fuel type Seat Alhambra 2010 Owner's Manual

Cockpit65
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a The beginning of the red zone of the rev counter indicates the maximum
speed in any gear after running-in and with the engine hot. However, it is
advisable to change up a gear or move the selector lever to D (or lift your
foot off the accelerator) before the needle reaches the red zone Ÿ.
Engine coolant temperature display
v Ÿpage 313.
Displays on the screen Ÿpage 65.
Fuel reserve display Ÿpage 293.
Speedometer.
Reset knob for trip recorder (trip).
Press button to reset to zero.
Caution
To prevent damage to the engine, the rev counter needle should only remain
in the red zone for a short period of time.
For the sake of the environment
Changing up a gear in time reduces fuel consumption and noise.
Displays on screen
A variety of information can be viewed on the instrument panel display
Ÿpage 64, fig. 36 , depending on the vehicle equipment:
xWarning and information texts
xMileage
xTime
xAmbient temperature
xCompass
xSelector lever positions Ÿpage 201
xRecommended gear (manual gearbox) Ÿpage 201
xMultifunction display (MFI) and menus for different setting options
Ÿpage 70
xService interval display. Ÿpage 68
xSecond speed display (menu Configuration) Ÿpage 70
xStart/Stop operation indicator Ÿpage 67
Warning and information texts
The system runs a check on certain components and functions when the igni-
tion is switched on and while the vehicle is moving. Faults in the operation
are displayed on the screen using red and yellow symbols and messages on
the instrument panel display (Ÿpage 61) and, in some cases, with audible
warnings. The display may vary according to the type of instrument panel
fitted.
A3
A4
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A6
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Cockpit 66
Mileage
The odometer registers the total distance travelled by the car.
The trip recorder (trip) shows the distance travelled since the last trip recorder
reset. The last digit of the trip recorder indicates distances of 100 metres or
tenths of a mile.
Outside temperature display
When the outside temperature is below +4 °C (+39 °F), the symbol “ice
crystal” (warning of risk of freezing) is also displayed next to the temperature.
At first this symbol flashes and then it remains lit until the outside tempera-
ture rises above +6 °C (+43 °F) Ÿ.
When the vehicle is at a standstill, with the parking heating on (Ÿpage 187),
or when travelling at very low speeds, the temperature displayed may be higher than the true outside temperature, as a result of the heat produced by
the engine.
The temperatures measured range from -40 °C to +50 °C (-40 °F to +122 °F).
Compass
With the ignition on and the navigation system on, the cardinal point corre-
sponding to the vehicle's direction of travel is displayed on the instrument
panel Ÿpage 67.
Selector lever positions
The range of engaged gears of the selector lever is shown on the side of the
lever, and on the instrument panel display. In positions D and S, and with the
Tiptronic, the corresponding gear is also displayed.
Recommended gear (manual gearbox)
The recommended gear to save fuel is displayed on the instrument panel
while you are driving Ÿpage 201.
Second speed display (mph or km/h)
In addition to the speedometer, the speed can also be displayed in a different
unit of measurement (in miles or in km per hour). To change the units, in the
Settings menu, select the option Second speed Ÿpage 70.
Vehicles without menu display on the instrument panel
xSwitch on the engine.
xPress button three times. The odometer display flashes on the instru-
ment panel display.
xPress button once. “mph” or “km/h” is displayed briefly instead
of the odometer.
xThis activates the second speed display. To switch it off, repeat the proce-
dure.
This option cannot be disconnected in models destined for countries in which
the second speed must always be visible.
Type of mes-
sageSymbol
colourMeanings
Priority 1
warning.Red
Symbol flashing or lit; partly combined with
audible warnings.
› Stop the vehicle! It is dangerous Ÿ!
Check the function which is faulty and repair.
If necessary, request assistance from special-
ised personnel.
Priority 2
warning.Yellow
Symbol flashing or lit; partly combined with
audible warnings.
A faulty function, or fluids which are below the
correct levels may cause damage to the vehi-
cle! Ÿ
Check the faulty function as soon as possible.
If necessary, request assistance from special-
ised personnel.
Informative
text.–Information relating to different vehicle proc-
esses.
