Reasons Your Fiat 500 Key Fob Won't Work
A key fob from Fiat 500 is a convenient method to unlock the doors and start the car. However, there are numerous reasons the fob could stop working. This could be due to a dead coin 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 function is an inactive battery. Modern key fobs only have a limited range of operation and must be within a few inches of your vehicle in order to work. If you are not within your vehicle and press the keyfob button, it will not respond, and display the message "Key Fob Not Detected".
If this happens, replace the battery of your coin cell (Part number CR2032) by a new one from a trusted brand like Panasonic, Duracell, or Energizer. You can usually find them in your local hardware store, or online.
You can test the battery in the coin-cell by pressing the buttons while you're standing close to your Fiat 500. The parking lights will flash and the key fob should operate the lock and unlock switches.
If the key fob won't function after replacing the battery, it may be damaged by water that blocks 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 into salt water at the beach. If you suspect that your fob was exposed to water, you can try placing it in a dry rice bag to pull the moisture back out. If this fails, you'll need to have the fob changed by an auto locksmith or dealer.
Water Damage
Water damage can occur if you immerse the fob into the ocean or wash it in a washing machine. Saltwater poses a particular risk to the circuit board of the fob that can cause it to short out and eventually end up dying. In the event that you let your fob get wet, it's not a good idea but if you drop it in a glass of water or fail to remove it from your pocket before you run the washer, don't give up hope.
First, remove the battery from the fob. Clean the electronic chip with isopropyl alcohol or a similar product and then dry it completely before replacing the battery. Then try the fob and test if it works. If the key does not work, it may have to be reprogrammed. This is usually done by a dealer or professional auto locksmith.
If the key is more recent and has never been programmed to your car it is likely to need to be replaced completely. This is a straightforward process that can be handled by a professional automotive locksmith. The locksmith will need to cut the key to match the ignition of your car. The locksmith will also have to program your fob into the vehicle's system. It's a simple and cost-effective process that is usually completed on the same day.
Receiver Module Issues
The 500 key fob could not function because it's out of range. The remote has a maximum range of 30 feet, so in the event that you are far from your car it won't be able to respond to your commands. It's easy to remedy this by moving your remote closer to your car until it responds.
If you've replaced the battery on your coin (commonly known as a "button" or "watch") and the fob isn't working it could be due to an internal circuit board issue. Reprogramming your fob can resolve this problem. You can find the instructions for the majority of vehicles on YouTube or in the owner's manual.
It may be necessary to replace the clips made of metal that hold the coin batteries in place. If fiat 500 key fob replacement lose tension they could stop the coin battery from sitting properly and could result in the malfunction of your remote.
In rare cases the fob could be disconnected from your vehicle because of 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 might need to be reinstalled in your body control modules.
Interference
Interference can also cause the key fob to not be able to receive or transmit the signal. This could occur if the keyfob is located in close proximity to a radio transmitter, such as a cell phone or radar detector. Other reasons the key fob might not work include a weak connection to the buttons or damage to the internal chip or water damage.
If the key fob stopped working one day in the middle of the night, or after trying every option at home to resolve it e.g. It could be a defective 500 receiver module If you've tried replacing it with a battery, reprogramming or using an alternative key fob. The receiver module is situated under the dash and receives the radio frequency signals from the key fob. It transforms the signals into electronic commands, which are then interpreted by the vehicle.
There is a simple way to reset the 500's internal system, including the keyfob. Disconnect the 12 volt battery for approximately 15 minutes by disconnecting the negative cable first then the positive cable. Then, reconnect the battery. This will remove any residual electricity and restart the car's computer system, which can help you the key fob to function again. If the issue continues, you should seek out an expert technician. They can identify the root cause of any issues.