Seat Alhambra Key Problems
Seat's jumbo MPV family is among the top in its class when it comes to resales value. And with a new model now available, it's even better.
There are a myriad of reasons the key fob may not work as expected, including the battery being dead damage to the receiver module, or signal interference. This article will guide you through the steps needed to get it back to working.
Water Damage
If your key fob for the seat Alhambra is able to withstand an wash cycle or dip in the water or a pool, it's got a waterproof chip. But don't do this often as excessive exposure to water increases the likelihood of the key fob being damaged. If the key fob ceases to functioning after exposure to clean water from the tap or rain then simply remove the battery, clean the electronic component with a paper towel and let it dry completely before putting the battery back into. If the key fob has been exposed to soapy or salty water and salty water, it is recommended you clean the chip with isopropyl or electronic cleaner.
Faulty Receiver Module
If the key fob does not lock or unlock after you have replaced the button cell battery, it is possible that the receiver module is suffering from an issue. The positive side is that this is a fairly easy repair that is inexpensive, you can disconnect the battery for just a few minutes (first remove the negative cable and then press the horn button multiple times) to drain any residual electrical current and then reconnect it in reverse order e.g. positive first, then negative cable later.
ESP Warning Light - If the ESP warning light flashes, this is normal and indicates that the car is travelling on terrain that has traction issues between the road surface and the tyres is not ideal such as snow, gravel or a lot of surface water. If the ESP warning light continues to be shining, it is a sign that there is a glitch in the system and should be identified using an iCarsoft i908 Seat OBD Code Reader, which will give you a specific fault description.
Dead Coin Battery
A dead battery for the coin is one of the most common reasons for the seat alhambra keys to cease to function. The key fob contains a tiny button cell battery that keeps it powered. Replace it with a new battery that has the exact dimensions, voltage and specs as the original. When replacing the battery on the key fob, remove the metal clips and make sure that the contacts on the key fob are free of corrosion and clean.
If the key fob was exposed to water (such as rain or soapy tap water), it is recommended that you remove and clean the chip using an electronic cleaner or isopropylethanol before installing a brand new battery. The chip may be permanently damaged by moisture. If the key fob still not working after replacing the battery, it could be necessary to replace the entire key fob.
Faulty Receiver Module
If your key fob stopped working after replacing the battery but it didn't perform, or stopped working suddenly your receiver module might have developed a problem. The receiver module is responsible to receive the radio frequency signals sent by your remote key fob and transform them into electrical commands which are then processed by other modules within 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 instance you'll need to go to a dealer to reprogram your key fob as well as a new receiver module.
The key fob has been sealed by rubber to block water from leaking into the electronic chip. If you immerse the key fob into soapy or salty water, it could damage the chip. If your key fob doesn't function, you can try cleaning the chip with isopropyl or electronic cleaner.
If the keys are paired, but the receiver module is malfunctioning You can try to restart all the electronics in the board by disconnecting the battery with 12 volts for a couple of minutes. Connect the battery in reverse (negative cable to positive first). This resets all the electronic components on board and bring them back into operation.
Electronic Chip Faulty
The key fob has tiny electronic chips that transmits a signal to the receiver module whenever the key is used. If the signal doesn't match the one recorded by the car the immobilizer will shut down the engine and stop the vehicle from starting. If the key fob you purchased does not work and you are unable to reprogram it, this could be due to an issue with the microchip.
The chip in the key fob might need to be altered to allow it to function again. The best way to do this is to remove the key from its housing and using a pin or needle to connect with each of the clips made of metal. You'll have to replace them in the event that they have been damaged or corroded. Make sure that the
replacement seat key batteries are the same voltage, size and specification as the original one.
The Seat Alhambra is a popular and well-designed car but like any other car it may encounter problems with specific parts or equipment. For instance there have been reports of owners experiencing issues with the auto climate control system, which can fail and become stuck in one specific setting. The infotainment system could also fail and freeze the screens.