Key Fob Replacement for the Seat Ibiza
This fifth-generation Ibiza, which has been revamped and is a contender in the supermini segment. It competes against the Renault Clio and Peugeot 208 as well as the Ford Fiesta.
Use a small flat-head screwdriver or a thumbnail (A) to break open the battery compartment cover on the key fob (B). Replace the CR2025 coin battery, making sure it is placed in the correct direction and polarity.
Dead Coin Battery
A dead battery for a coin is the most common cause of a key fob that isn't locking or unlocking your car. Before it dies you'll see the decrease in range or no power. It is easy to replace with a brand new one (CR2025) from a local store. Be aware that using the wrong or unsuitable batteries can cause damage to your key fob. Make sure that the battery you purchase is identical in size, specifications and voltage as the older one.
If your fob was exposed to clean water like rain or soapy tap water it is possible that the electronic chip inside has been damaged due to corrosion. You can clean the chip using isopropyl or electronic cleaners to see if this helps, but that the chip is fried.
A new key fob is the most straightforward solution. They are readily available from major car dealers and are fitted by a professional mechanic. You can also purchase them online, such as on eBay. It is best to work on a surface that is equipped with good lighting. It is easier to work with the smaller parts. This will also allow you to avoid putting anything back in the wrong place. Always keep the key fob in a secure and safe space.
Water Damage
If your fob's key gets soaked by dropping it in the pool or slipping it in the wash you might think it's a goner but there's hope. The problem begins when the circuit board within the fob comes in contact with water. It is a great conductor, and it shorts out the components. It also speeds up corrosion and rust.
This is an easy solution. Find something absorbent to put inside the fob. A paper towel or tissue will work well. Then apply a cotton swab that has been soaked in isopropyl alcohol and wipe down the circuit board as well as other components to eliminate any battery acid residue or contamination. Allow key seat to dry for a few days in a warm and dry environment.
After the fob has dried out and the battery is replaced with an alternative of the same size and the same polarity ('+' with the upwards direction). The fob can be difficult to open in order to access the battery, but if you keep a flat-head screwdriver at hand, it should be easy to insert. After the fob is rebuilt, it should operate in a normal manner. If it fails, you may have to re-program it or replace the module.
Radio Interference
When a keyfob operates correctly, it emits the radio frequency which is absorbed by a receiver module in your vehicle. If the signal is disrupted the key fob won't work. This could be due to weather conditions, objects or other transmitters operating on the same frequency band close to your car.
This could cause your key fob's button to not work the car's systems, such as the ignition switch, or the security system. In this situation it's best to replace the battery inside your key fob.
Some LED lighting accessories that utilizes the same frequencies as key fobs for remote control could interfere with the signal, preventing it from reaching receiver modules. To prevent interference, the lighting must be turned off, or to a different frequency.
If the problem persists after replacing the battery, the antenna on your key fob may be damaged or is malfunctioning. This is since the antenna is responsible for transmitting signals from the key fob to 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 you for details about your vehicle, including the model, make engine type, VIN number.
Faulty Receiver Module
The key fob features an electronic receiver that transmits signals for locking and unlocking. If the receiver module fails that causes it to fail, the entire onboard electronics will stop working. If this happens it is possible to reprogramme the module using an OBDII scanner or replacing the key fob could help.
There are a number of possibilities for the cause of this problem such as a dead coin battery water damage, or signal interference. You can reset the onboard computer if you disconnect the 12 volt batteries for 15 minutes. This will drain any remaining electricity that may cause issues. Start by removing the cable from the negative terminal first, followed by the positive terminal. After 15 minutes, connect the battery in reverse order: positive first, negative second.
The internal chip inside the key fob could be damaged by dirt or water. If your key's function stopped after it got wet, clean the electronic component with isopropyl alcohol or an electronic cleaner prior to installing the battery. If it stopped working after exposure to salty or soapy water the chip may be damaged and must be replaced.
Another possibility is a faulty antenna module fuse that transmits the lock / unlock signal to the vehicle. The fuse can be located in a variety of places, based on the model. For instance it could be beneath the rear seat, or in the trunk, or the side of the dashboard.