warning Seat Alhambra 2012 Owner's Manual

196Driving
Start assist systems
Introduction
Additional information and warnings:
● SEAT information system ⇒ page 62
● Braking, stopping and parking ⇒ page 185
● Vehicle battery ⇒ page 292
● Wheels and tyres ⇒ page 297
● Accessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications ⇒ page 261
● Jump starting ⇒ page 341
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.
● Unintentional movements of the vehicle could cause serious injury.
● The start assist systems are not a replacement for driver awareness.
● Always 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 con-
ditions.
● The start assist system cannot keep the vehicle stationary in all con-
ditions on a gradient or cause it to brake on steep downhill gradients,
e.g. if the road is slippery or icy.
 Auto Hold function*
Fig. 139 Detailed view of
the centre console: Au-
to Hold button.
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. 

197
Driving
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 but-
ton ⇒ fig. 139. The electronic parking brake engages where necessary to
park the vehicle safely ⇒ 
.
Conditions for keeping the vehicle at a standstill with Auto Hold:
● The driver's door must be closed.
● The driver's seat belt must be buckled.
● The engine must be running.
● The ASR system is switched on ⇒ page 185.
Switching Auto Hold on and off manually
Press the AUTO HOLD
button ⇒ . 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 star-
ted. However, to switch the Auto Hold function on permanently, the mark
must be switched on in the Settings menu, “Autohold” submenu
⇒ page 62.
Auto Hold works automatically under the following conditions:
All points must be fulfilled simultaneously ⇒ : manual gearboxAutomatic gearbox1.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 engag-
ed uphill or the reverse gear is en-
gaged 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 re-
leases gradually.
Auto Hold turns off automatically under the following conditions:
manual gearboxAutomatic gearbox1.If one of the conditions mentioned in table on page 197 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).
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.
● Never leave the vehicle running and with the Auto Hold function
switched on.
● Auto Hold cannot always stop the vehicle uphill and downhill (for ex-
ample, if the ground is slippery or frozen).
CAUTION
Before entering an automatic car wash, always switch the Auto Hold func-
tion off, as it could be damaged when the electronic parking brake automat-
ically engages. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications

199
Driving
● If the driver unbuckles his/her seat belt.
● If the driver's door is opened.
● If the bonnet is opened.
● In vehicles with a manual gearbox: If a gear has been selected.
Switching Start-Stop mode on and off manually
● Press the 
button on the centre console ⇒ 
fig. 140.
● The 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.
● Never 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 temper-
atures could damage the vehicle's battery.
Note
● In some cases, you may have to restart the vehicle using the key. Ob-
serve the corresponding message on the instrument panel display.
● If the steering wheel is turned more than 270°, Stop will not function;
however, the angle of steering wheel turn does not affect starting the vehi-
cle. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications

200Driving
Parking sensor system*
Introduction
The parking sensor system assists the driver when parking. When the vehi-
cle approaches an obstacle, forwards or backwards, an intermittent sound
will be heard, higher or lower depending on the distance. The shorter the
distance, the shorter the intervals between tones. If the vehicle is too close
to the obstacle, the sound signal becomes constant.
If you continue to approach an obstacle when the sound is continuous, this
means the system can no longer measure the distance.
The sensor system on the bumpers transmit and receive ultrasound. Using
the ultrasound signal (transmission, reflection from the obstacle and recep-
tion), this system continuously calculates the distance between the bumper
and the obstacle.
Additional information and warnings:
● Park Assist system ⇒ page 204
● Accessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications ⇒ page 261
WARNING
The parking sensor system and the optical parking system cannot re-
place driver awareness.
● The sensors have blind spots in which obstacles and people are not
registered.
● Always observe the area around the vehicle, as the sensors do not al-
ways detect small children, animals or objects.
WARNING (Continued)
● The surface of certain objects and some clothing do not reflect the ul-
trasound signals from the parking distance system. The system cannot
detect or incorrectly detects these objects and people wearing these
types of clothes.
● External sound sources can affect the parking distance aid signals. In
this case, under certain circumstances, people and objects will not be de-
tected.
CAUTION
● The sensors may not always be able to detect objects such as trailer
draw bars, thin rails, fences, posts, trees and open boots, etc. This could re-
sult in damage to your car.
● Although the parking sensor system detects and warns of the presence
of an obstacle, the obstacle could disappear from the angle of measure-
ment of the sensors if it is too high or low and the system would no longer
indicate it. Therefore, it will not warn you of these objects. Ignoring the
warnings of the parking sensor system could cause considerable damage to
the vehicle.
● The bumper sensors may become damaged or misaligned, for example,
when parking.
● To ensure that the system works properly, the bumper sensors must be
kept clean, free of ice and snow and uncovered.
● When cleaning the sensors with high-pressure or steam cleaning equip-
ment, spray the sensors briefly at a distance of no less than 10 cm (4 in-
ches).
Note
Acoustic sources may lead to erroneous warnings on the parking sensor
system, e.g. rough tarmac, cobbles or the noise of other vehicles. 

