page 304 Seat Alhambra 2010 User Guide

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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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Engine coolant
Introduction
Never work on the engine cooling system or 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 Ÿ! Have
the work carried out by a qualified workshop if you are uncertain. SEAT recom-
mends visiting a qualified workshop.
Negligent work can cause serious injury.
Additional information and warnings:
xTo wi ng m o d e Ÿpage 260
xWorking in the engine compartment Ÿpage 304
xAccessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications Ÿpage 285
WARNING
Engine coolant is toxic!
xOnly keep engine coolant in its original container, tightly shut and in a
safe place.
xNever store engine coolant in empty food containers or bottles as other
people may accidentally drink it.
xAlways keep engine coolant out of reach of children.
xEnsure that the proportion of engine coolant additive corresponds to
the lowest outside temperature to which the vehicle will be exposed.
xIf the outside temperature is extremely low, the engine coolant could
freeze causing the vehicle to stop. As this would also cause the heating to
stop working, passengers without sufficient clothing could freeze.
For the sake of the environment
Coolants and additives can contaminate the environment. Collect any spilt
fluids in suitable containers and dispose of in accordance with legislation
and with the utmost respect for the environment.
Coolant temperature warning lamp and gauge
When driving normally, the needle will remain in the middle area. The temper-
ature may also rise when the engine is working hard, especially at high
outside temperatures and so the indicator will move quite far to the right-
hand side.
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.
Fig. 177 Engine coolant
temperature gauge on the
instrument panel: cold
area; normal area;
warning area.
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Checking and refilling levels 316
Preparations
xPark the vehicle on even, flat and firm ground.
xAllow the engine to cool Ÿ.
xOpen the bonnet ’ Ÿpage 304.
xThe coolant expansion reservoir is easily recognisable because of the
symbol « on the cap Ÿpage 315, fig. 179.
Checking the engine coolant level
xWhen the engine is cold, check the coolant level using the side marking
on the expansion reservoir Ÿpage 315, fig. 178.
xIf the level is below the “MIN” mark, top up with coolant. When the engine
is hot it may be slightly above the marked area.
Topping up the engine coolant level
xAlways protect your face, hands and arms from hot coolant and steam
using a large, thick cloth over the coolant expansion tank cap.
xRemove the cap very carefully Ÿ.
xOnly refill using new engine coolant according to SEAT specifications
(Ÿpage 314) Ÿ.
xThe engine coolant level should be between the marks on the coolant
expansion tank Ÿpage 315, fig. 178. Do not exceed the top level of the
marked area Ÿ.
xScrew on the cap tightly.
xIf, the event of an emergency, you have no coolant that is compliant to the
required specifications (Ÿpage 314), never use another type of additive.
Instead, first top up with distilled water Ÿ only. Then re-establish the
correct proportion of the mixture with the correct additive as soon as possible
Ÿpage 314.
WARNING
Hot vapours and coolant can cause serious burns.
xNever open the coolant expansion tank if steam or coolant is coming
from the engine compartment. Wait until you cannot see or hear any steam
or coolant escaping.
xAlways wait until the engine has completely cooled before very care-
fully opening the expansion tank cap. Contact with hot elements of the
engine can cause skin 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.
xWhen the engine is warm or hot, the cooling system is pressurised! Do
not unscrew the cap on the expansion tank when the engine is hot. Other-
wise, coolant may spray out under pressure causing burns and serious
injury.
Carefully and slowly unscrew the cap anticlockwise, gently pressing
down on it.
Always protect your face, hands and arms from hot coolant and
steam using a large, thick cloth.
xWhen refilling liquids, avoid spilling them on parts of the engine and
the exhaust system. Spilled liquids could cause a fire. Under specific
circumstances, the ethylene glycol can catch fire.
Caution
xTop up with distilled water only. Any other type of water may lead to
considerable rusting in the engine due to its chemical components. This
could consequently damage the engine. If you have not used distilled water
WARNING (continued)

