Key Fob Replacement for the Seat Ibiza
This facelifted fifth-generation Ibiza is an attractive contender in the supermini segment. It goes toe-to-toe with the Renault Clio, Peugeot 208 and Ford Fiesta.
Use a small screwdriver or a thumbnail (A) to open the battery compartment cover of the key fob (B). Replace the CR2025 batteries, making sure it is inserted in the correct direction.
Dead Coin Battery
The most common reason for a key fob that does not be able to lock or unlock your car is a dead battery. It is likely to show signs before it dies such as a decreased range or no power at all. It is easy to replace it with a new (CR2025) one from your local store. Be aware that faulty or unsuitable batteries may damage the key fob. Make sure that the replacement battery is the same size and voltage, and that it is the same specification.
If your fob has been exposed to clean water, such as rainwater or soapy tap water, it is likely that corrosion has damaged the chip's electronic components. You can try cleaning the chip with isopropyl Alcohol or an electronic cleaner to test if it helps, but it is likely that the chip is damaged.
A new key fob is the easiest solution. Most major car dealers offer key fobs and they can be installed by a seasoned mechanic. You can also purchase them online, for example on eBay. The best method is to work on a flat surface with good lighting. It is much easier to work on the small parts. This will also help you to avoid putting something back in the wrong location. Always keep your key fob in a place that is secure and safe.
Water Damage
If your key fob is soaked by dropping it in the pool or fumbling it in the washing machine you might think it's over, but there's hope. The issue begins when the circuit board in the fob is in contact with water - it is a great conductor and shorts out components. It also speeds up corrosion and rust.
Fortunately, this is easy to fix. Find something absorbent, and put it inside the fob - a paper towl or tissue can be used. Then apply a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to clean the circuit board as well as other components to eliminate any residues of acid from batteries and contamination. Let the fob air dry in a dry, warm environment for a few weeks.
Replace the battery when the fob has dried with a fresh one that is the same dimensions and the same polarity ('+' (pointing upwards). It is a challenge to open up the fob to access the battery, but if you have a small screwdriver with a flat head at hand, it will slide in easily. Once the fob has been put back together, it should work as normal. If it does not work it may be necessary to re-program it or replace the module.
Radio Interference
If a key fob is working correctly, it sends the radio frequency signal which is received by the module inside your car. If the signal is disrupted, your key fob won't work. This could be due to objects, weather conditions, or other transmitters that operate on the same frequency in close proximity to your car.
In this situation it is best to replace the battery on your key fob. It is recommended to replace your key fob's battery.
thekeylab.co.uk lighting aftermarkets which uses the same frequency as the remote control key fob may interfere with the signal, stopping it from reaching receiver modules. To prevent interference, the LED lighting must be switched off or to an alternative frequency.
If you've got a new battery in your key fob and the problem persists, it is possible that the antenna of your key fob is damaged or malfunctioning. This is important since the antenna is responsible for sending an indication from the key fob to the receiver module. The OBDII scanner is able to help diagnose this issue by telling you what is wrong with the system. The scanner will ask for details about your car, including the model, make engine type, and VIN number.
Faulty Receiver Module
The key fob has the receiver module which transmits the signals for lock and unlock. If the receiver module fails and the on-board electronic components will stop functioning. If this is the case Reprogramming using an OBDII scanner or replacing the key fob itself may aid.
There are a number of possible causes such as a dead coin battery, water damage or signal interference. You can reset your on-board computer if you disconnect the 12 volt batteries for about 15 minutes. This will drain any remaining electrical energy that could cause issues. The cable should be removed first from the negative terminal, then from the positive terminal. After 15 minutes, reconnect your battery in reverse order. First positive, then negative, and finally negative.
The internal chip inside the key fob could be damaged by water or dirt. If your key has stopped working when it was wet, wipe the electronic component using isopropyl alcohol or an electronics cleaner before reinstalling the battery. If your key has stopped working after exposure to salted or soapy water, it is likely that the chip has become fried and needs to be replaced.
A defective antenna module fuse could also be the cause. It is the fuse that sends an alert to the vehicle to lock or unlock. The fuse may be located in a variety of locations, based on the model. For example it could be beneath the rear seat or trunk, or the side of the dashboard.