properly seated, causing your remote to malfunction.
In rare instances, the fob may become disconnected from your vehicle due to software issues or hardware issues. It is possible to fix this issue by visiting your local dealer or auto-locksmith to reprogram your key fob. In some instances it is possible that the software will require reinstallation into your body control modules.
Interference
Interference can also cause the key fob to be unable to receive or transmit an signal. This could occur if the key fob is located near the radio transmitter (cell phones and radar detectors) or another source of electromagnetic radiation. The key fob could 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 solve the issue (e.g. battery replacement, reprogramming and using the spare key fob, you might have a damaged receiver module on your 500. The receiver module, which is located beneath the dashboard, detects radio frequency signals from your key fob. It converts the signals into electronic commands which are then translated by the vehicle.
Fortunately, there's an easy way to reset all of the on-board systems in your 500 device, including the key fob. Disconnect the 12 volt battery for approximately 15 minutes by disconnecting the negative cable first then the positive cable. Then reconnect the battery. This will remove any remaining electrical charge, and then restart the computer of your car. This will help you get your key fob working again. If the problem persists, you should consult an expert certified technician. They can identify the root cause of any problems.