esp Seat Alhambra 2010 Owners Manual

Accessories, parts replacement and modifications 288
xNever fit recycled or reused airbag components in your vehicle.
WARNING
Modifications to the vehicle suspension, including the use of unauthorised
wheel and tyre combinations, may affect the performance of the airbags
and increase the risk of serious or fatal injury in the event of accident.
xNever fit suspension components which are not identical to the original
parts mounted in the vehicle.
xNever use wheel and tyre combinations not approved by SEAT.
Retro-fitting of two-way radios
An exterior aerial is required for the use of two-way radios in the vehicle.
The retro-fitting of electrical or electronic appliances in the vehicle is subject
to their approval for use in your vehicle. Under certain circumstances, this
could mean that your vehicle registration documents are no longer valid.
SEAT has approved your vehicle for use with two-way radios providing the
following conditions are observed:
xThe exterior aerial must be mounted professionally.
xThe maximum transmitting power is 10 watts.
An only external aerial is needed to give the equipment its optimal reach.
Check first with a qualified dealer if you wish to use a two-way radio with a
transmitting power of over 10 watts. The qualified workshops are familiar
with the technical options for installation. SEAT recommends visiting a quali-
fied workshop.All legal requirements, together with the instructions for the use of two-way
radios must be observed.
WARNING
If the two-way radio is not securely fastened in position, it could be sent
flying around the vehicle in the event of sharp braking, sudden manoeuvres
or accident, causing injury.
xWhile driving, two-way radios must be securely fastened in position,
outside the radius of action of the airbags, or safely stowed away.
WARNING
When using a two-way radio without a connection to an exterior aerial, the
maximum permitted levels of electromagnetic radiation may be exceeded.
This is also the case if the aerial has not been correctly installed.
xYou should only use a two-way radio inside the vehicle if it has first
been correctly connected to an exterior aerial.
Information stored by the control units
Your vehicle is fitted at the factory with a series of electronic control units
responsible for the engine and gearbox management. In addition, the control
units supervise the performance of the exhaust gas system and the airbag
systems.
Therefore, while the vehicle is being driven, these electronic control units are
continuously analysing the vehicle data. In the event of faults or deviations
from the theoretical values, only this data is stored. Normally, the warning
lamps on the instrument panel light up in the event of faults.
This data can only be read and analysed using special equipment.
WARNING (continued)

Checking and refilling levels295
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
WARNING
Driving with insufficient fuel reserve could result in the vehicle breaking
down in traffic and a serious accident.
xIf the fuel level is too low then the fuel supply to the engine can become
irregular especially on slopes.
xIf the engine “is choked” or stalls due to lack of or irregularity of the
fuel supply, the power steering as well as all of the driver assistance
systems including braking assistance will stop working.
xAlways refuel when there is only one quarter of the fuel tank left to
avoid running out of fuel.
Caution
xAlways pay attention to any lit lamps and to the corresponding descrip-
tions and instructions to avoid damage to the vehicle.
xNever run the tank completely dry. An irregular fuel supply may lead to
ignition faults and unburnt fuel could enter the exhaust system. This could
damage the catalytic converter filter or the diesel particulate filter!
Note
The arrow next to the fuel pump symbol on the instrument panel Ÿpage 294,
fig. 169 indicates the side of the vehicle on which the tank flap is located.
Filling the tank with petrol or diesel
Before refuelling, always turn off the engine, the ignition, mobile telephones,
auxiliary heating and keep them off during refuelling.
Unscrewing the tank cap
xThe tank flap is at the rear of the vehicle on the right.
xPress the rear of the tank flap to open it.
xUnscrew the tank cap anti-clockwise and insert it in the hole in the tank
flap hinge Ÿfig. 170.
Refilling
The correct petrol type for the vehicle is located on a sticker inside the fuel
tank flap Ÿpage 297.
xIf the automatic filler nozzle is operated correctly, it will switch itself off as
soon as the tank is full Ÿ.
xDo not continue to refuel if it is turned off! Otherwise, this will fill the
expansion chamber and fuel may leak out if the ambient conditions are warm.
Fig. 170 Open tank flap
with tank cap attached to
the holder.

