tow Seat Alhambra 2010 Workshop Manual

Checking and refilling levels 312
Engine oil consumption
The consumption of engine oil can be different from one engine to another
and can vary during the useful life of the engine.
Depending on driving style and the conditions of use, the consumption of
engine oil can reach 1 litre every 2,000 km (one quarter of a gallon every
1,200 miles); for new vehicles, this could be higher for the first 5,000 km
(3,000 miles). For this reason the engine oil level must be checked at regular
intervals, preferably when filling the tank and before a journey.
When the engine is working hard, for instance during sustained high-speed
motorway cruising in summer, when towing a trailer or climbing mountain
passes, the oil level should preferably be kept within area Ÿpage 310,
fig. 175 .
Changing the engine oil
The engine oil must be changed regularly according to the specifications of
the Maintenance Programme.
Due to the problems linked with disposing of used oil and the need for suit-
able tools and special knowledge, always visit a qualified workshop to have
the engine oil and filter changed. SEAT recommends visiting a qualified work-
shop.
Detailed information on the service intervals are shown in the Maintenance
Programme.
Engine oil additives make new oil darker after the engine has been running
for a short period. This is normal and does not mean more frequent oil
changes are required.
WARNING
If, in exceptional circumstances, you must change the engine oil yourself,
please note the following:
xWear eye protection.
xAlways wait until the engine has completely cooled to avoid being
burned.
xAlways keep your arms horizontal when unscrewing the oil drainage
bolt so that the oil does not run down your arms when it begins to drain.
xUse a suitable and large enough container to collect all of the used oil
in the engine.
xNever collect engine oil in empty food containers, cans, bottles and
other containers as not all people are able to identify engine oil.
xOil is toxic and must be kept out of the reach of children.
For the sake of the environment
Before changing the engine oil, find a suitable location or service for proper
disposal.
For the sake of the environment
Always dispose of engine oil with the utmost respect for the environment.
Never dispose of used engine oil in places such as a garden, woods, drains,
roads, paths, rivers and drainage systems.
AA

Wheels and tyres339
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Changing a wheel*
Introduction
The tyres mounted on the vehicle are anti-puncture. The wheels should only
be changed when switching from summer to winter tyres or vice-versa. The
tools required for changing a wheel are only supplied with the vehicle if the
vehicle is supplied from the factory with winter tyres. If this is not the case,
please take the vehicle to a specialised workshop to have the wheels
changed.
You should only change the wheels yourself if the vehicle is parked in a safe
place, you are familiar with the procedure and you have all the necessary
tools! Otherwise, you should seek professional assistance.
Additional information and warnings:
xVehicle key set Ÿpage 78
xWheels and tyres Ÿpage 323
xWheel trims Ÿpage 336
xVehicle tools Ÿpage 353
WARNING
Changing a wheel can be dangerous, especially on the hard shoulder.
Please observe the following rules to minimise the risk of injury:
xStop the vehicle safely as soon as possible. Park your vehicle as safe
distance from surrounding traffic to change a wheel.
xWhen changing a wheel, keep all passengers and particularly children
a safe distance away from the work area.
xTurn on the hazard warning lights to warn other road users.
xEnsure the ground on which you park is flat and solid. If necessary,
support the jack on a wide solid base.
xIf you are changing a wheel yourself, you should be familiar with the
required procedure. Otherwise, you should seek professional assistance.
xOnly use suitable tools that are not damaged when changing a wheel.
xAlways stop the engine, turn on the electronic parking brake and place
the gear selector lever in position P, for an automatic gearbox, or engage a
gear for a manual gearbox to reduce the risk of the vehicle moving acciden-
tally.
xHave the tightening torque of the wheel bolts checked as soon as
possible with a reliable torque wrench.
Preparations for changing a wheel
Check list
Before changing a wheel, complete the following operations in the order
given Ÿ:
1. Park the vehicle on an even and solid surface.
2. Connect the electronic parking brake Ÿpage 210.
3. Automatic gearbox: Move selector lever to position P Ÿpage 201.
4. Stop the engine and remove the key from the ignition Ÿpage 195.
5. Manual gearbox: Select a gear Ÿpage 201.
6. Have all vehicle occupants get out of the vehicle and wait in a safe place
(for example, behind the safety barrier).
7. Block the opposite wheel with two folding wedges taken from the vehicle
tool kit Ÿpage 354, fig. 208 or similar objects.
8. When towing a trailer: unhook the trailer from the towing vehicle and
park it correctly.
9. If the luggage compartment is full: take the baggage out of the vehicle.
WARNING (continued)

