winter tyres Seat Alhambra 2010 Owner's Manual

Safe driving9
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xFor petrol vehicles: Is unleaded petrol available at the right octane rating?
xFor diesel engines: Is diesel fuel available with a low sulphur content?
xAre a suitable engine oil (Ÿpage 309) and other engine fluids complying
with SEAT specifications available in the destination country?
xWill the navigation system fitted at the factory operate correctly in the
destination country with the available navigation data?
xAre special tyres required in the destination country?
Caution
SEAT does not accept liability for any damage to the vehicle due to the use of
a lower quality fuel, an inadequate service or the non-availability of genuine
spare parts.
Driving along flooded roadways
To prevent damage to the vehicle when driving through water, for example,
along a flooded road, please observe the following:
xCheck the depth of the water before entering the flooded zone. The water
should never come above the lower edge of the bodywork Ÿ.
xDo not drive faster than a pedestrian.
xDo not stop in the water, use reverse gear or switch off the engine.
xOncoming traffic will cause waves which raise the level of the water,
making it difficult to cross the water.
WARNING
When driving through water, mud, melted snow, etc., please remember
that due to damp or frozen brake discs and shoes in winter, the braking
effect may be delayed, therefore the required braking distance is greater.
xDry the brakes and remove ice by braking carefully. Ensure that you are
not endangering other road-users or breaking traffic regulations in the
process.
xAfter driving through water, avoid sudden sharp manoeuvres.
Caution
xDriving through flooded areas may severely damage vehicle components
such as the engine, transmission, running gear or electrical system.
xNever drive through salt water as salt causes corrosion. Always rinse any
parts of the vehicle which have been in contact with salt water.
WARNING (continued)

Cockpit71
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
„Default setting
„Vehicle condition Ÿpage 73
„Configuration Ÿpage 75
„Multifunction display data
„Journey duration
„Current fuel consumption
„Average fuel consumption
„Distance covered
„Distance to empty (the distance you can travel with the remaining
fuel)
„Average speed
„Digital display of speed
„Speed warning
„Compass
„Convenience Ÿpage 76
„Open door
„Manual
„automatic mode
„Childproof locks On / Off
„Anti-theft alarm confirmation On / Off
„Handling windows
„Off
„All
„Driver
„Mirror adjustment On / Off
„Rear-view mirror adjustment
„Synchronised
„Individual
„Default setting
„Lights & visibility Ÿpage 77
„Coming Home
„Leaving Home
„Footwell light
„Convenience indicators On / Off
„Default setting
„Time
„Winter tyres
„Settings: Language
„Units
„Second speed display On / Off
„Autohold
„Travel mode On / Off
„Service
„Info
„Reset
„Default setting

Cockpit73
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Main menuMFI display menu
The multifunction display (MFI) has two automatic memories: 1 - Partial
memory and 2 - Total memory. The selected memory will be shown in the
upper right-hand corner of the display.MenuFunctionSee
MFIInformation and possible configurations of the
multifunction display (MFI).Ÿpage 73
Audio
If the radio is on, the station is displayed.
In CD mode, the current CD is played.
ŸBooklet
“Radio” or
ŸBooklet
“navigation
system”
NavigationNavigation system information:
when the navigation to destination is on,
change of direction arrows and a proximity bar
are displayed. These symbols are similar to
those used in the navigation system.
If navigation to destination is not on, the direc-
tion of travel (compass) and the name of the
street on which you are driving are displayed.ŸBooklet
“Navigation
system”
Parking
heatingInformation and configurations of the parking
heating:
switching the parking heating on or off. Select
the operating mode and duration.Ÿpage 187
Vehicle
conditionCurrent warning or information texts.
This option only appears when one of the fol-
lowing texts is available. The number of availa-
ble messages is displayed. Example 1/1 or
2/2.Ÿpage 64
SettingsDifferent setting options, for example, the Con-
venience, Lighting & or Visibility menus, and
the time, speed warning with winter tyres, lan-
guage, units of measurement, or “Display off”.Ÿpage 75
With the ignition switched on, and memory 1 or 2 displayed, briefly press
to change from one memory to another.
1
Trip mem-
ory (for a
single jour-
ney).
The memory stores the values for the journey and the con-
sumption from the moment the ignition is switched on until
it is switched off again.
If the journey is broken for more than two hours, the mem-
ory is automatically erased. If the journey is continued in
less than two hours after the ignition is switched off, the
new data is added to the data already stored in the mem-
ory.
2Total mem-
ory (for all
journeys).
The memory records the values for a specific number of
partial trips, up to a total of 19 hours and 59 minutes or 99
hours and 59 minutes, or 1999.9 km (or miles) for 9999 km
(or miles), depending on the model of instrument panel.
On reaching either of these limits, the memory is automati-
cally erased and starts to count from 0 again.
OK