Checking and refilling levels 318
Vehicle batter y
Introduction
The battery is a component of the vehicle's electrical system.
Never work on the electrical system without fully understanding the opera-
tions required, the applicable safety standards and without the correct tools
Ÿ! Have the work carried out by a qualified workshop if you are uncertain.
SEAT recommends visiting a qualified workshop. Negligent work can cause
serious injury.
Location and number of batteries in the vehicle
The battery is located in the engine compartment.
Explanation of the warning indications on the vehicle's battery
Additional information and warnings:
xŸBooklet “Maintenance Programme”
xStarter assist systems (Start-Stop function) Ÿpage 221
xWorking in the engine compartment Ÿpage 304
xAccessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications Ÿpage 285
WARNING
Working on the vehicle battery and the electrical system can cause corro-
sion, fire and electric shocks. Always read and take into account the
following warnings and safety standards before carrying out any work:
xBefore working on the battery, switch off the engine, the ignition and
all electrical devices then disconnect the negative connection on the
battery.
xKeep children away from acid and the battery itself!
xWear eye protection.
xBattery acid is very corrosive and caustic. It can burn skin and cause
blindness. When handling the battery, protect yourself from splashes of
acids, above all your hands, arms and face.
xDo not smoke and never work close to places exposed to flames or
sparks.
xAvoid sparks and electrostatic discharges when working with cables
and electrical devices.
xNever short the battery terminals.
xNever use a damaged battery. It can explode. Replace a damaged
battery immediately.
xReplaced damaged or frozen batteries as soon as possible. A flat
battery can freeze at temperatures around 0°C (+32 °F).
xVehicles with the battery in the luggage compartment: Ensure that the
battery ventilation hose is correctly secured.
Caution
xNever disconnect the battery if the ignition is switched on or if the engine
is running. This could damage the electrical system or electronic compo-
nents.
SymbolMeaning
Wear eye protection!
Battery acid is very corrosive and caustic. Always wear
protective gloves and eye protection!
ŽFires, sparks, naked lights and smoking are prohibited.
ŸA highly explosive mixture of gases is released when the
battery is under charge.
Keep children away from acid and batteries!

Checking and refilling levels 320
Start-Stop systems Ÿpage 223 are equipped with a special battery labelled
“AGM”. For technical reasons, it is not possible to check the electrolyte level
of these batteries
Preparations
xPrepare the vehicle for work in the engine compartment Ÿpage 304
xOpen the bonnet ’ Ÿpage 304.
Opening the battery cover
The battery covers are different depending on the engine size of the vehicle:
xIn the case of a cover: press the tab Ÿpage 319, fig. 180 in the direc-
tion of the arrow and pull the cover upwards.
xIn the case of a hose: fold the cover to one side to remove Ÿpage 319,
fig. 181.
Checking the battery electrolyte level
xMake sure there is sufficient lighting to clearly recognise the colours.
Never use open flames or sparklers as a light source.
xDepending on the level of acid, the Magic eye on the top of the battery will
change colour.
WARNING
Working with the vehicle battery involves a risk of corrosion, explosions
and electric shock.
xAlways wear protective gloves and eye protection.
xBattery acid is very corrosive and caustic. It can burn skin and cause
blindness. When handling the battery, protect yourself from splashes of
acids, above all your hands, arms and face.
xNever tilt the vehicle battery. Battery acid could spill out of the open-
ings to release gases and cause corrosion damage.
xNever open the vehicle battery.
xIf battery acid splashes on you, immediately rinse your eyes and skin
abundantly with water for several minutes. Then seek medical care imme-
diately.
xIf acid is swallowed by mistake, consult a doctor immediately.
Charging, replacing and connecting or disconnecting the
battery
Charging the battery
The vehicle battery should be charged by a specialist workshop only, as
batteries using special technology have been installed and they must be
charged in a controlled environment Ÿ. SEAT recommends visiting a qual-
ified workshop.
Replacing a vehicle battery
The battery has been developed to suit the conditions of its location and has
special safety features. If the battery must be replaced, consult a qualified
SEAT workshop for information on electromagnetic compatibility, the size
and maintenance, performance and safety requirements of the new battery in
your vehicle before you purchase one. SEAT recommends you have the
battery replaced by a qualified SEAT workshop.
Use only maintenance-free genuine batteries conforming to TL 825 06 and
VW 7 50 73 Standards. These standards must be dated April 2008 or later.
Colour indicatorNecessary operations
light yellow or col-
ourlessThe electrolyte level of the vehicle's battery is too low.
Have the battery checked and, where applicable,
replaced by a specialist workshop.
Black indicationThe electrolyte level of the vehicle's battery is correct.
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WARNING (continued)

