display Seat Alhambra 2009 Owner's Guide

Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning
154
− ECON (cooling system off) or
− OFF (entire system off)
Outside temperature display
Display for windscreen defrosting – lights up when the windscreen
defrosting function is switched on
Display for air recirculation mode
Display for air flow
Display of the selected interior temperature front
Display of the blower setting rear
Display of the selected interior temperature rear
Button for the automatic mode
Button for air recirculation mode
Button for reducing the blower speed front
Button for raising the blower speed front
Button for directing the air flow to the chest
Button for directing the air flow to the footwell
Button for reducing the temperature front
Button for raising the temperature front
Button for reducing the blower speed rear
Button for raising the blower speed rear
Button for reducing the temperature rear
Button for raising the temperature rear
Button for switching the cooling system off
Switching between Celsius and Fahrenheit
Press and hold the button and press the button.
The selected temperature unit is then displayed.
WARNING
For road safety all windows must be clear of ice, snow, and condensation.
This is essential to ensure good visibility. Please familiarise yourself with
the correct operation of the heating and ventilation system, including the
demist/defrost functions for the windows.
Note
Please observe the general notes ⇒page 159.Automatic mode
In automatic mode air temperature, flow, and distribution are
automatically regulated so that a specified temperature is
attained as quickly as possible and then maintained.Switching on automatic mode
– Press the button .
– Select the desired temperature We recommend 22°C (72°F).A comfortable interior climate is quickly reached when a temperature of
+22°C (72°F) is set in automatic mode. It can be changed as necessary to suit
individual preferences or particular circumstances. It is possible to select
interior temperatures from +18°C (64°F) to +29°C (86°F). These are approxi-
mate temperatures and the actual temperature may be slightly higher or
lower depending on the outside conditions.
If a temperature below +18°C (17.78°C) is selected, the display switches to
LO The temperature is not controlled and in AUTO mode, the system runs at
maximum cooling output.
A4A5A6A7A8A9A10A11
AUTO
A12

A13

A14

A15

A16

A17

A18

A19

A20

A21

A22

A23
ECON
ECON
AUTO
AUTO
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Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning155
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
If a temperature above +29°C (86°F) is selected, the display switches to
HI In
this setting the system runs at maximum heating output and the temperature
is not controlled.
Climatronic maintains a constant temperature level fully automatically. This is
done by automatically adjusting the temperature of the air supplied to the
interior, the blower setting, and the air distribution. The system also allows
for the effect of strong sunlight, so there is no need for manual adjustment.
Therefore, automatic mode provides the best comfort for the vehicle occu-
pants in virtually all conditions throughout the year. Automatic mode is switched off whenever an adjustment is made using the
buttons for air distribution or blower. The temperature continues to be regu-
lated.
Note
In the automatic mode, at least one outlet in the instrument panel must be
open. The cooling system could otherwise ice over.
Manual mode
In manual mode you can adjust the air temp
erature, flow, and distribution yourself.Switching on manual mode
– Press one of the air distribution buttons ⇒fig. 119 or
several times, or one of the temperature buttons or . is deleted from the display.
Fig. 119 Instrument panel: Climatronic controls
A15
A16
A17
A18
AUTO
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Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning
156Te m p e r a t u r e
The selected temperature setting is shown on the display. It is possible to
select interior temperatures from +18°C (64°F) to +29°C (86°F). These are
approximate temperatures and the actual temperature may be slightly higher
or lower depending on the outside conditions.
If a temperature below +18°C (17.78°C) is selected, the display switches to
LO The temperature is not controlled and in AUTO mode, the system runs at
maximum cooling output.
If a temperature above +29°C (86°F) is selected, the display switches to HI In
this setting the system runs at maximum heating output and the temperature
is not controlled.
Blower
The blower can be adjusted gradually using the controls y . Always
have the blower running at a low setting to ensure a constant flow of fresh air
into the vehicle. If the blower is set to 0, the Climatronic is switched off.
Air distribution
The air distribution is adjusted using the buttons and . It is also
possible to open and close some of the air outlets separately.
Switching off the cooling system
Pressing the button switches off the air cooling system to save fuel.
The temperature continues to be controlled, but the air cannot be cooled. The
set temperature can then only be reached if it is higher than the outside
temperature.
Switching the Climatronic on/off
Press button until OFF is shown on display . The Climatronic is switched
off. This function should be used in certain situations only (e.g. if the system
develops a fault).
The Climatronic is switched back on by pressing button .
WARNING
When the Climatronic is off open a window to ensure an adequate supply of
fresh air in the vehicle. Otherwise, when the Climatronic is switched off, no
fresh air enters the vehicle. Stale or contaminated air inside the vehicle
may cause drowsiness, increasing the risk of accident.Air recirculation mode
Air recirculation mode prevents fumes or unpleasant smells
from entering the vehicle.– Press the button ⇒page 155, fig. 119 to switch air recircula-
tion mode on or off. This is ON if the symbol is displayed
on the screen.Air recirculation mode prevents strong odours in the ambient air from
entering the vehicle interior, for example when passing through a tunnel or in
queuing traffic.
When the outside temperature is low, using air recirculation mode provides
more effective heating by heating air from the vehicle interior instead of cold
air from outside.
When the outside temperature is high, using air recirculation mode provides
more effective cooling by cooling air from the vehicle interior instead of warm
air from outside.




