Seat Alhambra 2008 Owner's Manual
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Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
The seats in the second row are fitted with a net bag 
⇒page 138, fig. 108  for 
the stowage of small objects.
The bag will hold a newspaper, can or standard bottle of up to a maximum of 
0.5 litres  ⇒.
WARNING
•
Ensure, when driving, that no can or other object is dropped in the 
driver footwell, as it could get under  the pedals and obstruct their working. 
In the event of a sudden driving or braking manoeuvre, you will not be able 
to operate the brake, clutch or accelerator pedal. Risk of accident!
Ashtrays, cigarette lighter and electrical 
socketsFront ashtray
Opening and closing the ashtray
– To open move the ashtray cover  ⇒fig. 109  forwards (arrow), 
until it engages.
– To close, push the cover down as far as it will go.
Emptying the ashtray
– To remove the ashtray insert, pull it to the front until it engages.
– Take out the ashtray.No-smoking versions of the vehicle have a stowage compartment in place of 
the ashtray.
WARNING
•
Never put paper in the ashtray. Hot ash could ignite the paper in the 
ashtray.
Fig. 109  Front ashtray
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Seats and stowage
140Rear ashtraysEmptying the rear door ashtrays
– Open the ashtray and remove the interior of the ashtray.
WARNING
•
Never put paper in the ashtray. Hot ash could ignite the paper in the 
ashtray.
Cigarette lighter–Open the ashtray  ⇒page 139, fig. 109 .
– Press the lighter button  ⇒fig. 111  inwards ⇒ .
– Wait for the lighter to pop out slightly.
– Pull out the cigarette lighter and light the cigarette on the  glowing coil.No-smoking versions of the vehicle are fitted with a 12 volt socket in place of 
the lighter  ⇒page 141.
WARNING
•
Improper use of the cigarette lighter can lead to serious injuries or start 
a fire.
Fig. 110  Rear ashtray
Fig. 111  Cigarette lighter 
in the ashtray
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Operating instructions
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Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
•
Take care when using the cigarette lighter. Carelessness or negligence 
when using the cigarette lighter can cause burns, risk of injury.
•
The cigarette lighter also works when the ignition is off and when the 
ignition key is removed. To avoid the risk of fire, never leave children unsu-
pervised in the vehicle.
Sockets 
Electrical equipment can be connected to any of the 12 volt 
sockets.
Socket in the centre console
The 12 Volt socket in the stowage area or the 12 Volt socket of the cigarette 
lighter
34) can be used for further electrical consumers with a power rating of 
up to 120 Watt.
Socket, luggage compartment
34)
Electrical equipment can be connected to the 12-volt socket in the luggage 
compartment  ⇒fig. 112  The appliances connected to each socket must not 
exceed a power rating of 120 Watt.
The socket is supplied with electricity from the additional battery on vehicles 
equipped with an additional battery
34)
WARNING
The electrical sockets and any appliances connected to them are also func-
tional with the ignition switched off and the key removed. Improper use of 
the sockets or electrical accessories can lead to serious injuries or cause a 
fire. To avoid the risk of injury, never leave children unsupervised in the 
vehicle.
Note
•
Using electrical appliances with the engine switched off will drain the 
battery.
•
Before using any electrical accessories, see the instructions on 
⇒ page 202.
WARNING (continued)
Fig. 112  Socket, luggage 
compartment
34)Optional equipment
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Seats and stowage
142AUX-IN InputGeneral notes
The AUX-IN socket is found on the centre console, next to the 
gearbox lever.The external audio sources connected to the AUX-IN socket will only be played 
through the radio loudspeakers or the radio and navigation system. The 
external audio sources can not be operated through the radio or the radio and 
navigation system.
For operating the external audio source , consult the instructions manual of 
the manufacturer in question.
If you wish, you can select whenever you want another audio source at the 
radio or the radio and navigation system. While the external audio source is 
not switched off, it will be playing as background. Take into account that the equipment does not change to the last selected 
audio source on finishing the reproduction of the external audio source. The 
radio or the radio and navigation system remain in the AUX menu. Another 
radio source must be selected manually.
For the AUX-IN socket you need a 3.5 jack connector. If the external audio 
source does not have this type of connector, an adapter should be used.
WARNING
The objects which are not attached inside the vehicle could hinder the 
driver and cause severe injuries in the event of sharp braking or accident.•
The external audio source must not be placed on the instrument panel 
in any case. A sharp manoeuvre can throw the device towards the compart-
ment and injure the vehicle passengers.
