Reasons Your Fiat 500 Key Fob Won't Work
A key fob from Fiat 500 is a convenient way to unlock the doors and get started the car. There are a variety of reasons why the fob could stop working. These include a dead battery damage to the receiver module, water issues, or interference.
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Dead Coin Battery
The most frequent reason that your 500 key fob doesn't function is an inactive battery. Modern key fobs have a very restricted operating range, and should be within just a few feet of the car to operate. If you are further away from your vehicle and you push the keyfob button it will not respond, and display the message "Key Fob Not Detected".
If this happens, replace the battery on your coin cell (Part number CR2032) with a fresh one from a reliable brand such as Panasonic, Duracell, or Energizer. You can find them in your local hardware store, or on the internet.
After you've replaced the coin cell battery You can test it by standing near your Fiat 500 and pressing the buttons. The car should flash its parking lights, and the key fob will operate the lock and unlock switches.
If the key fob doesn't function after replacing the battery, it may have water damage that prevents it from communicating with the receiver module inside your car. Water damage can occur in a variety of ways, from the slightest splash to submerging the fob salt water at the beach. If you suspect your fob was exposed to water, try placing it in a dry rice bag to pull the moisture out. If this doesn't work, you will require your fob to be reset by an auto locksmith or a dealer.
Water Damage
Water damage can occur if you immerse the fob into the ocean, or wash it in a washer. Saltwater poses a particular risk to the fob's circuit board and can cause it to short out and eventually end up dying. Getting the fob wet is not a good idea but if you drop it in a cup of water or don't remember to take it out of your pants pocket before running the washing machine do not give up hope.
Take the battery off first. Before replacing the battery, clean the electronic chip using isopropyl or another similar product. Next try the fob and see if it works. If the key does not function, it may need to be reprogrammed. This is usually handled by an auto locksmith or dealer.
If the key is a newer model and was not programmed to your car 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 on your vehicle. They will also need to program the fob into the car's system. It's a simple and inexpensive process that can be completed within the same day.
Receiver Module Issues
One of the most common reasons your 500 key fob won't be working is because it's out of range. The remote typically has a range of 30 feet or less and if it's far away from your car it will not respond to your commands. You can easily remedy this by moving your remote closer to your car until it responds.
If your fob isn't working after replacing the coin battery, also known as a "button", "watch" or "button" it could be a problem with the internal circuit board. In the majority of cases, reprogramming your fob can resolve the problem. You can find the steps for most vehicles on YouTube or in the owner's manual.
It is sometimes necessary to replace the metal clips that hold the coin batteries in place. If they lose tension, it could prevent the coin battery from sitting properly and can cause the remote to malfunction.
In push to start might become desync'd with your vehicle due to software or hardware issues. It is possible to fix this issue by visiting your local dealer or auto-locksmith to reprogram your key fob. In certain instances, the software may also require reinstallation to your body control modules.
Interference
In addition to a dead coin battery the key fob could not be able to receive or transmit signals due to interference. This can happen when the key fob is close to radio transmitters (cell phones or radar detectors) or another source of electromagnetic radiation. The key fob could not function due to a poor connection with the buttons water damage or damage to the internal chips.
If your key fob suddenly stopped working, or you have tried everything at home to fix it (e.g. replacing batteries, reprogramming or using the spare key fob, you might have a defective receiver module on your 500. The receiver module, which is located under the dashboard, receives radio frequency signals from your key fob. It then converts them into electronic commands that the vehicle interprets.
Luckily, there is an easy method of resetting all of the on-board systems in your 500 and include the key fob. Disconnect the battery of 12 volts for approximately 15 minutes by disconnecting the negative cable first then the positive cable. Then, reconnect the battery. This will erase any remaining electric current, and also restart the computer of your car. This can help get your key fob to function again. If the issue continues, you should consult an expert technician. They'll be able to diagnose the exact cause of your problems.