maintenance Seat Alhambra 2010 Owner's Manual

Foreword
This Instruction Manual and its corresponding supplements should be read carefully to familiarise yourself with
your vehicle.
Besides the regular care and maintenance of the vehicle, its correct handling will help preserve its value.
For safety reasons, note the information concerning accessories, modifications and parts changes.
If selling the vehicle, give all of the onboard documentation to the new owner, as it should be kept with the
vehicle.

Contents3
Contents
Manual structure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Content. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety First . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safe driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dear SEAT Driver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tips for driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting the seat position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transporting objects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brief introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Why wear seat belts? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seat belt tensioners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Airbag system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brief introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Airbag system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Child safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Child seats (accessories) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Integrated child seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating instructions . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cockpit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instrument panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SEAT information system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Unlocking and locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle key set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Central locking and locking system . . . . . . . . . .
Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sliding doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tailgate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electric windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Panorama sliding sunroof* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Garage door remote control* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lights and visibility. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sun blind . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windscreen wiper and washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear vision mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seats and storage compartments. . . . . . . . . .
Seat adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seat functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Centre armrest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loading luggage compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Roof carrier system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Storage compartments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cup holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ashtray and cigarette lighter* . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sockets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Toll card reader* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning . .
Climate Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Auxiliary heater* (additional heater) . . . . . . . . .
Driving. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stopping and starting the engine . . . . . . . . . . .
Changing gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Braking, stopping and parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Start assist systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Parking sensor system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Park Assist system* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear Assist system* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cruise control system* (CCS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dynamic chassis control* (DCC) . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tyre monitoring systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Practical tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving and the environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Running-in . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ecological driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine management and exhaust gas purification
system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trailer towing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving with a trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle maintenance and cleaning . . . . . . . .
Care and cleaning the vehicle exterior . . . . . . . .
Caring for and cleaning the vehicle interior . . . .
Notes for the user . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessories, parts replacement and
modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessories, replacement of parts and
modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking and refilling levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Filling the tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Selective Catalytic Reduction* (AdBlue) . . . . . .
Working in the engine compartment . . . . . . . . . 5
6
7
7
7
7
10
13
16
16
18
22
27
29
29
33
42
42
52
59
59
59
61
64
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78
83
92
92
97
102
106
109
113
113
122
124
130
134
134
137
143
145
146
159
162
171
173
175
178
179
179
187
192
192
195
201210
221
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229
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239
243
245
251
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252
255
258
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269
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278
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285
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293
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297
300
304

Content 6
Content
This manual is structured to provide the information you need in an organised
way. The content of this Manual is divided into sections which belong to
chapters (e.g. “Air conditioning”). The entire manual is divided into five large
parts which are:
1. Safety First
Information on the vehicle equipment relating to passive safety such as seat
belts, airbags, seats, etc.
2. Operating instructions
Information about the distribution of controls in the driver position of your
vehicle, about the seat adjustment possibilities, about how to create a suit-
able climate in the passenger compartment, etc.
3. Practical tips
Advice relating to the driving, caring and maintenance of your vehicle and
certain problems you can solve yourself.
4. Technical Data
Figures, data, dimensions and measurements (for example fuel consump-
tion) of your vehicle.
5. Alphabetic index
At the end of this manual there is a detailed alphabetical index, this will help
you to rapidly find the information you require.