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To o l s *
Introduction
When securing the vehicle in case of a breakdown, please note the legal
requirements for each country.
Additional information and warnings:
xWorking in the engine compartment Ÿpage 304
xChange wheel Ÿpage 339
xIn case of emergency Ÿpage 345
WARNING
Loose objects in the passenger compartment can be violently fired through
the compartment in case of a sudden manoeuvre or braking and especially
in accidents causing serious injury.
xMake sure that the vehicle tools are stored safely in the luggage
compartment.
WARNING
Unsuitable or damaged on-board tools can cause injury or accidents.
xNever work with inappropriate or damaged tools.
Location
Depending on the model, the vehicle tools may be kept in the luggage
compartment, in a cavity close to the lock carrier Ÿfig. 206. Loosen the
safety straps and remove the on-board tools. For vehicles factory-fitted with
winter tyres, you will find additional tools in a toolbox located in the luggage
compartment.
Note
After use, return the jack to its initial position using the handle in order to
securely store it in the vehicle.
Fig. 206 In the luggage
compartment, viewed
from inside the vehicle:
On-board tools are
located in a cavity close to
the lock carrier.

If and when 356
Fuses
Introduction
Due to the constant update of vehicles, fuse assignments depending on
equipment and the use of the same fuse for various electrical components, at
the time of printing this manual it is not possible to provide an up-to-date
summary of the electrical components fuse positions. For detailed informa-
tion about the fuse positions, please consult a qualified workshop.
In general, a fuse can be assigned to various electrical components. Like-
wise, an electrical component can be protected by several fuses.
Only replace fuses when the cause of the problem has been solved. If a newly
inserted fuse blows after a short time, you must have the electrical system
checked by a qualified dealership as soon as possible.
Additional information and warnings:
xWorking in the engine compartment Ÿpage 304
WARNING
The high voltages in the electrical system can give serious electrical
shocks, causing burns and even death!
xNever touch the electrical wiring of the ignition system.
xTake care not to cause short circuits in the electrical system.
WARNING
Using unsuitable fuses, repairing fuses or bridging a current circuit without
fuses can cause a fire and serious injury.
xNever use a fuse with a higher value. Only replace fuses with a fuse of
the same amperage (same colour and markings) and size.
xNever repair a fuse.
xNever replace a fuse by a metal strip, staple or similar.
Caution
xTo avoid damage to the vehicles electric system, before replacing a fuse
turn off the ignition, the lights and all electrical elements and remove the
keys from the ignition.
xIf you replace a fuse with higher-rating fuse, you could cause damage to
another part of the electrical system.
xProtect the fuse boxes when open to avoid the entry of dust or humidity.
Dirt and humidity inside fuse boxes can cause damage to the electrical
system.
Note
One single consumer could have more than one fuse.
Note
Several consumers could run over one single fuse.
WARNING (continued)