Checking and refilling levels 296
Closing the tank cap
xScrew on the tank cap clockwise until it you hear it click into position.
xPress the tank flap until you hear it click into place. The tank flap must be
flush with the body contour.
WARNING
Do not continue refilling once the fuel nozzle has switched itself off. The
fuel tank may be filled too much. As a result, fuel may spurt out and spill.
This could lead to a fire, explosion and severe injuries.
Caution
xAlways remove any fuel spilled on the vehicle paintwork immediately to
avoid damage to the wheel housing, the tyre and vehicle paintwork.
For the sake of the environment
Spilt fuel can contaminate the environment.
Refilling precautions
Information on bulb replacement Ÿpage 360.
Checklist
Never work on the engine or in the engine compartment if you are not familiar
with the operations to be carried out, the applicable safety standards and
especially if you do not have the instruments, liquids and tools necessary
Ÿpage 304, “Working in the engine compartment”! Have the work carried
out by a qualified workshop if you are uncertain. Check the following regu-
larly, preferably when you refuel:
xWindscreen washer fluid level Ÿpage 124
xEngine oil level Ÿpage 309
xEngine coolant level Ÿpage 313
xBrake fluid level Ÿpage 210
xTyre pressure Ÿpage 323
xVehicle lighting required to guarantee road safety:
–Indicators
– Side lights, dipped headlights and full beam headlights
– Rear lights
–Brake lights
– Rear fog light Ÿpage 116
WARNING
Not following the checklist prepared for your own safety could lead to acci-
dents and severe injuries.
xAlways follow the check list and perform the necessary operations.

Checking and refilling levels 298
If good quality petrol with additives is not available or engine problems arise,
the necessary additives must be added when refuelling.
Not all petrol additives have been shown to be effective. The use of unsuit-
able petrol additives could damage the engine. These additives are available
from qualified workshops, who will inform you of their application.
Caution
xOnly use fuel with an octane rating that is in line with the norm EN 228,
otherwise significant damage could be caused to the engine and fuel system.
Furthermore, it could lead to a loss of performance with the consequent
engine fault.
xThe use of unsuitable petrol additives could damage the engine.
xIf, in exceptional circumstances, petrol with a lower octane rating to that
recommended is used, only use moderate engine speeds and a light throttle.
Avoid using full throttle and overloading the engine. Otherwise you may
damage the engine. Fill up with fuel of a suitable octane rating as soon as
possible.
xDo not refuel if the filler indicates that the fuel contains metal. LRP (lead
replacement petrol) fuels also contain high concentrations of metal addi-
tives. This could damage the engine!
xJust one full tank of leaded fuel would seriously impair the efficiency of
the catalytic converter and could damage it.
Diesel
Diesel fuel
Diesel fuel must correspond to European standard EN 590 (In Germany, EN
590 or DIN 51628).
The use of diesel fuel with a high sulphur percentage requires shorter service
intervals ŸBooklet “Maintenance Programme” Ÿ. Your qualified work-shop will be able to tell you which countries have diesel with a high sulphur
content.
Do not mix fuel additives (thinners, or similar additives) with diesel fuel.
Winter-grade diesel
When using “summer-grade diesel fuel”, difficulties may be experienced at
temperatures below 0 °C (+32 °F) because the fuel thickens due to wax sepa-
ration. For this reason, “winter-grade diesel fuel” is available in Germany, for
example, during the cold months. It can be used at temperatures as low as
-20 °C (-4 °F).
In countries with different climatic conditions, other types of diesel fuel are
available that are suitable to local temperatures. SEAT qualified workshops
and filling stations in the country concerned will inform you on the type of
diesel fuels available.
A cold diesel engine makes more noise during winter temperatures than
summer temperatures. Furthermore, the exhaust fumes may turn slightly
bluish while the engine is heating. The quantity of exhaust gases will depend
on the outside temperature.
Filter pre-heater
Vehicles with a diesel engine are fitted with a fuel filter pre-heater. This
ensures that the fuel system remains operational to approx. -24 °C (-11.2 °F),
provided you use winter-grade diesel which is safe to -15 °C (+5.00 °F).
However, if the fuel has waxed to such an extent that the engine will not start
at temperatures of under -24 °C (-11.2 °F), simply place the vehicle in a warm
garage or workshop for a while to heat up.
Auxiliary heater
Vehicles with a diesel engine may be fitted with an auxiliary heater. The
heater runs off the fuel from the fuel tank. On doing so, smells and steam may
be noticed outside the vehicle for a short period. This is normal and it is not
an indication of a fault in the vehicle.

