ESP Seat Altea 2005 Owner's Guide

Cockpit81
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Power steering system*

For vehicles with power steering, the level of steering assistance depends on
the vehicle's speed and on the steering angle.
The warning lamp should light up for a few seconds when the ignition is
switched on. It should go out when the engine has started running.
If the battery is disconnected, the indicator remains lit, even with the engine
running. The warning light only goes of f after a distance of approx. 50 m.
There is a fault in the electromechanica l steering system if the lamp does not
go out or lights up whilst the vehicle is in motion. The indicator may appear
in two different colours to indicate faults. If it lights yellow, this indicates a
minor fault. If it lights red, seek wo rkshop assistance immediately, if no
assistance is available stop driving. Stop the vehicle and seek technical
assistance. The power steering does not work if the battery is flat or if the
engine is off (for example, for towing). You should take into account that you
will need considerably more power than normal to steer the vehicle if the
steering assistance is reduced or has failed completely.
For those vehicles fitted with ESP* the function “Recommended steering
manoeuvre” is included. See⇒ page 175Brake pad wear indicator*

As the brake pad wear indicator only monitors the front brake pads, it is advis-
able to have the rear brake pads inspected at the same time.
The following information text displayed in the instrument panel display
14) :
CHECK BRAKE PADS .
WARNING
Have the brake pads inspected immediately by a qualified dealership if the
warning display
 lights up.
Indicator for open doors or tailgate

This indicator lights if one of th e doors or the tailgate is open.The warning light
 should go off when all the doors are closed correctly.
The system also works when the ignition is switched off. It should go off
about 15 seconds after the vehicle is locked.
Electronic immobiliser* “Safe”
This warning lamp flashes if an unauthorised key is used.Inside the key there is a chip that deactivates the electronic immobiliser auto-
matically when the key is inserted into the ignition. The immobiliser will be
activated again automatically as soon as you pull the key out of the ignition
lock.
The following information text displayed in the instrument panel display
15) :
SAFE . The vehicle cannot be used in that case ⇒page 158.
The engine can, however, be started if the appropriate coded SEAT genuine
key is used.
14)Depending on the model version
15)Depending on the model version
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Lights and visibility113
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
7. Always take the vehicle key wi th you when you leave the vehicle.You should switch on the hazard warning lights to warn other road users, for
instance:•
When reaching the tail end of a traffic jam
•
There is an emergency
•
Your vehicle breaks down due to a technical defect
•
You are towing another vehicle or your vehicle is being towed.
All turn signals flash simultaneously when the hazard warning lights are
switched on. That is that the two turn signal indicator lamps
  and the
indicator lamp in the switch
 will flash at the same time. The hazard
warning lights also work when the ignition is switched off.
WARNING
•
The risk of an accident increases if your vehicle breaks down. Always
using the hazard warning lights and a warning triangle to draw the atten-
tion of other road users to your stationary vehicle.
•
Never park where the catalytic converter could come into contact with
inflammable materials under the vehicle, for example dry grass or spilt
petrol. This could start a fire!Note
•
The battery will run down if the hazard warning lights are left on for a long
time, even if the ignition is switched off.
•
The use of the hazard warning lights d escribed here is subject to the rele-
vant statutory requirements.
Turn signal and main beam headlight lever
The turn signal and main beam lever also operates the
parking lights and the headlight flasher.The turn signal and main beam headlight lever has the following
functions:
Switching on the turn signals
– Move the lever all the way up ⇒fig. 79 to indicate right, and
all the way down to indicate left.
Signalling a lane change
– Push the lever up or down to the point where you incur resistance and then release the lever. The turn signal will flash
three times. The corresponding warning lamp will also flash.
Fig. 79 Turn signal and
main beam headlight
lever
A1
A2A1
A2
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Lights and visibility
114
Switching main beam on and off
– Turn the light switch to position

