Reasons Your Fiat 500 Key Fob Won't Work
A key fob for the Fiat 500 is a convenient way to unlock the doors and start the car. However, there are many reasons the fob could stop functioning. This could be due to a dead coin-battery and water damage, as well as problems with the receiver modules, and interference.
This listing is for a NEW replacement Fiat Flip Key Remote that looks like the Ilco brand. It needs to be professionally programmed (click here to search for local locksmiths in the automotive industry). It includes lock, unlock and trunk buttons.
Dead Coin Battery
A dead battery is the most common cause of your 500 key fob being inoperative. Modern key fobs offer limited operating range and must be within just a few inches of the vehicle in order to work. If you are not within your vehicle and push the keyfob button it will not respond, and display the message "Key Fob Not Detected".
If this occurs, replace the coin-cell battery (Part Number CR2032) by a new one of a reliable brand, like Panasonic Duracell or Energizer. You can 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 in front of your Fiat 500 and pressing the buttons. The parking lights should flash and the key fob will operate the lock and unlock switches.
If the key fob won't function after replacing the battery, it could be damaged by water that blocks it from connecting to the receiver module inside your car. Water damage can occur in a variety of ways, ranging from small splashes to submerging the fob in salt water at the beach. If you suspect that your fob was exposed to water, you can place it in a rice bag to draw out the moisture. If this fails, you'll require your fob to be reset by an auto locksmith or a dealer.
Water Damage
The fob does have rubber seals to keep water out of the chip's electronic circuit the device, submerging it into the ocean or washing it in a machine can cause water damage. Saltwater poses a particular risk to the circuit board of the fob and can cause it to short out and eventually end up dying. It's not good to soak the fob in water however, don't give it up in the event that you accidentally drop it in water or forget to remove it from your pocket.
Take the battery off first. Clean the electronic chip with isopropyl alcohol or another similar product and then dry it thoroughly before replacing the battery. Check the fob again to verify if it's working. If the key does not work, it might need to be reprogrammed. This is usually done by an auto locksmith or dealer.
If the key is a newer model and has never been programmed to your car It is likely that it needs to be replaced completely. This is a simple procedure that can be completed by a professional locksmith for automotive use. The locksmith must cut the key to match the ignition of your vehicle. They'll also need to reprogram the fob to your vehicle's system. This is a cost-effective and quick procedure that can be completed the same day.
Receiver Module Issues
Your 500 key fob may not function because it's out of range. The remote typically has a range of 30 feet or less, and if it's too far from your car, it will not respond to your commands. It can be solved 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 isn't working It could be because of an internal circuit board problem. Reprogramming your fob can resolve this issue. You can find the steps for most vehicles on YouTube or in the owner's guide.
It could be necessary to replace the clips made of metal that hold the coin batteries in the correct position. If fiat 500 duplicate key could prevent the coin battery from being seated properly and could cause your remote to malfunction.
In rare instances, the fob can become out of the vehicle's sync because due to hardware or software issues. This can be a major problem, but you can usually resolve this issue by visiting an auto locksmith to reprogram your fob. In certain instances they may have to reinstall the software in your body control module, as well.
Interference
Interference can also cause the key fob to not receive or transmit signals. This could occur if the keyfob is located in close proximity to a radio transmitter like a cellphone or radar detector. The key fob could not work due to a bad connection to the buttons or water damage, or damage to the internal chips.
If the key fob suddenly stopped working, out of the blue and you've tried everything you can do at home to solve it e.g. replacing the battery, reprogramming, and using the spare key fob, it could have a malfunctioning receiver module on your 500. The receiver module is located under the dash, and it picks up the radio frequency signals from the key fob. It converts the signals into electronic commands which are then translated by the vehicle.
Luckily, there is an easy method of resetting all on-board systems in your 500 device, including the key fob. Disconnect the battery 12 volt for about 15 minutes, by taking off the negative cable first then the positive cable. Reconnect the battery. This will clear any residual electricity, and restart the computer of your car. This will help you get your key fob to function again. If the issue continues, you should seek the advice of an expert technician. They will be able to identify the root cause of your problem.