Cockpit75
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Configuration Menu
Configuration
MenuFunction
Multifunction
display dataConfiguration of the multifunction display data which you
wish to see on the instrument panel display Ÿpage 73.
CompassChanging the magnetic region and calibration of the com-
pass. To calibrate the compass, please follow the instruc-
tions given on the instrument panel display.
ConvenienceChanging vehicle convenience functions Ÿpage 76.
Lights &
visibilityConfiguration of vehicle lighting Ÿpage 77.
TimeChanging the hours and minutes of the clock and the nav-
igation system. The time can be set here and the choice
can be made between the 24 hour and 12 hour display.
The S in the upper part of the display indicates that the
clock is set to summer time.
Winter tyresChanging the visual and audible speed warnings. This
function should only be used when the vehicle is fitted
with winter tyres, which are not designed for travel at
high speeds.
Settings:
LanguageChanging the language of the display texts and the navi-
gation system.
UnitsChanging the units of measurement for the temperature,
consumption and distance.
Second speedSwitching second speed display on and off
AutoholdSelecting whether the Auto-Hold function should remain
on permanently.
Travel modeChanging the headlamps for countries in which vehicles
are driven on the other side of the road. When the “mark”
is activated, the headlamps of a left-hand drive vehicle
are adjusted for driving on the left. The travel mode can
only be used for short periods of time.
ServiceCheck the service notifications or reset the service inter-
vals to zero
Manufacturer's
settings Some functions of the Configuration menu will be reset
to the factory value.
BackThe main menu is displayed again.
Configuration
MenuFunction

Driving and the environment 254
Unnecessary short journeys should be avoided. Try to combine trips.
The vehicle uses more fuel in winter than in summer, even when other condi-
tions are the same.
“Warming” the engine is not only forbidden in some countries, but in practice
it is technically superfluous as it is a waste of fuel.
Adjusting type pressures.
Having the correct pressure in your tyres helps to reduce rolling resistance
and, as a result reduces fuel consumption. Increasing the tyre pressure
slightly (+ 0.2 bar / + 3 psi) can help to save fuel.
If you are prepared to accept a slight reduction in comfort, the tyres may be
filled to the pressures recommended for a fully-loaded vehicle. This is also
valid when driving alone without luggage.
When you buy new tyres, make sure they are optimised for minimum rolling
resistance.
Use low friction engine oil
The use of low viscosity totally synthetic oils, known as low friction engine oil,
help to reduce fuel consumption. Low friction engine oils reduce the resist-
ance caused by friction in the engine, they flow around the engine more
quickly and efficiently, particularly in cold starts. The effect is particularly
noticeable in vehicles frequently used for short journeys.
Always check the engine oil level and observe service intervals (engine oil
change intervals).
When purchasing engine oil, always observe legal requirements and ensure
that the oil is approved by SEAT.
Avoid carrying unnecessary loads
The lighter the vehicle, the more economical and ecological the driving style.
For example, an additional weight of 100 kg will increase fuel consumption
up to 0.3 l/100 km.
Remove any unnecessary objects or loads from the vehicle.Remove optional equipment and unnecessary accessories
The more aerodynamic the vehicle, the lower the fuel consumption. Optional
equipment and accessories (such as roof racks or bike carriers) reduce the
aerodynamic benefits of the vehicle.
Therefore, we recommend you remove all optional and unnecessary equip-
ment and racks, especially if you intend to drive at high speeds.