Wheels and tyres343
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a Raise the vehicle using only the designated jacking points.
Check list
For your own safety and that of other passengers, the following points should
be observed in the order given Ÿ:
1. Select a suitable flat and firm surface for raising the vehicle.
2. Switch off the engine, engage a gear (manual gearbox) or place the
selector lever in position P Ÿpage 201 and turn on the electronic
parking brake Ÿpage 210.
3. When towing a trailer: unhook the trailer from the towing vehicle and
park it correctly.
4. Loosen the wheel bolts on the wheel to be changed Ÿpage 340.
5. Look below the vehicle for the jacking point Ÿpage 342, fig. 192
closest to the tyre which has to be changed.
6. Raise the jack with the handle until it can be inserted below the jacking
point.
7. Ensure that the foot of the jack is firmly on the ground and that it is
placed immediately below the lifting point on the vehicle Ÿpage 342,
fig. 193.
8. Straighten the jack and continue raising it using the handle until the claw
holds the vertical reinforcement beneath the vehicle Ÿpage 342,
fig. 193.
9. Raise the vehicle until the wheel is clear of the ground.
WARNING
If the vehicle is not correctly raised, it could fall off the jack causing serious
injury. Please observe the following rules to minimise the risk of injury:
xYou should only use a jack approved by SEAT for your vehicle. Other
jacks, even those approved for other SEAT models, might slip out of place.
xThe ground should be firm and flat. If the ground is sloped or soft then
the vehicle could slip and fall off the jack. If necessary, support the jack on
a wide solid base.
xIf the ground is slippery (for example, on tiles), place a non-slip surface
(for example a floor mat) beneath the jack to avoid slipping.
xOnly fit the jack at the prescribed jacking points. The claw of the jack
should grip the reinforcement nerve on the underbody Ÿpage 342,
fig. 193.
xYou should never have any limbs beneath a raised vehicle which is only
supported by a jack.
xIf you have to work underneath the vehicle, you must use suitable
stands additionally to support the vehicle, there is a risk of accident!.
xNever raise the vehicle if it is tilting to one side or the engine is running.
xNever start the engine when the vehicle is raised. The vehicle may come
loose from the jack due to the engine vibrations.
WARNING
Failure to follow the checklist prepared for your own safety could lead to
accidents and severe injuries.
xAlways complete the operations given in the checklist and observe the
general rules of safety.
WARNING (continued)

If and when345
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
If and when
In case of emergency
Introduction
Additional information and warnings:
xBraking, stopping and parking Ÿpage 210
xEmergency locking and unlocking Ÿpage 348
xVehicle tools Ÿpage 353
WARNING
A faulty vehicle in traffic represents a risk of accident for the driver and for
other road users.
xStop the vehicle safely as soon as possible. Park the vehicle a safe
distance from surrounding traffic to lock all the doors in case of an emer-
gency. Turn on the hazard warning lights to warn other road users.
xNever leave children or disabled people alone in the vehicle if the doors
are to be locked. In case of an emergency, passengers will be trapped
inside the vehicle. Individuals locked in the vehicle can be exposed to very
high or very low temperatures.
Protecting yourself and securing the vehicle
Always fulfil legal requirements for securing a broken down vehicle. In a
number of countries it is now obligatory, for example, to turn on the hazard
warning lights and use a reflective safety vest Ÿpage 347.
When being towed with the hazard warning lights on, a change in direction or
traffic lane can be indicated as usual using the turn indicator lever. The
hazard lights will be interrupted temporarily.
Checklist
For your own safety and that of other passengers, the following points should
be observed in the order given Ÿ:
1. Park the vehicle a safe distance from traffic and on suitable ground
Ÿ.
2. Turn on the hazard warning lights with the button Ÿfig. 195.
Fig. 195 In the centre of
the instrument panel:
Switch for hazard warning
lights.


If and when 346
3. Connect the electronic parking brake Ÿpage 210.
4. Move the selector lever to its intermediate position or to P Ÿpage 201.
5. Stop the engine and remove the key from the ignition Ÿpage 195.
6. Have all occupants leave the vehicle and move to safety, for example
behind a guard rail.
7. When leaving the vehicle, take all keys with you.
8. Place an emergency warning triangle to indicate the position of your
vehicle to other road users.
9. Allow the engine to cool and check if a specialist is required.
Examples of when to use the hazard warning lights:
xIf the vehicles ahead suddenly slow down or reach the end of a traffic jam,
to warn the vehicles behind.
xIn case of an emergency.
xIf the vehicle breaks down.
xWhen being towed.
Always comply with the applicable laws regarding the use of hazard warning
lights.
If the hazard warning lights are not working, you must use an alternative
method of drawing attention to your vehicle. This method must comply with
traffic legislation.
WARNING
Failure to follow the checklist prepared for your own safety could lead to
accidents and severe injuries.
xAlways complete the operations given in the checklist and observe the
general rules of safety.
WARNING
The components of the exhaust system reach very high temperatures. This
could cause a fire and considerable damage.
xAlways park your vehicle so that no part of the exhaust system can
come in contact with flammable materials (such as dried grass or fuel).
Note
The vehicle battery will discharge and run down if the hazard warning lights
remain on for too much time (even with the ignition turned off).
Note
For some vehicles, the brake lights will blink when braking suddenly at
speeds of approximately 80 km/h to warn vehicles behind. If braking
continues, then the hazard warning lights will automatically be turned on at
the speed of less than approximately 10 km an hour. The brake lights remain
lit. Upon accelerating, the hazard warning lights will be automatically turned
off.