.
– Press the lever forward ⇒page 113, fig. 79 to switch on the
main beams.
– Pull the lever back towards you to switch the main beam head- lights off again.
Headlight flasher
– Pull the lever towards the steering wheel to operate the flasher.
Switching on parking lights
– Switch off the ignition and remove the key from the lock.
– Move the lever up or down to turn on the right or left-hand parking lights respectively.
WARNING
The main beam can dazzle other drivers. Risk of accident! Never use the
main beam headlights or the headlight flasher if they could dazzle other
drivers.
Note
•
The turn signals only work when the ignition is switched on. The corre-
sponding warning lamp
 or  flashes in the combi-instrument. The
warning lamp
 flashes when the turn signals are operated, provided a
trailer is correctly attached and connected to the vehicle. If a turn signal bulb
is defective, the warning lamp flashes at double speed. If the trailer turn signal bulbs are damaged, warning lamp
 does not light up. You should
have the bulb replaced.
•
The main beam headlights can only be switched on if the dipped beam
headlights are already on. The warning lamp
 then comes on in the combi-
instrument.
•
The headlight flasher comes on for as long as you pull the lever – even if
no other lights are switch ed on. The warning lamp
 then comes on in the
combi-instrument.
•
When the parking lights are switched on, the headlight and the rear light
on the corresponding side of the vehicle light up. The parking lights will only
work if the key is removed from the igni tion. If the lights are switched on, a
buzzer gives an audible warning while the driver door is open.
•
If the turn signal lever is left on after the key has been taken out of the
ignition lock, an acoustic signal sounds when the driver door is opened. This
is a reminder to switch off the turn signal, unless of course you wish to leave
the parking light on.
A3
A4
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Lights and visibility
116Interior light switched on

Turn the knob to the position
.
Interior light switched off O
Turn the knob to the position O ⇒page 115, fig. 81 .
Note
If not all the vehicle doors are closed, th e interior lights will be switched off
after approx. 10 minutes, providing th e key has been removed and the cour-
tesy light position selected. This prevents the battery discharging.Front reading lights
Switching on the reading light

Press the corresponding button ⇒fig. 82 and ⇒fig. 83 to switch on
the reading light.
Switching off the reading lights

Press the corresponding button to switch off the reading light.
Fig. 82 Detail of the roof:
Front reading light type 1
Fig. 83 Detail of the roof:
Front reading light type 2
AB
AB
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Lights and visibility119
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Optional heated windscreen in the wiper blade* area
In some countries and with some versions, there is the possibility of heating
the windscreen in the area of the windscreen wiper blades in order to aid de-
icing in the zone.
This function is activated by turning the exterior heated rearview mirror*
control forwards.
⇒page 123
WARNING
•
Worn and dirty wiper blades obstruct visibility and reduce safety levels.
•
In cold conditions, you should not use the wash / wipe system unless
you have warmed the windscreen with the heating and ventilation system.
The washer fluid could otherwise freeze on the windscreen and obscure
your view of the road.
•
Always note the corresponding warnings on ⇒page 212, “Changing
windscreen wiper blades”.Caution
In icy conditions, always check that th e wiper blades are not frozen to the
glass before using the wipers for the fi rst time. If you switch on the wipers
when the wiper blades are frozen to the windscreen, you could damage both
the wiper blades and the wiper motor.
Note
•
The windscreen wipers will only function when the ignition is switched on
and the bonnet is closed.
•
When in use, the wipers do not go as far as the rest position. When the
lever is moved to position 0, they are totally hidden.
•
The next speed down will automatically be selected if wiper speed
⇒ page 118, fig. 86 or is selected when the vehicle stops. The set speed
will be resumed when the vehicle starts again
•
The windscreen will be wiped again after approximately five seconds once
the “automatic wipe/wash system” has been operated while the vehicle is in
transit.
•
When the “intermittent wi pe function” is on, the intervals are directly
proportional to the speed. This way, the higher the vehicle speed the shorter
the intervals.
•
The wiper will try to wipe away any obstacles that are on the windscreen.
The wiper will stop moving if the obstacle blocks its path. Remove the
obstacle and switch the wiper back on again.
•
Before removing any objects that may be trapped in the side areas of the
windscreen, always move the wiper arms to the service position
(horizontal).
A2
A3
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Lights and visibility121
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Rear window wiper