Trailer towing 258
Trailer towing
Introduction
Always be aware of the legal requirements for each country to drive with a
trailer and to use a trailer bracket.
Your car is intended mainly for transporting passengers however, it can also
be used to tow a trailer provided that it is fitted with the necessary equip-
ment. The additional load has an effect on the useful life, fuel consumption
and the vehicle performance and, in some cases, reduce the service intervals.
Driving with a trailer requires more force from the vehicle and, thus, more
concentration from the driver.
For wintertime temperatures, fit winter tyres to the vehicle and the trailer.
Drawbar load
The maximum permitted Drawbar load exerted by the trailer drawbar on the
ball joint of the tow hitch must not exceed 100 kg (approximately 220 lbs).
Vehicles with the Start-Stop function
With a SEAT factory fitted or retrofitted trailer bracket, the Start-Stop function
is automatically deactivated when a trailer is connected. For trailer brackets
not installed by SEAT, the Start-Stop function must be deactivated manually
using a button located on the dashboard before driving with a trailer and it
must remain off for the entire journey Ÿ.
Additional information and warnings:
xAnti-theft alarm system Ÿpage 83
xLight Ÿpage 113
xEcological driving Ÿpage 252
xStarter assist systems (Start-Stop function) Ÿpage 221
xWheels and tyres Ÿpage 323
xAccessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications Ÿpage 285
WARNING
Never transport people in a trailer: this will endanger in their life and is
against the law.
WARNING
The incorrect use of the tow hitch can cause accidents and injury.
xOnly use a tow hitch in good condition and correctly installed.
xNever change or repair a tow hitch.
xTo reduce the risk of injury in case of a reversing collision, injury to
pedestrians and cyclists when parking, always keep the ball joint in when
a trailer is not being used.
xNever fit a trailer tow hitch “that distributes the load” or “balances the
load”. Your vehicle has not been designed for this type of tow hitch. The
tow hitch may fail and the trailer will separate from the vehicle.
WARNING
Driving with a trailer and transporting heavy or large objects can affect
vehicle handling and even cause an accident.
xAlways secure loads correctly with suitable and undamaged attach-
ment rope or straps.
xAdjust your speed and driving style to visibility, road, traffic and
weather conditions.
xTrailers with a high centre of gravity can overturn more easily than
trailers with a low centre of gravity.

