Is Seat Keys Replacement As Important As Everyone Says?
Seat Alhambra Key Problems
Seat's jumbo family MPV is among the best in class in terms of keeping resales value. With a new generation model on sale it's even more impressive.
There are a variety of reasons why the key fob might not function properly, such as the battery being dead or water damage to the receiver module or signal interference. This article will guide you through the steps to get it working.
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. However, be careful not to make this a routine because prolonged exposure to water increases the chance 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 clean the electronic component with a towel. Let it 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 the key fob does not lock or unlock after you have replaced the button cell battery it could be that the receiver module is suffering from a fault. The good thing is that this is an easy and affordable fix, you can simply remove the battery 12 volts for several minutes (first take off the negative cable and press the horn button several times) to drain any residual electric current, then reconnect it in reverse order e.g. positive cable first, then negative.
key seat G28 Car Keys - If the ESP warning symbol flashes this is normal and signifies that the car is travelling over terrain where the traction between the road surface and the tyres isn't ideal, such as gravel, snow or a lot of surface water. If the ESP light is constantly on, it means 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 an in-depth description of the fault.
Dead Coin Battery
One of the most common reasons for the seat alhambra key to stop working is a dead battery. The key fob is powered by a small button-cell battery. Replace it with a brand new battery with the same voltage, size and specification as the original. When replacing the battery on the key fob remove the metal clips and make sure that the contacts on the key fob are clean and corrosion-free.
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 with an electronic cleaner or isopropylethanol before installing a brand new battery. The chip is sensitive to moisture and can be permanently damaged. If the key fob is 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 but it didn't help, or if it stopped working completely without notice 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 converts them into electrical commands which are then acted upon by other modules in the car.
If the receiver module is faulty and is not able to take any commands from your remote key fob. In this scenario you'll be required to visit a service to reprogramme your key fob and new receiver module.
The key fob is fitted with rubber seals to prevent water from getting into the electronic chip inside. If you immerse the key fob into salty or soapy water, it could cause damage to the chip. It is possible to clean the chip by applying isopropyl alcohol or electronic cleaner, but should your key fob isn't working after all this, you'll have to purchase a replacement.
If the keys are in a pair but the receiver module has developed a fault, you can try to reboot all the on-board electronics by removing the 12 volt battery for a short period of time. Connect the battery in reverse (negative cable to positive first). This resets all the on-board electronics and should restore their functionality.
A malfunctioning electronic chip
The key fob has an electronic chip which transmits a signal the receiver module when the key is used. If the signal doesn't match the one that the car has stored the immobilizer will turn off and prevent the vehicle from starting. If the key fob does not function and you are not able to reprogram it, this could be due to an issue with the microchip.
The chip in the key fob may need to be altered to make it work again. The best method to do this is to remove the key from its housing and then using a pin needle to make contact with each of the metal clips that hold it. If the clips are corroded, or damaged, you'll require replacement in order for the remote control to work. Make sure that any replacement batteries are of the same size, voltage, and specification as the original.
The Seat Alhambra is an attractive and well-designed model but like any other car it is not without its challenges. issues with particular components or equipment. Some owners have reported issues with the climate control system that is automatic. It can fail and cause problems, and then get stuck in a particular setting. The infotainment system could also fail and freeze the screens.
