trailer Seat Alhambra 2010 Owner's Guide

Driving249
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xThe vehicle is fitted with snow chains.
xThe wheel on one axle is changed.
There may be a delay in the reaction of the tyre monitoring indicator
~ or it
may not indicate anything under certain circumstances (e.g. sports driving,
snow-covered or unpaved roads).
Adaptation of the tyre monitoring indicator
On adjusting tyre pressure or changing one or more wheels, the Ÿpage 248,
fig. 161 button on the tyre monitoring indicator must be kept pressed down,
with the ignition on, until a signal is heard. Do the same, for example, when
the front and rear wheels are swapped Ÿpage 325, fig. 182.
If the wheels are subjected to an excessive load (towing a trailer, heavy load),
the tyre pressure must be increased to the maximum recommended pressure
Ÿpage 323. Press the tyre monitoring indicator button to confirm the new
pressure value.
Note
An erroneous indication may be given when snow chains are in use because
the chains increase the tread of the wheel.

Driving and the environment251
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Practical tips
Driving and the environment
Running-in
Please observe the instructions for running-in new components.
Running-in the engine
The engine needs to be run-in over the first 1500 km (1000 miles). During its
first few hours of running, the internal friction in the engine is greater than
later on when all the moving parts have bedded down.
How the vehicle is driven for the first 1,500 km (1000 miles) influences the
future engine performance. Throughout the life of the vehicle, it should be
driven at a moderate speed – especially when the engine is cold – this will
reduce engine wear and increase its useful life. Never drive at extremely low
engine speeds. Always engage a lower gear when the engine works “irregu-
larly”. For the first 1000 km or 600 miles, please note:
xDo not use full throttle.
xDo not force the engine above two thirds of its maximum speed.
xDo not tow a trailer.
Between 1000 and 1500 kilometres (600 to 1000 miles), gradually increase
power until reaching the maximum speed and high engine speeds.
Running in new tyres and brake pads
xReplacement of new tyres and wheel rims Ÿpage 323
xNotes on the brakes Ÿpage 214
For the sake of the environment
If the engine is run in gently, the life of the engine will be increased and the
engine oil consumption reduced.

Driving and the environment253
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a Some equipment, when connected, increase fuel consumption considerably,
for example:
xAir conditioning cooling system: If the air conditioning system is required
to cool to significantly lower temperatures than the true outside temperature,
it will require a large quantity of energy from the engine. Therefore, we recom-
mend that the selected temperature for the vehicle is not too different to the
outside temperature. It is a good idea to open all the windows of the car
before starting your journey, and to drive a short distance with all the
windows open to allow the vehicle to cool down slightly. Only then should
you close all the windows and switch on the air conditioning. Keep windows
closed when travelling at high speeds. Driving with the windows open
increases fuel consumption.
xSwitch off the seat heating when the seats have warmed up.
xSwitch off the heated rear window and the windscreen heating when the
windows have demisted and are free of ice.
xDo not leave the independent heating switched on when the vehicle is
moving Ÿpage 187.
Other factors which increase fuel consumption (examples):
xFault in engine management.
xDriving on hills.
xTrailer towing.
Saving fuel while driving
By adopting an economical driving style and anticipating the traffic situation
ahead, you can easily reduce fuel consumption by 10-15%.
A vehicle uses most fuel when accelerating. By anticipating the traffic situa-
tion ahead, you will brake and therefore accelerate less. Wherever possible,
let the car roll slowly to a stop, for instance when you can see that the next
traffic lights are red.
Avoid short journeys
Fuel consumption is much higher when the engine is cold, immediately after
it has been started. It takes a few kilometres of driving for the engine to warm
up and to normalise consumption.
The engine and catalytic converter need to reach their proper working
temperature in order to minimise fuel consumption and emissions. The
ambient temperature has a decisive influence.
fig. 162 shows the difference in consumption for the same journey at +20 °C
(+68 °F) and at -10 °C (+14 °F).
Fig. 162 Fuel consump-
tion in litres per 100 km at
different outside tempera-
tures.

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.