Vehicle maintenance and cleaning271
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xWashing the vehicle in low temperatures: When washing the vehicle with
a hose, do not direct water into the lock cylinders or the gaps around the
doors, tailgate, or sunroof. Locks and seals could freeze!
Caution
To prevent damage to the vehicle, please observe the following before
entering an automatic car wash:
xCompare the distance between the vehicle wheels and the distance
between the guide-rails of the car wash to prevent damage to the wheels and
tyres!
xSwitch off the rain sensor and the Auto Hold function before entering a car
wash.
xCompare the height and width of your vehicle with the available height
and width when entering and driving through the car wash.
xFold in exterior mirrors Electrically retractable exterior mirrors must NOT
be folded in or out by hand. Always use the electrical power control.
xTo avoid damaging the bonnet paintwork, rest the wipers on the wind-
screen after drying them. Do not let them fall!
xLock the tailgate to prevent it from opening unexpectedly while inside the
car wash.
Washing the vehicle with high pressure cleaning equipment
When cleaning the vehicle with a high-pressure cleaner, always follow the
operating instructions for the equipment. Pay special attention to the
required pressure of the jet and the distance between the jet and the vehicle
Ÿ.
Keep a suitable distance from soft materials, such as rubber hoses or insu-
lating material, and from the parking distance warning system sensors. The parking distance sensors are fitted in the rear bumpers and, where appli-
cable, in the front bumpers Ÿ.
Do not use a nozzle that sprays the water out in a direct stream or one that
has a rotating jet for forcing off dirt Ÿ.
WARNING
The incorrect use of high pressure cleaning equipment could result in
permanent damage, visible or invisible, to the tyres or other materials. This
could result in serious accident.
xEnsure there is a suitable distance between the nozzle and the tyres.
xNever wash tyres with a concentrated jet or so-called “dirt blasters”.
Even at large spraying distances and short cleaning times, you may
damage the tyres.
WARNING
After the vehicle has been washed, the braking effect will be reduced (and
the braking distance increased) due to moisture (and ice in winter) on the
brakes.
xDry the brakes and remove ice by braking carefully. Ensure that you are
not endangering other road-users or breaking traffic regulations in the
process.
Caution
xThe temperature of the water must not be above +60 °C (+140 °F).
xTo avoid damage to the paintwork, do not wash the vehicle in full sun.
xThe sensors on the bumpers should be kept clean and free of ice at all
times to ensure the parking distance warning system and the parking aid
system operate correctly. When cleaning with pressure hoses and steam
cleaners, the sensors should be sprayed only briefly. A distance of 10 cm
between the sensors and the steam / hose nozzle must be observed.

Wheels and tyres 328
vendor should provide the manufacturer's certificate with the tyre, indicating
that this type of tyre is suitable for your vehicle. This certificate should always
be carried with the vehicle.
Tyre pressures
Fig. 183 Position of tyre pressure specification plate.
The correct tyre pressures for tyres fitted at the factory is shown on a label and
is valid for summer and winter tyres. This label Ÿfig. 183 is either in the
driver's door strut or inside the fuel cap.
Under-inflation or over-inflation will reduce the life of the tyres considerably
and also impair the car's handling Ÿ. It is essential to maintain the
correct tyre pressures, especially if driving at high speeds. Incorrect tyre pres-
sure causes premature wear and could cause tyre blow-out.The pressure should therefore be checked at least once a month and before
starting a journey.
As a general rule, the pressures given are for cold tyres. When the tyres are
hot, the pressures are greater.
Never deflate a hot tyre in order to obtain the required pressure. This could
result in very low tyre pressures which may lead to sudden blow-outs.
Checking tyre pressures
Tyre pressures should only be checked when the vehicle has not been driven
for more than a few kilometres (miles) at low speeds in the past three hours.
xThe tyre pressures should be checked regularly, and only when the tyres
are cold. Always check all the tyres. Tyre pressures should be checked more
often in colder regions, and only when the vehicle has not been driven
recently. Always use a correctly-operating tyre gauge.
xAdjust tyre pressures to the loads carried in the vehicle.
xAfter checking the pressure, always replace the valve caps, and where
applicable, observe the instructions given for adjusting the tyre control
system Ÿpage 245.
WARNING
If tyre pressures are too high or too low, the tyre may deflate or burst
suddenly while driving. This could result in serious accident.
xIf the tyre pressure is too low, the tyres could overheat, resulting in
tread detachment or even burst tyres.
xWhen driving at high speeds and/or fully loaded, the tyre could
suddenly overheat, burst or be subject to tread detachment, with the
resultant loss of control of the vehicle.
xTyre pressures which are too high or too low reduce the service life of
the tyre, affecting the vehicle's performance.
xTyre pressures should be checked regularly, at least once a month and
before long journeys.