Safe driving 8
xCheck that the lights and turn signals operate correctly.
xCheck the tyre pressures (Ÿpage 323) and level of fuel (Ÿpage 293).
xEnsure there is good visibility through all the windows.
xMake sure that all objects and bags in the storage compartments, in the
luggage compartment and, where applicable, on the roof, are securely
fastened Ÿpage 13.
xEnsure there is nothing obstructing the free passage of the foot pedals.
xUse child retention systems appropriate for the child's body weight and
height Ÿpage 42.
xCorrectly adjust front seat, head rests and rear-view mirrors to suit your
height Ÿpage 10.
xWear close-fitting shoes which do not prevent you from using the pedals
correctly.
xThe driver's floor mat should be fixed to the floor, leaving the pedal area
unobstructed.
xBefore starting out, ensure you are correctly seated and remain in this
position throughout the journey. This applies to all passengers in the vehicle
Ÿpage 10.
xCorrectly fasten your seat belt before starting to drive and keep it securely
fastened throughout the journey. This applies to all passengers in the vehicle
Ÿpage 22.
xNever carry more passengers than the number of available seats and seat
belts in your vehicle.
xNever drive with impaired faculties (for example, due to medication,
alcohol or drugs).
xDo not allow yourself to be distracted from the traffic, for example, to reset
or switch on a menu, by other passengers or to answer a phone call.
xAlways try to adapt the speed of the vehicle and your style of driving to the
condition of the ground or the road and to weather and traffic conditions.
xObserve the highway code and speed limits.
xOn long journeys, rest at regular intervals (at least every two hours).
xIf carrying animals, make sure they are correctly restrained in accordance
with their weight and size.
WARNING
Always observe traffic regulations and speed limits and try to anticipate
traffic movements. Correctly anticipating traffic situations may mean the
difference between arriving safe and sound at your destination or having a
serious accident.
Note
Regular servicing of your vehicle not only helps to keep it in good working
order but also helps to ensure road safety. Therefore, please ensure the
vehicle is taken for service as indicated in the Maintenance Programme. If the
vehicle is subjected to hard use, it may require certain maintenance work
before the next service date. Hard use may involve frequent driving in traffic
jams, driving in dusty areas or frequent use of the tow-bar. For further infor-
mation, please refer to a SEAT dealer or specialised workshop.
Driving abroad
Check list
In some countries, certain safety regulations and requirements are in force
relating to exhaust gas emissions, which differ from the technical character-
istics of the vehicle. Before travelling abroad, SEAT recommends you consult
a SEAT dealer about the legal requirements and the following points:
xDoes the vehicle need technical modifications for driving abroad, for
example, adjustment of the headlamps?
xDoes the vehicle have all the tools, diagnostics equipment and spare
parts required for inspections and repairs?
xAre there any SEAT dealers in the destination country?

Safe driving15
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a Turn off the air recirculation for the heating and air conditioning.
Open all of the air outlets in the dashboard.
Turn the heating fan and heater to the highest level.
Caution
An open tailgate changes the length and height of the vehicle.
Driving a loaded vehicle
For the best handling when driving a loaded vehicle, note the following:
xSecure all objects Ÿpage 14.
xAccelerate gently and carefully.
xAvoid sudden braking and manoeuvres.
xBrake early.
xIf necessary, read the instructions for driving with a trailer Ÿpage 260.
xIf necessary, read the instructions for driving with a roof carrier system
Ÿpage 159.
WARNING
A sliding load could considerably affect the stability and safety of the
vehicle resulting in an accident with serious consequences.
xSecure loads correctly so they do not move.
xWhen transporting heavy objects, use suitable ropes or straps.
xLock the seat backs in vertical position.
Specific vehicle weight information
The instructions in the official vehicle documents take precedence. All the
technical data provided in this documentation is applicable to the basic
model. The vehicle data label in the Maintenance Programme or the vehicle
documents show which engine is installed in your vehicle.
The figures may be different depending on if additional equipment is fitted,
for different models and for special vehicles.
WARNING
Exceeding the maximum authorised weight and the load on the axles could
cause damage to the vehicle, accidents and serious injuries.
xThe real load on the axles should never exceed the maximum
permitted.
xThe load and its distribution in the vehicle have effects on the vehicle
handling and the braking ability. Always drive at a suitable speed.
Caution
Distribute the load as uniformly and as low down on the vehicle as possible.
When transporting heavy objects in the trunk/boot, these should be placed
as far forward as possible or over the rear axle to have as little influence on
handling as possible.
WARNING (continued)

Cockpit 64
Instruments
Introduction
Additional information and warnings:
xIndicator lamps Ÿpage 61
xGear engaged display (automatic gearbox) Ÿpage 201.
xInstructions for inspection intervals ŸBooklet “Maintenance
Programme”
WARNING
Any distraction may lead to an accident, with the risk of injury.
xDo not handle the instrument panel controls when driving.
View of instrument panel
Details of the instruments Ÿfig. 36:
Clock set button1).
Press button to select the hour or minute display.To continue setting the time, press button Ÿfig. 36 .
Hold button down to scroll through the numbers quickly.
Press button again to end the clock setting.
Rev counter (with the engine running, in thousands of revolutions per
minute).
Fig. 36 Instrument panel, on dash panel.
1)Depending on the vehicle equipment, it is also possible to set the time using the
settings menu on the instrument panel display Ÿpage 75.
A1
¡
0.0 / SETA7
¡
A2

