lights Seat Altea XL 2008 Owner's Manual

Contents3
ContentsThe structure of this manual
. . . . .
Content
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety First
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safe driving
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brief introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Proper sitting position for occupants . . . . . . . . .
Pedal area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stowing luggage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seat belts
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Why wear seat belts? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Belt tension devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Airbag system
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brief introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Side airbags* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Curtain airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deactivating airbags* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Child safety
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brief introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Child seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Securing child seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating instructions
. . . . . . . . . . . .
Cockpit
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Digital display in the instrument panel . . . . . . .
Instrument panel menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Warning lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Steering wheel controls
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Audio system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Radio navigation system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Steering wheel lighting controls . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unlocking and locking
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Central locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Radio frequency remote control . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Anti-theft alarm system* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tailgate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sliding/tilting roof* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lights and visibility
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interior lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windscreen wipers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seats and stowage
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The importance of correct seat adjustment . . . .
Head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear seat bench . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stowage compartments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ashtrays*, cigarette lighter* and electrical
sockets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
First-aid kit, warning triangle, fire extinguisher
Luggage compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning
. .
Heating and ventilation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Climatic* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2C-Climatronic* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ignition lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Starting and stopping the engine . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual gearbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic gearbox* / DSG automatic gearbox*
Handbrake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Acoustic parking aid system* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cruise control system (CCS)* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tips and Maintenance
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intelligent technology
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Anti-lock brake system and traction control M-ABS
(ABS and TCS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electronic stabilisation programme (ESP)* . . . .
Driving and the environment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Running-in . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exhaust gas emission control system . . . . . . . .
Driving abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving economically and with respect for the
environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
6
7
7
7
10
16
17
19
19
21
24
28
30
30
34
37
41
44
46
46
48
51 55
55
55
56
59
65
72
84
84
84
88
92
93
93
99
100
102
104
106
108
111
111
117
120
121
125
128
128
129
131
132
134 143
146
147
151
151
153
156
160
161
161
162
163
164
167
168
173
174
176
181
181
181
182
183
189
189
189
190
194
altea_XL ingles.book Seite 3 Donnerstag, 13. September 2007 10:36 10

Safe driving
8passengers assume an incorrect sitting position or do not properly adjust or
use this equipment.
Therefore, information is provided about why this equipment is so important,
how it protects you, what you have to observe when using it and how you and
your passengers can achieve the greatest possible benefit from the safety
equipment fitted. This manual includes important warnings that you and your
passengers should observe in order to reduce the risk of injury.
Safety is everyone's business!Before every trip
The driver bears the responsibility for his passengers and the
operational worthiness of the vehicle.For your own safety and the safety of your passengers, always note
the following points before every trip:
– Ensure that the vehicle's lights and turn signals operate flaw- lessly.
– Check tyre pressure.
– Ensure that all windows provide a clear and good view of the surroundings.
– Securely restrain all parcels ⇒page 17.
– Make sure that no objects can interfere with the pedals.
– Adjust front seat, head restraint and mirrors properly for your size. – Ensure that the passengers in the rear seats always have the
head restraints in the in-use position ⇒page 14.
– Instruct passengers to adjust the head restraints according to their height.
– Protect children with appropriate child seats and properly applied seat belts ⇒page 46.
– Assume the correct sitting position. Instruct your passengers also to assume a proper sitting position ⇒ page 10.
– Fasten your safety belt securely. Instruct your passengers also to fasten their seat belts properly ⇒page 19.
What affects driving safety?
Driving safety is largely determined by your driving style and
the personal behaviour of all occupants.As driver, you are responsible for yourself and your passengers.
When your concentration or driving safety is affected, you endanger
yourself as well as others on the road ⇒, for this reason:
– Do not allow yourself to be distracted from the traffic around you, e.g. by passengers or telephone conversations.
– Never drive when your driving ability is impaired (e.g. by medica- tion, alcohol, drugs).
– Observe traffic laws and speed limits.
altea_XL ingles.book Seite 8 Donnerstag, 13. September 2007 10:36 10

Seat belts
20The warning lamp  in the instrument panel lights up
1) if the driver seat belt
is not fastened when the ignition is switched on. In addition, an acoustic
signal is given for a few seconds and a text is displayed on the combi-instru-
ment asking you to fasten your seat belt
1).
The warning lamp*
 does not go out until the driver seat belt is fastened
while the ignition is switched on.
1)Depending on the model version
altea_XL ingles.book Seite 20 Donnerstag, 13. September 2007 10:36 10

