Key Fob Replacement for the Seat Ibiza
The facelifted fifth generation Ibiza is an interesting contender in the supermini segment. It is competing with the Renault Clio and Peugeot 208 as well as the Ford Fiesta.
Use a small screwdriver or a thumbnail (A) to open the battery compartment cover on the key fob (B). Replace the CR2025 battery and ensure that it is installed in the correct direction.
Dead Coin Battery
The most frequent reason for a key fob to not unlock or lock your vehicle is a dead coin battery. It will usually show signs before it dies like a lower range or no power at any time. It is easy to replace it with a new (CR2025) one from your local supermarket. Be aware that incorrect or defective batteries could cause damage to the key fob. Make sure that the battery you replace is the same size and voltage, and also the same specifications.
If your device has been exposed to clean water, for example rainwater or soapy water from the tap It is probable that corrosion has caused damage to the electronic chip. You could clean the chip with isopropyl or electronic cleaners to see if that helps, but it's likely the chip is fried.
A new key fob is the simplest solution. They can be purchased from a variety of major car dealers and are fitted by a skilled mechanic. g28carkeys.co.uk can also be bought on the internet through sites like ebay. The best option is to work on a flat surface that has excellent lighting. This will make it easier to work on the tiny parts inside. You'll also be able to avoid putting things in the wrong spot. Always keep the key fob in a secure and safe area.
Water Damage
If your fob's key gets submerged after dropping it into the pool or by slipping it in the wash, you may think it's over, but there's hope. If the circuit board inside the fob is exposed to water, it turns into a conductor that shorts out the components. It also speeds up corrosion and rust.
Fortunately, this is easy to fix. Simply locate something absorbent and put it inside the fob. A paper towl or tissue work well. Then apply the 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. The fob should dry for a few days in a warm and dry environment.
Replace the battery after the fob is dry by a new one with the same size and the same polarity ('+' (pointing upwards). It can be difficult to open up the fob in order to access the battery, however if you have a small flat-head screwdriver available, it should be able to slide into easily. Once the fob has been repaired, it should function like a normal. If it doesn't, you may need to reprogramme it or replace the receiver module.
Radio Interference
If a key fob is functioning properly, it sends an audio frequency signal that is received by the module inside your car. If the signal is not received the key fob won't work. This could be caused by objects, weather conditions or other transmitters operating in the same frequency range close to your vehicle.
This could cause your key fob to not activate the vehicle's functions, such as the ignition switch or security system. It is recommended to replace the battery on your key fob.
A few aftermarket LED lighting fixtures that utilizes the same frequency as a remote key fob might interfere with the signal, preventing it from reaching the receiver modules. To prevent interference, the LED lighting must be turned off or switched to another frequency.
If the issue continues to persist after replacing the battery, the antenna on your key fob may be damaged or inoperable. The antenna is responsible to transmit a signal between the key fob and the receiver module. An OBDII scan can help you identify the issue by telling you exactly what's wrong with the system. The scanner will ask for information about your vehicle including the make, model engine type, VIN number.
Faulty Receiver Module
The key fob has an encoder module that transmits the signals to lock and unlock. If the receiver module is damaged, all of the on-board electronics will stop working. Reprogramming the key fob with an OBDII scan or replacing it may help.
There are several possible causes for this issue which could be due to a dead coin battery water damage, or signal interference. Try resetting the on-board computer by disconnecting the battery 12 volts for 15 minutes. This will drain any residual electrical energy that could be causing problems. Start by removing the cable from the negative terminal of the battery first, then the positive terminal. After 15 minutes, reconnect the battery in reverse order: positive first, negative second.
The internal chip of the key fob can be damaged by dirt or water. If your key fob stops working after getting wet, wipe it with isopropyl or electronic cleaner. Then, reinstall the battery. If it stops working after exposure to soapy or salty water, the chip is probably damaged and needs to be replaced.
A defective antenna module fuse could be a cause. It is the fuse that transmits an indication to the vehicle to lock or unlock. The fuse can be found in several places, depending on the type of vehicle. For instance it could be beneath the rear seat or trunk, or on the side of the dashboard.