If and when 352
Manually unlocking the gear selection lever
If the vehicle power supply should ever fail (discharged battery, etc.) and the
vehicle has to be pushed or towed, the selector lever must first be moved to
position N using the manual release mechanism.The emergency release mechanism is located underneath the gearbox cover
panel to the right-hand side. To release the gear selector lever mechanism, a
suitable tool is required, for example a screwdriver.
Preparations
xApply the parking brake. If the parking brake cannot be activated in the
vehicle must be secured otherwise so that it cannot move.
xSwitch the ignition off.
To remove the gearbox cover panel
xPull the cover up around the dust guard on the gear selector lever
Ÿfig. 204.
xTake the cover off by passing it over the gear selector lever Ÿ.
Manual release of selector lever
xPress the release lever Ÿfig. 205 in the direction of the arrow and hold it
in this position.
xPress the lock button Ÿfig. 204 on the gear selector lever knob and
place the gear selector lever in the N position.
WARNING
Never move the gear selector lever from the position P while the electronic
parking brake is deactivated. Otherwise, the vehicle may accidentally
move off on hills or steep slopes causing serious accidents.
Caution
If the vehicle is moved on its wheels with the engine stopped and the selector
lever in position N for a prolonged period of time and at high speed, for
example for towing, then the automatic gearbox will be damaged.
Fig. 204 Remove the
lining from the area of the
gear indication.
Fig. 205 Manual release
of gear selector lever.
A1

If and when 354
Components
The set of on-board tools depends on the vehicle equipment. The following is
a description for a vehicle with all options.
The individual elements of the on-board toolkit Ÿfig. 207
Adapter for antitheft bolt. SEAT recommend you carry the wheel bolt
adapter in the vehicle tool kit at all times. The code number of the anti-
theft wheel bolt is stamped on the front of the adapter. In case it is lost,
another adapter can be ordered using this number. Note the antitheft
bolt code for the wheels and keep it in a place other than the vehicle.
Towing eye, removable.
Wheel spanner.
Jack. Fold the jack before returning it to the toolkit.
Jack. Before storing the jack in the toolkit, fold its hook.
Screwdriver with hexagon socket in the handle for screwing and
unscrewing the wheel bolts once loosened. The screwdriver bit is inter-changeable. The screwdriver may be found underneath the wheel
spanner.
Wire hook for pulling off the wheel cover, integral hubcaps and the wheel
bolt caps.
Foldable wedges*
The foldable wedges are with the on-board tools Ÿfig. 207.
Assembling the foldable wedges
xLift the base plate Ÿfig. 208 .
xInsert the two “tabs” of the base plate into its openings.
Improper use
The foldable wedges are used to block the wheel diagonally opposite to the
wheel being changed.
Fig. 207 Components of
the onboard tool kit.
A1
A2
A3
A4
A5
A6
A7
Fig. 208 To unfold the
foldable wedges.
A1

If and when375
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Towing and tow starting
Introduction
When towing, always respect legal requirements.
For technical reasons, it is not possible to tow a vehicle if the battery is flat.
Additional information and warnings:
xElectronic power control and exhaust gases purification system
Ÿpage 255
WARNING
A vehicle with a flat battery should never be towed.
xNever remove the key from the ignition lock. The electronic steering
lock could engage. Then the vehicle will be uncontrollable. You may lose
control of the vehicle and there is a risk of serious accident.
WARNING
When towing the vehicle, the handling and braking efficiency change
considerably. Please observe the following instructions to minimise the
risk of serious accidents and injury:
xAs the driver of the vehicle being towed:
The brake must be depressed must harder as the brake servo does
not operate. Always remain aware to avoid collision with the towing
vehicle.
More strength is required at the steering wheel as the power
steering does not operate when the engine is switched off.
xAs the driver of the towing vehicle:
Accelerate gently and carefully.Avoid sudden braking and manoeuvres.
Brake well in advance than usual and brake gently.
Caution
xCarefully fit and remove the towing ring and its cover to avoid damage to
the vehicle (for example, paintwork).
xWhen towing, fuel could enter the catalytic converter and cause
damage!
Instructions for tow starting
In general, the vehicle should not be started by towing. Jump-starting is
much more preferable Ÿpage 371.
For technical reasons, the following vehicles can not be tow started:
xVehicles with an automatic gearbox.
xVehicles with the KESSY locking and ignition system, given that the elec-
tronic steering lock will certainly not be unlocked.
xVehicles with an electronic parking brake, given that it is possible that the
brake will not be disengaged.
xIf the vehicle battery is flat, it is possible that the engine control units do
not operate correctly.
However, if your vehicle must absolutely be tow-started (manual gearbox):
xEngage 2nd or 3rd gear.
xKeep the clutch pressed down.
xSwitch on the ignition and the hazard warning lights.
xRelease the clutch when both vehicles are moving.
WARNING (continued)