201
Driving
Parking sensor system*
Fig. 141 Detailed view of
the centre console: but-
ton for switching the
parking sensor system
on and off.
Fig. 142 Parking sensor
system sensors on the
front bumper.
The parking sensor system assists the driver when parking. If the vehicle is
approaching an obstacle, an intermittent sound signal is emitted. The short-
er 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
●
Press the 
button ⇒ 
fig. 141 when the ignition is switched on.
● Automatic on: select reverse gear.
● Automatic 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
● The parking sensor system sometimes registers water on the sensors as
an obstacle.
● If the distance does not change, the warning signal will sound less loud-
ly after a few seconds. If the continuous signal sounds, the volume will re-
main constant.
● When the vehicle moves away from the obstacle, the beeping sound au-
tomatically switches off. On approaching the obstacle again, the beeping
sound will automatically switch back on.
● If the electronic parking brake is engaged or the gear lever is set to P, no
sound will be emitted.
● Your Technical Service 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 speci-
alised workshop to have the system checked as soon as possible. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications

203
Driving
Distance from the vehicle to the
obstacleAcoustic sig-
nalDisplayed in colour on
the screen: colour of the
segment if an obstacle is recognised
in front: approx. 31 – 120 cm
behind: approx. 31 – 160 cmbeepingsoundYellow
approx. 0 – 30 cm in front or be-
hind a)permanent
soundRed
a) The permanent sound starts at a somewhat greater distance on vehicles with a factory-fit-
ted towing bracket.
With towing bracket
A specific image is displayed on the screen of vehicles with a factory-fitted
towing bracket and an electrically connected trailer. In this case, the distan-
ces behind the vehicle are not indicated.
Switching the parking sensor system sound on and off
If the 
button on the radio or navigation system screen may mute the
sound of OPS warnings. To switch the warnings back on, press the button
again briefly.
When the OPS is switched off and back on again, muting is cancelled. Error
messages cannot be switched off.
WARNING
Do not be distracted from the traffic when looking at the screen.

Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications

204Driving
Park Assist system*
Introduction
The Park Assist system helps the driver to find a suitable place to park, to
insert the vehicle into parallel and perpendicular parking places and to
leave parallel parking places.
The Park Assist system is limited to the system abilities and requires that
the driver is especially attentive ⇒ 
.
The parking sensor system is a component of the Park Assist system that
helps to park the vehicle.
For vehicles with the optical parking system, the radio navigation systems
screen displays the detected zones in front of and behind the vehicle, indi-
cating - within the limits of the system - the position of obstacles compared
to the vehicle.
The park assist system cannot be switched on if the factory-fitted towing
bracket is electrically connected to a trailer.
Additional information and warnings:
● Braking, stopping and parking ⇒ page 185
● Parking sensor system ⇒ page 200
● Caring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior ⇒ page 246
● Accessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications ⇒ page 261
WARNING
Despite the assistance provided by the park assist system, do not run
any risks when parking. The system is not a replacement for driver
awareness.
● Unintentional movements of the vehicle could cause serious injury.
● Adjust your speed and driving style to visibility, road, traffic and
weather conditions.
● The surface of certain objects and items of clothing and external
sound sources may have a negative affect on the park assist signals or on
the system sensors or may not reflect its signals.
● The sensors have blind spots in which obstacles and people are not
registered.
● Always observe the area around the vehicle, as the sensors do not al-
ways detect small children, animals or objects.
CAUTION
● The park assist system aims exclusively at other parked vehicles, with-
out taking curbs or other circumstances into account. Make sure you do not
damage the tyres and wheel rims when parking. Where necessary, stop ma-
noeuvring to avoid damaging the vehicle.
● The sensors may not always be able to detect objects such as trailer
draw bars, thin rails, fences, posts and trees, etc. This could result in dam-
age to your car.
● Although the parking sensor system detects and warns of the presence
of an obstacle, the obstacle could disappear from the angle of measure-
ment of the sensors if it is too high or low and the system would no longer
indicate it. Therefore, it will not warn you of these objects. Ignoring the
warnings of the parking sensor system could cause considerable damage to
the vehicle. This is also valid when using the park assist (e.g. to park be-
hind a truck or motorcycle). Therefore, always keep a close watch on the
area in front of and behind the vehicle while parking, and intervene prompt-
ly if necessary. 

