Reasons Your Fiat 500 Key Fob Won't Work

A key fob for Fiat 500 makes it simple to open doors and start your car. There are many reasons the fob may stop working. This could be due to a dead coin battery, damage to the receiver module, water issues, or interference.

This listing is for an NEW replacement key for fiat 500 Fiat Flip Key Remote - similar to 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

A dead battery is the most common reason for your 500 key fob being inoperative. Modern key fobs come with a limited operating range and must be within a few feet of the car to operate. If you are not within your vehicle, and Fiat Panda key you push the keyfob button it won't respond and display the message "Key Fob Not Detected".

If this happens, simply replace the battery in the coin cell (Part number CR2032) with a fresh one from a reliable brand like Panasonic, Duracell, or Energizer. You can typically find them in your local hardware store or on the internet.

You can test the battery in the coin-cell by pressing the buttons while you're standing close to your Fiat Panda key 500. The car should blink its parking lights and the key fob should be able to operate the lock and unlock switches.

If the key fob won't work after replacing the battery, it might have water damage that stops it from communicating with the receiver module inside your car. Water damage can happen in a number of ways, ranging from the slightest splash to submerging the fob salt water at the beach. If you suspect your fob was exposed to water, try putting it in a dry rice bag to pull the moisture out. If this does not work, you'll need to have the fob replaced by an auto locksmith or dealer.

Water Damage

Water damage can occur when you immerse the fob into the ocean or wash it in a washer. Saltwater can cause the circuit board to short, and eventually die. In the event that you let your fob get wet, it's not an option, but if you drop it into an empty cup of water, or fail to take it out of your pocket before you run the washing machine, don't give up hope.

First, remove the battery. Clean the electronic chip using isopropyl alcohol or a similar product and then dry it completely before replacing the battery. Check the fob to see if it is functioning. If the fob doesn't work, it may need to be reset. This is typically done by a dealer or professional auto locksmith.

If the key is a newer model and has never been programmed to your vehicle, it will likely need to be replaced completely. This is a simple process that can be completed by a professional automotive locksmith. The locksmith will require the key to be cut to match your vehicle's ignition. They'll also need to program the fob into the car's system. This is a low-cost and quick procedure that can be completed within the same day.

Receiver Module Issues

The 500 key fob could not work because it's out of range. The remote typically has a range of 30 feet or less and if it's far from your vehicle, it will not respond to your commands. It can be solved by moving closer to your vehicle until it begins responding.

If you've replaced the battery in your coin (commonly called a "button" or "watch") and your fob doesn't function it could be due to an internal circuit board problem. In most cases, reprogramming the fob will solve the problem. You can find the steps for most vehicles on YouTube or in the owner's guide.

It may be necessary to replace the clips made of metal that hold the coin batteries in the correct position. If they lose tension, it can stop your coin battery from being properly seated and cause your remote to malfunction.

In rare cases, the fob may become desync'd with your vehicle due to software issues or hardware issues. This can cause a major trouble, but you could usually fix it by visiting a local dealer or auto locksmith to reprogram your fob. In some instances, they may need to install the software again in your body control module as well.

Interference

In addition to a dead battery on a coin the key fob could not be able to receive or transmit a signal due to interference. This can happen when the key fob is near the radio transmitter (cell phones and radar detectors) or another source of electromagnetic radiation. Other reasons the key fob may not function include a weak connection to the buttons, damage to the internal chip or water damage.

If the key fob stopped working one day suddenly or even after trying everything you can at home to fix it e.g. It could be a defective 500 receiver module in the event that you've tried replacing the battery, reprogramming or using an alternative key fob. The receiver module, which is located beneath the dashboard, picks up radio frequency signals from your key fob. It then converts them into electronic commands that the vehicle interprets.

There's a simple method to reset the 500's internal system including the keyfob. Disconnect the 12 volt battery for about 15 minutes by removing the negative cable first then the positive cable. Then reconnect the battery. This will eliminate any remaining electrical charge, and then restart the computer of your car. This will help you get your key fob to work again. If the issue continues, you should consult an expert technician. They will be able to identify the root cause of your problems.