If and when 376
xAs soon as the engine starts, press the clutch and move the gear lever into
neutral. This helps to prevent a collision with the towing vehicle.
Caution
When tow-starting, fuel could enter the catalytic converter and damage it.
Towing instructions
Tow-rope or tow-bar
When towing, the tow bar is the safest and vehicle friendly way. You should
only use a tow-rope if you do not have a tow-bar.
A tow-rope should be slightly elastic to avoid damage to both vehicles. It is
advisable to use a tow-rope made of synthetic fibre or similarly elastic mate-
rial.
Only secure the tow rope or tow bar to the tow ring or specially designed
fitting.
Vehicles with a factory fitted towing device, can only be used for towing with
a tow-bar, specially designed to fit on a tow hitch ball Ÿpage 260.
Towing vehicles with an automatic gearbox
Note the following for a towed vehicle:
xMake sure the gear selector lever is in the N position.
xDo not drive faster than 50 km/h (30 mph) when towing a vehicle.
xDo not tow further than 50 km (30 miles).
xIf a breakdown truck is used, the vehicle must be towed with the front
wheels raised. Note the following instructions for towing four wheel drive
vehicles.Instructions for towing four-wheel-drive vehicles
Four wheel drive vehicles can be towed using a toolbar or tow rope. If the
vehicle is towed with the front or rear axle raised, the engine must be turned
off to avoid transmission damage.
For vehicles with a double clutched DSG
® (direct shift gearbox) the instruc-
tions for towing vehicles with an automatic gearbox apply Ÿpage 376.
Situations in which the vehicle should not be towed
In the following cases, the vehicle should not be towed but transported on a
trailer or special vehicle:
xIf the vehicle gearbox does not contain lubricant due to a fault.
xIf the vehicle battery is flat and, as a result, the electronic steering lock
and electronic parking brake cannot be disengaged if applied.
xIf the vehicle to be towed has an automatic gearbox and the distance to
be covered is greater than 50 km (30 miles).
Note
The vehicle can only be towed if the electronic parking brake and steering
lock are deactivated. If the vehicle has no power supply or there is an electric
system fault, the engine must be started using jump leads to deactivate the
electronic parking brake and electronic steering lock.

If and when377
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Fitting the front tow ring
The location for the removable tow ring is on the right-hand side of the front
bumper Ÿfig. 228.
The towing eye should always be kept in the vehicle.
Note the instructions for towing Ÿpage 376.
To fit the tow ring
xTake the tow ring from the vehicle tool kit Ÿpage 353.
xPress on the upper cover and carefully remove it forwards. Allow the cover
to hang.
xScrew in the tow ring into its position anticlockwise as far as it will go
Ÿfig. 228 Ÿ. Use a suitable tool to firmly tighten the tow ring in its loca-
tion.
xAfter towing, remove the tow ring by turning it clockwise and put the cover
back in place.
Caution
The tow ring must always be completely and firmly tightened. Otherwise, it
could be released while towing and tow-starting.
Fitting the rear tow ring
The location for the removable tow ring is on the right-hand side of the rear
bumper Ÿfig. 229. For vehicles with a factory fitted trailer system, there is no
fitting behind the cover to insert the tow ring. For towing, fit and use the trailer
hitch Ÿpage 260, Ÿ.
Note the instructions for towing Ÿpage 376.
Fitting the tow ring to the rear for vehicles without factory fitted tow hitch
xTake the tow ring from the on-board tools Ÿpage 353.
xPress on the upper cover and carefully remove it back. This may require
some strength. Allow the cover to hang.
Fig. 228 On the right-
hand side of the front
bumper: Screw in the
towing ring.
Fig. 229 On the rear
bumper, to the right hand
side: Tow ring in position.