Cockpit 68
The compass does not require calibration in vehicles for which the navigation
system was mounted at the factory. The option compass disappears.
The compass in vehicles in which the navigation system was not mounted at
the factory, is permanently and automatically calibrated. If electronic or metal
accessories (mobile phone, television) are subsequently mounted in the
vehicle, the compass should be recalibrated manually.
Adjusting the magnetic zone
xSwitch the ignition on.
xSelect the Settings menu followed by the option Compass and Zone.
xSelect the magnetic zone corresponding to the position of the vehicle
Ÿpage 67, fig. 37.
xAdjust and confirm the magnetic zone (1-15).
Calibrating compass
To calibrate the compass you must be in one of the valid magnetic zones with
sufficient space to be able to trace a circumference with the vehicle.
xSwitch the ignition on.
xSelect the Settings menu followed by the option Compass and Calibrate.
xConfirm the message Describe a complete circumference to calibrate the
compass with and then trace a complete circumference driving at approx-
imately 10 km/h (6 mph).
When the corresponding cardinal point is displayed, the calibration is
complete.
Service interval display
The inspection display appears on the instrument panel Ÿpage 64, fig. 36
.SEAT makes a difference between services with engine oil change (Mainte-
nance Service) and services without engine oil change (Inspection Service).
The service interval display only gives information for service dates which
involve an engine oil change. The dates of the remaining services (for
example, the next Inspection Service or change of brake fluid) are listed on
the label attached to the door strut, or even in the Maintenance Programme.
In vehicles with Services established by time or mileage, the service intervals
are already pre-defined.
In vehicles with LongLife Service, the intervals are determined individually.
Technical progress has made it possible to considerably reduce servicing
requirements. The technology used by SEAT ensures that your vehicle only
has an maintenance service when it is necessary. To establish when the Main-
tenance Service is due (max. 2 years), the vehicle's conditions of use and
individual driving styles are considered. The service pre-warning first appears
20 days before the date established for the corresponding service. The kilo-
metres remaining until the next service are always rounded up to the nearest
100 km and the remaining time is given in complete days. The current service
message cannot be viewed until 500 km after the last service. Prior to this
only lines are visible on the display.
Inspection reminder
When the Service date is approaching, when the ignition is switched on a
Service reminder is displayed.
In vehicles without text messages, a spanner is displayed on the instrument
panel
> with a figure given in km. The number of kilometres shown is the
maximum number that may be driven until the next service. After a few
seconds,the display mode changes. A clock symbol appears and the number
of days until the next service appointment is due.
In vehicles with text messages, Service in --- km or --- days is displayed on the
instrument panel .
OK
A4

Cockpit69
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a Service due
After the service date, an audible warning is given when the ignition is
switched on and the spanner displayed on the screen flashes for a few
seconds
>. In vehicles with text messages, Service in --- km or --- days is
displayed on the instrument panel.
Reading a service notification
With the ignition switched on, the engine off and the vehicle at a standstill,
the current service notification can be read:
xPress the button on the instrument panel several times until the
spanner symbol is displayed >.
xALTERNATIVELY: select the Settings menu.
xFrom the Service submenu, select the option Info.
When the service date has past, a minus sign is displayed in front of the
number of kilometres or days. In vehicles with text messages the following is
displayed: Service --- km or --- days ago.
The service interval display is reset
If the service was not carried out by a qualified workshop, the display can be
reset as follows:Do not reset the indicator to zero between two intervals, otherwise the
display will be incorrect.
If, while the LongLife service is valid, the service interval display is reset to
zero, the “service will be activated by time or mileage”. The service interval is
no longer calculated individually ŸBooklet “Maintenance Programme”.
Note
The service message disappears after a few seconds, when the engine is
started or when is pressed.
Note
In vehicles with the LongLife system in which the battery has been discon-
nected for a long period of time, it is not possible to calculate the date of the
next service. Therefore the service interval display may not be correct. In this
case, please check the maximum permitted service intervals ŸBooklet
“Maintenance Programme”.In vehicles with text messages:
Select the Settings menu.
In the submenu Service, select the option Reset.
Confirm with when requested to do so by the system.
¡
OK
In vehicles without text messages:
Switch the ignition off.
Press and hold the button.
Switch the ignition back on.
Release the button and, press for the next 20 seconds.
0.0 / SET
0.0 / SET¡
OK

Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning 184
Switching the Climatronic temperature measuring unit
Press and hold the and buttons to switch the temperature display
between Celsius and Fahrenheit.
Heat
The maximum heat output required to defrost windows quickly is only avail-
able when the engine has reached its normal running temperature.
The air conditioning system does not switch on
If the air conditioning system cannot be switched on, this may be caused by
the following:
xThe engine is not running.
xThe fan is switched off.
xThe climate control fuse has blown.
xThe outside temperature is lower than approximately +3 °C (+38 °F).
xThe climate control system compressor has been temporarily switched off
because the engine coolant temperature is too high.
xAnother fault in the vehicle. Have the climate control system checked by
a qualified workshop.
Things to note
If the humidity and temperature outside the vehicle are high, condensation
can drip off the evaporator in the cooling system and form a pool underneath
the vehicle. This is normal and does not indicate a leak!
Dust and pollen filter
The dust and pollen filter with its activated charcoal cartridge serves as a
barrier against impurities in the ambient air.
For the climate control system to work with maximum efficiency, the dust and
pollen filter must be replaced at the intervals specified in the Maintenance
Programme.If the filter loses efficiency prematurely due to use in areas with very high
levels of air pollution, the filter must be changed more frequently than stated
in the Service Schedule.
Note
The climate control system must left running for a few minutes to reach the
set temperature in the vehicle interior.
Note
After starting it, any residual humidity in the climate control system could
mist over the windscreen.
Note
The air from the vents flows through the passenger compartment and out
through the outlets below the rear window. Do not cover these outlets with
items of clothing or other objects.
ACAUTO

Driving 214
xSwitch off the engine and release the brake pedal.
xRemove the key from the ignition.
xIf necessary, turn the steering wheel slightly to lock the steering.
xWith a manual gearbox, engage the 1st gear on flat ground and slopes, or
even the reverse gear on hills, and release the clutch pedal.
xEnsure that all passengers leave the vehicle, especially children.
xWhen leaving the vehicle, take all keys with you.
xLock the vehicle.
Additional information for steep slopes and hills
Before switching off the engine, rotate the steering wheel so that if the
vehicle should move then it will be held by the kerb.
xOn slopes, turn the front wheels so that they are against the edge of the
kerb.
xUphill, turn the wheels towards the centre of the road.
WARNING
The components of the exhaust system reach very high temperatures. This
could cause a fire and considerable damage.
xAlways park your vehicle so that no part of the exhaust system can
come in contact with flammable materials (such as wood, leaves, spilled
fuel, dried grass, etc).
Caution
xSpecial care should be taken when parking in areas with high kerbs or
fixed barriers. Objects protruding from the ground may damage the bumper
or other parts of the vehicle during manoeuvres. To avoid damage, stop
before the wheels touched the barrier or kerb.
xSpecial attention is required when driving through entrances, over ramps,
kerbs or other objects. The vehicle underbody, bumpers, mudguards and running gear, and the engine and exhaust system could be damaged as you
drive over these objects.
Information about the brakes
For the first 200 to 300 km (100 to 200 miles), new brake pads have not yet
reached their maximum braking capacity, and need to be run in first Ÿ.
The slightly reduced braking effect can be compensated for by increasing
pressure on the brake pedal. While running in, the full braking distance or
emergency braking distance is larger then when the brake pads have been
run in. While running in, avoid full power braking or situations requiring
braking performance. For example, in heavy traffic.
The rate of wear of the brake pads depends to a great extent on the condi-
tions in which the vehicle is used and the way the vehicle is driven. If the
vehicle is used frequently in city traffic or for short trips or driven sport style,
visit a specialist workshop regularly more frequently than advised in the
Maintenance Programme to have the bake pads checked.
If you drive with wet brakes, for example, after crossing areas of water, in
heavy rainfall or even after washing the car, the effect of the brakes is less-
ened as the brake discs are wet or even frozen (in winter). At higher speed,
dry the brakes as quickly as possible by braking gently several times. Only do
this without endangering vehicles behind you or any other road users Ÿ.
A layer of salt on the discs and brake pads will reduce brake efficiency and
increase braking distance. If you drive for a prolonged period on salted roads
without braking then brake carefully several times to eliminate the layer of
salt on the brakes Ÿ.
If the vehicle remains parked for considerable lengths of time, is used little,
or if the brakes are not used, there may be corrosion on the brake discs and
a buildup of dirt on the brake pads. If the brakes are not used frequently, or
if rust has formed on the discs, SEAT recommends cleaning the pads and