warning lights Seat Alhambra 2010 Service Manual

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 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.

Trailer towing 266
xThe maximum drawbar load is used.
xThe trailer must have a fixed drawbar.
xTrailers with brakes must be equipped with a mechanical inertia brake.
WARNING
Do not let the extra safety afforded by the stabilisation system tempt you
into taking any risks when driving.
xAdjust your speed and driving style to visibility, road, traffic and
weather conditions.
xIf the road surface is slippery, take care when accelerating.
xWhen a system is operating, lift your foot off the accelerator.
WARNING
It is possible that the combination stabilisation system does not correctly
recognised all driving situations.
xIt is possible that the stabilisation system does not detect snaking of a
light trailer and thus does not intervene.
xWhen driving on slippery ground, the trailer could jack-knife despite
the stabilisation system.
xTrailers with a high centre of gravity may even tip over before they start
to rock sideways.
xIf a trailer is not used at the trailer socket is connected (for example,
installation of a bicycle carrier with lights), repeated automatic braking
may occur in extreme driving conditions.
Retrofitting a tow hitch
Fig. 164 Measurements and attachments to retrofit a tow hitch.
SEAT recommends visiting a specialist workshop to retrofit a tow hitch. For
example, it may be necessary to adjust the cooling system or to include
thermal plates. SEAT recommends visiting a qualified workshop.
In any case, the separation distances must be observed when fitting a tow
hitch. The distance between the centre of the tow hitch ball and the road
surface Ÿfig. 164 must never be lower than that indicated. This also
applies when the vehicle is fully laden, including maximum drawbar load.
Separation distances Ÿfig. 164:
Attachment points.
1,040 mm (41 inches)
74 mm (3 inches)
364 mm (14 inches)
AD
AA
AB
AC
AD

Trailer towing267
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a 247 mm (10 inches)
596 mm (23 inches)
1,097 mm (43 inches)
1,102 mm (43 inches)
WARNING
Erroneous or unsuitable connection of electric cables may cause anomalies
in the vehicle electronics that could result in an accident with serious
consequences.
xNever connect the trailer's electric system to the electrical connections
of the rear lights or any other unsuitable power sources. Only use suitable
connectors to connect a trailer.
xVisit a specialist workshop if you wish to retrofit a tow hitch to the
vehicle.
WARNING
If the tow hitch is badly fitted or unsuitable, the trailer may separate from
the vehicle while driving. This could result in serious accident.
Note
Use only tow hitches approved by SEAT for the vehicle.
Maximum gross trailer weight
The instructions in the official vehicle documents take precedence. All the
technical data provided in this documentation is applicable to the basic
model. The vehicle data label in the Maintenance Programme or the vehicle
documents show which engine is installed in your vehicle.The figures may be different depending on if additional equipment is fitted,
for different models and for special vehicles.
WARNING
Exceeding the maximum trailer weight indicated could cause a serious
accident.
xNever exceed the indicated trailer weight.
Caution
Exceeding the maximum trailer weight indicated could cause damage to the
vehicle.
xNever exceed the indicated trailer weight.
Gross combined vehicle weight rating
The instructions in the official vehicle documents take precedence. All the
technical data provided in this documentation is applicable to the basic
model. The vehicle data label in the Maintenance Programme or the vehicle
documents show which engine is installed in your vehicle.
The figures may be different depending on if additional equipment is fitted,
for different models and for special vehicles.
The maximum combined weights listed are only applicable for altitudes up to
1,000 m above sea level. The weight of the car and trailer must be reduced by
about 10% for every further 1000 m (or part thereof).
WARNING
Exceeding the maximum weight indicated could cause a serious accident.
xNever exceed the gross combined weight rating.
AE
AF
AG
AH

