brake Seat Alhambra 2010 Owner's Guide

Driving217
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xWhen the brake pedal is released or when the brake force is reduced, ABS
is turned off.
ABS control can be observed by vibration of the brake pedal and noise. You
should never expect the ABS to reduce the braking distance under any
circumstances. Braking distances will increase when driving on gravel, recent
snow or on icy and slippery ground.
When driving on loose ground, the all-terrain configuration of the ABS is auto-
matically turned on. When ABS is activated, the front wheels may lock briefly.
This shortens the braking distance in off-road situations as the wheels are
prevented from digging into loose surfaces. All-terrain ABS only intervenes
when driving in a straight line. When the front wheels are turned, the normal
ABS is activated.
Braking assist system (BAS)
The brake assist system may reduce the required braking distance. The brake
assist system boosts the braking force if you press the brake pedal quickly in
an emergency. As a result, the braking pressure increases rapidly, the braking
force is multiplied and the braking distance is reduced. This enables the ABS
to be activated more quickly and efficiently.
¡Do not lift your foot off the brake pedal! When the brake pedal is released or
when the brake force is reduced, braking assist automatically turns off the
brake servo.
Traction control when accelerating (TCS)
In the event of wheelspin, the traction control system reduces the engine
torque to match the amount of grip available. The TCS makes some situations
easier, for example, when starting, accelerating or going uphill, even in unfa-
vourable road conditions.
The TCS can be switched on or off manually Ÿpage 218.
Electronic differential lock system (EDS)
EDS is available when driving in straight lines under normal conditions. When
the EDL detects wheelspin, it brakes the spinning wheel and directs the power to the other driven wheels. To prevent the disc brake of the braked
wheel from overheating, the EDL cuts out automatically if subjected to exces-
sive loads. The EDL will switch on again automatically when the brake has
cooled down.
WARNING
Driving at high speed on icy, slippery wet ground can result in loss of
vehicle control and serious injury to the driver and passengers.
xAdjust your speed and driving style to visibility, road, traffic and
weather conditions. Even though the braking assist systems, ABS, BAS,
EDS, TCS and ESP, provide more security, do not take unnecessary risks
while driving.
xBraking assist systems can not overcome the laws of physics. Even with
ESP and other systems, slippery and wet roads will always be dangerous.
xDriving to quickly on wet ground can result in the wheels losing contact
with the ground in an effect known as aquaplaning. Without adherence, it
is impossible to brake, steer or control the vehicle.
xBraking assist systems cannot avoid accidents if, for example, the
driver does not respect safety distances or drives to quickly in difficult
conditions.
xEven though braking assist systems are extremely effective and help
control the vehicle in difficult situations, remember that the vehicle
stability depends on tyre grip.
xWhen accelerating on a slippery surface, for example on ice and snow,
press the accelerator carefully. The wheels can still slip even with braking
assist systems resulting in loss of vehicle control.
WARNING
The effectiveness of the ESP can be considerably reduced if other compo-
nents and systems affecting driving dynamics are not maintained or are not

Driving 218
functioning correctly. This includes, among others, brakes, tyres and other
systems already mentioned.
xRemember that changing and fitting other components to the vehicle
can affect operation of the ABS, BAS, ASL EDL and ESP.
xChanges to the vehicle suspension or using unapproved wheel/tyre
combinations can affect operation of the ABS, BAS, ASL EDL and ESP and
their effectiveness.
xLikewise, the effectiveness of ESP depends on the use of suitable tyres
Ÿpage 323.
Note
To ensure that the ESP and TCS work properly, all four wheels must be fitted
with identical tyres. Any differences in the rolling radius of the tyres can cause
the system to reduce engine power when this is not desired.
Note
If a malfunction should occur in the ABS, the ESP, TCS and EDS will also be
affected.
Note
Noises may be heard while any of the above systems are operating.
Turning on and off the TCS
The electronic stabilisation programme (ESP) includes the ABS, EDL and TCS
systems and only works when the engine is running.
The TCS can be switched off while the engine is running by pressing the
Ÿfig. 144 button. The TCS (and similar) is only switched off when the
required traction is not obtained:
xWhen driving through deep snow or on loose ground (gravel...).
xWhen freeing a trapped vehicle.
Turn the TCS back on by pressing the button Ÿfig. 144.
WARNING (continued)
Fig. 144 Detailed view of
the centre console: button
used to switch TCS on and
off (vehicles with ESP).
« OFF
« OFF