Trailer towing259
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xAvoid brusque manoeuvres and sudden braking.
xAlways take the following precautions seriously.
xReduce your speed immediately if you observe the trailer rocking from
side to side.
xNever drive at more than 80 km an hour when towing a trailer (or 100
km an hour in exceptional circumstances). This also applies in countries
where higher speeds are permitted. Always take the speed limits for vehi-
cles with and without trailers in each country into account.
xNever try to stop the “snaking” by increasing speed.
WARNING
When driving with a trailer and using a trailer hitch that was not installed
by SEAT, the Start-Stop function must be manually deactivated. Otherwise,
this could cause a braking anomaly that could result in an accident with
serious consequences.
xAlways manually deactivate the Start-Stop function when a trailer is
being used on a trailer hitch that has not been installed by SEAT.
Note
Always turn off the anti-theft alarm system before connecting or discon-
necting a trailer Ÿpage 88. Otherwise, the tilt sensor may erroneously acti-
vate the alarm.
Note
Never use a trailer with a new engine (for the first 1000 km or 600 miles)
Ÿpage 285.
Note
At SEAT, we recommend folding in the trailer hitch ball when a trailer is not
being used. In case of a rear collision, the damage caused to the vehicle with
the extended trailer hitch ball could be more extensive.
Note
In some models, a trailer hitch is necessary for towing vehicles. For this
reason, you should store the tow hitch in the vehicle at all times.
WARNING (continued)

Trailer towing 260
Driving with a trailer
Technical requirements
If the car is supplied with a factory-fitted tow hitch it will already have the
necessary technical modifications and meet the statutory requirements for
towing a trailer.
Only use an approved trailer hitch for the gross trailer weight rating. The tow
hitch must be suitable for both the vehicle and trailer and must be securely
fitted to the vehicle chassis. Only use a tow hitch with a removable ball joint.
Always check and take into account the tow hitch manufacturer's instruc-
tions. Never fit a trailer tow hitch “that distributes the load” or “balances the
load”.
Bumper mounted tow hitch
Never fit a tow hitch or its attachments to the bumper. A tow hitch should
never interfere with the bumper performance. Do not modify the exhaust
system and brake system. Regularly check the tow hitch to ensure it is firmly
fitted.
Engine cooling system
Driving with a trailer increases the load on the engine and cooling system.
The cooling system should always have sufficient coolant and to be able to
cope with the vehicle and trailer.
Electric trailer brake
If the trailer has its own braking system, please note the relevant legal
requirements. The trailer braking system should never be connected to the
vehicle braking system.
Trailer cable
Always use a cable between the vehicle and the trailer Ÿpage 262.Trailer rear lights
The rear lights of a trailer must fulfil the corresponding standards
Ÿpage 262.
Never connect the trailer's rear lights directly to the vehicle electric system. In
case of any doubt about the electrical connection of the trailer, ask a
specialist workshop. SEAT recommends visiting a qualified workshop.
Wing mirrors
When the field of vision behind the trailer cannot be seen using the standard
wing mirrors of the towing vehicle, additional wing mirrors are required
according to the legal requirements of each country. The wing mirrors must
be fitted before driving and must provide a sufficient field of vision behind.
Trailer electricity consumption
Never exceed the specifications:
WARNING
If the tow hitch is badly fitted or unsuitable, the trailer may separate from
the vehicle causing an accident with serious consequences.
Caution
xIf the rear lights of the trailer are not correctly connected, the vehicle elec-
tronics may be damaged.
Electrical consumerMaximum power
Position lights and rear lights50 Watts
Indicator (each side)54 Watts
Brake lights (total)84 Watts
Reversing lights (total)42 Watts
Rear fog light42 Watts

