Reasons Your Fiat 500 Key Fob Won't Work
A key fob for the Fiat 500 allows you to easily open doors and start your vehicle. However, there are many reasons why the key fob might stop functioning. It could be due to a dead battery or damage to the receiver module, issues, or interference.
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Dead Coin Battery
The most common reason the 500 key fob won't work is a dead battery. Modern key fobs have a restricted operating range, and must be within some feet of the vehicle to function. If you are not within your car and hit the keyfob, it will not respond, and display the message "Key Fob Not Detected".
If this occurs then replace the battery for your coin-cell (Part Number CR2032) by a fresh one of a reliable brand, such as Panasonic Duracell or Energizer. You can typically find them at your local hardware store or online.
After you've changed the battery on the coin cell, you can test it by standing in front of your Fiat 500 and pressing the buttons. The car should blink its parking lights and the key fob should be able to operate the lock and unlock switches.
If your key fob still does not work after replacing the battery, it could be water damage that has prevented it from interacting with the module inside your vehicle. Water damage can occur in a number of ways, from the slightest splash to submerging the fob salt water at the beach. If you think your fob was exposed to water, you can place it in a bag of rice to draw out the moisture. If this isn't working, you'll require your fob to be reset by an auto locksmith or dealer.
Water Damage
Water damage can occur if you submerge the fob in the ocean, or wash it in a washer. Saltwater is particularly dangerous to the circuit board of the fob which causes it to short out and eventually die. It's not the best idea to submerge the fob in water, but don't give it up even if you accidentally drop the fob in water or forget to remove it from your pants pocket.
First, remove the battery. Before replacing the battery, clean the electronic chip with isopropyl, or a similar product. Check the fob again to determine if it's working. If the key doesn't work, it may need to be reprogrammed. This is usually done by a professional or dealer auto locksmith.
If the key is newer and has never been programmed to your car It is likely that it needs to be replaced completely. A professional automotive locksmith can do this job. The locksmith will need the key cut to match the car's ignition. They'll also have to reprogram the fob to the car's system. This is a low-cost and quick process that could be completed in the same day.
Receiver Module Issues
One of the most common reasons why your 500 key fob might stop functioning is that it's out of range. The remote has a maximum range of 30 feet, which means if you are too far away from your vehicle it won't respond to your commands. This can be easily fixed by moving it closer to your vehicle until it starts responding.
If your fob doesn't work after replacing the battery for the coin, also called a "button", "watch" or "button", it could be a problem with the circuit board inside. Reprogramming the fob usually resolves this issue. You can find directions on how to do this on the majority of automobiles by searching YouTube or checking out the owner's manual.
You may need to replace the metal clips that hold the coin battery in place. If they lose tension it could prevent the coin battery from sitting properly and can result in the malfunction of your remote.
In rare instances the fob might become desync'd with your vehicle because of software or hardware issues. This could be a huge issue, but you are able to usually fix it by visiting an auto locksmith to reprogram your fob for you. In some instances they might need to install the software again in your body control module, as well.
Interference
In addition to a dead coin battery The key fob might not be receiving or transmitting a signal due to interference. This could happen when the keyfob is in close proximity to a radio transmitter, like a cell phone or radar detector. The key fob could not function due to a bad connection with the buttons or water damage, or damage to the internal chips.
If fiat 500 duplicate key stopped working, or if you've tried everything at home to solve the issue (e.g. replacing the battery, reprogramming it and using the spare key fob, you could have a damaged receiver module on your 500. The receiver module, located under the dashboard, receives radio frequency signals from your key fob. It transforms the signals into electronic commands, which are then translated by the vehicle.
Fortunately, there's an easy method of resetting all on-board systems in your 500 and include the key fob. Disconnect the battery for 15 minutes by removing first the negative cable and then the positive cable. Then reconnect the battery. This will remove any remaining electrical charge 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 will be able to identify the exact cause of any issues.