2023 Fiat 500X Keys and Smart Key Setup Guide

The 2023 Fiat 500X makes a daring advancement with its ground-breaking Keys and Smart Key system in a time when automotive technology is constantly changing to improve convenience and security. This small crossover SUV offers a unique driving experience by perfectly fusing Italian design with cutting-edge technology. Traditional keys are a thing of the past thanks to Fiat, who has introduced a new era of access and control.

The 2023 Fiat 500X’s Keys and Smart Key system is evidence of the manufacturer’s dedication to innovation, practicality, and security. This system is made to improve your regular driving experiences, whether you’re a tech geek or simply someone who appreciates simplicity. We will examine the capabilities and advantages of the Keys and Smart Key system in the 2023 Fiat 500X in this extensive guide. We’ll explore the cutting-edge technology that makes this car stand out from the competition, from keyless entry to remote start features. So fasten your seatbelts as we set out to see how the 2023 Fiat 500X is transforming how we interact with our automobiles.

KEYS

KEY FOB
Your vehicle is equipped with a key fob which supports Passive Entry, Remote Keyless Entry (RKE), Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ (if equipped), and Remote Start (if equipped). The key fob allows you to lock or unlock the doors and liftgate or activate the Panic Alarm from distances up to approximately 66 ft (20 m). In some conditions, this distance can be reduced or increased. The key fob does not need to be pointed at the vehicle to activate the system. The key fob also contains an emergency key, which is stored in the rear of the key fob.

NOTE:

1. The key fob’s wireless signal may be blocked if the key fob is located next to a metallic object, mobile phone, laptop, wireless charging pad, or other electronic device. This may result in poor performance.
2. If the key fob’s battery is near depletion, the key fob performance can be reduced.

Keyless Ignition Key Fob

1. Unlock
2. Emergency Key
3. Lock
4. Remote Start
5. PANIC

In case the ignition switch does not change with the push of a button, the key fob may have a low or fully depleted battery. A low key fob battery can be verified by referring to the instrument cluster, which will display directions to follow.

To Unlock/Lock The Doors And Liftgate
Push and release the unlock button on the key fob once to unlock the driver’s door, or twice within five seconds to unlock all the doors and the liftgate. To lock all the doors and the liftgate, push the lock button once. When the doors are unlocked, the turn signals will flash and the illuminated entry system will be activated. When the doors are locked, the turn signals will flash and the horn will chirp (if programmed in the Uconnect system).

NOTE:
If the vehicle is unlocked by a key fob, and no door is opened within 60 seconds, the vehicle will relock and if equipped, the security system will arm.
All doors can be programmed to unlock on the first push of the unlock button within Uconnect Settings.

Key Left Vehicle Feature — If Equipped
If a valid key fob is no longer detected inside the vehicle while the vehicle’s ignition system is in the ON/RUN or START position, the message “Key Fob Has Left The Vehicle” will be shown in the instrument cluster display along with an interior chime. An exterior audible and visual alert will also be activated to warn the driver.
The vehicle’s horn will rapidly chirp three times along with a single flash of the vehicle’s exterior lights.

NOTE:

1. The doors have to be open and then closed in order for the vehicle to detect a key fob; the Key Left Vehicle feature will not activate until all of the doors are closed.
2. These alerts will not be activated in situations where either the vehicle’s engine is left running with the key fob inside, or the key fob’s wireless signals are blocked.

Replacing The Battery In The Key Fob
The recommended replacement battery is one CR2032 battery.

NOTE:

1. Customers are recommended to use a battery obtained from Mopar®. Aftermarket coin battery dimensions may not meet the original OEM coin battery dimensions.
2. Perchlorate Material — special handling may apply. See www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/perchlorate for further information.
3. Do not touch the battery terminals that are on the back housing or the printed circuit board.
4. Remove the emergency key (2) by sliding the emergency key release (1) on the back of the key fob and pulling the emergency key out with your other hand.
   Emergency Key Removal
   1. Emergency Key Release Button
   2. Emergency Key
5. Separate the key fob halves using a flat-blade screwdriver or a coin, and gently pry the two halves of the key fob apart. Make sure not to damage the seal during removal.

1. Remove the back cover to access and replace the battery. When replacing the battery, match the (+) sign on the battery to the (+) sign on the inside of the battery clip, located on the back cover. Avoid touching the new battery with your fingers. Skin oils may cause battery deterioration. If you touch a battery, clean it with rubbing alcohol.
2. To assemble the key fob case, snap the two halves together.

WARNING

1. The integrated key fob contains a coin cell battery. Do not ingest the battery; there is a chemical burn hazard. If the coin cell battery is swallowed, it can cause severe internal burns in just two hours and can lead to death.
2. If you think a battery may have been swallowed or placed inside any part of the body, seek immediate medical attention.
3. Keep new and used batteries away from children. If the battery compartment does not close securely, stop using the product and keep it away from children.

Programming And Requesting Additional Key Fobs
Programming the key fob may be performed by an authorized dealer.