The windscreen wiper lever operates the windscreen wiper
and the wash and wipe system for the rear window.Switching on the interval wipe
– Press the lever forwards to position ⇒fig. 89 . The wiper will
wipe the window approximately every 6 seconds.
Switching off the interval wipe function
– Pull the lever back from positi on towards the steering wheel.
The wiper will continue to function for a short period if you switch
off whilst the wipers are in motion. Switching on the windscreen wiper and washer system
– Press the lever fully forwards to position
⇒page 121, fig. 89
. The wash function will start immediately and the wiper will start
with a slight delay. The windscreen wash system will function as
long as you hold the lever in this position.
– Then release the lever. The wiper then wipes for approximately 4 seconds, and then in intervals again.
– Then release the lever. The washer system stops and the wipers function.
WARNING
•
A worn or dirty wiper blade will obstruct visibility and reduce safety.
•
Always note the corresponding warnings on ⇒page 212, “Changing
windscreen wiper blades”.Caution
In icy conditions, always check that the wiper blade is not frozen to the glass
before using the wiper for the first time. If you switch on the wiper when the
wiper blade is frozen to the glass, this could damage both the wiper blade
and the wiper motor.
Note
•
The windscreen wiper will only function when the ignition is switched on
and the tailgate is closed.
•
In reverse gear, with the windscreen wipers switched on, the rear wind-
screen wiper will make one wipe.
F i g . 8 9 W i n d o w w a s h a n d
wipe lever: Rear window
wiper
A6
A6
A7
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Seats and stowage125
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Seats and stowageThe importance of correct seat adjustmentProper seat adjustment optimi ses the level of protection
offered by seat belts and airbags.Your vehicle has five passenger places, two individual front seats and three
places on the rear seat. Each seat is equipped with a three-point seat belt.
The driver seat and front passenger seat can be adjusted in many ways to suit
the physical requirements of the vehicle occupants. The correct seat position
is very important for:•
fast and easy operation of all controls on the instrument panel,
•
relaxed posture that does not cause drowsiness,
•
safe driving ⇒ page 7,
•
and to ensure that the seat belts and airbag system provide maximum
protection ⇒page 19.
WARNING
•
If the driver and passengers assume improper sitting positions, they
may sustain critical injuries.
•
Never transport more people than there are seats available in the
vehicle.
•
Every occupant in the vehicle must properly fasten and wear the seat
belt belonging to his or her seat. Children must be protected with an appro-
priate child restraint system ⇒page 46, “Child safety”.
•
The front seats and all head restraints must always be adjusted to body
size and the seat belt must always be properly adjusted to provide you and
your passengers with optimum protection.
•
Always keep your feet in the footwell when the vehicle is moving; never
rest them on the dash panel, out of the window or on the se at. This also
applies to passengers. An incorrect sitting position exposes you to an
increased risk of injury in the event of a braking manoeuvre or an accident.
If the airbag is triggered, you could sustain severe injuries due to an incor-
rect sitting position.
•
It is important for the driver and front passenger to maintain a distance
of at least 25 cm from the steering wheel or dash panel. If this minimum
distance is not respected, the airbag will not provide the intended protec-
tion and there is a fatality risk! Always ensure the maximum possible
distance between the driver and the st eering wheel as well as between the
passenger and the dash panel.
•
Adjust the driver or front passenger seat only when the vehicle is
stationary. This also applies to the forwards/backwards adjustment of the
rear seats. Otherwise your seat coul d move unexpectedly while the vehicle
is moving. This could increase the risk of an accident and therefore injury.
In addition, while adjusting your seat, you will assume an incorrect sitting
position. Risk of fatal accidents.
•
Special guidelines apply to installing a child seat on the front
passenger seat. When installing a child seat, observe the warning note in
the ⇒page 46, “Child safety”.WARNING (continued)
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Seats and stowage135
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Other stowage areasOther stowage areas can be found:•
in the centre console,
•
in the door trims (front and rear),
•
in the side trims of the luggage compartment,
•
in the spare wheel recess in the luggage compartment (only on vehicles
with an optional anti-puncture kit*.
The clothes hooks are located on the rear roof handles.
WARNING
•
Do not store loose objects on the dashboard. These objects could be
flung through the passenger compartment when the vehicle is moving (e.g.
while accelerating, braking or cornerin g) and distract the driver. Risk of