Checking and refilling levels 300
Selective Catalytic Reduction* (AdBlue)
Introduction
The AdBlue fill level must be checked when the vehicle is being serviced
ŸBooklet “Maintenance Programme”.
Additional information and warnings:
xLuggage compartment Ÿpage 146
xFuel Ÿpage 297
xWheels and tyres Ÿpage 323
xAccessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications Ÿpage 285
WARNING
If the AdBlue fill level is too low, the vehicle may not restart after switching
the ignition off. The emergency start or jump start will not be possible
either!
xTop up with AdBlue at the latest 1000 km or 600 miles before it runs
out.
xDo not allow the AdBlue to run too low.
WARNING
AdBlue is an irritant, corrosive liquid that can cause injuries if it touches
the skin, eyes or respiratory organs.
xIf AdBlue get in contact with eyes and skin, rinse for at least 15 minutes
with plenty of water and seek medical help.
xIf the AdBlue is swallowed, wash the mouth with plenty of water for at
least 15 minutes. Do not try to provoke vomiting unless recommended by a
Doctor. Seek medical advice immediately.
Caution
AdBlue damages surfaces such as painted vehicle parts, plastic, items of
clothing and carpets. Spilt AdBlue should be removed as quickly as possible
using a damp cloth and plenty of cold water.
xIf the AdBlue has crystallised, remove with warm water and a sponge.
Control and warning lamps
Several warning and control lamps should light up for a few seconds when
the ignition is switched. This signals that the lamp is working properly. They
will switch off after a few seconds.
lights upPossible cause ŸSolution
b (red)The engine cannot be
restarted! The level of AdBlue
is too low.Stop the vehicle in a suitable,
safe and flat area then top up
with the minimum quantity of
AdBlue required Ÿpage 302.
b (red)
with
>
The engine cannot be
restarted! AdBlue system
malfunction.Contact a specialist workshop.
Have the system checked there.
b (yel-
low)The AdBlue reserve is low.
Refill AdBlue over the next kilo-
metres or miles as indicated
Ÿpage 302. SEAT recommends
contacting a specialist work-
shop.
b (red)
with

>
There is a fault in the AdBlue
system or unsuitable AdBlue
fluid has been used.Contact a specialist workshop.
Have the system checked there.

Checking and refilling levels 304
Working in the engine compartment
Introduction
Before working in the engine compartment, make sure that the vehicle is
parked on horizontal and firm ground.
The engine compartment of the vehicle is a hazardous area. Never work on
the engine or in the engine compartment if you are not familiar with the oper-
ations to be carried out, the applicable safety standards and especially if you
do not have the instruments, liquids and tools necessary Ÿ! Have the
work carried out by a qualified workshop if you are uncertain. Negligent work
can cause serious injury.
Additional information and warnings:
xWindscreen wash system Ÿpage 124
xStart and stop the engine Ÿpage 195
xBrake fluid Ÿpage 210
xVehicle battery Ÿpage 318
xChecks when filling up Ÿpage 293
xEngine oil Ÿpage 309
xEngine coolant Ÿpage 313
xAccessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications Ÿpage 285
WARNING
If the vehicle moves unexpectedly, this could cause serious injury.
xNever work underneath the vehicle if it is not secured against moving.
If you must work underneath the vehicle with the wheels in contact with
the ground then it should be parked on flat ground, the wheels should be
prevented from moving and the key must be removed from the ignition.
xIf you have to work underneath the vehicle, you must use suitable
stands additionally to support the vehicle, there is a risk of accident!. The
jack is not intended for this kind of work and its failure could lead to severe
injuries.
WARNING
The engine compartment is a dangerous area capable of causing serious
injury.
xFor all type of work, always take the utmost precautions, work carefully
and note the general safety standards in force. Never take personal risks.
xNever work on the engine or in the engine compartment if you are not
familiar with the necessary operations. If you are not sure about proce-
dures then visit a qualified workshop to carry out the necessary work.
Incorrect work can cause serious injuries.
xNever open the bonnet if you see steam or coolant escaping from the
engine compartment. Hot vapours and coolant can cause serious burns.
Always wait until you cannot see or hear the sound of steam or coolant
coming from the engine compartment.
xAlways allow the engine to cool down before opening the bonnet.
xContact with hot elements of the engine and the exhaust system can
cause burns.
xOnce the engine has cooled, follow the instructions below before
opening the bonnet:
Turn on the electronic parking brake and place the gear selector lever
in P or the gear stick in neutral.
Remove the key from the ignition.
Keep children away from the engine compartment and never leave
them unsupervised.
WARNING (continued)