•
The external audio source must not be assembled in any case near the 
airbag. See chapter “Airbag system”. A sharp manoeuvre can throw the 
device towards the compartment and injure the vehicle passengers.
•
T he  e xter na l a udio  sou rce  m ust n ot  b e hel d in  ha n d  or  o n  th e legs w hile  
driving. A sharp manoeuvre can throw the device towards the compartment 
and injure the vehicle passengers.
•
Place the external audio source cables so that they are not in the way 
while driving.Note
If the external audio source is connected to the vehicle with the 12-volt power 
point, jamming may occur while playing with some adapters.
Fig. 113  AUX-IN socket 
location
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Operating instructions
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Hazard warning triangles and first aid kitWarning triangleThe hazard warning triangle may be fitted in the bracket behind the right trim 
of the luggage compartment.
Note
The warning triangle is not part of the vehicle's standard equipment.First-aid kitIn the bracket located behind the right hand trim in the luggage compartment 
there is space for a standard first aid kit and the hazard warning triangle.
For reasons of space, in vehicles fitted with a removable tow bar
35) the 
bracket only holds a smaller first aid kit and the hazard warning triangle.
Note
•
In some vehicles the first aid kit bracket is behind the left hand trim in the 
luggage compartment.
•
The first aid kit is  not issued as a standard feature with the vehicle.
•
The first aid kit must comply with legal requirements.
•
Observe the expiry date of the contents of the first aid kit. You should 
purchase a new first-aid kit as soon as possible after the shelf-life date of the 
first-aid kit has expired.
•
Before buying accessories and replacement parts, refer to the note 
“Accessories, modifications and renewal of parts”.
Luggage compartmentLoading the luggage compartment
All luggage and other loose objects must be safely secured in 
the luggage compartment.Please observe the following points to ensure the vehicle handles 
well at all times:
– If necessary, remove the seats to increase the load area.
– Distribute the load as evenly as possible in the luggage compart- ment.
– Place and stow heavy objects directly on the floor of the vehicle.  I f p ossi ble th ey  sho uld  b e p osi tion ed  a b ove  or i n  fron t of  th e rea r 
axle.
– Drive particularly carefully if you are transporting heavy objects  ⇒page 145.
– Use suitable straps to secure he avy objects to the fitted fastening 
rings ⇒ page 144.
– If objects protrude over the end of the vehicle, you must draw the  attention of other road users to this. Observe legal requirements 
when doing so.When driving with the tailgate open, please observe the instructions on 
⇒page 99.
35)Optional equipment
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144
WARNING
Loose luggage and other objects in the luggage compartment can cause 
serious injuries.•
Always stow objects in the luggage compartment and secure them on 
the fastening rings.
•
Use suitable specialist straps to secure heavy objects.
•
During sudden manoeuvres or accidents, loose objects can be thrown 
forward, injuring vehicle occupants or passers-by. This increased risk of 
injury will be further increased if a l oose object is struck by an inflating 
airbag. If this happens, objects can be transformed into “missiles”. Risk of 
fatal injury.
•
Remember that transporting heavy objects modifies the driving condi-
tions as the centre of gravity has been altered. There is a risk of accident. 
Therefore, it is essential to adjust your speed and driving style accordingly, 
to avoid accidents.
•
Never exceed the allowed axle loads or allowed maximum weight. If the 
allowed axle load or the allowed total weight is exceeded, the driving char-
acteristics of the vehicle may change, leading to accidents, injuries and 
damage to the vehicle.
•
Never leave the vehicle unattended, especially when the tailgate is 
open. Children could climb into the luggage compartment closing the door 
behind them; they will remain trapped without help and there is a mortal 
risk.
•
Never allow children to play in or around the vehicle. Close and lock 
both the tailgate and all the doors when you leave the vehicle. Before you 
lock the vehicle, make sure that there are no adults or children in the 
vehicle.
•
Never transport passengers in the luggage compartment. Every 
passenger must be properly belted in.
Caution
•
Avoid overloading small areas by placing heavy objects on the vehicle 
floor.
•
The wires of the heating element in the rear window and the window aerial 
in the rear side windows could be damaged if objects on the luggage 
compartment cover rub against them.