¡
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Driving245
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Tyre monitoring systems
Introduction
The tyre monitor indicator monitors the tyre pressure of each wheel using the
ABS sensors. The ABS sensors monitor the tyre tread perimeter and vibra-
tions of each tire. The tyre monitor indicator warns the driver if it detects a
considerable drop in tyre pressure of one or several tyres while driving. Loss
of tyre pressure will be indicated by the indicator
~ as well as a sound and
sometimes a text message on the screen of the instrument panel. When you
open the driver's door, you will find a label indicating the tyre pressure recom-
mended by the manufacturer for the maximum vehicle load for each tyre
approved for the vehicle in question. By pressing the adjustment button on
the tyre monitoring indicator, you may change the reference pressure for the
tyres so that the tyre pressure to be monitored coincides with actual tyre pres-
sure Ÿpage 248.
Suitable use of the adjustment button Ÿpage 248.
Additional information and warnings:
xTransporting Ÿpage 13
xBraking, stopping and parking Ÿpage 210
xCaring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior Ÿpage 269
xWheels and tyres Ÿpage 323
xAccessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications Ÿpage 285
WARNING
Unsuitable handling of the wheels and tyres may lead to sudden tyre pres-
sure losses, to tread separation or even to a blow-out.
xCheck tyre pressures regularly and ensure they are maintained at the
pressures indicated. If the tyre pressure is too low, the tyres could over-
heat, resulting in tread detachment or even burst tyres.
xTyre pressure should be that indicated on the label when the tyres are
cold at all times Ÿpage 328.
xRegularly check the cold inflation pressure of the tyres. If necessary,
change the tyre pressure of the vehicle tyres while they are cold.
xRegularly check your tyres for damage and wear.
xNever exceed the maximum permitted speed or loads specified for the
type of tyre fitted on your vehicle.
WARNING
Incorrect use of the tyre monitoring indicator button could result in the
indicator giving erroneous messages or prevented from indicating the
danger caused by a defective tyre Ÿpage 248.
Caution
xThe tyre valves may be damaged if the cap is not in place. Check that the
caps are identical to the standard caps and have been correctly tightened. Do
not use metal caps Ÿpage 248.
xDo not damage the valves when changing the tyres Ÿpage 248.
For the sake of the environment
Under-inflated tyres lead to increased fuel consumption and tyre wear.
Note
Do not only rely on the tyre monitoring system. Regularly check your tyres to
ensure that the tyre pressure is correct and that the tyres are not damaged
due to puncture, cuts, tears and impacts/dents. Remove objects from the
tyres only when the tyres have not been pierced by these.
WARNING (continued)

Driving and the environment 254
Unnecessary short journeys should be avoided. Try to combine trips.
The vehicle uses more fuel in winter than in summer, even when other condi-
tions are the same.
“Warming” the engine is not only forbidden in some countries, but in practice
it is technically superfluous as it is a waste of fuel.
Adjusting type pressures.
Having the correct pressure in your tyres helps to reduce rolling resistance
and, as a result reduces fuel consumption. Increasing the tyre pressure
slightly (+ 0.2 bar / + 3 psi) can help to save fuel.
If you are prepared to accept a slight reduction in comfort, the tyres may be
filled to the pressures recommended for a fully-loaded vehicle. This is also
valid when driving alone without luggage.
When you buy new tyres, make sure they are optimised for minimum rolling
resistance.
Use low friction engine oil
The use of low viscosity totally synthetic oils, known as low friction engine oil,
help to reduce fuel consumption. Low friction engine oils reduce the resist-
ance caused by friction in the engine, they flow around the engine more
quickly and efficiently, particularly in cold starts. The effect is particularly
noticeable in vehicles frequently used for short journeys.
Always check the engine oil level and observe service intervals (engine oil
change intervals).
When purchasing engine oil, always observe legal requirements and ensure
that the oil is approved by SEAT.
Avoid carrying unnecessary loads
The lighter the vehicle, the more economical and ecological the driving style.
For example, an additional weight of 100 kg will increase fuel consumption
up to 0.3 l/100 km.