ECON
A13
A3
AUTO

A12

A6
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Driving171
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Note
The two clutch system of the direct shift gearbox* has a system to protect
against excess strain, which may occur, for example, when the vehicle is held
on a hill with the clutch and the gearbox oil overheats. When the clutch is
overloaded, the vehicle begins to jerk and the position indicator of the
selector lever begins to flash. To avoid breakdowns, the clutch breaks the
power transmission between the engine and the gearbox, as a result of which
the vehicle loses impetus. If the clutch opens automatically due to over-
loading, depress the brake pedal and wait a few seconds before
continuing.Selector lever positions
The selector lever positions and gears are shown on the
display in the combi-instrument.
Selector lever positions
The gear selected is displayed on the side of the selector lever and on the
display ⇒fig. 129 in the combi-instrument.
P - parking lock
When the selector lever is in this position, the drive wheels are locked
mechanically.
The parking lock must be engaged only when the vehicle is stationary ⇒ .
To move the selector lever from position P, the locking button in the selector
lever handle must be pressed and the brake pedal depressed at the same
time when the ignition is switched on.
Only the locking button has to be pressed to select the selector lever position
P .
If the battery has discharged, the selector lever cannot be removed from the
P position.
R - reverse gear
The reverse gear is engaged in this position.
Reverse gear must be engaged only when the vehicle is stationary and the
engine is idling ⇒.
To move the selector lever to position R, press in the lock button and at the
same time press the brake pedal, with the ignition switched on.
With the selector lever in position R and the ignition switched on the
following occurs:•
The reversing lights come on.
•
The heating or air conditioning automatically change to air recirculation
mode.
•
The rear window heater switches on when the windscreen wiper is acti-
vated.
Fig. 129 Instrument
panel: display showing
position of selector lever
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Driving
172N - neutral (idling)
If this position is selected, the gearbox is in neutral. Power is not transmitted
to the wheels and the engine does not have a braking function.
Never use the N position to drive down a hill. The engine does not function as
a brake and the brakes are subjected to excessive stain.
You could damage the automatic gearbox if you drive down hills with the
selector lever in position N and the engine switched off.
D - Drive (forwards)
In this position the gearbox automatically changes automatically to a longer
or shorter gear, according to the driving style and speed. The braking effect
of the engine when driving downhill is very limited when the selector is in this
position. The display also shows which gear has been selected in addition to
position D.
If position N has been selected and you wish to select D, you must press the
foot brake if the vehicle is stationary, or travelling at under 5 km/h (approx.
3mph) ⇒.
WARNING
•
Never move the selector lever to R or P when driving. Risk of accident!
•
Never drive the vehicle with the engine and the ignition switched off.
You could loose control of the vehicle. The brake servo only functions when
the engine is running as does the elector-mechanical steering system. You
need more strength to steer and brake the vehicle when the engine and the
ignition are switched off. As you cannot steer and brake in the normal
manner, there is a greater risk of accidents and serious injury.Caution
If you allow the car to roll with the selector lever in position N with the engine
switched off, the automatic gearbox will be damaged as it will not be lubri-
cated.
Note
If the lever is moved accidentally to N when driving, take your foot off the
accelerator and let the engine speed drop to idling before selecting D
again.
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Driving173
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Changing gear with “Tiptronic”
The “Tiptronic” system allows the driver to change gears
manually.
Changing gear with “Tiptronic” (selector lever)
– Press the selector lever from position D to the right into the
“Tiptronic” selector gate ⇒fig. 130.
– Lightly press the selector to the front + to change up.
– Lightly press the selector lever back - to change down.When accelerating, the automatic gearbox automatically shifts up to the next
gear shortly before the maximum permitted engine speed is reached.
If a lower gear is selected, the automatic gearbox does not change down until
the point is reached where the engine could no longer over rev.
Gear selection display for Tiptronic
If the automatic gearbox is shifted manually or using “Tiptronic”, the indi-
vidual gears are shown on the display ⇒fig. 131 .Kick-down function
The kick-down feature is designed to give maximum acceler-
ation.If you press the accelerator right down, the gearbox automatically changes
down a gear, depending on speed and engine speed, to give the vehicle full
acceleration.
The gearbox does not shift up to the next gear until the engine reaches the
maximum determined engine speed for the gear.
WARNING
You could lose control of the vehicle if you accelerate quickly on slippery
surfaces. This may result in serious injury.
Fig. 130 Centre console:
gearbox selector lever
with locking buttonFig. 131 Instrument
panel: display showing
position of selector lever
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Intelligent technology181
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Tips and MaintenanceIntelligent technologyBrakesBrake servoThe brake servo supplements the pressure you exert on the brake pedal. It
works only when the engine is running .
If the brake servo does not operate, for example, when the vehicle is being
towed or due to a fault in the system, the brake pedal must be depressed
harder.
WARNING
The braking distance can also be affected by external factors.•
Never let the vehicle coast with the engine switched off. Failure to do so
could result in an accident. The braking distance is increased considerably
as the brake servo does not function.
•
If the brake servo is out of action, for example if the car is being towed,
you will have to press the brake pedal considerably harder than normal.
Brake pads wear display

