Seat Alhambra Key Problems
Seat's jumbo family MPV is one of the best in the market when it comes to conserving resale value. With a new generation model now available, it's even better.
There are many reasons why the key fob won't work properly, including the battery being dead or water damage to the receiver module or signal interference. This article will walk you through the steps necessary to make sure it works.
Water Damage
If your seat alhambra keyfob is able to survive washing cycles or a bath in the ocean or pool then it is likely to have an incredible waterproof chip, but be careful not to make this a routine since 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, remove the battery and clean the electronic component with a paper towel. Allow it to dry completely before replacing the battery. In the event of exposure to soapy or salty water it is recommended to clean the chip with isopropyl alcohol or an electronic cleaner before attempting to put the battery back in.
Faulty Receiver Module
If the key fob will not lock or unlock after having replaced the battery in the button cell it is possible that the receiver module is suffering from a fault. The good news is that it is a simple and affordable fix, you can remove the battery 12 volts for a few minutes (first remove the negative cable and then press the horn button multiple times) to eliminate any remaining electricity and then reconnect it in reverse order e.g. Positive first and then negative.
ESP Warning Light - If the ESP symbol blinks, it is normal. It indicates that you're driving on terrain that has poor traction. This could be caused by snow, gravel or surface water. If the ESP warning light continues to be flashing, it means there is a fault within the system. It should be detected with a iCarsoft i908 Seat OBD Code Reader kit which 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 seat alhambra keys to cease to function. The key fob is powered by a small button-cell battery. Replace it with a new battery that is the same dimensions, voltage and specs as the original. If you're replacing your battery, be sure to remove all metal retaining clips from the back of the key fob and make sure that the contact points are clean and free of corrosion.
If the key fob was exposed to water (such as soapy or rain tap water) it is recommended that you remove and clean the chip using an electronic cleaner or isopropylethanol prior to installing a new battery. The chip is sensitive to moisture and can 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 stopped working after replacing the battery and it didn't help, or if it suddenly stopped working without notice, then your receiver module could have developed a fault. The receiver module is responsible for capturing the radio frequency signals that are sent by your remote key fob and transform them into electrical commands that are then acted on by other modules within the car.
If the receiver module is damaged it will not be able to accept any commands from your remote key fob. In this case, you will be required to visit a service to reprogramme your key fob and a new receiver module.
The key fob has rubber seals that block water from getting into the electronic chip inside. If seat leon car key immerse the key fob in the ocean's salty or soapy water, the chip inside may be damaged. It is possible to clean the chip by using isopropyl Alcohol to rub it or electronic cleaner, but should your key fob doesn't work after doing this, then you'll need to purchase a new one.
If the keys are in a pair but the receiver module has developed a fault, you can try restarting all of the onboard electronics by removing the battery that is 12 volts for a few minutes. Then, reconnect the battery in reverse order (negative cable first, then positive). This will reset the on-board electronic circuit and restore their functionality.
Faulty Electronic Chip
The key fob houses an electronic chip which transmits a signal the receiver module each time the key is used. If this signal does not coincide with the one stored by the car the immobilizer is able to shut off the engine and prevent the vehicle from beginning. However, if the fob isn't functioning and you can't reprogram it, it could be due to a faulty chip.
The chip inside the key fob is not an indefinite part of the device, and might need to be replaced in order to get it working again. This can be done by getting the key fob removed from its case, and using pins or needles to touch each metal clip. You'll require replacement when they're damaged or corroded. Make sure that any replacement batteries are of the same size, voltage, and specifications as the original.
The Seat Alhambra is a well-designed and popular model however, like all cars it can occasionally experience issues with specific components or equipment. A few owners have reported issues with the auto climate control system. It is prone to fail and cause problems, and then get stuck in a specific setting. The infotainment system has also been reported to malfunction and freeze screens.