Remove any unnecessary objects or loads from the vehicle.Remove optional equipment and unnecessary accessories
The more aerodynamic the vehicle, the lower the fuel consumption. Optional
equipment and accessories (such as roof racks or bike carriers) reduce the
aerodynamic benefits of the vehicle.
Therefore, we recommend you remove all optional and unnecessary equip-
ment and racks, especially if you intend to drive at high speeds.

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.

Vehicle maintenance and cleaning 274
xIf the blades are very dirty, a sponge or damp cloth may be used Ÿ.
Changing the front wiper blades
xLifting and unfolding the wiper arms.
xHold down the release button Ÿpage 273, fig. 165 while gently
pulling the blade in the direction of the arrow.
xFit a new wiper blade of the same length and design on to the wiper arm
and hook it into place.
xRest the wiper arms back onto the windscreen.
Changing the rear wiper blade
xLift and unfold the wiper arm.
xPull the wiper blade out of its mounting on the wiper arm Ÿpage 273,
fig. 166 (arrow ).
xHold down the release button Ÿpage 273, fig. 166 while gently
pulling the blade in the direction of the arrow . This may require some
strength.
xInsert a new blade of the same length and type in the wiper arm in the
opposite direction to the arrow Ÿpage 273, fig. 166 and hook into
place. This feature is operational when the knob is in position (arrow ).
xReplace the wiper arm on the rear window.
WARNING
Worn or dirty wiper blades reduce visibility and increase the risk of acci-
dent and serious injury.
xAlways replace damaged or worn blades or blades which do not clean
the windscreen correctly.
Caution
xDamaged or dirty windscreen wipers could scratch the glass.
xIf products containing solvents, rough sponges or sharp objects are used
to clean the blades, the graphite layer will be damaged.
xNever use fuel, nail varnish remover, paint thinner or similar products to
clean the windows.
Caring for and polishing the vehicle paintwork
Waxing
Regular waxing protects the paintwork. It is time to apply a good coat of wax
when water no longer forms droplets and rolls off the clean paintwork.
Even if a wax solution is used regularly in the automatic car wash, SEAT
recommends protecting the paint with a hard wax coating at least twice a
year.
Polishing
Polishing is only necessary if the paint has lost its shine, and the gloss cannot
be brought back by applying wax.
If the polish does not contain wax, a wax product should be applied after
polishing.
Caution
xTo prevent damage, car polish or hard wax should not be used on compo-
nents painted in matt paint, plastic components and the glass headlamp and
tail light covers.
xDo not polish the paintwork if it is dirty, apply polish in dusty or sandy
zones.
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Vehicle maintenance and cleaning283
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Notes for the user
Labels and plates
Some parts in the engine compartment come from the factory with certifi-
cates of safety, labels or plates containing important information regarding
the operation of the vehicle, for example, on the petrol cap, on the
passenger's sun visor, on the driver's door strut, or on the floor of the luggage
compartment.
xNever remove these certificates of safety, labels or plates, and ensure
they are kept in good condition and are legible.
xIf a vehicle part, bearing a certificate of safety, label or plate, is replaced,
the qualified workshop should attach the information back in the same place.
Certificate of safety
A certificate of safety on the door strut states that all the safety standards and
regulations established by the national traffic authorities responsible for
road safety were met at the time of manufacture. It may also give the month
and year of manufacture, together with the chassis number.
Warning of high voltage label*
There is a label close to the bonnet lock which warns of high voltage in the
vehicle electrical installation. The vehicle ignition system complies with
several standards, including the Canadian standard, ICES-002.
Using your vehicle in other countries and continents
The vehicle is manufactured at the factory for use in a particular country in
accordance with the national legislation in force at the time of manufacture.If the vehicle is sold in another country or used in another country for an
extended period of time, the applicable legislation of that country should be
observed.
It may be necessary to fit or remove certain pieces of equipment or to deacti-
vate certain functions. Service work may also be affected. This is particularly
true if the vehicle is used in a different climate for an extended period of time.
As there are different types of frequency bands around the world, you may
find that the radio or navigation system supplied at the factory does not work
in another country.
Caution
xSEAT does not accept liability for any damage to the vehicle due to the use
of a lower quality fuel, an inadequate service or the non-availability of
genuine spare parts.
xSEAT does not accept liability if the vehicle does not comply in part or in
full with the legal requirements of other countries or continents.
