Seat Alhambra Key Problems
Seat's jumbo MPV range is among the top in its class when it comes down to resales value. With a new model currently on sale the jumbo family MPV is even more impressive.
There are a variety of reasons that the key fob may not function properly, including a dead battery water damage, receiver module issues 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 can withstand a wash cycle or a bath in the pool or ocean then it is likely to have an amazing waterproof chip but be careful not to make this a routine because prolonged exposure to water increases the risk of the key fob getting damaged. If the key fob stops working after exposure to clean tap water or rain then simply remove the battery, clean the electronic component with a towel and let it dry completely before putting it back in. If the key fob was exposed to soapy or salty water, it is recommended that you clean the chip with isopropyl or an electronic cleaner.
replacement seat key
If you've tried a new button cell battery and the key fob still cannot be locked or unlocked, it's likely that the receiver module has been faulty. The positive side is that this is a fairly easy and inexpensive repair, you can just disconnect the battery for a few minutes (first take off the negative cable and press the horn button several times) to remove any remaining electricity and then reconnect it in reverse order e.g. Positive first, then negative.
ESP Warning Light - If the ESP warning light is flashing, this is normal and signifies that the car is traveling on terrain where the traction between the road surface and tyres isn't ideal, like snow, gravel or lots of surface water. If the ESP light is always on, it indicates that there is a problem in the system. This can be diagnosed by using an iCarsoft i908 seat OBD code reader kit. It will give you an in-depth description of the fault.
Dead Coin Battery
One of the most common reasons for the seat alhambra key to stop functioning is a dead coin battery. The key fob is powered by a tiny button-cell battery. It is recommended to replace it with a replacement with the same voltage, size and specifications as the original. If you are replacing the battery, ensure that you remove all metal clips from the back of the key fob and ensure that the contacts are free of corrosion.
If the key fob was exposed to water, such as soapy or rain it is recommended to take the battery off and clean the electronic chip using alcohol or an electronic cleaner prior to inserting the new battery. The chip is sensitive to moisture and may be permanently damaged. 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 functioning after replacing the battery but it didn't work, or if it suddenly stopped working your receiver module might have developed a problem. The receiver module is responsible for capturing the radio frequency signals sent by the remote key fob and transform them into electrical commands that are then utilized by other modules in the car.
If the receiver module is defective it will not be able to accept any commands from your remote key fob. In this scenario, you will have to visit a dealer to reprogramme your key fob and a new receiver module.
The key fob has rubber seals that block water from entering the electronic chip inside. If you immerse your key fob into salted or soapy ocean water, the chip inside may be damaged. If your key fob doesn't work, try cleaning the chip with isopropyl or an electronic cleaner.
If the keys are in a pair but the receiver module has developed a fault, you can try rebooting all the on-board electronics by disconnecting the battery that is 12 volts for a short period of time. Connect the battery in reverse (negative cable to positive first). This will reset all the on-board electronics and should restore their functionality.
A malfunctioning electronic chip
The key fob comes with a tiny chip which transmits a signal from the key to the receiver module every time the key is used. If the signal doesn't coincide with the one stored by the car the immobilizer will shut down the engine and stop the vehicle from beginning. If the key fob isn't working and you cannot reprogram it the issue could be due to a faulty chip.
The chip in the key fob is not an indefinite part of the device and might have to be replaced to make it work again. The best way to do this is to remove the key from its housing and using a pin needle to make contact with each of the metal clips that hold it. You will have to replace them in the event of damage or corrosion-prone. Make sure the replacement batteries are of the same size, voltage, and specification as the original.
Seat Alhambra, a popular and well-designed model, can be a bit troublesome with certain components or equipment. For example there have been reports of owners experiencing problems with the automatic climate control system, which could become faulty and stuck in one particular setting. In the same way, the infotainment system has also been reported to malfunction and freeze screens.