warning lights Seat Alhambra 2010 Workshop Manual

Checking and refilling levels 314
WARNING
If the warning lamps and messages are ignored, the vehicle may stall in
traffic, or may cause accidents and severe injuries.
xAlways observe any lit warning lamps and text messages.
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.
Engine coolant specifications
The engine cooling system comes with a special mixture of water and at least
40% G 12 plus-plus (TL-VW 774 G) or G 12 plus (TL-VW 774 F) engine coolant
additive. Both are easily recognisable because they are purple in colour.
This mixture gives the necessary frost protection down to -25 °C (-13 °F) and
protects the alloy parts of the cooling system against corrosion. It also
prevents scaling and raises the boiling point of the coolant.
To protect the engine cooling system, the proportion of additive must always
be at least 40%, even if frost protection is not required in countries with a
warm climate.
If greater frost protection is required in very cold climates, the proportion of
additive can be increased. However, the percentage of additive should not
exceed 60 %, as this would reduce the frost protection and, in turn, decrease
the cooling capacity.
When adding coolant, a mixture of distilled water and at least 40 % of the
additive G 12 plus-plus must be use to ensure optimum rust protection Ÿ.
lights up
Gauge
position
Ÿpage 31
3, fig. 177
Possible causeSolution
v
Warning
area Excessive engine
coolant tempera-
ture.
› Stop the vehicle!
Stop the vehicle safely as
soon as possible. Switch off
the engine and wait for it to
cool down and for the needle
to return to the normal area.
Check the engine coolant level
Ÿpage 315.
Normal
area Insufficient engine
coolant level.
Check the engine coolant
when the engine has cooled
and, if it is low, refill with
engine coolant Ÿpage 315.
Although the coolant level is
correct, there is a fault.
--Engine coolant
system faulty.› Do not drive any further.
Obtain professional assist-
ance.
--
Cold area

--
Avoid revving the engine too
much or making it work hard
while it has not reached nor-
mal service temperature.
flashesPossible causeSolution
vEngine coolant system faulty.You should obtain profes-
sional assistance.
AC
AB
AA

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 levels319
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xDo not expose the battery to direct sunlight over a long period of time, as
the intense ultraviolet radiation can damage the battery housing.
xIf the car is left standing for long periods, protect the battery from extreme
cold temperature so that it does not “freeze up” and become damaged.
Warning lamp
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.
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.
Checking the electrolyte level of the vehicle battery
The battery's electrolyte level should be checked regularly in high-mileage
vehicles, in hot countries and in older batteries. Other batteries do not
require maintenance.
lights upPossible causeSolution
FFaulty generator.
Contact a specialist workshop.
Have the electrical system
checked.
Disconnect any unnecessary
electrical consumers. The gener-
ator does not charge the battery
while the vehicle is in motion.
Fig. 180 In the engine
compartment: Remove
the cover from the
vehicle's battery.
Fig. 181 In the engine
compartment: Unfold the
vehicle's battery hose.

Checking and refilling levels321
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a Start-Stop systems Ÿpage 223 are equipped with a special battery. There-
fore, it must only be replaced with a battery of the same specifications.
Disconnecting the vehicle's battery
If you must disconnect the battery from the electrical system, please note the
following:
xSwitch off the ignition and all electrical equipment.
xThe vehicle must be unlocked before disconnecting the battery, otherwise
the alarm will be triggered.
xFirst disconnect the negative cable and then the positive Ÿ.
Connecting the vehicle's battery
xBefore reconnecting the battery, switch off the engine, the ignition and
electric devices.
xFirst reconnect the positive cable and then the negative Ÿ.
Different control lamps may light up after connecting the battery and
switching the ignition on. They will be turned off after a short trip at a speed
of between 15 - 20 km/h (10 - 12 mph). If the warning indicators remain lit,
please visit a specialised workshop to have the vehicle checked.
If the battery has been disconnected for a long time, it is possible that the
next service date is not displayed or calculated correctly Ÿpage 64. Respect
the maximum service intervals permitted ŸBooklet “Maintenance
Programme”.
Vehicles with the KESSY system (Ÿpage 86): If, after connecting the battery,
the ignition cannot be switched on, lock and unlock the vehicle from outside.
Then try to switch the ignition back on. If the ignition can still not be switched
on, request the assistance of a specialist workshop.
Automatic consumer disconnection
The intelligent vehicle electrical system automatically implements a range of
measures to prevent the battery from discharging when high demands are
made on it:
xthe idling speed is increased so that the alternator provides more elec-
tricity.
xwhere necessary, the power of the most powerful consumers is reduced
or even completely disconnected.
xOn starting the engine, the power supply from the 12-volt sockets and the
cigarette lighter may be interrupted for a short time.
The on-board management program cannot always prevent the battery from
running flat. For example, if the ignition is left on for a long period with the
engine off or if the side lights or parking lights are left on while the vehicle is
stationary.
Why does the battery run flat?
xWhen stationary for a long time without starting the engine, particularly if
the ignition is switched on.
xUse of electrical consumers with the engine switched off.
xIf the auxiliary heater is running Ÿpage 187.
WARNING
Incorrectly securing the battery or using the wrong battery can cause
short-circuits, fire and serious injuries.
xAlways use only maintenance free batteries that do not run flat alone
and whose properties, specifications and size correspond to the standard
battery. The specifications are indicated on the battery case.
WARNING
A highly explosive mixture of gases is released when the battery is under
charge.
xThe batteries should be charged in a well-ventilated room only.
xNever charge a frozen or recently thawed battery. A flat battery can
freeze at temperatures around 0°C (+32 °F).

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)

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 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)

If and when 360
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.

If and when361
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Indicator
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.
Checking the bulbs of a trailer
For vehicles with the factory fitted trailer system, certain trailer lights are also
controlled if the socket is correctly connected.
A fault on a trailer turn indicator is indicated on the instrument panel by the
indicator blinking twice as fast (
 or
) Ÿpage 113.
xGeneral fault of all indicators on one side.
xFault in one tail light (on some models, also the registration light).
xFault in two brake lights.
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.
Note
A fault in the LED on the tail lights will not be indicated. However, if the fault
affects all the LEDs then this will be indicated by the indicator .
Information for replacing bulbs
Checklist
To replace a bulb, carry out the following operations always in the order given
Ÿ:
1. Park the vehicle a safe distance from traffic and on suitable ground.
2. Connect the electronic parking brake Ÿpage 210.
3. Turn the light switch to position 0 Ÿpage 113.
4. Move the gear lever into the neutral position Ÿpage 113.
5. Automatic gearbox: Move selector lever to position P Ÿpage 201.
6. Stop the engine and remove the key from the ignition Ÿpage 195.
7. Manual gearbox: Select a gear Ÿpage 201.
8. Wait until all of the passenger compartment lights are turned off
Ÿpage 113.
9. Allow the corresponding bulb to cool.
10. Visually inspect fuses to see if any are blown Ÿpage 356.
11. Replace the bulb according to the instructions Ÿ. Bulbs should only
be replaced by new identical models. Bulb information is displayed on
the bulb socket or on the bulb itself.
12. In general, never touch the bulb glass directly. The heat of the bulb would
cause the fingerprint to evaporate and condense on the reflector. This
will impair the brightness of the headlight.
lights upPossible causeSolution
A vehicle exterior lighting
bulb is not working.Replace the faulty bulb.