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Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Opening and closing the bonnet
Opening the bonnet
The lever to open the bonnet can only be used if the driver's door is open.
xBefore opening the bonnet, make sure that the windscreen wiper arms are
in place against the windscreen Ÿ.
xOpen the driver's door.
xPull the release lever Ÿpage 307, fig. 173 in the direction of the arrow.
The bonnet is released from the lock carrier by a spring mechanism Ÿ.
xLift the bonnet using the release lever Ÿpage 307, fig. 174 (arrow) and
open the bonnet fully. The bonnet is held open thanks to the gas strut.
Closing the bonnet
xTo close the bonnet, pull it down to overcome the gas strut pressure
Ÿ.
xAllow the bonnet to fall into the lock carrier. Do not press down.
If the bonnet is not correctly closed, open it once again and close it correctly.
The bonnet is correctly closed when it is flush with the corresponding parts
on the bodywork.
WARNING
If the bonnet is not correctly closed, it could suddenly open while driving
leaving the driver without visibility. This could result in serious accident.
xAfter closing the bonnet, always check that it is properly secured by the
locking mechanism in the lock carrier. The bonnet must be flush with the
surrounding body panels.
xWhile driving, if you notice that the bonnet is not correctly closed then
stop immediately and close it correctly.
xOnly open and close the bonnet when there is nobody within its range.
Fig. 173 In the footwell
on the driver side: Lever
for unlocking the bonnet.
Fig. 174 Release lever to
open the bonnet in the
radiator grille.

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Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Engine oil
Introduction
Additional information and warnings:
xŸBooklet “Maintenance Programme”
xWorking in the engine compartment Ÿpage 304
xAccessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications Ÿpage 285
WARNING
Incorrectly handling engine oil can cause injury and serious burns.
xAlways protect your eyes when handling engine oil.
xOil is toxic and must be kept out of the reach of children.
xEngine oil must only be kept closed in its original container. The same
applies to use oil until it has been disposed of.
xNever store engine oil in empty food containers or bottles as other
people may accidentally drink it.
xRegular contact with engine oil can be bad for the skin. If you come into
contact with engine oil, wash your skin with soap and water.
xWith the engine running, the engine oil gets extremely hot and can
cause severe skin burns. Always wait until the engine has fully cooled.
For the sake of the environment
Similar to the other service liquids, spilled engine oil can be bad for the envi-
ronment. Collect any spilt fluids in suitable containers and dispose of in
accordance with legislation and with the utmost respect for the
environment.
Warning and control lamps
WARNING
If the warning lamps and messages are ignored, the vehicle may stall in
traffic, or may cause accidents and severe injuries.
xNever ignore the warning lamps or text messages.
xStop the vehicle safely as soon as possible.
Caution
Failure to heed the warning lamps and text messages when they appear may
result in faults in the vehicle.
lights upPossible causeSolution
Insufficient engine oil.Switch the engine off. Check the
engine oil level Ÿpage 310.
flashesPossible causeSolution
EEngine oil pressure too low.
› Stop the vehicle!
Switch off the engine. Check the
engine oil level.
- If the warning indicator flashes
although the oil level is correct,
do not continue driving or leave
the engine running. Otherwise,
the engine could be damaged.
You should obtain professional
assistance.
Engine oil sensor faulty.Contact a specialist workshop.
Have the engine oil sensor
checked.

