Seat Alhambra 2012 Owner's Manual

219
Driving
Switching the lane assist system on or off
● Select the corresponding menu option using the button for the driver as-
sist systems ⇒ page 62.
● ALTERNATIVELY: Activate or deactivate the system in the menu Settings,
sub-menu Assist systems , menu Lane Assist ⇒ page 62. The “confirmation
sign” indicates that the driver assist system is switched on.
Automatic deactivation: the lane assist system can be deactivated automat-
ically if there is a system malfunction. Control lamp switches off.
The lane assist system is inactive (control lamp lit in yellow)
● When the speed of travel drops to below approx. 65 km/h (40 mph).
● When the lane assist system does not detect the dividing lines of the
road. For example, in the event of road works, and snow, dirt, moisture or
reflections.
● When the radius of a curve is too small.
● When there is no dividing line.
● When the distance to the next dividing line is excessive.
● When there are more than two lane markings per lane.
● When the ASR is switched off.
● When the system does not detect any active rotation of the steering
wheel by the driver during a prolonged period.
● Temporarily, in the event of very dynamic driving.
● When the turn signal is connected.
Note
Before starting travel, verify that the camera's field of vision is not covered
⇒ fig. 153.
Note
Keep the camera window clean. Disconnect the lane assist system in the following
situations
Due to the limits of the lane assist system, disconnect it in the following sit-
uations:
●
When more attention is required of the driver
● For very sporty driving
● In very unfavourable weather conditions
● In very unfavourable road conditions
● In areas of road works 
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220Driving
Sign Assist*
Introduction
Sign Assist can help the driver with information on speed limits or if over-
taking is prohibited at that moment. The traffic signs and additional infor-
mation detected by the system is represented in the instrument panel dis-
play and in the visual presentation of the navigation system map.
Applicable countries:
Sign Assist is supported in the following countries:
Andorra, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Finland, France, Ireland, Italy, Liech-
tenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, Netherlands, Norway, Austria, Poland, Por-
tugal, San Marino, Sweden, Switzerland, Spain, Czech Republic, United
Kingdom, Vatican City.
Additional information and warnings:
● SEAT information system ⇒  page 62
● Navigation system ⇒  Booklet Navigation system
WARNING
The traffic signs and instructions shown by Sign Assist may differ from
the current traffic situation.
● The signs and Highway Code rules always take precedence over the
instructions and display of Sign Assist.
● Adjust your speed and driving style to visibility, road, traffic and
weather conditions.
● The system cannot always detect or correctly show all the traffic
signs.
WARNING
The traffic sign detection is not a replacement for driver awareness.
● Adverse conditions of visibility, darkness, snow, rain and fog can
cause the system not to show the traffic signs or to show them errone-
ously.
CAUTION
● If old mapping data is used in the navigation system, this may cause the
traffic signs to be shown incorrectly.
● In the route points mode (navigation by route points) of the navigation
system, Sign Assist is only partly available. 

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Driving
Indication on display
Fig. 154 Dash panel display: Examples of speed
limits or overtaking prohibitions detected together
with the corresponding additional signs.
Display text of Sign Assist
on the instrument panelCause and solution
Error: Sign AssistSystem fault.
Have the system checked by a specialised
workshop.
Sign Assist: Clean the wind-
screen!The windscreen is dirty in the area of the
camera.
Clean the windscreen.
Sign Assist: only partly availa-
ble at the moment.No data is being transmitted from the navi-
gator.
Connect the navigator and insert the navi-
gation data medium.
ALTERNATIVELY: Sign Assist is not suppor-
ted in the country in which you are driving
at this time.
WARNING
If the warning lamps and messages are ignored, the vehicle may stall in
traffic, or may cause accidents and severe injuries.
● Never ignore the warning lamps or text messages.
● Stop 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. 
Operation mode
Sign Assist does not work in all countries. This must be taken into account
when travelling abroad.
Display of traffic signs
Speed limits or overtaking prohibitions together with the corresponding ad-
ditional signs are shown on the instrument panel display ⇒ fig. 154. De-
pending on the navigation system installed in the vehicle, traffic signs will
be shown as above and also in the navigation system's map display.
When Sign Assist is connected, the vehicle records the traffic signs with a
camera in the base of the interior rear vision mirror. After checking and eval-
uating the information from the camera, the navigation system and the cur-
rent vehicle data, up to three valid traffic signs are displayed in conjunction
with the corresponding additional signs. The traffic sign that is currently val-
id for the driver is shown first, in the left side of the screen. A traffic sign of
only limited validity, e.g. 90 km/h is shown second, together with the addi- tional sign “if the road is wet”. If the vehicle's rain sensor detects rain 
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222Driving
during travel, the traffic sign valid at this moment will move to the first posi-
tion along the additional sign “if the road is wet”.
The permanent display on the instrument panel screen is shown as you
pass the real traffic signs. The signs for entering and leaving towns activate
the display of the usual speed limits for that country on roads in populated
areas and national highways, even if the speed is not limited by an actual
traffic sign.
The end of a prohibition or limitation is not displayed. If you exceed the
speed limits shown, a warning will not appear. The system does not detect
areas with little traffic. The current legal provisions apply.
Connection and disconnection
● Connect or disconnect the assist system in the Settings menu in the
SEAT information system ⇒ page 62.
● ALTERNATIVELY: Press the button for the driver assist systems on the
main beam lever.
Trailer
Connect or disconnect the secondary display for speed limits and overtak-
ing bans that apply to trailers (trailer mode) in the Settings menu in the
SEAT information system ⇒ page 62. 

