Reasons Your Fiat 500 Key Fob Won't Work

A key fob for the Fiat 500 makes it simple to open doors and start your vehicle. However, there are a variety of reasons why the fob may stop working. These include a dead battery or water damage, receiver module issues, and interfering.

This listing is for an NEW replacement Fiat Flip Key Remote that is similar to the Ilco brand. It must be professionally programmed (click here to search for local locksmiths in the automotive industry). It includes lock, unlock and trunk buttons.

Dead Coin Battery

The most frequent reason why your 500 key fob will not work is the battery is dead. Modern key fobs offer only a limited range of operation and must be within a few inches of your vehicle to function. If you are further away from your vehicle, and you push the keyfob button it won't respond and display the message "Key Fob Not Detected".

If this happens, replace the coin cell battery (Part number CR2032) with a new one from a reliable brand like Panasonic, Duracell, or Energizer. They are usually available 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 car should blink its parking lights and the key fob should operate the lock and unlock buttons.

If your key fob still isn't working after replacing the battery, it could be water damage that hinders it from interacting with the module inside your vehicle. Water damage can happen through a variety of methods, including an easy splash or submerging the key fob saltwater at the beach. If you suspect your fob has been exposed to water, try putting it in a dry rice bag to pull the moisture out. If that doesn't work, your fob will probably need to be reset by a professional locksmith or dealer.

Water Damage

Water damage can occur if you immerse the fob in the ocean or wash it in a machine. Saltwater can cause the circuit board to short and then end up dying. It's not a good idea to soak the fob in water, but don't give it up in the event that you accidentally drop it in the water or don't take it out of your pants pocket.


First take the battery off the fob. Clean the electronic chip with isopropyl ethanol or a similar product and then dry it thoroughly before replacing the battery. Test the fob next to determine if it's functioning. If the key does not function, it may need to be changed. This is usually done by an auto locksmith or dealer.

If the key is newer and has never been programmed to your vehicle It will most likely need to be replaced completely. A professional automotive locksmith can carry out this simple task. The locksmith must cut the key to match the ignition on your vehicle. They'll also have to reprogram the fob for your vehicle's system. This is a cost-effective and quick procedure that can be completed the same day.

Receiver Module Issues

One of the simplest reasons your 500 key fob could stop functioning is that it's out of range. The remote typically has an operating range of 30 feet or less, and if it's too far away from your car it won't respond to your commands. This can be fixed by moving closer to your vehicle until it starts responding.

If you've replaced the coin battery (commonly known as a "button" or "watch") and your fob doesn't function, it could have an internal circuit board problem. Reprogramming your fob can resolve this problem. The instructions are available for the majority of vehicles on YouTube or in the owner's manual.

It may be necessary to replace the metal clips that hold the coin batteries in their place. If they loose tension, it may prevent your battery from being properly seated, causing your remote to malfunction.

In fiat 500 key is possible that the fob will become desync'd with your vehicle due to software issues or hardware issues. This can cause a major headache, but you can frequently fix this issue by visiting an auto locksmith to reprogram your fob. In certain instances the software may require reinstallation to your body control modules.

Interference

Interference can also cause the key fob to be unable to receive or transmit a signal. This could occur if the keyfob's location is in close proximity to a radio transmitter such as a cell phone or radar detector. Other reasons the key fob might not work may be a lack of connection to the buttons or damage to the internal chip, or water damage.

If your key fob suddenly stopped working, or you've tried everything at home to resolve it (e.g. replacing batteries, reprogramming or using the spare key fob, it could have a defective 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 then converts them into electronic commands that the vehicle interprets.

Fortunately, there's an easy method to reset all on-board systems in your 500 device, including the key fob. Disconnect the 12 volt battery for approximately 15 minutes by disconnecting the negative cable first then the positive cable. Reconnect the battery. This will erase any remaining electrical charge, and then restart the computer of your car. This can help you get your key fob to function again. If the problem persists you should consult an expert technician. They can identify the exact cause of problems.