accident.
•
Ensure that no objects can fall from the centre console or other stowage
areas into the driver footwell while the vehicle is moving. In the event of a
sudden braking manoeuvre, you will not be able to use the brake, clutch or
accelerator. Risk of accident.
•
Clothing hung on the coat hooks must not restrict the driver's view.
Risk of accident. The coat hooks are intended only for use with light arti-
cles of clothing. Do not leave any ha rd, sharp or heavy objects in hanging
articles of clothing. During sudden braking manoeuvres or accidents, espe-
cially those involving airbag deployment, these objects could injure the
vehicle occupants.
Drinks holders at the frontIn the centre console, in front of the gear lever, there are two drink holders
⇒ fig. 107 .
WARNING
•
Never place hot drinks in the drink holders. During normal or sudden
driving manoeuvres, sudden braking or an accident, the hot dr ink could be
spilled. Danger of scalding.
•
Never use rigid materials (for example, glass or ceramic), these could
cause injury in the case of an accident.
Fig. 107 Front drink
holder
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Seats and stowage
142The warning triangle* is located in a stowage box under the luggage compart-
ment cover. ⇒page 141, fig. 118 . To open this storage compartment, turn the
knob 90º fig. ⇒page 141, fig. 119
Note
•
The warning triangle is not part of the vehicle's standard equipment.
First-aid kit and fire extinguisherThe first-aid kit * is located in a stowage box on the left side of the luggage
compartment.
The fire extinguisher* is velcroed on the luggage compartment carpet.
Note
•
The first-aid kit and the fire extinguisher are not part of the vehicle's
standard equipment.
•
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.
•
The fire extinguisher must comp ly with legal requirements.
•
Ensure that the fire extinguisher is fully functional. The fire extinguisher
should, therefore, be checked regularly. The sticker on the fire extinguisher
will inform you of the next date for checking.
•
Before acquiring accessories and emergency equipment see the instruc-
tions in “Accessories and spares” ⇒page 194.
Luggage compartmentStowing luggage
All luggage must be securely stowed.Please observe the following points to ensure the vehicle handles
well at all times:
– Distribute the load as evenly as possible.
– Place heavy objects as far forward in the luggage compartment
as possible.
– Secure luggage in the luggage compartment with suitable straps on the fastening rings.
WARNING
•
Loose luggage and other loose items in the vehicle can cause serious
injuries.
•
Loose objects in the luggage compartment can suddenly move and
change the way the vehicle handles.
•
During sudden manoeuvres or accidents, loose objects in the
passenger compartment can be flung forward, injuring vehicle occupants.
•
Always store objects in the luggage compartment and secure with suit-
able straps. This is especially important for heavy objects.
•
When you transport heavy objects, always keep in mind that a change
in the centre of gravity can also cause changes in vehicle handling.
•
Please observe information on safe driving ⇒page 7, “Safe driving”.
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Seats and stowage
144
Note•
Ensure that, when placing items of clothing on the luggage compartment
cover, that rear visibility is not reduced.
•
Only the warning triangle* and other li ghtweight objects should be stored
in the storage compartment.
Roof carrier*Please observe the following points if you intend to carry loads on the roof:•
For safety reasons, only luggage racks and accessories supplied by offi-
cial SEAT Service should be used.
•
It is imperative to precisely follow the fitting instructions included for the
rack, taking special care when fitting th e front bar in the allotments designed
for this and the rear bar between the marks on the upper part of the rear door
frame while respecting the correct direction of travel indicated in the installa-
tion manual. Not following these instructions may lead to paintwork damage
or marks on the bodywork.
•
Pay special attention to the tightening torque of the attachment bolts and
check them following a short journey. If necessary, retighten the bo lts and
check them at regular intervals.
•
Distribute the load evenly. A maximum load of 40 kg only is permitted for
each roof carrier system support bar, the load must be distributed evenly over
the entire length. However, the maximu m load permitted for the entire roof
(including the support system) of 75 kg must not be exceeded nor should the
total weight of the vehicle be exceeded. See the chapter on “Technical Data”.
•
When transporting heavy or large objects on the roof, any change in the
normal vehicle behaviour due to a change in the centre of gravity or an
increased wind resistance must be taken into account. For this reason, a suit-
able speed and driving style must be used.
•
For those vehicles fitted with a sunroof*, ensure that it does not contact
the load on the roof carrier system when opened.
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