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There are a variety of reasons why the key fob won't work as expected, including an inoperative coin battery water 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 seat alhambra keyfob is able to survive a wash cycle or a bath in the ocean or pool then it is likely to have an amazing 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 working after exposure to rain or clean tap water, unplug the battery and clean the electronic component with a paper towel. Allow it to dry completely before replacing the battery. If the key fob was exposed to soapy or salty water it is recommended 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 isn't locked or unlocking, it's likely that your receiver module has developed a fault. The positive side is that this is a relatively simple and affordable fix, you can simply disconnect the 12 volt battery for just a few minutes (first remove the negative cable and then press the horn button several times) to eliminate any remaining electrical current and then reconnect it in reverse order e.g. Positive first and then negative.
ESP Warning Light - If the ESP symbol is illuminated, this is normal. It is a sign that you are driving on terrain that has poor traction. This could be due to snow, gravel or surface water. If the ESP light is always on, it indicates that there is a problem with the system. This can be diagnosed by using an iCarsoft i908 seat OBD code reader kit. It will provide you with a a detailed fault description.
Dead Coin Battery
A dead coin battery is among the most frequent causes for the keys for the seat to cease to function. The key fob contains tiny button cell batteries that keeps it powered. Replace it with a brand new battery with the same voltage, size and specification as the original. If you're replacing the battery, ensure that you remove all metal retaining clips from the back of the key fob and ensure that the contacts are clean and free of corrosion.
If i loved this 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 isopropyl ethanol before installing a brand new battery. The chip could be permanently damaged by water. If the key fob still doesn't function after replacing the battery it could be necessary to replace the key fob.
Faulty Receiver Module
If your key fob has stopped working after you replaced the battery, but it did not help, or if it stopped working completely in a sudden manner it is possible that your receiver module might have developed an issue. The receiver module receives the radio frequency signals from the remote keyfob and converts them into electrical commands which are then acted upon by other modules inside the car.
If the receiver module is faulty it will not be able to accept any commands from your remote key fob. In this case you'll have to visit a dealer to reprogramme your key fob as well as a new receiver module.
The key fob has rubber seals that block water from entering the chip inside. If you immerse the key fob in soapy or salty water, it may damage the chips. If your key fob doesn't work, you can try cleaning the chip using isopropyl or electronic cleaner.
If the keys are connected but the receiver module has developed a fault, you can try to reboot all electronics on board by disconnecting the battery at 12 volts for a few minutes. Then reconnect the battery in reverse order (negative cable first followed by positive). This will reset the on-board electronic and restore their functionality.
Electronic chip that is malfunctioning
The key fob is fitted with a small chip that transmits a signal from the key to the receiver module every time the key is used. If the signal received does not match the one stored by the car the immobilizer will shut down the engine and prevent the vehicle from beginning. If the key fob does not function and you are not able to reprogram it, it could be due to an incompatible microchip.
The chip inside the key fob may have to be changed in order to make it function properly. The best method to do 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 have to replace them to allow the remote control to function. Make sure that any replacement batteries have the same voltage, size, and specification as the original.
The Seat Alhambra is an attractive and well-designed model however, like all cars it may encounter issues with particular components or equipment. Some owners have reported issues with the automatic climate control system. It could malfunction and become stuck in a specific setting. Similarly, the infotainment system has also been known to malfunction and freeze screens.