NOTE:

1. Once a key fob is programmed to a vehicle, it cannot be repurposed and reprogrammed to another vehicle.
2. Only key fobs that are programmed to the vehicle electronics can be used to start and operate the vehicle.

WARNING

1. Always remove the key fobs from the vehicle and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.
2. For vehicles equipped with Keyless Enter ‘n Go™, always remember to place the ignition in the OFF position when exiting the vehicle.

Duplication of key fobs may be performed at an authorized dealer. This procedure consists of programming a blank key fob to the vehicle electronics. A blank key fob is one that has never been programmed.

NOTE

1. When having the Sentry Key Immobilizer system serviced, bring all vehicle keys with you to an authorized dealer.
2. Keys must be ordered to the correct key cut to match the vehicle locks.
3. It is not mandatory to replace the key fob if a new emergency key is needed, and vice versa.

SENTRY KEY

The Sentry Key Immobilizer system prevents unauthorized vehicle operation by disabling the engine. The system does not need to be armed or activated. Operation is automatic, regardless of whether the vehicle is locked or unlocked. The system uses a key fob, keyless push button ignition and a Radio Frequency (RF) receiver to prevent unauthorized vehicle operation. Therefore, only key fobs that are programmed to the vehicle can be used to start and operate the vehicle. The system will shut the engine off in two seconds if an invalid key fob is used to start the engine.
After placing the ignition switch in the ON/RUN position, the Vehicle Security Light will turn on for three seconds for a bulb check. If the light remains on after the bulb check, it indicates that there is a problem with the electronics. In addition, if the light begins to flash after the bulb check, it indicates that someone used an invalid key fob to start the engine. Either of these conditions will result in the engine being shut off after two seconds. If the Vehicle Security Light turns on during normal vehicle operation (vehicle running for longer than 10 seconds), it indicates that there is a fault in the electronics. Should this occur, have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible by an authorized dealer.

CAUTION
The Sentry Key Immobilizer system is not compatible with some aftermarket Remote Start systems. Use of these systems may result in vehicle starting problems and loss of security protection.

All of the key fobs provided with your new vehicle have been programmed to the vehicle electronics.

NOTE:
A key fob that has not been programmed is also considered an invalid key.

IGNITION SWITCH

KEYLESS ENTER ‘N GO™ IGNITION
This feature allows the driver to operate the ignition switch with the push of a button as long as the key fob is in the passenger compartment.
The START/STOP ignition button has three operating positions. These positions are OFF, ON, and RUN.

START/STOP Ignition Button

The push button ignition can be placed in the following positions:

OFF

1. The engine is stopped.
2. No electrical devices are available.

ON

1. The vehicle is not running.
2. Some electrical devices (power locks, alarm, etc.) are still available.

RUN

1. Driving mode.
2. All electrical devices are available (e.g. climate controls, heated seats, etc.).

NOTE:
The vehicle will not start if the key fob is located inside the cargo area and the liftgate is opened.

Backup Starting Method

NOTE:
If the ignition switch does not change with the push of a button, the key fob may have a low or depleted battery. In this situation, a backup method can be used to operate the ignition switch. Put the nose side (side opposite of the emergency key) of the key fob against the START/STOP ignition button and push to operate the ignition switch.

WARNING

1. When leaving the vehicle, always remove the key fob from the vehicle and lock your vehicle.
2. Never leave children alone in a vehicle, or with access to an unlocked vehicle.
3. Allowing children to be in a vehicle unattended is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or others could be seriously or fatally injured. Children should be warned not to touch the parking brake, brake pedal or the gear selector.
4. Do not leave the key fob in or near the vehicle, or in a location accessible to children, and do not leave the ignition in the ON or RUN position. A child could operate power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle.
5. Do not leave children or animals inside parked vehicles in hot weather. Interior heat buildup may cause serious injury or death.

CAUTION
An unlocked vehicle is an invitation for thieves. Always remove key fob from the vehicle and lock all doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.

NOTE:
For more information on proper engine starting procedures,

REMOTE START — IF EQUIPPED

This system uses the key fob to start the engine conveniently from outside the vehicle while still maintaining security. The system has a range of approximately 328 ft (100 m). Remote Start is used to defrost windows in cold weather, and to reach a comfortable climate in all ambient conditions before the driver enters the vehicle.

NOTE:
Obstructions between the vehicle and key fob may reduce this range.

WARNING

1. Do not start or run an engine in a closed garage or confined area. Exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide (CO) which is odorless and colorless. Carbon monoxide is poisonous and can cause serious injury or death when inhaled.
2. Keep key fobs away from children. Operation of the Remote Start system, windows, door locks or other controls could cause serious injury or death.

HOW TO USE REMOTE START

Push and release the Remote Start button on the key fob twice within five seconds. The vehicle doors will lock, the parking lights will flash, and the horn will chirp twice (if programmed). Then the engine will start and the vehicle will remain in the Remote Start mode for a 15 minute cycle. Pushing the Remote Start button a third time shuts the engine off.

