Seat Alhambra Key Problems
Seat's family MPV jumbo is among the best in its class when it comes to retaining resale value. With a new model currently on sale, the jumbo family MPV is even more impressive.
There are many reasons the key fob won't work as expected, including an unresponsive coin battery, damage to the receiver module or signal interference. This article will walk you through the steps to get it back to working.
Water Damage
If your seat alhambra key fob can withstand an wash cycle or bath in the ocean or pool then it's probably equipped with an amazing waterproof chip but do not make it a habit as exposure to excessive water increases the risk of the key fob becoming damaged. If G28 stops functioning after exposure to clean water from the tap or rain, then just remove the battery, clean the electronic component using a paper towel and allow it to dry completely before putting the battery back into. If the key fob has been exposed to salty or soapy water, it is recommended that you clean the chip with isopropyl or an electronic cleaner.
Faulty Receiver Module
If you've tried an entirely new battery for your button and the key fob does not lock or unlock, it's likely that the receiver module has developed a fault. It is a relatively easy and cost-effective fix. You can disconnect the battery with 12 volts for a couple of minutes (first remove the negative cable and then press the horn numerous times) in order to drain any remaining power. After that, you can reconnect it in reverse. Positive first followed by negative.
ESP Warning Light - If the ESP warning light flashes, this is normal and means that the car is travelling on terrain where the traction of the road surface and the tyres is not ideal like snow, gravel or a lot of surface water. If the ESP warning light is continuously flashing, it means there is an error within the system. It should be detected with a iCarsoft i908 Seat OBD Code Reader kit that will provide you with a specific fault description.
Dead Coin Battery
One of the most frequent reasons for the seat alhambra key not working is a dead battery. The key fob is powered by a small button-cell battery. Replace it with a brand new battery that has 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 the key fob has been exposed to water, such as rain or soapy water it is recommended to remove the battery and clean the electronic chip using alcohol or an electronic cleaner prior to putting in the 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 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 work, or if it stopped working abruptly the receiver module may have experienced a malfunction. The receiver module takes the radio frequency signals from your remote keyfob, and converts them into electrical commands that are then processed by other modules inside the car.
If the receiver module has suffered a malfunction, it will not respond to any of the commands transmitted by your remote key fob. In this situation the dealer will have to reprogramme your key fob as well as install the new receiver.
The key fob is fitted with rubber seals to prevent water from getting into the electronic chip inside. However, if you submerge your key fob in soapy water or salty ocean water, the chip inside may be damaged. You can try to clean the chip by applying isopropyl alcohol or electronic cleaner, but should your key fob isn't working after all this, then you'll need to buy a new one.
If the keys have been linked, but the receiver module is malfunctioning it is possible to restart all of the electronics on board by disconnecting the 12-volt battery for a few minutes. Then, reconnect the battery in reverse order (negative cable first before positive). This resets all the electronic components onboard and restore their functionality.
A malfunctioning 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 doesn't match the one the car has stored the immobilizer will be disabled and prevent the vehicle from starting. However, if the fob isn't working, and you are unable to reprogram it the issue could be due to a faulty chip.
The chip inside the key fob isn't an irreplaceable part of the device and might have to be replaced to get it working again. The most effective method for doing 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 need to replace them 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 a well-designed and popular model however, just like any other vehicle it can occasionally experience issues with particular components or equipment. There have been reports of problems with the automatic climate control system. It is prone to fail and get stuck in a specific setting. The infotainment systems can also fail and freeze the screens.