5 Facts Seat Keys Replacement Is Actually A Good Thing
Seat Alhambra Key Problems
Seat's family MPV jumbo is one of the best in class when it comes to maintaining resale value. With a new model available for sale the jumbo family MPV is even more impressive.
There are many reasons the key fob won't function properly, such as an inoperative coin battery water damage to the receiver module or signal interference. This article will walk you through the steps needed to get it back to working.
Water Damage
If your seat alhambra key fob survives the wash cycle or a bath in the ocean or pool then it's probably equipped with an amazing waterproof chip but do not make it a habit as exposure to excessive water increases the chance of the key fob becoming damaged. If your key fob stops functioning after exposure to rain or clean tap water, you should remove the battery and wipe the electronic component using a towel. Dry it completely before replacing the battery. If the key fob has been exposed to salty or soapy water it is recommended you clean the chip using isopropyl or an electronic cleaner.
Faulty Receiver Module
If you've tried a new battery for a button and the key fob does not lock or unlock, it is likely that the receiver module has found a fault. The good news is that this is an easy and inexpensive repair, you can just disconnect the 12 volt battery for several minutes (first remove the negative cable and press the horn button multiple times) to remove any remaining electrical current and then reconnect it in reverse order e.g. positive cable first then negative cable later.
ESP Warning Light If the ESP warning light flashes, this is normal and signifies that the vehicle is driving over terrain where the traction of the road surface and tyres aren't as good, like snow, gravel or a lot of surface water. If the ESP light is always on, it means that there is a fault in the system. This can be identified by using an iCarsoft i908 seat OBD code reader kit. It will give you an in-depth description of the fault.
Dead Coin Battery
A dead coin battery is among the most frequent causes for the keys for the seat to cease to function. TheKeyLab is powered by a small button-cell battery. It is recommended to replace it by a new battery with the same voltage, size, and specification as the original. If you're replacing the battery be sure to remove all metal clips from the back of the key fob. Also, make sure that the contact points are clean and free of corrosion.
If the key fob was exposed to water, like soapy or rain it is recommended to remove the battery and clean the electronic chip using alcohol isopropyl or an electronic cleaner prior to installing the new battery. The chip is sensitive to moisture and may be permanently damaged. If the key fob is 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 replacing the battery but it did not help, or it suddenly stopped working in a sudden manner, then your receiver module may have developed an issue. The receiver module takes the radio frequency signals from your key fob's remote and transforms them into electrical signals which are then acted upon by other modules in the car.
If the receiver module has suffered a malfunction that prevents it from responding to any of the commands sent by your remote key fob. In this instance it is necessary for a dealer to reprogramme your key fob as well as install the new receiver.
The key fob is fitted with rubber seals that stop water from entering the chip inside. If you immerse the key fob in soapy or salty water, it could damage the chip. If your key fob doesn't work, you can try cleaning the chip with isopropyl or an electronic cleaner.
If the keys are connected but the receiver module has developed a fault you can try restarting all of the electronics on board by disconnecting the battery that is 12 volts for a short period of time. Then reconnect the battery in reverse order (negative cable first followed by positive). This will reset all the electronic components on board and restore their functionality.
Faulty electronic chip
The key fob comes with a tiny chip which transmits the signal from the key to the receiver module each time the key is used. If the signal isn't in line with the one the car has stored the immobilizer will be disabled and prevent the vehicle from starting. However, if the key fob isn't working and you are not able to reprogram it the issue could be due to a malfunctioning chip.
The chip in the key fob may need to be changed to make it work again. This can be done by getting the key fob removed from its housing and using pins or needles to connect with each metal retaining clip. If these clips are damaged or broken, you will require replacement to allow the remote control to work. Make sure that the replacement batteries are the same size, voltage and specifications as the original.
The Seat Alhambra is an attractive and well-designed model but like any other car it may encounter issues with certain components or equipment. Some owners have reported issues with the automatic climate control system. It can fail and cause problems, and then get stuck in a specific setting. Additionally, the infotainment feature has also been recognized to malfunction and even freeze screens.