1. With Remote Start, the engine will only run for 15 minutes.
2. If an engine fault is present or fuel level is low, the vehicle will start and then shut down in 10 seconds.
3. The parking lights will turn on and remain on during Remote Start mode.
4. For security, power window and power sunroof operation (if equipped) are disabled when the vehicle is in the Remote Start mode.
5. The ignition must be placed in the ON/RUN position before the Remote Start sequence can be repeated for a third cycle.

All of the following conditions must be met before the engine will remote start:

1. Gear Selector in PARK
2. Doors closed
3. Hood closed
4. Liftgate closed
5. Hazard switch off
6. Brake switch inactive (brake pedal not pressed)
7. Battery at an acceptable charge level
8. Panic button not pushed
9. System not disabled from previous Remote Start event
10. Vehicle Security Light flashing
11. Ignition in OFF position
12. Fuel level meets minimum requirement
13. Vehicle Security system is not signaling an intrusion
14. Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is not illuminated

WARNING

1. Do not start or run an engine in a closed garage or confined area. Exhaust gas contains carbon monoxide (CO) which is odorless and colorless. Carbon monoxide is poisonous and can cause serious injury or death when inhaled.
2. Keep key fobs away from children. Operation of the Remote Start system, windows, door locks or other controls could cause serious injury or death.

TO EXIT REMOTE START MODE

To drive the vehicle after starting the Remote Start system, push and release the START/STOP ignition button while pressing the brake pedal prior to the end of the 15 minute cycle.
The Remote Start system will turn the engine off with another push and release of the Remote Start button on the key fob, or if the engine is allowed to run for the entire 15 minute cycle. Once the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position, the climate controls will resume the previously set operations (temperature, blower control, etc.).

NOTE:

1. For vehicles equipped with the Keyless Enter ‘n Go™ — Passive Entry feature, the message “Remote Start Active — Push Start Button” will display in the instrument cluster display until you push the START/STOP ignition button.
2. To avoid unintentional shutdowns, the system will disable for two seconds after receiving a valid Remote Start request.

REMOTE START FRONT DEFROST ACTIVATION — IF EQUIPPED

When Remote Start is active, and the outside ambient temperature is 40°F (4.5°C) or below, the system will automatically activate front defrost for 15 minutes or less. The timing is dependent on the ambient temperature. Once the timer expires, the system will automatically adjust the settings depending on ambient conditions. See “Remote Start Comfort Systems — If Equipped” in the next section for detailed operation.

REMOTE START COMFORT SYSTEMS — IF EQUIPPED

When Remote Start is activated, the front and rear defrost will automatically turn on in cold weather. The heated steering wheel and driver heated seat feature will turn on if selected in the Comfort Menu screen within Uconnect Settings Ú page 106. The vehicle will adjust the climate control settings depending on the outside ambient temperature.

Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) — If Equipped
The climate controls will be automatically adjusted to the optimal temperature and mode settings depending on the outside ambient temperature. This will occur until the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position where the climate controls will resume their previous settings.

Manual Temperature Control (MTC) — If Equipped

1. In ambient temperatures at 40°F (4.5°C) or below, the climate settings will default to maximum heat, with fresh air entering the cabin. If the front defrost timer expires, the vehicle will enter Mix Mode.
2. In ambient temperatures from 40°F (4.5°C) to 78°F (26°C), the climate settings will be based on the last settings selected by the driver.
3. In ambient temperatures at 78°F (26°C) or above, the climate settings will default to MAX A/C, Bi-Level Mode, with Recirculation on.

For more information on ATC, MTC, and climate control settings,

NOTE:
These features will stay on through the duration of Remote Start until the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position. The climate control settings will change if manually adjusted by the driver while the vehicle is in Remote Start mode, and exit automatic override. This includes the OFF button on the climate controls, which will turn the system off.

REMOTE START WINDSHIELD WIPER DE-ICER AND REAR DEFROST ACTIVATION — IF EQUIPPED
When Remote Start is active and the outside ambient temperature is less than 40°F (4.4°C), the Windshield Wiper De-Icer will activate. Exiting Remote Start will resume its previous operation. If the Windshield Wiper De-Icer was active, the timer and operation will continue.

REMOTE START CANCEL MESSAGE — IF EQUIPPED

One of the following messages will display in the instrument cluster if the vehicle fails to remote start or exits Remote Start prematurely:

1. Remote Start Canceled — Door Open
2. Remote Start Canceled — Hood Open
3. Remote Start Canceled — Fuel Low
4. Remote Start Canceled — Liftgate Open
5. Remote Start Canceled — Too Cold
6. Remote Start Canceled — Time Expired
7. Remote Start Disabled — Start Vehicle To Reset

The message will stay active until the ignition is placed in the ON/RUN position.

FAQs

Useful Links

View full Pdf: 2023 Fiat 500X User Manual
2023 Fiat 500X Dasboard Warning and Indicator Lights