Reasons Your Fiat 500 Key Fob Won't Work
A key fob from
fiat replacement key fob 500 is a convenient method to unlock the doors and get started the car. However, there are a variety of reasons why the fob won't be working. This could be due to a dead coin battery or damage to the receiver module, water issues, and
workshop interfering.
This listing is for an NEW replacement Fiat Flip Key Remote that is similar to the Ilco brand. It must be professionally programmed (click here to search for local locksmiths in the automotive industry). This remote includes trunk, lock and unlock buttons.
Dead Coin Battery
The most frequent reason that your 500 key fob will not function is due to an inactive battery. Modern key fobs only have only a limited range of operation and must be within a few inches of your vehicle to work. If you're far from your vehicle and press the keyfob button, it won't respond and display the message "Key Fob Not Detected".
If this happens then replace the battery for your coin-cell (Part Number CR2032) with a new battery of a trusted brand like Panasonic Duracell or Energizer. You can find them at your local hardware store, or on the internet.
After you've replaced the battery of your coin cell you can test it by standing close to your Fiat 500 and pressing the buttons. The parking lights should flash and the key fob will operate the lock and unlock switch.
If the key fob won't function after replacing the battery, it may have water damage that stops it from communicating with the receiver module inside your car. Water damage can happen in a number of ways, from an accidental splash to submerging the fob into salt water at the beach. If you suspect that your fob has been exposed to water, try placing it in a dry rice bag to pull the moisture out. If that doesn't work the fob might need to be reprogrammed by a professional auto locksmith or dealer.
Water Damage
Damage to the water supply can occur if you submerge the fob in the ocean or wash it in a washing machine. Saltwater is particularly dangerous to the fob's circuit board, causing it to short out and eventually die. If you get the fob wet, it's not a good idea however, if you drop it into an empty cup of water, or don't remember to take it out of your pants pocket prior to running the washer and you don't have a chance, don't give in.
Remove the battery first. Clean the electronic chip using isopropyl alcohol or a similar product and dry it thoroughly before replacing the battery. Then, test the fob to test if it works. If the key doesn't function, it may have to be programmed again. This is usually done by an auto locksmith or dealer.
If the key is newer and was not programmed to your vehicle it is likely to need to be replaced completely. A professional automotive locksmith can carry out this simple task. The locksmith will need to cut the key to match the ignition of your vehicle. They'll also have to reprogram the fob in your car's system. This is an affordable and quick process that can be completed the same day.
Receiver Module Issues
Your 500 key fob might not work because it's out of range. The remote usually has a range of 30 feet or less and if it's far from your car, it won't respond to your commands. It is possible to fix this by moving the remote closer to your car until it responds.
If your fob won't work after you replace the coin battery, also called a "button", "watch" or "button", it could be a problem with the internal circuit board. In most cases, reprogramming the fob can resolve the issue. There are instructions on how to do this for all automobiles by searching YouTube or checking out the owner's manual.
It is possible to replace the clips made of metal that hold the coin batteries in place. If they loose tension it can prevent the coin battery from being seated properly and can cause your remote to malfunction.
In rare cases the fob may be out of alignment with your vehicle because of hardware or software problems. This could be a huge trouble, but you could usually resolve this issue by visiting an auto locksmith to reprogram your fob for you. In certain instances, they may need to reinstall the software on your body control module as well.
Interference
In addition to a dead battery on a coin the key fob could not be able to transmit or receive signals due to interference. This can happen when the key fob is near radio transmitters (cell phones and radar detectors) or any other source of electromagnetic radiation. Other reasons the key fob might not function could be due to a weak connection to the buttons and internal chip, or water damage.
If the key fob stopped working one day in the middle of the night,
workshop or after trying everything you can do at home to fix it e.g. You may have a faulty 500 receiver module after you've tried replacing the battery, reprogramming or using an alternative key fob. The receiver module is located under the dash, and it picks up the radio frequency signals from the key fob. It then converts them into electronic commands that the vehicle interprets.
Fortunately, there's an easy method to reset every single system on board in your 500 keys, including the key fob. Disconnect the battery for 15 minutes by removing first the negative cable, then the positive cable. Reconnect the battery. This will eliminate any remaining electricity, and restart the computer in your car. This can help get your key fob to function again. If the problem persists you should seek out an expert technician. They will be able to identify the root of any issues.
