Seat Alhambra Key Problems
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There are a number of reasons why the key fob may not function properly, such as a dead coin battery or water damage, receiver module issues, or signal interference. This article will guide you through the steps to fix it.
Water Damage
If your seat alhambra key fob survives the wash cycle or a bath in the ocean or pool it's likely to have an incredible waterproof chip, but do not make it a habit because exposure to water in excess increases the chance of the key fob getting damaged. If your key fob stops working after exposure to rain or clean tap water, unplug the battery and clean the electronic component using a paper towel. Let it dry completely before replacing the battery. If the key fob has been exposed to soapy or salty water it is recommended that you clean the chip with isopropyl or electronic cleaner.
Faulty Receiver Module
If the key fob will not lock or unlock even after you've replaced the battery in the button cell, it is possible that the receiver module is suffering from a fault. The good news is that this is a fairly easy and affordable fix, you can disconnect the 12 volt battery for about a couple of minutes (first remove the negative cable, then press the horn button a few times) to remove any remaining electrical current and then reconnect it in reverse order e.g. Positive cable first and then negative.
ESP Warning Light - If the ESP symbol is illuminated, this is normal. It means that you are driving over terrain that has poor traction. This could be due to snow, gravel or surface water. If the ESP warning light continues to be illuminated it indicates that there is a problem within the system. This can be diagnosed using a iCarsoft i908 Seat OBD Code Reader kit that will give you a specific fault description.
Dead Coin Battery
One of the most frequent reasons for the seat alhambra key not functioning is a dead coin battery. The key fob is powered by a tiny button-cell battery. Replace it with a brand new battery that has the exact dimensions, voltage and specs as the original. If you're replacing your battery, ensure that you remove all metal retaining clips from the back of the key fob and make sure the contacts are free of corrosion.
If the key fob was exposed to water (such as soapy or rain tap water) it is recommended that you remove and clean the chip with an electronic cleaner or isopropylethanol prior to installing a new battery. The chip could be permanently damaged by moisture. If the key fob still not working after replacing the battery, it might be necessary to replace the entire key fob.
Faulty Receiver Module
If your key fob stopped working after you replaced the battery, but it didn't help, or it just stopped working out of the blue, then your receiver module may have developed an issue. The receiver module takes the radio frequency signals from the remote keyfob and transforms them into electrical signals that are then followed by other modules in the car.
If the receiver module has suffered a malfunction, it will not respond to any of the commands issued by your remote key fob. In this situation, you will need to go to a dealer for reprogramming of your key fob as well as a new receiver module.
The key fob is encased with rubber to prevent water from entering the electronic chip. If you immerse your key fob in soapy water or salty ocean water, the chips inside may be damaged. You can attempt to clean the chip by using isopropyl Alcohol to rub it or electronic cleaner, however if your key fob still isn't working after this, you'll have to purchase a replacement.
If the keys have been linked, but the receiver module is faulty, you can try to restart all the electronics in the board by disconnecting the battery at 12 volts for couple of minutes. Connect the battery in reverse (negative cable to positive first). This will reset all electronic components on board and bring them back into operation.
Electronic chip that is malfunctioning
The key fob is equipped with a tiny chip that transmits an indication from the key to the receiver module every time the key is used. If the signal does not match the one that the car has stored, the immobilizer will disable and stop the vehicle from starting. However, if the fob is not working and you are not able to reprogram it this could be due a damaged chip.
The chip inside the key fob is not an irreplaceable part of the device and might have to be replaced in order to function again. This can be accomplished by taking the key fob out of its housing and using pins or needles to contact each metal retaining clip. If they are corroded or broken, you will require replacement to allow the remote control to function. Make sure any replacement batteries are of the same voltage, size and specifications as the original.
The Seat Alhambra is an attractive and well-designed model however, like all cars it may encounter issues with certain parts or equipment. There have been reports of problems with the automatic climate-control system. seat ibiza key battery may malfunction and be stuck in a specific setting. In the same way, the infotainment system has also been known to malfunction and freeze screens.