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Vehicle fuses
Only replace fuses with a fuse of the same amperage (same colour and mark-
ings) and size.Identifying fuses by colours
To open the dashboard fuse box
xReach behind the cover with your hand Ÿfig. 209 and pull forwards.
To open the engine compartment fuse box
xOpen the bonnet ’ Ÿpage 304.
xMove the attachment tabs forwards, in the direction indicated by the
arrow to release the fuse box cover Ÿfig. 210.
xThen lift the cover out.
xTo fit the cover, place it on the fuse box. Push the attachment tabs back,
in the opposite direction indicated by the arrow until they click audibly into
place.
In is possible that there are more fuses behind a cover in the lower left-hand
side of the luggage compartment.
Fig. 209 On the driver-
side dashboard: fuse box
cover.
Fig. 210 In the engine
compartment: fuse box
cover.
ColourAmp rating
purple3
light brown5
Brown7,5
Red10
Blue15
Yellow20
White or transparent25
Green30
orange40

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Changing bulbs
Introduction
Changing bulbs requires a certain amount of manual skill. If you are unsure,
SEAT recommends that you consult an qualified workshop or request assist-
ance from a specialist. In general, a specialist is required if other vehicle
components must be removed or if the discharge lamps must be replaced.
You should store spare light bulbs in the vehicle for safety-relevant lights.
Spare bulbs may be obtained from the Official dealers and workshops. In
some countries, it is a legal requirement to carry spare bulbs in the vehicle.
Driving with faults and blown bulbs on the vehicle exterior lighting is against
the law.
Additional bulb specifications
The specifications of some headlamp bulbs and bulbs for the tail lamps fitted
at the factory may be different to those of conventional bulbs. Bulb informa-
tion is displayed on the bulb socket or on the bulb itself.
Additional information and warnings:
xLights and visibility Ÿpage 113
xWorking in the engine compartment Ÿpage 304
xVehicle tools Ÿpage 353
xFuses Ÿpage 356
WARNING
If the road is not well-lit and the vehicle is not clearly visible to other
drivers, there is a risk of accident.
WARNING
Failure to replace bulbs correctly may cause serious accidents.
xBefore carrying out any work in the engine compartment please read
and observe the warnings Ÿpage 304. In any vehicle, the engine compart-
ment is a hazardous area and could cause severe injury.
xDischarge lamps work with high-voltage and can cause serious or fatal
injury if handled incorrectly.
xH7 and discharge lamps are highly pressurised and could explode
when being changed.
xOnly replace the bulbs concerned when they have cooled.
xNever replace bulbs alone if you are not familiar with the operations
necessary. If you are not sure about procedures then visit a qualified work-
shop to carry out the necessary work.
xNever touch the bulb glass directly. Fingerprints will be evaporated by
the heat of the operating bulb thus “fogging” up the reflector.
xThe headlamp frameworks in the engine compartment and the tail
lamps contain sharp elements. Always protect your hands when changing
bulbs.
Caution
After changing a bulb, if the rubber covers and plastic caps are not replaced
correctly on the headlamp framework, the electrical installation may be
damaged, especially if water is allowed to enter.

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Note
The images show the left hand headlight from behind. The structure of the
right hand side headlight is symmetric.
page 362, fig. 213,
page 362, fig. 214 Indicators (small lamp
holder)Dipped beam head-
lightsDaylight driving lightsMain beam headlightsSide lights
1.Always take the checklist into account and take the necessary actions Ÿpage 361.
2.Open the bonnet ’ Ÿpage 304.
3.Remove the rubber cover on the rear of the headlight.
4.
Rotate the lamp holder
to the left all the way
and pull it out back-
wards with the bulb.
Rotate the lamp holder to the left all the way and
pull it out backwards with the bulb.
Press the wire clip down-
wards and pull the lamp
holder out with the
bulb.Pull the lamp holder
out backwards with the
bulb.
5.Depending on the model, the bulb is removed directly from the lamp holder or it may need to be rotated and then removed.
6.Replace the faulty bulb by a new identical bulb.
7.Place the bulb holder in the headlight and rotate to the right all the way.
Place the lamp holder in
the headlight and pull the
wire clip upwards until it
clicks into place.Place the lamp holder in
the headlight and insert
completely.
8.Insert the rubber cover.
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