Radio reception and the aerial
The aerial of radio and navigation systems fitted at the factory may be
mounted in different parts of the vehicle:
xOn the inside of the rear window, next to the rear window heating,
xon the inside of the rear side windows,
xon the inside of the windscreen,
xon the roof of the car.
Aerials mounted on the inside of a window can be recognised by the fine
wires.

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 levels295
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
WARNING
Driving with insufficient fuel reserve could result in the vehicle breaking
down in traffic and a serious accident.
xIf the fuel level is too low then the fuel supply to the engine can become
irregular especially on slopes.
xIf the engine “is choked” or stalls due to lack of or irregularity of the
fuel supply, the power steering as well as all of the driver assistance
systems including braking assistance will stop working.
xAlways refuel when there is only one quarter of the fuel tank left to
avoid running out of fuel.
Caution
xAlways pay attention to any lit lamps and to the corresponding descrip-
tions and instructions to avoid damage to the vehicle.
xNever run the tank completely dry. An irregular fuel supply may lead to
ignition faults and unburnt fuel could enter the exhaust system. This could
damage the catalytic converter filter or the diesel particulate filter!
Note
The arrow next to the fuel pump symbol on the instrument panel Ÿpage 294,
fig. 169 indicates the side of the vehicle on which the tank flap is located.
Filling the tank with petrol or diesel
Before refuelling, always turn off the engine, the ignition, mobile telephones,
auxiliary heating and keep them off during refuelling.
Unscrewing the tank cap
xThe tank flap is at the rear of the vehicle on the right.
xPress the rear of the tank flap to open it.
xUnscrew the tank cap anti-clockwise and insert it in the hole in the tank
flap hinge Ÿfig. 170.
Refilling
The correct petrol type for the vehicle is located on a sticker inside the fuel
tank flap Ÿpage 297.
xIf the automatic filler nozzle is operated correctly, it will switch itself off as
soon as the tank is full Ÿ.
xDo not continue to refuel if it is turned off! Otherwise, this will fill the
expansion chamber and fuel may leak out if the ambient conditions are warm.
Fig. 170 Open tank flap
with tank cap attached to
the holder.

Checking and refilling levels297
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Fuel
Introduction
You will find a factory-fitted sticker containing information on the type of fuel
for your vehicle on the inside of the fuel tank flap.
Additional information and warnings:
xŸBooklet “Maintenance Programme”
xRefuelling Ÿpage 293
xEngine and exhaust system management Ÿpage 255
WARNING
Refuelling or handling fuel carelessly can cause an explosion or fire
resulting in serious burns and injuries.
xFuel is a highly explosive, easily flammable substance.
xObserve current safety instructions and local regulations concerning
the handling of fuel.
Types of fuel
The type of fuel to use when refilling will depend on the vehicle's engine. You
will find a factory-fitted sticker containing information on the type of fuel for
your vehicle on the inside of the fuel tank flap.
SEAT recommends the use of sulphur-free or low sulphur fuel to reduce
consumption and prevent engine damage.
Petrol
Petrol types
Vehicles with petrol engines must refuel using unleaded petrol according to
European norm EN 228 Ÿ.
Petrol types are categorised according to their octane number (e.g. 91, 95, 98
or 99 RON (RON = “Research Octane Number”). You may use petrol with a
high octane number than the one recommended for your engine. However,
this has no advantage in terms of fuel consumption and engine power.
SEAT recommends refuelling with a low sulphur content or sulphur-free petrol
to reduce petrol consumption for petrol engines.
Petrol additives
The quality of the fuel influences running behaviour, performance and service
life of the engine. For this reason, you should use good quality petrol
containing a mixture of additives. These additives will help to prevent corro-
sion, keep the fuel system clean and prevent deposits from building up in the
engine.
Possible types of
fuelAlternative namesFurther information
91a) RON
a)RON = Regulation Octane Number
Normal petrol, normal
unleaded petrol
Ÿpage 29795a) RONPremium unleaded petrol (95
RON)
98a) RONPremium unleaded petrol (98
RON)
DieselŸpage 298