Airbag system
32Monitoring of airbag and belt tension device system
The functionality of the airbag and belt tension device system is constantly
monitored electronically. Each time th e ignition is switched on, the warning
lamp
 lights for several seconds and the display in the instrument panel*
shows AIRBAG / TENSIONER .
The system must be checked when the warning lamp
 :
•
does not come on when the ignition is switched on,
•
does not go out about 4 seconds after the ignition is switched on,
•
goes out and then comes on again after the ignition is switched on,
•
or if it comes on or flickers while the car is moving.
In the event of a malfunction, the warning lamp remains on continuously. In
addition, depending on the malfunctio n, a fault message appears in the
display of the combi-instrument for approx. 10 seconds and a short acoustic
signal is given. In this event, you should have a qualified workshop check the
system immediately.
If any of the airbags are de-activated by the Authorised Service Centre, the
indicator lights for several seconds more after the veri fication and will turn off
if there is no fault.
WARNING
•
If there is a malfunction, the air bag and belt tension device system
cannot properly perform its protective function.
•
If a malfunction should occur, have the system checked immediately by
a qualified workshop. Otherwise there is a risk that, in the event of an acci-
dent, the airbag system and belt tension devices may not be triggered, or
may not be triggered correctly.
Repair, care and disposal of the airbagsThe parts of the airbag system are installed in various places in your vehicle.
If you work on the airbag system or remove and install parts of the system
when performing other repair work, parts of the airbag system may be
damaged. The consequence may be that, in the event of an accident, the
airbag inflates incorrectly or does not inflate at all.
The relevant safety requirements must be observed when the vehicle or
components of the airbag are scrapped . The specialist workshops and the
Vehicle disposal centres are familiar with these requirements.
WARNING
•
If repairs are not carried out by a professional, or if the airbags are used
incorrectly, the risk of severe or fatal injuries is increased. The airbags may
fail to inflate, or could inflate in the wrong circumstances.
•
Do not cover or stick anything on the steering wheel hub or the soft
plastic surface of the airbag unit on the passenger side of the dashboard,
and do not obstruct or modify them in any way.
•
It is important not to attach any objects such as cup holders or tele-
phone mountings to the surfaces covering the airbag units.
•
To clean the steering wheel or dash panel, you may use only a dry cloth
or one moistened with water. Never clean the dash panel and surface of the
airbag module with cleansers containing solvents. Solvents cause the
surface to become porous. If the airbag inflates, disintegrating plastic
parts can cause substantial injuries.
•
Never attempt to repair, adjust, remove or install parts of the airbag
system.
•
Any work on the airbag system or re moval and installation of the airbag
components for other repairs (such as repairs to the steering wheel) should
be performed only by a qualified workshop. Qualified workshops have the
necessary tools, repair information and qualified personnel.
altea_XL ingles.book Seite 32 Donnerstag, 13. September 2007 10:36 10

Cockpit
64cated by symbols with warnings and information texts in the display. An
audible warning is given in certain cases.
Warning symbols
There are red warning symbols (priority 1) and yellow warning symbols
(priority 2).
Information text
In addition to warning me ssages given on a fault, you will receive information
in the display on procedures or will be asked to carry out certain tasks.
Note
In the case of screens without warning or information texts, faults are indi-
cated exclusively by the warning lamps.Warning reports, Priority 1 (red)If one of these faults occurs, the warning lamp will flash or light up and will
be accompanied by three audible warnings . This is a danger warning. Stop
the car and switch off the engine. Check the fault and correct it. Obtain profes-
sional assistance if necessary.
If several priority 1 faults are detected at the same time, the symbols will be
displayed one after the other for about 2 seconds at a time and will continue
until the fault is corrected.
No menus will be shown in the display fo r the duration of a priority 1 warning
report. Examples of priority 1 warning reports (red)
7)
•
Brake system symbol
 with warning text
STOP BRAKE FLUID
INSTRUCTION MANUAL or STOP BRAKE FAULT INSTRUCTION MANUAL .
•
Coolant symbol
 with the warning text STOP CHECK COOLANT
INSTRUCTION MANUAL .
•
Engine oil pressure symbol

