Seat Alhambra Key Problems
Seat's jumbo MPV range is among the best in its class when it comes down to resale values. With a new model on sale, the family MPV jumbo is more impressive.
There are a myriad of reasons that the key fob may not function properly including dead coin battery damage to the receiver module, water problems or signal interference. This article will guide you through the steps to make sure it works.
Water Damage
If your key fob for the seat alhambra withstands washing cycles, a dip in the ocean or a pool then it has a waterproof chip. But, you shouldn't do this often, as prolonged exposure to water can increase chances of the key fob getting damaged. If your key fob stops functioning after exposure to rain or clean tap water, unplug the battery and clean the electronic component with a paper towel. Let it dry completely before replacing the battery. In case of exposure to salt or soapy water it is recommended to clean the chip with isopropyl alcohol or an electronic cleaner prior to trying to put the battery back in.
Faulty Receiver Module
If the key fob does not lock or unlock after having replaced the battery of the button it could be that the receiver module has a fault. The good thing is that this is a fairly easy and inexpensive repair, you can remove the battery 12 volts for about a couple of minutes (first remove the negative cable then press the horn button a few times) to remove any remaining electricity, and then connect 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 means that the car is traveling over terrain in which the traction between the road surface and tyres aren't as good, like gravel, snow or a lot of surface water. If the ESP light is constantly on, it means that there is a fault in the system. It is possible to identify the problem with a iCarsoft i908 seat OBD code reader kit. It will provide a detailed fault description.
Dead Coin Battery
One of the most frequent reasons for the seat alhambra key to stop working is a dead coin battery. The key fob is powered by a tiny button-cell battery. Replace it with a new battery that is the same voltage, size and specification as the original. If you're replacing your battery, be sure to remove all metal clips from the back of the key fob. You should also ensure that the contacts are clean and free of corrosion.
If the key fob has been exposed 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 could be permanently damaged. If the key fob still not working after replacing the battery, it may be necessary to replace the entire key fob.
Faulty Receiver Module
If your key fob was not working after replacing the battery, but it did not perform, or stopped working suddenly your receiver module might have encountered a problem. The receiver module is responsible for absorbing the radio frequency signals transmitted by the remote key fob and transform them into electrical commands that are then acted on by other modules in your car.
If the receiver module is damaged, it will not accept any commands from your remote key fob. In this case you will require a dealer to reprogramme the key fob and install an entirely new receiver.
The key fob is covered with rubber to stop water from leaking into the electronic chip. However, if you submerge your key fob into salty or soapy water, the chip inside may be damaged. If your key fob does not work, you could try cleaning the chip with isopropyl or electronic cleaner.
If the keys are paired, but the receiver module is not working You can try to restart all the electronics that are on board by disconnecting the 12-volt battery for a few minutes. Then reconnect the battery in reverse order (negative cable first, then positive). This will reset the onboard electronic and restore their functionality.
Faulty electronic chip
The key fob is equipped with an electronic chip which transmits a signal the receiver module whenever the key is used. If the signal does not match the one that the car has stored, the immobilizer will disable and prevent the vehicle from starting. However, if the key fob is not working and you cannot reprogram it, it could be due to a defective chip.
The chip inside the key fob may need to be altered in order to get it working again. The Keylab can be accomplished by removing the key fob from its case, and using pins or needles to contact each metal retaining clip. You will require replacement in the event of damage or corrosion-prone. Make sure that the replacement batteries have the same size, voltage, and specification as the original.
Seat Alhambra is a well-known and well-designed model, could be a bit troublesome with certain parts or components. For instance there are owners who have had issues with the automatic climate control system, which can fail and become stuck in one particular setting. The infotainment system could also fail and freeze the screens.