Car Key Cover Fiat 500: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
Fiat 500 Key Fob Replacement
If your 500 keyfob stops functioning, try another to determine if it will be detected by the car. If it does, then the problem is probably related to the battery, or water damage to the fob that was originally used.
Replace the battery first. The "+" side should be facing down.
Dead Battery
The battery is usually the reason for an inoperative fob. This isn't a problem to fix and most fobs will give you a warning when the battery is failing. You can find the correct procedure on YouTube for almost every key fob in your car or in your owner's manual. You can also change it by taking it to the locksmith or dealer who has sold it to you.
Sometimes a fob stops working due to a problem with the internal circuit board. This is a bit rare but it could occur. The internal chip may be damaged in the event you drop the fob on something hard. This can also happen when you use an aftermarket key and the fob doesn't work. In this instance, it is necessary to visit a dealer locksmith to have the key reprogRammed to make it compatible with your 500.
One 2012 FIAT 500 Flip Key Remote - resembles Ilco brand with lock, unlock and trunk buttons - new replacement keyless entry remote (will require cutting & programmed by a locksmith)
Damaged Chip
Fiat 500 key fobs are wireless devices that send an alert to the car every time you press the button. It has a microchip that holds information about the code needed to communicate with your car. If the chip is damaged, it can't transmit the correct code, and the car will not start. Locksmiths can fix the damage. United Locksmith can complete this service on both classic and modern models, so do not hesitate to call.
A locksmith can program an entirely new key fob. This is much less expensive than visiting a dealer and it works just as well. You will need to provide some information for the locksmith, like the year in which your car was manufactured and the model.
Rub the chip with an old dollar bill if not certain what to do. The copper in the bill is abrasive and can remove oxidation and dirt. However, replacement fiat key will not harm the microchip. If the chip is physically damaged it might not be capable of being repaired. This could happen if you drop the chip or run it over by your vehicle.
Water Damage
Whether you accidentally dropped your keys in the pool, put them in your pocket while you were swimming at the beach or splashed them with water on a rainy day it's likely your fob will have some water damage. Even if it's just tiny amounts of water on the key, it could cause serious issues with its electronics.
It is possible to fix this problem yourself by taking the fob off and cleaning it with a paper towel. Once the fob is dry it is possible to replace the battery and it should begin working properly.
You can also take it to an auto repair shop or locksmith to have it professionally programmed and cleaned. They are able to utilize special equipment to ensure that the key fob is compatible with the computer system in your car.
If the key fob on your Fiat 500 stops working, you may feel frustrated and stressed. It's costly and cumbersome to take your key fob to the dealer. A locksmith can handle every aspect of your car's key fob replacement without the need for a dealership visit. They are a better choice over a dealer as they can take care of all aspects of the replacement of your car's key fob without the need for a dealership visit.
Pairing Issues
If you drop your key fob or it stops working, and there is nothing problem there could be a chip that is malfunctioning. This can be due to water damage or a dead battery. it could be that it needs reprogramming.
This can often be done by simply following the directions in your owner's manual. However it's best to have a locksmith from your automotive take care of this if you're having issues or the instructions in your manual aren't working for you. This ensures the chip isn't fried and will likely be the most cost-effective solution.
Another issue facing 500 owners is that the key fob doesn't secure the car. This can be a problem if you plan to fill up at the gas station. Some owners have reported the locking mechanism of their 500's malfunctioning and they had to replace the entire intermediate shaft of the steering. This issue has been cited in a technical service bulletin (TSB) issued by Fiat.
A reputable locksmith can assist you if your Fiat has issues. They're able to duplicate your key or they can make you a new one that will lock and start the car. They are able to do this without looking at your old key, and it's typically less expensive than buying a key from the dealer.