Seat Alhambra Key Problems
Seat's family MPV jumbo is among the best in class in terms of maintaining resale value. And with a new model now on sale, it's better than ever.
There are many reasons why the key fob might not perform as it should, including the battery being dead or damage to the receiver module, or signal interference. This article will walk you through the steps to get it working again.
Water Damage
If your seat alhambra key fob can withstand washing cycles or a bath in the pool or ocean then it probably has an amazing waterproof chip. However, do not use it regularly as exposure to excessive water increases the risk of the key fob being damaged. If your key fob ceases to functioning after being exposed to rain or clean tap water, unplug the battery and wipe the electronic component with a towel. Allow it to dry completely before replacing the battery. If the key fob has been exposed to salty or soapy water it is recommended that you clean the chip using isopropyl or electronic cleaner.
Faulty Receiver Module
If you've tried the battery of a button cell and the key fob still doesn't lock or unlock then it's likely that your receiver module has found a fault. The positive side is that this is an easy and inexpensive repair, you can just remove the battery 12 volts for a few minutes (first remove 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 symbol flashes this is normal and means that the vehicle is driving on terrain where the traction between the road surface and the tyres is not ideal such as gravel, snow or lots of surface water. If the ESP warning light is constantly blinking, it indicates that there is a fault within the system. This can be identified using an iCarsoft i908 Seat OBD Code Reader kit that will provide you with a specific fault description.
Dead Coin Battery
A dead battery for the coin is one of the most common reasons for the keys for the seat to cease to function. seat key is powered by a tiny button-cell battery. Replace it with a new battery that is the same dimensions, voltage and specs as the original. When replacing the battery on the key fob remove all metal clips and ensure that the contacts on the key fob are clean and corrosion-free.
If the key fob has been exposed to water, like soapy or rain it is recommended to remove the battery and clean the electronic chip using isopropyl alcohol or a electronic cleaner prior to putting in the new battery. The chip is susceptible to moisture and could be permanently damaged. 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 has stopped working after you replaced the battery but it did not help, or it stopped working completely out of the blue it is possible that 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 that are then followed by other modules inside the car.
If the receiver module is defective it will not be able to accept any commands from your remote key fob. In this case, you will need to go to a dealer to reprogram your key fob and a new receiver module.
The key fob has been sealed with rubber to stop water from entering the electronic chip. If you immerse the key fob into salty or soapy water it could cause damage to the chip. If your key fob won't work, you can try cleaning the chip with isopropyl or an electronic cleaner.
If the keys are linked, but the receiver module is not working then you can restart all the electronics in the board by disconnecting the battery at 12 volts for few minutes. Connect the battery in reverse (negative cable to positive first). This will reset the on-board electronic and restore their functionality.
A malfunctioning electronic chip
The key fob is equipped with a chip that transmits the signal from the key to the receiver module every time the key is used. If this signal does not match the one recorded by the car the immobilizer is able to shut off the engine and stop the vehicle from beginning. If the key fob is not working and you cannot reprogram it the issue could be due to a malfunctioning chip.
The chip in the key fob may have to be altered in order to make it function properly. The most effective method for doing this is to remove the key from its housing and then using a pin needle to connect with each of the retaining clips made of steel. If they are corroded or broken, you will require replacement to allow the remote control to work. Make sure any replacement batteries are of the same voltage, size, and specification as the original.
Seat Alhambra is a popular and well-designed model, could be a bit troublesome with certain parts or equipment. Some owners have reported problems with the climate control system that is automatic. It may malfunction and become stuck in a particular setting. The infotainment system has also been reported to malfunction and freeze screens.