•
If you have removed the seats from the passenger compartment, you 
should place a large, robust covering over the floor anchorings to prevent 
damage.Note
•
Air circulation in the vehicle helps reduce fogging of the windows. Used 
air escapes through ventilation slits in the side trim of the luggage compart-
ment. Ensure that the ventilation slits are never covered.
•
Straps for securing the load to the fastening rings are commercially 
available.
Fastening rings
There are fastening rings in the luggage compartment which 
can be used to secure luggage and other objects.– Always use suitable undamaged belts for fastening the luggage  or any other object tot he anchorage rings  ⇒ in “Loading the 
luggage compartment” on page 143.The retainers for the detachable seat belts for the third row of seats and the 
floor anchorings for the seats can be used as fastening rings for items of 
luggage.
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Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
During a collision or an accident, even small and light objects can build up so 
much energy that they can cause very severe injuries. The amount of “kinetic 
energy” depends on the speed of the vehicle and the weight of the object. 
The most significant factor, however, is the speed of the vehicle.
Example: An object weighing 4.5 kg is lying unsecured in the vehicle. During 
a frontal collision at a speed of 50 km/h, this object generates a force corre-
sponding to 20 times its weight. That means that the effective weight of the 
object increases to about 90 kg. You can imagine the severity of the injuries 
which might be sustained if this “projectile” strikes an occupant as it flies 
through the passenger compartment. This increased risk of injury will be 
further increased if a loose object is struck by an inflating airbag.
WARNING
If pieces of baggage or other objects are secured to the fastening rings with 
inappropriate or damaged re
taining cords, injuries could result in the event 
of braking manoeuvres or accidents.•
To prevent pieces of luggage or other objects from flying forward, 
always use appropriate retaining cords which are secured to the fastening 
rings.
•
Never secure a child seat on the fastening rings.
Loading heavy objects
Special care is required when loading heavy objects and 
when driving a vehicle which contains heavy objects.Observe the following points to prevent damage and accidents:
– If necessary, remove the seats to increase the load area. –
Before  loading the vehicle place a sturdy mat or similar cover 
flush on floor of the vehicle.
– Where necessary, do not cover protruding parts of the vehicle  floor.
– Protect the seat anchor points from damage.
– Avoid overloading small areas - spread the load.
– Use suitable straps to secure  the objects to retaining rings.
– Drive particularly carefully and think ahead.
– If possible, avoid sudden braking and driving manoeuvres.
WARNING
For safety reasons, you should read and observe all information on loading 
the vehicle ⇒ page 145.
Caution
•
If you have removed the seats from the passenger compartment, you 
should place a large, robust covering over the seat rails to prevent damage.
•
Avoid overloading small areas - spread the load.
Safety notes on loading the vehicle
WARNING
Loose luggage and other objects in the luggage compartment can cause 
serious injuries.
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146•
Always stow objects safely in the vehicle and secure them on the 
fastening rings if necessary.
•
Use suitable specialist straps to secure heavy objects.
•
Loose objects in the vehicle can move suddenly. As the centre of gravity 
moves, safety is impaired and the vehicle becomes difficult to handle.
•
During sudden manoeuvres or accidents, loose objects can be thrown 
forward, injuring vehicle occupants or passers-by. This increased risk of 
injury will be further increased if a l oose object is struck by an inflating 
airbag. If this happens, objects can be transformed into “missiles”. Risk of 
fatal injury.
•
Remember that transporting heavy objects modifies the driving condi-
tions as the centre of gravity has been altered. There is a risk of accident. 
Therefore, it is essential to adjust your speed and driving style accordingly, 
to avoid accidents.
•
Never exceed the allowed axle loads or allowed maximum weight. If the 
allowed axle load or the allowed total weight is exceeded, the driving char-
acteristics of the vehicle may change, leading to accidents, injuries and 
damage to the vehicle.
•
Never leave the vehicle unattended, especially when the tailgate is 
open. Children could climb into the interior of the vehicle closing the door 
behind them; they will remain trapped without help and there is a mortal 
risk.
•
Never allow children to play in or around the vehicle. Close and lock all 
windows, the tailgate and all doors when you leave the vehicle.
•
Never transport passengers in the luggage compartment. Every 
passenger must be properly belted in.
Luggage compartment cover
The luggage compartment cover protects your luggage from 
prying eyes.