Vehicle maintenance and cleaning 270
For the sake of the environment
The remains of car care products should not be disposed of with ordinary
household waste. Observe information provided by the manufacturer.
Washing the vehicle
The longer substances such as insects, bird droppings, resinous tree sap,
road dirt, industrial deposits, tar, soot or road salt and other aggressive mate-
rials remain on the vehicle, the more damage they do to the paintwork. High
temperatures (for instance due to strong sunlight) further intensify the corro-
sive effect. The vehicle undercarriage should also be thoroughly washed at
regular intervals.
Automatic car washes
Always observe the instructions provided at the automatic car wash. The
standard precautionary measures prior to entering the car wash should be
taken to avoid damage to the vehicle (close all windows, fold in exterior
mirrors). If the vehicle is fitted with additional components (spoiler, roof-rack,
aerial...), check with the car wash supervisor whether these can enter the car
wash Ÿ.
The vehicle paintwork is so durable that the car can normally be washed
without problems in an automatic car washing tunnel. However, wear and
damage to the paintwork will depend on the type of car wash used. SEAT
recommends the use of car washed without brushes.
To remove traces of wax on windows and to prevent wiper blades from
scratching, please observe the following Ÿpage 272, “Cleaning windows
and exterior mirrors”.
Washing the car by hand
When washing the car by hand, use plenty of water to soften the dirt first, and
rinse off as well as possible.Then clean the vehicle with a soft sponge, glove or brush using only slight
pressure. Start at the roof and work downwards. Special car shampoo should
only be used for very persistent dirt.
Rinse the sponge or glove thoroughly and often.
Wheels, sills and similar should be cleaned last. Use a second sponge for
this.WARNING
Sharp components on the vehicle may cause injury.
xProtect arms and hands from sharp edges when cleaning the vehicle
undercarriage or the interior of the wheel hubs.
WARNING
After the vehicle has been washed, the braking effect will be reduced (and
the braking distance increased) due to moisture (and ice in winter) on the
brakes.
xDry the brakes and remove ice by braking carefully. Ensure that you are
not endangering other road-users or breaking traffic regulations in the
process.
Caution
xThe temperature of the water must not exceed +60 °C (+140 °F).
xTo avoid damage to the paintwork, do not wash the vehicle in full sun.
xDo not use rough sponges or similar which could damage the surface to
clean away the traces of insects.
xNever wipe the headlights with a dry cloth or sponge, always moisten
first. It is best to use soapy water.

Checking and refilling levels 294
Follow the legal requirements for the use, storage and transport of
spare fuel canisters.
Insure that the fuel container complies with manufacturing stand-
ards, for example, ANSI or ASTM F852-86.
Caution
xAlways remove any fuel spilled on the vehicle paintwork immediately to
avoid damage to the wheel housing, the tyre and vehicle paintwork.
xRefuelling a petrol engine with diesel or a diesel engine with petrol can
cause serious engine and fuel system damage; the resulting malfunctions
are not covered by the SEAT warranty. If you refuel with the wrong type of fuel,
never start the engine. This applies to even the smallest amount of the wrong
fuel. You should obtain professional assistance. With the engine running, the
composition of the wrong fuel could significantly damage the fuel system and
the engine itself.
xIn vehicles with a diesel engine, under no circumstances should you
refuel or drive with petrol, kerosene, heating oil or any other type of different
fuel. Other types of fuels could cause serious damage to the engine and to
the fuel supply system and the resulting problems are not covered by the
SEAT warranty.
For the sake of the environment
Fuels can contaminate the environment. Collect any spilt service fluids and
allow a professional to dispose of them.
Note
There is no emergency mechanism for the manual release of the tank flap. If
necessary, request assistance from specialised personnel.
Control lamps and fuel gauge
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.
The auxiliary heater and the auxiliary heater running off petrol will automati-
cally switch off when the indicator
z or  lights.
WARNING (continued)
lights upGauge position
Ÿfig. 169Possible cause ŸSolution
Red mark
(arrow)
The fuel tank is almost
empty.
The reserve tank is
being used
Ÿpage 392.
Refuel as soon as
possible Ÿ.
§Fuel tank not closed
correctly.Stop the vehicle and
close the tank flap
properly.
Fig. 169 On the instru-
ment panel: Fuel gauge for
petrol and diesel.

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 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 levels309
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.