Trailer towing261
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xIf the trailer absorbs excessive electric current, the vehicle electronics
may be damaged.
xNever connect the trailer's electric system to the electrical connections of
the rear lights or any other power sources. Only use suitable connections for
providing electric current to the trailer.
Note
Towing a trailer places additional demands on the vehicle. At SEAT, we recom-
mend additional services between the normal inspection intervals if the
vehicle is used frequently for towing a trailer.
Note
In some countries, an additional fire extinguisher is required if the trailer
weight is more than 2500 kg
Electric tow hitch ball
The rotation radius of the tow hitch ball should be free of people, animals and
objects Ÿ.
The tow hitch is located in the bumper. The electric tow ball is fixed and
cannot be removed.
Releasing and unfolding the tow ball
xStop the vehicle and apply the electric parking brake.
xSwitch the engine off.
xOpen the tailgate.
xPress the knob briefly Ÿfig. 163. The tow ball is released electronically
and folds out automatically; the button indicator will blink.
xMove the ball joint until it inserts and the button indicator lights.
xClose the tailgate.
xBefore hitching the trailer, remove the dust guard from the ball.
xThe indicator only lights when the tailgate is open and when a trailer is
not hitched.
Restoring the tow ball to its originally position
xStop the vehicle and apply the electric parking brake.
xSwitch the engine off.
xRemove the trailer and disconnect the cable between the vehicle and
trailer. If necessary, remove the socket adapter.
xPlace the dust guard over the ball.
xOpen the tailgate.
xPress the knob briefly Ÿfig. 163. The tow ball is electronically released;
the indicator blinks.
xPush the tow ball into the bumper until it locks in position and the button
indicator lights.
xClose the tailgate.
Fig. 163 Right-hand side
of the luggage compart-
ment: button to electri-
cally release the tow hitch
ball.

Trailer towing 262
The warning lamp
xWhen the indicator flashes, the tow ball is not in its final position, has not
engaged or is damaged Ÿ.
xWhen the indicator remains lit and the tailgate is open, the tow ball has
inserted correctly into the folded or deployed position.
xWhen the tailgate is closed, the indicator is turned off.
WARNING
The incorrect use of the tow hitch can cause accidents and injury.
xEnsure that no person, animal or object gets in the way of the tow ball.
xNever push the button when there is a trailer hitched or when any kind
of carrier or accessory is fitted to the tow hitch ball.
xWhile the ball is moving, do not interfere with any tool.
xDo not drive with a trailer if the indicator does not light.
xIf there is a fault in the electric system or the trailer tow hitch, visit a
specialist workshop to have it checked.
xIf the diameter of the tow hitch is less than 49 mm, never use this for a
trailer.
Caution
xIf anything is attached to the tow hitch ball, do not, under any circum-
stances press the button.
xNever direct a high-pressure or steam cleaning system directly at the tow
hitch ball or trailer power socket. This could cause damage to seals or remove
lubricating grease.
Note
In extremely low temperatures, it is possible that the tow hitch is not
released. In this case, place the vehicle in a warmer location (for example, a
garage).
Installing a bicycle carrier to the tow hitch
The maximum load permitted for a bicycle carrier on the tow hitch ball is 75
kg, with a maximum distance of 300 mm from the support. The distance
between supports is the distance between the bicycle carrier centre of gravity
(with the bicycles) and the centre of point of the tow hitch ball.
WARNING
The incorrect use of the tow hitch with a bicycle carrier installed can cause
accidents and injury.
xNever exceed the load and distances between supports indicated.
xNever fit the bicycle carrier to the tow hitch ball neck, underneath the
tow hitch given that the bicycle carrier may be incorrectly fitted due to the
shape of the tow hitch and the model of bicycle carrier.
xAlways read and take the manufacturer assembly instructions into
account.
Caution
Exceeding the maximum load and distance between supports indicated can
cause considerable damage to the vehicle.
xNever exceed the specifications.
Hitching and connecting the trailer
Trailer cable
Always secure the trailer cable to the towing vehicle correctly. Leave a little bit
of slack in the cable for turning. However, ensure that the cable does not rub
off the ground while driving.