If this light comes on, check the brake pads immediately.
At the same time, a text message or the necessary operations may appear on
the instrument panel.
WARNING
If the warning lamp lights up
 or the corresponding message appears on
the instrument panel, immediately have the brake pads checked and
replaced, if necessary, at a specialised workshop.
Brake warning lamp

If the warning lamp comes on, this may be caused by the
following reasons:•
With the handbrake on the warning light comes on
 on the instrument
panel. If you are travelling at over 6 km/h with the hand brake on, a text
message or the required operations may appear on the instrument panel. In
addition a warning signal is heard.
•
In the event of insufficient brake fluid the warning lamp lights up
 on
the instrument panel. At the same time, a text message or the necessary oper-
ations may appear on the instrument panel. Stop the vehicle immediately
and check the level of the brake fluid ⇒page 223.
•
In the event of a fault in the brake system the warning lamp lights up

on the instrument panel and three buzzes are emitted. At the same time, a
text message or the necessary operations may appear on the instrument
panel. Stop the vehicle and do not drive on. You should obtain professional
assistance. This warning lamp
 can light up together with the anti-locking
brake system warning lamp
 ⇒ .
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Checking and refilling levels
214Closing the bonnetClosing the bonnet
1. To close the bonnet, pull it down to overcome the gas strut pres-
sure.
2. Make sure that the bonnet catches onto its clasp. Do not press
down ⇒ .If the bonnet does not close properly, open it again and close it properly.
WARNING
If the bonnet is not closed properly, it could open while you are driving and
completely obscure your view of the road. Risk of accident.•
After closing the bonnet, always check that it is properly secured. The
bonnet must be flush with the surrounding body panels.
•
If you notice that the bonnet latch is not secured when the vehicle is
moving, stop the vehicle immediately and close the bonnet properly. Risk
of accident.
Engine oilEngine oil specifications
The engine oil used must conform with exact specifications.Specifications
The engine comes with a special, high quality, multi grade oil that can be
used in all seasons of the year except for those regions affected by extreme
cold.
As the use of good quality oil is necessary for the correct operation and long
service life of the engine, when it becomes necessary to replenish or change
the oil, always use an oil that complies to the VW standards.
If it is not possible to find oil conforming to the VW standards then oil
conforming to the ACEA or API standards with an appropriate viscosity at
atmospheric temperature should be used instead. The use of this type of oil
may have some repercussions on the performance of the engine for example,
long starting time, increased consumption and a higher emission level.
If a top up is required then different oils may be mixed as long as they all
conform to the VW standards.
The specifications (VW standards) set out in the following page should
appear on the container of the service oil; the container will display together
the different standards for petrol and diesel engines, the oil can be used for
both types of engines.
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Checking and refilling levels
224However, if the level goes down noticeably in a short time, or drops below the
“MIN” mark, there may be a leak in the brake system. A display on the instru-
ment panel will warn you if the brake fluid level is too low ⇒page 72.
WARNING
Before opening the bonnet to check the brake fluid level, read and observe
the warnings ⇒ page 211.Changing the brake fluid
The Maintenance Program indicates the brake fluid change
intervals.We recommend that you have the brake fluid changed by an Authorised
Service Centre.
Before opening the bonnet, please read and follow the warnings ⇒ in
