Seat Alhambra Key Problems
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There are many reasons why the key fob might not perform as it should, including a dead coin battery or water damage to the receiver module, or signal interference. This article will walk you through the steps to make sure it works.
Water Damage
If your seat alhambra key fob is able to withstand an wash cycle or bath in the ocean or pool it's 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 functioning after exposure to clean tap water or rain, then just remove the battery, clean the electronic component with paper towel and let it dry completely before putting the battery back into. If the key fob was exposed to salty or soapy water it is recommended you clean the chip using isopropyl or electronic cleaner.
Faulty Receiver Module
If you've tried an entirely new battery for your button and the key fob isn't locked or unlocking, it's likely that your receiver module has developed a fault. The good thing is that this is an easy repair that is inexpensive, you can just remove the battery 12 volts for just a few minutes (first remove the negative cable and then press the horn button numerous times) to remove any remaining electric current, then reconnect it in reverse order e.g. positive cable first, then negative cable later.
ESP Warning Light If the ESP warning light is flashing, this is normal and indicates that the vehicle is driving over terrain in which the traction between the road surface and tyres isn't ideal, like gravel, snow or a lot of surface water. If the ESP light is constantly flashing, it is a sign 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 give you detailed information about the fault.
Dead Coin Battery
One of the most frequent reasons for the seat alhambra key not working is a dead coin battery. The key fob comes with a small button cell battery that keeps it powered. Replace it with a brand new battery that is the same dimensions, voltage and specs as the original. When replacing the battery on the key fob, remove the metal clips and make sure that the contacts of the key fob are free of corrosion and clean.
If seat replacement car key has been exposed to water, like soapy or rain, it's recommended that you take the battery off and clean the electronic chip with alcohol isopropyl or an electronic cleaner prior to installing the new battery. The chip is susceptible to moisture and could be permanently damaged. If the key fob is 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 replacing the battery but it did not help, or if it stopped working completely out of the blue it is possible that your receiver module could have developed a fault. The receiver module receives radio frequency signals from your remote keyfob, and transforms them into electrical signals that are then processed by other modules in the car.
If the receiver module has a problem, it will not accept any commands from your remote key fob. In this case you will require a dealer to reprogramme the key fob as well as install a new receiver.
The key fob is encased with rubber to prevent water from entering the electronic chip. However, if you submerge your key fob in the ocean's salty or soapy water, the chip inside could be damaged. If your key fob does not work, try cleaning the chip using isopropyl or an electronic cleaner.
If the keys have been paired but the receiver module has developed a fault, you can try to reboot all the on-board electronics by removing 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 electronics onboard and will bring them back to their original functionality.
Faulty Electronic Chip
The key fob is fitted with a tiny chip that transmits a signal from the key to the receiver module every time the key is used. If this signal does not match the one stored by the car the immobilizer will stop the engine and stop the vehicle from beginning. If the key fob you purchased does not work and you are unable to reprogram it, it could be due to an incompatible microchip.
The chip inside the key fob isn't an irreplaceable part of the device and may need to be replaced to make it work again. The best way to do this is to remove the key from its housing and then using a pin needle to connect with each of the metal clips that hold it. If these are corroded or broken, you will require replacement to allow the remote control to work. Make sure any replacement batteries have the same voltage, size and specifications as the original.
The Seat Alhambra is a well-designed and popular model however, just like any other vehicle it can occasionally experience issues with specific components or equipment. There have been reports of problems with the climate control system that is automatic. It may malfunction and become stuck in a particular setting. The infotainment system could also fail and freeze the screens.