Driving219
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Brake fluid
In the course of time, the brake fluid absorbs water from the ambient air. If
there is too much water contained in the brake fluid, the brake system could
be damaged. In addition, the boiling point of the brake fluid is significantly
lowered. When the brake fluid contains too much water and the brakes are
subject to considerable forces, bubbles of water vapour can form in the
system. These bubbles of water vapour can significantly reduce braking
power, notably increasing braking distance, and could even result in the total
failure of the brake system. Ensuring that the brake system is always func-
tioning correctly is essential for your own safety and the safety of other road
users Ÿ.
Brake fluid specifications
SEAT have developed a special brake fluid optimised for the brake systems of
their vehicles. To ensure the optimum working of the brake system, SEAT
recommends the use of brake fluid in accordance with the VW 501 14
standard. If this brake fluid is not available or another brake fluid is used for
different reasons, use a brake fluid that complies with the United States standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4 or the German standard DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4
Ÿ.
Brake fluids conforming to the standard VW 501 14, fulfil the American
requirements of the FMVSS 116 DOT 4 standard and the German DIN ISO
4925 CLASS 4 standard. However, fluids that comply with the American
FMVSS 116 DOT 4 standard or the German DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 standard do
not necessarily comply with the VW 501 14 standard. Always check the infor-
mation on the brake fluid container and ensure that you are using suitable
brake fluid.
A suitable brake fluid can be obtained from Authorised Service Centres.
Brake fluid level
The level of the brake fluid should always be between the MIN and MAX
marks, or above the MIN mark Ÿ.
It is not always possible to check the level of the brake fluid, as in some
models the engine components make it difficult to see the brake fluid reser-
voir. If you cannot read the exact brake fluid level, consult a specialist.
The brake fluid level drops slightly when the vehicle is being used due to wear
of the brake pads and the automatic readjustment of the brake.
Changing the brake fluid
The brake fluid should be changed in accordance with the instructions given
in the Maintenance Programme. Have the brake fluid changed by a qualified
workshop. SEAT recommends visiting a qualified workshop. This means that
only brake fluid complying with the required specifications will be used.
WARNING
If the brake fluid level is low or unsuitable/old brake fluid is used, the brake
system may fail or braking power will be reduced.
xCheck the brake system and the brake fluid level regularly!
xThe brake fluid should be changed regularly in accordance with the
instructions given in the Maintenance Programme.
Fig. 145 In the engine
compartment: brake fluid
reservoir, lid

Driving 220
xWhen the brake fluid is used and brakes are subjected to extreme
braking forces, bubbles of vapour form in the brake system. These bubbles
of water vapour can significantly reduce braking power, notably increasing
braking distance, and could even result in the total failure of the brake
system.
xOnly used brake fluid that conforms to the VW 501 14 standard, FMVSS
116 DOT 4 standard or even the DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 standard. Other
types of brake fluid could affect brake operation and reduce braking power.
Do not use a brake fluid if the container does not specify compliance with
the VW 501 14, FMVSS 116 DOT 4 or DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 standards.
xThe replacement brake fluid must be new.
xAlways ensure that you use suitable brake fluid. Do not use a brake fluid
if the container does not specify compliance with the VW 501 14, FMVSS
116 DOT 4 or DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 standards.
WARNING
Brake fluid is poisonous.
xTo reduce the risk of poisoning, do not keep brake fluid in drinks
bottles/containers or similar. Other people could drink from these recipi-
ents even if the contents are clearly marked.
xAlways keep brake fluid in the original container; keep it correctly
sealed and out of reach of children.
Caution
Brake fluid could damage the paintwork. Wipe off any brake fluid from the
paintwork immediately.
For the sake of the environment
Brake fluid is an environmental pollutant. Collect any spilt service fluids and
allow a professional to dispose of them.
WARNING (continued)

Driving221
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Start assist systems
Introduction
Additional information and warnings:
xSEAT information system Ÿpage 70
xBraking, stopping and parking Ÿpage 210
xVehicle battery Ÿpage 318
xWheels and tyres Ÿpage 323
xAccessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications Ÿpage 285
xJump starting Ÿpage 371
WARNING
The intelligent technology in the start assist systems cannot change the
laws of physics. The improved comfort provided by start assist systems
should not prompt you to take risks.
xUnintentional movements of the vehicle could cause serious injury.
xThe start assist systems are not a replacement for driver awareness.
xAlways try to adapt the speed of the vehicle and your style of driving to
the condition of the ground or the road and to weather and traffic condi-
tions.
xThe start assist system cannot keep the vehicle stationary in all condi-
tions on a gradient or cause it to brake on steep downhill gradients, e.g. if
the road is slippery or icy.