with the warning text STOP ENGINE OIL
PRESSURE LOW! SERVICE MANUAL .
Warning reports, Priority 2 (yellow)If one of these faults occurs, the warning lamp lights up, and is accompanied
by one audible warning . The function should be checked as soon as possible.
If several priority 2 warning reports are detected at the same time, the
symbols are displayed one after the other for about 2 seconds at a time. After
a set time, the information text will disappear and the symbol will be shown
as a reminder at the side of the display.
Priority 2 warning reports will not be shown until all Priority 1 warning
reports have been dealt with!
Examples of priority 2 warning reports (yellow):
8)
•
Fuel symbol with the information text PLEASE REFUEL.
•
Windscreen washer fluid symbol
 with the information text REFILL
WINDSCREEN WASHER FLUID . Refill the windscreen washer tank
⇒ page 225.
•
Electronic immobiliser symbol

with the information text SAFE. A valid
key was not used, for this reason the vehicle may not start.
7)Depending on the model version8)Depending on the model version
altea_XL ingles.book Seite 64 Donnerstag, 13. September 2007 10:36 10

Cockpit
70
NoteFor electronic and vehicle equipment on e or more of these menus will be
displayed.Convenience menu
From this menu it is it possible to alter the vehicle convenience settings.Open menu Convenience
– Choose the option Configuration from the main menu and press
the button on the windscreen wiper lever. – Choose the option
Convenience from the main menu and press
the button on the windscreen wiper lever.
Example of menu use: “Example of menu use”
Lights & visibility
From this menu it is it possible to alter the vehicle lighting settings: “Lights and visibility Menu”.
Display off Only emergency messages appear
Back This returns to the main menu
AA
AA
Convenience Function
Open doors Selective opening/ Complete opening
Self-locking
Self-unlocking
Audible warning function On / off (acoustic signal of centralised locking)
Convenience opening Off
All
1 door
Synchronised regulation of wing mirrors Synchronised/individual
Back This returns to the Configuration menu
altea_XL ingles.book Seite 70 Donnerstag, 13. September 2007 10:36 10

Cockpit71
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Note
For electronic and vehicle equipment on e or more of these menus will be
displayed.Lights and visibility menu
From this menu it is it possible to alter the vehicle lighting settings.Open Lights and visibility Menu
– Select the option Configuration from the main menu: “Main
menu” and press button on the windscreen wiper lever. – Select the option
Lights & visibility from the menu and press
button on the windscreen wiper lever.
Example of menu use: “Example of menu use”
Note
For electronic and vehicle equipment on e or more of these menus will be
displayed.
AA
AA
Lights & visibility Function
Coming Home/
Leaving Home The lighting dura
tion may be modified, in steps of 10 seconds, from a minimum of 10 seconds to a maxi-
mum of 90 seconds
The function may also be deactivated.
Indicator conf. With the convenience mode activated, the indicator will blink at least three times when turned on.
Manufacturer's settings The manufacturer's predefined values for the functions of this menu are restored.
Back This returns to the Configuration menu
altea_XL ingles.book Seite 71 Donnerstag, 13. September 2007 10:36 10

Cockpit75
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
WARNING
•
Failure to observe warning lamps and warning messages can result in
serious personal injury or damage to your vehicle.
•
The risk of an accident increases if your vehicle breaks down. Use a
warning triangle to draw the attention of other road users to your
stationary vehicle so that it does not represent a danger.
•
The engine compartment of any motor vehicle is a dangerous area!
Before you open the bonnet to work on the engine or in the engine compart-
ment, you must switch off the engine and allow it to cool to reduce the risk
of scalding or other injuries. Read and observe the relevant warnings
⇒ page 215.Note
•
The appropriate warning lamp for a fault will light up in vehicles without
warning or information texts in the display.
•
In vehicles with warning or information texts in the display, the appro-
priate warning lamp for a fault will ligh t up and a warning or information text
will also appear in the display.
Fuel level / reserve

This symbol lights up to indicate that the fuel tank is down to
the reserve level.This lights when only 7 litres of fuel remain in the tank (8 litres for vehicles
with four-wheel drive). Also, an audible warning is given. This serves as a
reminder to fill up with fuel at the earliest opportunity ⇒page 212. The instrument panel displays
shows the following message
9): PLEASE
REFUEL!
Coolant Level* / temperature