WARNING (continued)
Fig. 114  Luggage 
compartment cover:: 
holders on the rightFig. 115  Luggage 
compartment cover:: 
holders on the right
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Operating instructions
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Opening the luggage compartment cover
– After fitting the luggage compartment cover, pull the handle on 
the cover back and hook in the cover on the side.
Removing the luggage compartment cover
– Press the unlock button (with the luggage compartment cover  rolled up)  ⇒page 146, fig. 114    in the direction of the arrow 
and remove the cover from the right holder upwards.
– Remove the cover from the left holder in the direction of the arrow   and remove from the vehicle.
Fitting the luggage compartment cover
– Push the luggage compartment cover to the stop in the direction  of the arrow  ⇒page 146, fig. 115    into the left-hand holder.
– Press the cover down into the right-hand holder until it engages  in position.Light items of clothing or other objects on the luggage compartment cover 
can restrict visibility through the rear window.
WARNING
•
Never leave hard, heavy or sharp objects on the shelf (unrolled) or in the 
pockets of clothing on the luggage compartment cover. Animals must 
never be allowed onto the luggage compartment cover. During a sudden 
braking or driving manoeuvre or an  accident, these objects and animals 
endanger all vehicle occupants.Risk of injury.
Caution
The wires of the heating element in the rear window and the window aerial in 
the rear side windows could be damaged if objects on the luggage compart-
ment cover rub against them.Net bag*– To remove the net bag unhook the six hooks  ⇒fig. 116 (arrows).The net bag behind the last row of seats is used to store  light items of 
luggage. The net partition can prevent items of luggage from being thrown 
forward into the vehicle in sudden braking manoeuvres or in accidents.
A1
A2
A3
Fig. 116  Net partition 
fitted in the vehicle
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148
WARNING
Always fit the net partition carefully, observing the instructions. Risk of 
injury.•
Heavy, pointed or sharp items which are not stowed securely can cause 
injury in the event of sudden braking manoeuvres or accidents, even if the 
net bag is correctly assembled.
•
For reasons of safety, vehicle occupants must not travel behind a fitted 
safety net.
Roof carrierSafety notes on using the roof carrier
The roof carrier system must always be installed exactly 
according to the instructions provided.•
Your vehicle has special roof rails on the right and left for fitting the 
mounts. Therefore, standard roof carriers cannot be used.
•
The mounts are the basis of a complete roof carrier system. Special 
fixtures must then be added in order to safely transport luggage, bicycles, 
skis, surf boards or boats on the roof. All these system components are avail-
able from SEAT Service. We recommend you use genuine SEAT roof carrier 
systems. If you wish to use a different roof carrier, make sure that it can be 
fitted securely to your vehicle and that it cannot damage your vehicle.
•
We recommend that you keep the assembly instructions provided by the 
roof carrier manufacturer in your vehicle wallet.
•
Only the fitted retainers may be used to secure the carrier feet on vehicles 
without a roof railing . These retainers are located underneath the plastic rain 
channel between the markings.
•
In vehicles  with roof edging
36), the basic supports can be fitted on the 
edge making sure to adapt the distance between the supports to the objects 
to be carried. On vehicles with a sliding/tilting roof
36), however, the front 
carrier may not be fitted near the rear edge of the sliding/tilting roof when the 
roof is open.
When should the roof carrier be removed?
•
When it is not needed (to save fuel, reduce wind noise and avoid theft).
•
Before cleaning in an automatic car wash.
WARNING
•
If you do not use mounts approved by SEAT or fail to fit them according 
to instructions, the load or the roof carrier itself may fall off the vehicle roof 
and onto the street. Risk of accident or injury.
•
The risk of an accident is increased by transporting heavy or bulky 
loads on the roof, which affects the car's handling by shifting the centre of 
gravity and increasing susceptibility to cross winds. Both circumstances 
increase the risk of accident. Therefore you must adapt your driving style 
and speed to the prevailing conditions - avoid sudden braking or driving 
manoeuvres when there is a load on the roof carrier.
•
The roof carrier system must always be installed exactly according to 
the instructions provided.Caution
•
Check all bolted connections and fastenings for the roof carrier system 
before every trip. If necessary, tighten bolted connections and check the 
system at regular, appropriate intervals, e.g. at each stop during a long trip.
•
The height of your vehicle is changed by the installation of the roof carrier 
and the load secured on it. Bear this in mind when driving through garage 
doors or low underpasses – there is danger of damage to the vehicle.
36)Optional equipment
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