Wheels and tyres329
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xAdjust the pressures of all the tyres to the vehicle load.
xNever deflate excess pressure from hot tyres.
Caution
xTake care not to tilt the manometer when placing it on the valve. Other-
wise, the valve may be damaged.
xTo avoid damage to the valves, always replace valve caps correctly. Check
that the caps are identical to the standard caps and have been correctly tight-
ened.
For the sake of the environment
Under-inflated tyres will increase the fuel consumption.
Note
When checking tyre pressures, please observe the instructions for the tyre
control system Ÿpage 245.
Tread depth and wear indicators
Tread depth
Certain driving conditions require a deeper tread, as well as needing the tread
to be approximately the same on the front and rear tyres. This is particularly
important when driving in winter, in cold temperatures and on wet roads
Ÿ.
The minimum tread depth required by law in the majority of cases is 1.6 mm
(1/16 of an inch), measured in the tread grooves next to the tread wear indi-
cators. Observe legal requirements in each country.
The performance of winter tyres is much reduced when the tread has worn to
4 mm (5/32 inch).
The tread depth of new tyres may vary, according to the type and make of tyre
and the tread pattern.
Wear indicators on the tyre
The original tyres on your vehicle have 1.6 mm (1/16 inch) high Ÿfig. 184
tread wear indicators running across the tread. A number of these indicators
WARNING (continued)
Fig. 184 Tyre tread: tread
wear indicators.

Wheels and tyres331
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xNever carry on driving on worn tyres or wheels. Request qualified
assistance immediately.
xIf there is no visible exterior damage, drive slowly and carefully to the
nearest qualified workshop and have the vehicle checked.
Winter tyres
In winter conditions winter tyres will considerably improve the vehicles
handling. The design of summer tyres (width, rubber compound, tread
pattern) gives less grip on ice and snow. SEAT strongly recommends using
winter tyres or all year round tyres on all four wheels of the vehicle, especially
if you expect to drive in wintery weather. Winter tyres also improve the vehicle
braking performance, reducing the braking distance in winter weather. SEAT
recommend that winter tyres be fitted to the vehicle at temperatures below
+7 °C (+45 °F).
The performance of winter tyres is much reduced if the tyre tread is worn
below 4 mm (1/16 inch). The age of the tyre is another factor affecting
performance, regardless of the depth of the tyre tread.
Please observe the following when using winter tyres:
xObserve legal requirements in each country.
xWinter tyres must be fitted on all four wheels.
xOnly use winter tyres in wintery weather conditions.
xOnly use winter tyres of the size authorised for the vehicle.
xOnly use radial winter tyres of the same type, size (rolling circumference)
and tread pattern.
xAdjust speeds to within the limits indicated (code letter on tyre) Ÿ.Speed limit
A code letter indicating the speed limit is stamped on all winter tyres
Ÿpage 334.
In some vehicles, it is possible to set a speed warning in the MFA
(multifunction indicator) menu on the instrument panel Ÿpage 70.
If you use V-rated tyres the speed limits and tyre pressure will be determined
by engine size. Please ask your SEAT qualified workshop for further informa-
tion on the maximum permitted speed and the required pressures for the
tyres.
All-wheel drive
Thanks to its all-wheel drive, your car will have plenty of traction in winter
conditions, even with the standard tyres. Nevertheless, SEAT still recommend
that winter tyres or all-season tyres should be fitted on all four wheels when
winter road conditions are expected, mainly because this will give a better
braking response.
Please observe all instructions and warnings when using snow chains
Ÿpage 332.
WARNING
Although winter tyres help to make driving safer in the winter, you should
not take unnecessary risks.
xAdjust your speed and driving style to visibility, road, traffic and
weather conditions.
xNever exceed the maximum permitted speed or loads specified for the
type of winter tyre fitted on your vehicle.
For the sake of the environment
When winter is over, change back to summer tyres. In temperatures above
+7 °C (+45 °F), performance will be improved if summer tyres are used. Fuel
consumption, wear and noises while driving will all be reduced.
WARNING (continued)