Checking and refilling levels 310
Engine oil specifications
Replacement engine oil must strictly comply with the specifications.
The correct oil must be used to ensure the correct operation and long service
life of the engine. The engine comes with a high-quality multigrade oil that
can generally be used all year round.
Only use an oil that complies to SEAT standards whenever possible Ÿ. If
you wish to maintain the long-life service duration, only engine oils approved
for this service according to the corresponding VW standard (Ÿtable on
page 310) may be used. All oils indicated are synthetic multigrade oils.
Engine oils are being continuously further developed. Qualified workshops
are permanently informed of any modifications. SEAT therefore recommends
that you have the engine oil changed by a SEAT Dealership.
Caution
xOnly use engine oils whose specifications are expressly approved by
SEAT. The use of any other type of engine oil could cause engine damage!
xNo additives should be used with engine oil. Any damage caused by the
use of such additives would not be covered by the factory warranty.
Checking the engine oil level and topping up
Preparations
xPark the vehicle on flat ground so that the engine oil reading is correct.
EnginesEngine oil specifications
with LongLife servicewithout LongLife service
Petrol enginesVW 504 00, VW 503 00VW 504 00, VW 502 00
Diesel enginesVW 507 00VW 507 00
Fig. 175 Marked engine
oil dipstick.
Fig. 176 In the engine
compartment: Engine oil
filler cap.

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Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xStop the engine and wait a few minutes for the oil to drain back into the
sump. When the engine has cooled down, immediately check the oil level and
top up if necessary.
xOpen the bonnet ’ Ÿpage 304.
xThe engine oil filler opening can be recognised by the symbol E on the
cap Ÿpage 310, fig. 176 and the dipstick by its coloured handle.
Checking the engine oil level
xPull out the dipstick and wipe it on a clean cloth.
xReplace the dipstick, pushing it in as far as it will go. If the dipstick has a
mark, when you reintroduce it this mark should slot into the corresponding
groove located on the upper end of the tube.
xRemove the dipstick again and check the engine oil level Ÿtable on
page 311.
xAfter reading the oil level, replace the dipstick in the tube completely.
Engine oil topping up ranges
Adding oil after checking the level
Only add engine oil in small quantities and in steps.
xUnscrew the cap from engine oil filler opening on the cylinder head
Ÿpage 310, fig. 176. If you are not sure where the cap is, request help from
a specialist.
xOnly refill using engine oil expressly approved by SEAT and in small quan-
tities (not more than 0.5 L or 1/2 a quarter of a gallon at a time) Ÿpage 310.
xTo avoid adding too much oil, each time you add a quantity, wait until the
oil has flowed into the crankcase so that it can be measured with the dipstick.
xCheck the oil level before adding any more oil. Do not top up with too
much engine oil Ÿ.
xWhen the oil level is in at least the Ÿpage 310, fig. 175 zone, insert
the dipstick into the tube fully to avoid engine oil escaping when the engine
is running.
xAfter topping up the oil, ensure that the cap is screwed on to the filler
mouth correctly.
WARNING
Oil could catch fire if it comes into contact with hot engine components.
This could lead to a fire, explosion and severe injuries.
xAlways ensure that after topping of oil, the engine oil filler cap is
correctly tightened. This will avoid engine oil spilling onto hot engine parts
when the engine is running.
Caution
xIf the oil level is above the area Ÿpage 310, fig. 175 do not start the
engine. You should obtain professional assistance. Otherwise catalytic
converter and engine damage may occur.
xWhen refilling or changing service liquids, ensure that you put the liquids
into the right tank. Making a mistake when refilling could cause serious
malfunctions and damage the engine!
For the sake of the environment
The oil level must never be above area Ÿpage 310, fig. 175 . Otherwise
oil can be drawn in through the crankcase breather and escape into the
atmosphere via the exhaust system.
page 310,
fig. 175Operations required depending on the engine oil topping
up level:
Area Do not top up oil Ÿ.
Area Add approximately 0.5 L of oil (1/2 quarter of a gallon). The
oil level can be in the zone , but never above .
Area :
It is essential to add oil (approximately 1 litre or quarter of
a gallon). Ensure that the level is around the centre of the
zone after adding oil.
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