The warning lamp lights up if the coolant temperature is too
high or if the coolant level is too low.There is a fault if:•
The warning symbol does not go out again after a few seconds.
•
The warning lamp lights up or flashes while the vehicle is moving, while
three acoustic warning signals ⇒ are emitted.
This means that either the coolant level is too low or the coolant temperature
is too high.
Coolant temperature too high
The instrument panel displays shows the following message
10): CHECK
COOLANT INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL .
First look at the coolant temperature gauge. The coolant temperature is too
high if the needle is over the warning area on the dial. Stop the vehicle,
switch off the engine and wait for it to cool down. Check the coolant level.
If the coolant level is correct, the over heating may be caused by a malfunction
of the radiator fan. Check the radiator fan fuse and have it replaced if neces-
sary ⇒page 252.
If the warning lamp lights up again after driving on for a short distance, stop
the vehicle and switch off the engine . Contact an Authorised Service Centre
or a qualified workshop.
9)Depending on the model version10)Depending on the model version
altea_XL ingles.book Seite 75 Donnerstag, 13. September 2007 10:36 10

Cockpit
76Coolant level too low
The instrument panel displays shows the following message
11): STOP CHECK
COOLANT INSTRUCTION MANUAL ⇒ page 223.
First look at the coolant temperature gauge. If the needle is in the normal
range, top up with coolant at the earliest opportunity ⇒ .
WARNING
•
If your vehicle is immobilised for any technical reasons, move it to a
safe distance from traffic. Turn off the engine, turn on the hazard lights and
place the warning triangle.
•
Never open the bonnet if you can see or hear steam or coolant escaping
from the engine compartment. Risk of scalding. Wait until you can no
longer see or hear escaping steam or coolant.
•
The engine compartment of any motor vehicle is a dangerous area!
Before carrying out any work in the engine compartment, switch off the
engine and allow it to cool down. Alwa ys note the corresponding warnings
⇒ page 215.
Rear fog light

This warning lamp lights up when the rear fog light is switched on
. Further
information ⇒page 111.
Turn sig nals
 
The warning lamp flashes when the turn signals are in oper-
ation.Depending on which turn signal is operated, either the left
 or right
 indi-
cator lamp flashes. Both warning lamps will flash at the same time when the
hazard warning lights are switched on.
If one turn signal fails, the warning lamp will start flashing twice as fast.
For further information on the indicator signals, please see ⇒page 116.
Trailer turn signals

This warning lamp also flashes when the turn signals are
operated while towing a caravan or trailer.The warning lamp
 flashes when the turn signals are operated, provided a
trailer is correctly attached and connected to the vehicle.
The warning lamp will not flash if one of the turn signals on the trailer fails.
Main beam headlights

This warning lamp lights up when the main beams are on.The warning lamp
 lights up when the main beams are on or when the
headlight flasher is operated.
Further information ⇒page 116.
11)Depending on the model version
altea_XL ingles.book Seite 76 Donnerstag, 13. September 2007 10:36 10

Cockpit77
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Bulb defect

The warning lamp lights up when a bulb in the vehicle's exte-
rior lighting is defective.The warning lamp
 lights up when a bulb in the vehicle's exterior lighting
(e.g. left-hand main beam) is defective.
The instrument panel displays shows the following message
12): LEFT FULL
LIGHT FAULT .
Cruise control system*

The warning lamp comes on when the cruise control system
is switched on.The warning lamp
 lights up when the cruise control system is switched on.
For further notes on the cruise control system, please see ⇒page 176.
Washer fluid

This warning lamp lights up to indicate that the windscreen
washer level is too low.This serves as a reminder to fill up the reservoir at the earliest opportunity
⇒page 225.
The following message is shown on the instrument panel display
13): REFILL
WINDSCREEN WASHER FLUID .
Brake system* / handbrake


The warning lamp lights up if the handbrake is applied, if the
brake fluid level falls too low or if there is a fault in the brake
system.
This warning lamp
 lights up if
•
If the handbrake is on
If you drive faster than 6 km/h with the handbrake on, the following message
will appear in the instrument panel display
14): HANDBRAKE ON. Also, an
audible warning is given.
•
If the brake fluid level is too low ⇒page 228
The instrument panel displays shows the following message
14): STOP BRAKE
FLUID INSTRUCTION MANUAL .
•
If there is a fault in the brake system
The instrument panel displays shows the following message
14): BRAKE
SYSTEM FAULT INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL .
This warning lamp can light up together with the anti-lock brake system
warning lamp.
WARNING
•
Before opening the bonnet, read and observe the warnings on
⇒ page 215, “Working in the engine compartment”.
•
If the brake warning lamp does not go out, or if it lights up when
driving, the brake fluid level ⇒page 228, “Brake fluid” in the reservoir is
too low. Risk of accident. Stop the vehicle and do not drive on. Obtain tech-
nical assistance.
12)Depending on the model version13)Depending on the model version
14)Depending on the model version
altea_XL ingles.book Seite 77 Donnerstag, 13. September 2007 10:36 10