Driving 222
Auto Hold function*
The control lamp on the button switches on when the Auto Hold function is
on.
When the Auto Hold function is on, it helps the driver if they must regularly
stop the vehicle or if they must stop with the engine running for prolonged
periods, for example, on hills, before a traffic light or in traffic jams with
continuous stopping and starting.
The Auto Hold function automatically prevents the vehicle from rolling away
accidentally when at a standstill, without the driver having to keep his/her
foot on the brake pedal.
When the system that detects that the vehicle has stopped, the Auto Hold
keeps the vehicle at a standstill. The brake pedal can be released.
If the driver presses the brake pedal briefly or presses the accelerator to start
off, the Auto Hold function releases the brake once more. The vehicle moves
according to the gradient.If any of the conditions necessary for the Auto Hold function change while the
vehicle stopped, the system is turned off as is the indicator on the button
Ÿfig. 146. The electronic parking brake engages where necessary to park
the vehicle safely Ÿ.
Conditions for keeping the vehicle at a standstill with Auto Hold:
xThe driver's door must be closed.
xThe driver's seat belt must be buckled.
xThe engine must be running.
xThe TCS system must be switched on Ÿpage 210.
Switching Auto Hold on and off manually
Press the button Ÿ. The control lamp on the button switches
off when the Auto Hold function is switched off.
Permanent Auto Hold connection
The Auto Hold function must be switched on every time the engine is started.
However, to switch the Auto Hold function on permanently, the mark must be
switched on in the Settings menu, Autohold submenu Ÿpage 70.
Auto Hold works automatically under the following conditions:
Fig. 146 Detailed view of
the centre console: Auto
Hold button.
All points must be fulfilled simultaneously Ÿ:
manual gearboxAutomatic gearbox
1.If the vehicle is stopped using the brake pedal on a flat or slope.
2.The engine must be running smoothly.
3.On a slope, the 1st gear is
engaged uphill or the reverse gear
is engaged for a downhill. The
clutch must be held down.A gear for driving is selected from
R, D or S.
Upon accelerating and pressing in
the clutch simultaneously, the
brake releases gradually.Upon accelerating, the brake
releases gradually.
AUTO HOLD

Driving223
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a Auto Hold turns off automatically under the following conditions:
WARNING
The Auto Hold technology is limited by the laws of physics. The improved
comfort provided by Auto Hold should never prompt you to take risks.
xNever leave the vehicle running and with the Auto Hold function
switched on.
xAuto Hold cannot always stop the vehicle uphill and downhill (for
example, if the ground is slippery or frozen).
Caution
Before entering an automatic car wash, always switch the Auto Hold function
off, as it could be damaged when the electronic parking brake automatically
engages.
Start-Stop Function*
In Start-Stop mode, the engine is automatically switched off when the vehicle
is at a standstill. The engine restarts automatically when required.
The function is enabled automatically whenever the ignition is switched on.
The instrument panel displays information on the current status.
Vehicles with a manual gearbox
xWhen the vehicle is at a standstill, leave it in neutral and take your foot off
the clutch. The engine switches off.
xSimply depress the clutch pedal to move off again.
Vehicles with an automatic gearbox
xWhen the vehicle is at a standstill, depress the brake or keep it pressed
down. The engine switches off.
xThe engine will start again as soon as you release the brake pedal.
xWith the gear lever set to P, the engine will not start until a range of gears
is selected or the accelerator pedal is depressed.
manual gearboxAutomatic gearbox
1.If one of the conditions mentioned in table on page 222 changes.
2.If the engine is not running regularly or if there is a malfunction.
3.When changing to idle speed.If the selector lever is placed in
neutral (N).
4.If the engine is turned off or stalls.If the engine is switched off.
5.If the driver accelerates while
pressing the clutch in.If the vehicle is accelerated.
6.When one of the wheels has mini-
mal contact with the ground (for
example, on uneven ground).
Fig. 147 Detailed view of
the centre console: Start-
Stop function button.