“Safety instructions on working in the engine compartment” on page 211 in
“Working in the engine compartment”.
Brake fluid absorbs moisture. In the course of time, it will absorb water from
the ambient air. If the water content in the brake fluid is too high, the brake
system could corrode. This also considerably reduces the boiling point of the
brake fluid. Heavy use of the brakes may then cause a vapour lock which
could impair the braking effect.
It is important that you use only brake fluid compliant with the US standard
FMVSS 116 DOT 4. We recommend the use of Genuine SEAT brake fluid.
WARNING
Brake fluid is poisonous. Old brake fluid impairs the braking effect.
•
Before opening the bonnet to check the brake fluid level, read and
observe the warnings ⇒page 211.
•
Brake fluid should be stored in the closed original container in a safe
place out of reach of children. There is a toxic risk.
•
Complete the brake fluid change according to the Maintenance
Program. Heavy use of the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the brake fluid
is left in the system for too long. This would seriously affect the efficiency
of the brakes and the safety of the vehicle. This may cause an accident.Caution
Brake fluid could damage the paintwork. Wipe off any brake fluid from the
paintwork immediately.
For the sake of the environment
Brake fluid must be drained and disposed of in the proper manner observing
environmental regulations.
WARNING (continued)
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Checking and refilling levels
226•
If the vehicle is left standing in cold conditions for a long period, protect
the battery from frost. If it “freezes” it will be damaged.
Checking the electrolyte level
The electrolyte level should be checked regularly in high-
mileage vehicles, in hot countries and in older batteries.– Open the bonnet and open the battery cover at the front ⇒ in
“Safety instructions on working in the engine compartment” on
page 211 ⇒ in “Warnings on handling the battery” on
page 225.
– Check the colour display in the "magic eye" on the top of the battery.
– If there are air bubbles in the window, tap the window gently until they disperse.The position of the battery is shown in the corresponding engine compart-
ment diagram ⇒ page 262.
The round window (“magic eye”) on the top of the battery changes colour,
depending on the charge level and electrolyte level of the battery.
If the colour in the window is colourless or bright yellow, the electrolyte level
of the battery is too low. Have the battery checked by a qualified workshop.
The colours green and black are used by the workshops for diagnostic
purposes.
Charging and changing the vehicle battery
The battery is maintenance-free and is checked during the
inspection service. All work on the vehicle battery requires
specialist knowledge.If you often drive short distances or if the vehicle is not driven for long
periods, the battery should be checked by a qualified workshop between the
scheduled services.
If the battery has discharged and you have problems starting the vehicle, the
battery might be damaged. If this happens, we recommend you have the
vehicle battery checked by an Authorised Service Centre where it will be re-
charged or replaced.
Charging the battery
The vehicle battery should be charged by a qualified workshop only, as
batteries using special technology have been installed and they must be
charged in a controlled environment.
Replacing a vehicle battery
The battery has been developed to suit the conditions of its location and has
special safety features.
Genuine SEAT batteries fulfil the maintenance, performance and safety spec-
ifications of your vehicle.
WARNING
•
We recommend you use only maintenance-free or cycle free leak-proof
batteries which comply with the standards T 825 06 and VW 7 50 73. This
standard applies as of 2001.
•
Before starting any work on the batteries, you must read and observe
the warnings ⇒ in “Warnings on handling the battery” on page 225.
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