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Driving
Tiredness detection (recommendation to
take a break) Introduction
Additional information and warnings:
● SEAT information system ⇒ page 62
● Accessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications ⇒ page 261
WARNING
Do not let the extra convenience afforded by the tiredness detection func-
tion tempt you into taking any risks when driving. When making long
trips, conveniently long breaks must be taken.
● The driver is responsible for determining their capacity to drive.
● Never drive when tired.
● The system does not always detect the tiredness of the driver. Please
read the information provided in the section ⇒ page 224, Limited opera-
tion.
● In some situations the system may incorrectly interpret an intended
manoeuvre as a sign of tiredness of the driver.
● In the event of the an episode called “microsleep” at the wheel, a
strong warning is not in place!
● Observe the indications on the display of the instrument panel and
act in accordance with them.
Note
● The tiredness detection function has only been conceived for driving on
motorways and wide roads.
● If there is a fault in the system, refer to a Specialised workshop to have
the system inspected. Function and operation
Fig. 155 Display in the
instrument panel: tired-
ness detection symbol.
The tiredness detection function registers the behaviour of the driver at the
wheel at the beginning of a journey and, using this, evaluates the tiredness.
This is continually compared with the current behaviour at the wheel. If the
system detects that the driver is tired, an audible warning using a “gong” is
given and a symbol and complementary message on the instrument panel
display are shown ⇒ fig. 155. The message on the instrument panel display
is shown for about 5 seconds and, if necessary, is repeated a second time.
The system stores the last message displayed.
The message that appears on the instrument panel display can be switched
off by pressing the OK
button on the multifunction steering wheel or on the
window wiper lever ⇒ page 65. Using the multifunction display ⇒ page 65
the message on the instrument panel display can be shown.
Conditions of operation
The behaviour at the wheel is only evaluated at speeds of above 65 km/h
(40 mph). 
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224Driving
Switching on and off
The system can be switched on or off in the Assistants menu. If an assis-
tance system is switched on, this is indicated with a mark.
Limited operation
The tiredness detection function is subject to certain limitations. Therefore
it is possible that in some driving situations behaviour at the wheel cannot
be correctly interpreted. E.g. in the following situations:
● at speeds lower than 65 km/h (40 mph),
● in sections with corners,
● on roads in poor condition,
● in the event of adverse weather conditions,
● when a sporty driving style is employed,
● in the event of a major distraction for the driver,
The tiredness detection function switches off when the ignition is switched
off or when the driver unbuckles their seat belt and opens the door. When
driving over a long period of time at a speed below about 65 km/h (40
mph), the system automatically stops evaluating tiredness. If driving speed
is then increased, the behaviour at the wheel will again be evaluated. 

225
Driving
Tyre monitoring systems Introduction
The tyre monitor indicator monitors the tyre pressure of each wheel during
driving using the ABS sensors. The ABS sensors monitor the tyre tread pe-
rimeter and vibrations of each tire. The tyre monitor indicator warns the driv-
er 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 instru-
ment panel. When you open the driver's door, you will find a label indicat-
ing the tyre pressure recommended 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 co-
incides with actual tyre pressure ⇒ page 227.
Suitable use of the adjustment button ⇒ page 227.
Additional information and warnings:
● Transporting ⇒  page 13
● Braking, stopping and parking ⇒  page 185
● Caring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior ⇒ page 246
● Wheels and tyres ⇒ page 297
● Accessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications ⇒ page 261
WARNING
Unsuitable handling of the wheels and tyres may lead to sudden tyre
pressure losses, to tread separation or even to a blow-out.
● Check 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.
● Tyre pressure should be that indicated on the label when the tyres are
cold at all times ⇒ page 301.
● Regularly check the cold inflation pressure of the tyres. If necessary,
change the tyre pressure of the vehicle tyres while they are cold.
● Regularly check your tyres for damage and wear.
● Never 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 ⇒ page 227.
CAUTION
● The 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 ⇒ page 227.
● Do not damage the valves when changing the tyres ⇒ page 227.
For the sake of the environment
Under-inflated tyres lead to increased fuel consumption and tyre wear. 
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226Driving
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.
● The tyre monitoring system is set to the tyre pressure recommended by
the manufacturer and indicated on the label ⇒ fig. 178.
Elements of the tyre monitoring indicator
Tyre monitoring indicator with button.See ⇒ page 227. Warning lamp  on the instrument panel.  SET button on the centre console.
Monitoring the tread of all tyres using ABS sensors (indirect measure-
ment).
 Adjustable medium and full-load tyre pressures. Button to update the system when the tyre pressure is changed. Control lamp
Lights
up or
flashesPossible cause ⇒ Solution