Trailer towing263
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a Trailer electric socket
The electric connection between vehicle and trailer is a 13-pin socket. If the
trailer plug has seven pins, an adapter cable must be used.
Trailer rear lights
Check the trailer rear lights to ensure they work correctly and remain legal.
Ensure that the trailer does not use more than the maximum power
Ÿpage 260.
Trailer connected to the antitheft alarm:
xWhen a vehicle comes from the factory fitted with an antitheft alarm and
tow hitch.
xWhen the trailer is connected to the vehicle using the socket.
xWhen the vehicle and trailer electrical systems work correctly and are not
damaged.
xWhen the vehicle is locked using the vehicle key and the antitheft alarm
is turned on.
When the vehicle is locked, the alarm is triggered when the electrical connec-
tion between the vehicle and the trailer is removed.
Always turn off the anti-theft alarm system before connecting or discon-
necting a trailer. Otherwise, the tilt sensor may erroneously activate the
alarm.
WARNING
Erroneous or unsuitable connection of electric cables may supply energy to
the trailer causing an anomaly in the vehicle electronics that could result
in an accident with serious consequences.
xAll work on the electrical system must be carried out only by a
specialist workshop.
xNever connect the trailer's electric system to the electrical connections
of the rear lights or any other power sources.
Caution
Do not leave the trailer connected to the vehicle when parked; places on its
support wheel or its supports. For example, when changing the load or a
puncture, the vehicle will be pushed up or down. The force acting on the tow
hitch and the trailer could damage the vehicle or the trailer.
Note
In case of a fault in the vehicle or trailer electrical system or in case of prob-
lems with the antitheft alarm system, have the system checked by a specialist
workshop.
Note
If the trailer accessories use energy from the socket when the engine is
stopped, the battery will be discharged.
Note
For technical reasons, trailers fitted with rear LED lights cannot be connected
to the antitheft alarm system.
Note
If the vehicle battery is running low, the electrical connection with the trailer
is automatically cut.
Note
With the engine running, the electrical equipment on the trailer will consume
power.

Trailer towing 264
Loading the trailer
Trailer weight / drawbar load
The trailer weight is the load that the vehicle can pull Ÿ. The drawbar load
is the vertical weight of the trailer hitch on the tow hitch ball Ÿpage 267.
The figures for trailer weights and draw bar weights given on the data plate of
the towing bracket are for values of this model only. The correct figures for
your specific vehicle, which may be lower than these figures for the tow hitch,
are given in the registration documents. The instructions in the official
vehicle documents take precedence.
For the sake of road safety, SEAT recommends using the maximum allowed
drawbar load. The handling of the combined vehicle and trailer will be poor if
the drawbar load is too low.
The drawbar load increases the weight on the rear axle, reducing the vehicle
carrying capacity.
Gross combination weight
This figure refers to the combined weight of the loaded vehicle and loaded
trailer.
Loading the trailer
The combined vehicle and trailer must be balanced. Use the maximum
drawbar load authorised and do not overload the front or the rear of the
trailer:
xDistribute loads in the trailer so that heavy objects are as near to the axle
as possible or even above it.
xCorrectly secure the trailer load.
Tyre pressure
Inflate the trailer tyres according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Inflate the towing vehicles tyres to the maximum Ÿpage 323.
WARNING
Exceeding the maximum authorised axle load, drawbar load or the gross
combination weight of the towing vehicle and trailer could cause a serious
accident with severe consequences.
xNever exceed the specifications.
xWith the actual load on the front and rear axles, the maximum axle load
should never be exceeded. The weight on the front and rear should never
exceed the gross vehicle weight.
WARNING
If the load moves, the stability and safety of the vehicle and trailer combi-
nation will be seriously affected and this could result in a serious accident.
xAlways correctly load the trailer.
xAlways secure loads correctly with suitable and undamaged attach-
ment rope or straps.
Driving with a trailer
Adjusting the headlights
When towing a trailer, the front of the vehicle may rise and so the dipped
beam headlights may blind other drivers. Use the headlight range control to
lower the cone of light. If you do not have headlight range control, have the
headlights adjusted by a qualified dealership. Vehicles with high-intensity
discharge lamps adapt automatically and do not require adjustment.
Details of driving with a trailer
xIf the trailer has an overrun brake, apply the brakes gently at first and
then, firmly. This will prevent the jerking that can be caused by the trailer
wheels locking.