Driving 224
Important conditions for the engine to automatically switch off
xThe driver seat belt must be buckled.
xThe driver door must be closed.
xThe bonnet must be closed.
xThe factory-fitted towing bracket must not be electrically connected to a
trailer.
xA minimum engine temperature has been reached.
xThe vehicle has moved since the last stop.
xIn vehicles with Climatronic: The temperature inside the vehicle is within
the preset temperature range.
xThe temperature set is neither very high nor very low.
xThe air conditioning defrost function is not switched on.
xIn vehicles with Climatronic: the blower has not been manually set to a
high speed.
xThe power level of the vehicle's battery is sufficient.
xThe vehicle's battery temperature is neither too high nor too low.
xThe vehicle is not on a steep gradient or slope.
xThe front wheels are not overly turned.
xThe heated windscreen is not switched on.
xReverse gear is not engaged.
xThe park assist system is not switched on.
Conditions for automatically restarting the engine
The engine may automatically restart under the following conditions:
xIf the vehicle interior is too hot or too cold.
xIf the vehicle moves.
xIf the vehicle's battery voltage drops.
Conditions requiring the key to restart the engine
The engine must be started using the key under the following conditions:
xIf the driver unbuckles his/her seat belt.
xIf the driver's door is opened.
xIf the bonnet is opened.
xIn vehicles with a manual gearbox: If a gear has been selected.
Switching Start-Stop mode on and off manually
xPress the button on the centre console Ÿpage 223, fig. 147.
xThe button will light up when the Start-Stop function is switched off.
The engine will start immediately if the vehicle is in Stop mode when it is
switched off manually.
WARNING
The brake servo and the power steering do not work when the engine is
switched off.
xNever allow the vehicle to move when the engine is switched off.
Caution
Using the Start-Stop function for a long period at very high outdoor tempera-
tures could damage the vehicle's battery.
Note
In some cases, you may have to restart the vehicle using the key. Observe the
corresponding message on the instrument panel display.
›

Driving 226
Parking sensor system*
The parking sensor system assists the driver when parking. If the vehicle is
approaching an obstacle, an intermittent sound signal is emitted. The shorter the distance, the shorter the intervals between tones. If the vehicle is too
close to the obstacle, the sound signal becomes constant.
Switching the parking sensor system on and off
xPress the button Ÿfig. 148 when the ignition is switched on.
xAutomatic on: select reverse gear.
xAutomatic off: drive faster than 15 km/h.
The button lights up when the function is switched on.
Things to note regarding the parking sensor system
xThe parking sensor system sometimes registers water on the sensors as
an obstacle.
xIf the distance does not change, the warning signal will sound less loudly
after a few seconds. If the continuous signal sounds, the volume will remain
constant.
xWhen the vehicle moves away from the obstacle, the beeping sound auto-
matically switches off. On approaching the obstacle again, the beeping
sound will automatically switch back on.
xIf the electronic parking brake is engaged or the gear lever is set to P, no
sound will be emitted.
xYour Authorised Service Centre can adjust the volume of the warning
signals.
Note
If the parking sensor system is faulty, a constant acoustic signal will be
emitted the first time it is switched on and the button will flash. Switch the
parking sensor system off using the button and take the vehicle to a
specialist workshop to have the system checked as soon as possible.
Fig. 148 Detailed view of
the centre console: button
for switching the parking
sensor system on and off.
Fig. 149 Parking sensor
system sensors on the
front bumper.
'

Driving231
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xParking perpendicular to the road: Drive next to the gap at a speed of no
more than 20 km/h and at a distance of between 0.5 m and 2 m.
xThe best parking results will be achieved if you position the vehicle as
parallel as possible to the line of parked cars or the kerb.
xWhen a suitable parking place is displayed on the instrument panel, stop
and select reverse gear.
xFollow the instructions given on the instrument panel display
xThen, release the steering wheel when the warning signal sounds Ÿ:
The system will move the steering wheel! Observe the surrounding area.
xObserve the surrounding area and accelerate carefully at a maximum of
up to 7 km/h.
xThe park assist system is only responsible for moving the steering wheel
during the manoeuvre. The driver applies the accelerator, the clutch, the
gears and the brake.
xFollow the instructions given by the park assist system until the
manoeuvre is completed.
xThe park assist system steers the vehicle forwards and backwards until it
is in a straight position in the parking space.
xThe manoeuvre is complete when the corresponding indication is given
on the instrument panel display.
Stopping the parking manoeuvre
The park assist system stops the manoeuvre in the event of one of the
following:
xPress button .
xDriving faster than 7 km/h.
xThe driver moves the steering wheel.
xThe parking manoeuvre has not been completed after six minutes since
the park assist system was activated.
xA sliding door is opened. To restart the manoeuvre, close the sliding door
and press the button again.
xThere is a system malfunction (system temporarily unavailable).
xThe TCS system is switched off or the TCS or ESP is working.
WARNING
The steering wheel turns quickly by itself when parking using the park
assist system. Placing your hand between the steering wheel spokes could
lead to injuries.
Note
The park assist system has its limitations. For example, it is not possible to
park on tight bends using the park assist system.
Note
Even if the park assist system recognises that there is not enough space for
parking the vehicle, the display screen on the instrument panel will still
display this place. In this case, the parking manoeuvre should not be
requested.
Note
Changing gears between forward and reverse gears before indicated (that is,
before the signal from the parking sensor system) the parking results may not
be ideal.
Note
For parallel parking (parallel to the road), a sound will tell the driver when
they must change from forward gears to reverse; the signal from the parking
sensor system does not indicate changes of direction.
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