The tyre pressure of a wheel
has dropped considerably in
relation to the pressure set by
the driver ⇒ page 227.
 Stop the vehicle! Reduce your
speed immediately! Stop the ve-
hicle safely as soon as possible.
Avoid sudden manoeuvres and
braking!
Check all tyres and pressures.
Replace any damaged tyres.
System malfunction.
Consult a specialised workshop
if the tyre pressure is correct and
the lamp remains lit after
switching the ignition off and
back on again. Have the system
checked there.
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
When the tyres are inflated at different pressures or at a pressure that is
too low then a tyre may the damaged resulting in a loss of control of the
vehicle and a serious or mortal accident.
● If the indicator  lights, stop immediately and check the tyres.
● If the tyres are inflated at different pressures or if a tyre pressure is
too low, this will increase tyre wear, negatively affecting vehicle stability
and increasing braking distances. 

227
Driving
WARNING (Continued)
● If tyres are inflated at different pressures or a tyre pressure is too low,
a tyre may be damaged and burst resulting in a loss of control of the ve-
hicle.
● The driver is responsible for ensuring that all of the vehicle tyres are
correctly inflated to the right pressure. The recommended tyre pressure
is indicated on the label ⇒ fig. 178.
● The tyre monitoring system can only operate correctly if all of the
tyres are inflated to the correct pressure when cold.
● Driving with tyres at the wrong pressure can cause damage to them
and result in an accident. Ensure that the tyre pressures of all the tyres
correspond to the vehicle load.
● Before starting a journey, always inflated tyres to the correct pres-
sure.
● If tyre pressure is too low then the tyre is subject to greater forces
and it may be heated to such an extent that the tread can rupture and the
tyre will burst.
● With an overloaded vehicle at high speed, the tyres can overheat and
burst resulting in a loss of vehicle control.
● Tyre pressures which are too high or too low reduce the useful life of
the tyre, affecting the vehicle's performance.
● If a tyre has not been punctured then it does not have to be changed
immediately; drive to the nearest specialised workshop at a moderate
speed and have the tyre checked and inflated to the correct pressure.
WARNING
If the warning lamps and messages are ignored, the vehicle may stall in
traffic, or may cause accidents and severe injuries.
● Never ignore the warning lamps or text messages.
● Stop 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. 
Tyre monitoring indicator
Fig. 156 Detailed view of
the centre console: but-
ton for the tyre pressure
monitoring indicator.
The tyre monitor indicator compares wheel revolutions and, with this infor-
mation, the tread of each wheel using the ABS sensors. If the tread of a
wheel is changed, the tyre monitoring indicator will indicate as such on the
instrument panel. The wheel tread changes when:
● Tyre pressure is insufficient.
● Tyre structure is damaged.
● The vehicle is unbalanced because of a load.
● The wheels on an axle are subject to a heavier load (e.g. when towing a
trailer). 
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228Driving
● The vehicle is fitted with snow chains.
● The wheel on one axle is changed.
There may be a delay in the reaction of the tyre monitoring indicator  or it
may not indicate anything under certain circumstances (e.g. sports driving,
snow-covered or unpaved roads).
Adaptation of the tyre monitoring indicator
On adjusting tyre pressure or changing one or more wheels, the ⇒ fig. 156
button on the tyre monitoring indicator must be kept pressed down, with
the ignition on, until a signal is heard. Do the same, for example, when the
front and rear wheels are swapped ⇒ fig. 177.
If the wheels are subjected to an excessive load (towing a trailer, heavy
load), the tyre pressure must be increased to the maximum recommended
pressure ⇒  page 297. Press the tyre monitoring indicator button to confirm
the new pressure value.
Note
An erroneous indication may be given when snow chains are in use because
the chains increase the tread of the wheel. 