What to Do If Your Seat Ibiza Key Fob Stopped Working
Take a look at these items if you notice that your key fob suddenly stopped working or is not locking or unlocking your car. The battery may need replacing or the electronic chips could be malfunctioning.
The most popular model of Seat is the Ibiza, which competes with the Renault Clio and Peugeot 208 in the supermini market. It's also a good value.
Battery
A dead battery is the most common reason a key fob stops functioning. The battery that powers the coin in the fob is a 3V lithium button cell battery (CR 2032), which is available at many retailers and online. Replace the battery you have with a new one that is similar in size, shape and specification. Utilizing a battery of a different type could damage the fob.
Metal clips hold the battery in the fob, and complete an electric circuit upon activation of the remote. If these clips are loose or dirty, they can cause a short and prevent the remote from working. Use isopropyl or electronic cleaner to clean them.
To replace the battery, you will need to open the fob. You can do this by inserting a screwdriver into the seam. Replace the battery with a brand new one. Be sure to place it in the same direction. The fob should then shut itself. It is crucial to test the fob to be sure it functions properly after replacing the battery.
Water Damage
Water damage may be the cause for the key fob not working after you dropped it in the pool or washed it in the washer. Rubber seals protect the electronic chip inside the key fob, however long-term exposure to moisture can degrade the seals' quality. Water is also a great conductor, which can cause short-circuits inside the key fob.
Fortunately, the battery for the key fob is simple to replace. By using a small flat screwdriver (or thumb nail) break open the cover of the key fob battery compartment and insert a brand new button cell battery, CR2025. Ensure that the polarity is facing upwards. Close the compartment for the key fob battery and the remote will be reprogrammed to work with your vehicle again.
If your key fob has a problem after replacing the battery and reprogramming it then it's possible that the receiver module has developed a fault. The receiver module is the part that receives signals from the key fob and sends them to your car to control the engine, ignition and central locking.
The Keylab
If your Seat Ibiza key fob stopped functioning, it could be a problem with the chip within it. This can happen if you drop it or get it wet. This can also happen when the buttons are worn out or damaged. If this is the case, you will require replacing the key fob or send it to a specialist to repair it.
The key fob comes with rubber seals that prevent water from reaching the electronic chip. However, it could be damaged when exposed to prolonged water or submersion in salt water. This can happen through swimming on the beach or a heavy rainstorm.
If you are having trouble with your Seat Ibiza key fob and have tried everything to fix it you may have to buy a replacement. Depending on the brand and model of your car this could be inexpensive. However, it could be a headache to install it. You'll need to learn how to program the new key, so contact your dealer if possible.
Faulty Receiver Module
If the key fob stops working after all other steps (including replacing the battery and reprogramming) it could be a sign of a fault in the receiver module. This is a tiny black box that is inside the key fob that transmits the signal needed to control your car's keyless system.
A common cause for the receiver module to stop working is a dead battery for the coin. If this is the case it is recommended that the battery be replaced first. Make sure that the new battery has the same specifications, size and voltage as your previous one.
Another issue that is common is water damage. If your fob was exposed to pure water, like tap or rainwater then this shouldn't be an issue. However should the water be dirty and soapy, or salty, then it may have caused damage to the chip. It is recommended to open up the fob and inspect the mechanical parts for any signs of damage or corrosion before using it again. Check the wiring to make sure it's connected correctly.
Radio Interference
If the signal of the key fob is distorted by interference, it could prevent the vehicle from responding to the remote control. This can happen in a range of ways, which include radio transmissions by other devices operating on the same frequency as the key fob. Signals that are too strong may also drown out the signal.
It is vital to know that a dead battery is the most common reason for a keyfob not functioning and is the first thing that needs to be to be checked. If the battery of the key fob was replaced recently, but it has not been able to reach its maximum range this could be another sign that the battery is worn out.
It is recommended that you only use new batteries for replacement, and to ensure the proper voltage and size. It is also advisable to ensure that the battery's polarity is in the same direction when it is placed. This will ensure that there is no damage to the electronic chip inside the key fob. If the battery has been damaged by water, the chip could need to be cleaned with isopropyl or electronic cleaner.