206Driving
Parking
● Parking parallel to the road: Drive next to the gap at a speed of no more
than 40 km/h and at a distance of between 0.5 m and 2 m.
● Parking 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.
● The best parking results will be achieved if you position the vehicle as
parallel as possible to the line of parked cars or the kerb.
● When a suitable parking place is displayed on the instrument panel,
stop and select reverse gear.
● Follow the instructions given on the instrument panel display
● Then, release the steering wheel when the warning signal sounds ⇒ 
:
The system will move the steering wheel! Observe the surrounding area.
● Observe the surrounding area and accelerate carefully at a maximum of
up to 7 km/h.
● The 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.
● Follow the instructions given by the park assist system until the ma-
noeuvre is completed.
● The park assist system steers the vehicle forwards and backwards until
it is in a straight position in the parking space.
● The 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 fol-
lowing:
● Press button 
.
● Driving faster than 7 km/h.
● The driver moves the steering wheel.
● The parking manoeuvre has not been completed after six minutes since
the park assist system was activated. ●
A sliding door is opened. To restart the manoeuvre, close the sliding
door and press the button 
again.
● There is a system malfunction (system temporarily unavailable).
● The ASR system is switched off or the ASR or ESC 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.
● 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 re-
quested.
● Changing gears between forward and reverse gears before indicated
(that is, before the signal from the parking sensor system) the parking re-
sults may not be ideal.
● 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.
● The park assist can also be activated afterwards, if you pass close to a
parallel parking space at a maximum of 40 km an hour or close to be per-
pendicular parking space at about 20 km an hour then press the button 
.
● The progress bar on the screen of the instrument panel shows a display
of the relative distance to be covered.
● When the Park Assist system is turning the steering wheel of the stop-
ped vehicle the symbol  is also displayed. Press on the brake pedal so
that the steering can turn with the vehicle at a standstill and thus reduce
the number of manoeuvres. 

207
Driving
● A suitable parking space length is at least 1.1 m greater than the length
of the vehicle.
● If the results of the park assist system are not as good after changing
the wheels, the system must memorise the perimeter of the new wheels.
This process is performed automatically while the vehicle is in motion. To
help this process, turn slowly (at less than 20 km/h), e.g. in an empty car
park. 
Leaving a parking space using the Park Assist system
Driving off
● Switch on the engine.
● Press button 
. When the function is enabled, the button
⇒ fig. 145
will light up.
● Apply the turn signal indicator for the side on which you want to leave
the parking space.
● Select reverse gear.
● Follow the instructions given by the park assist system.
● When the next indication appears, release the steering wheel ⇒ 
in
Parking using the park assist system on page 206: The system will move the
steering wheel! Observe the surrounding area.
● Observe the surrounding area and accelerate carefully at a maximum of
up to 7 km/h.
● The 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.
● When it is possible to leave the parking space, the Park Assist system
will stop. Take control of the steering and when traffic conditions permit,
leave the parking space. Automatic stoppage of the manoeuvre
The park assist system stops the manoeuvre in the event of one of the fol-
lowing:
●
Driving faster than 7 km/h.
● The driver moves the steering wheel.
● A sliding door is opened. To restart the manoeuvre, close the sliding
door and press the button 
again.
● There is a system malfunction (system temporarily unavailable).
● The ASR system is switched off or the ASR or ESC is working.
WARNING
The steering wheel turns quickly automatically when leaving a parking
space using the park assist system. Placing your hand between the steer-
ing wheel spokes could lead to injuries.

Park Assist brake operation
The Park Assist system helps the driver by braking automatically. Automatic
braking does not relieve the driver of responsibility for controlling the accel-
erator, brake and clutch ⇒ 
.
Braking to avoid damage at excess speed
It is possible that the system operates the brakes to reduce excess speed.
The parking manoeuvre can then continue. The brakes will intervene during
each parking process.
Braking to minimise damage
When approaching an obstacle, the vehicle may brake automatically. In cer-
tain circumstances (for example, storm, detection of ultrasounds, vehicle
status, load, inclination), the Park Assist system may stop the vehicle com-
pletely before an object. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications

208Driving
● Press the foot brake ⇒ 
!
Following the intervention of the brakes, the Park Assist will stop.
WARNING
Despite the assistance provided by the park assist system, do not run
any risks when parking. The system is not a replacement for driver
awareness.
● Always be ready to brake.
● Automatic brake intervention will end after 1.5 seconds approximate-
ly. Following automatic intervention of the brakes, stop the vehicle your-
self.
