wheel Seat Alhambra 2012 Workshop Manual

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. 

229
Driving and the environment
Practical tips Driving and the environment
Running-in
Please observe the instructions for running-in new components.
Running-in the engine
The engine needs to be run-in over the first 1500 km (1000 miles). During
its first few hours of running, the internal friction in the engine is greater
than later on when all the moving parts have bedded down.
How the vehicle is driven for the first 1500 km (1000 miles) influences the
future engine performance. Throughout the life of the vehicle, it should be
driven at a moderate speed – especially when the engine is cold – this will
reduce engine wear and increase its useful life. Never drive at extremely low
engine speeds. Always engage a lower gear when the engine works “irregu-
larly”. For the first 1000 km or 600 miles, please note:
● Do not use full throttle.
● Do not force the engine above two thirds of its maximum speed.
● Do not tow a trailer.
Between 1000 and 1500 kilometres (600 to 1000 miles), gradually in-
crease power until reaching the maximum speed and high engine speeds.
Running in new tyres and brake pads
● Replacement of new tyres and wheel rims ⇒ page 297
● Notes on the brakes ⇒ page 189
For the sake of the environment
If the engine is run in gently, the life of the engine will be increased and the
engine oil consumption reduced. 
Ecological driving Introduction
Fuel consumption, environmental impact and engine, brake and tyre wear
depend largely on three factors:
● Personal driving style.
● Conditions of use (weather, road surface).
● Technical requirements.
Savings of up to 25% in fuel consumption are possible with an appropriate
driving style and the adoption of certain simple tips.
WARNING
Always adapt your speed and the distance to the vehicles ahead in line
with visibility, weather conditions, the condition of the road and the traf-
fic situation.

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235
Trailer towing
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 inter-
vals.
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 func-
tion 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 ⇒ 
.
Additional information and warnings:
● Anti-theft alarm system ⇒ page 74
● Light ⇒ page 95
● Ecological driving ⇒ page 229
● Starter assist systems (Start-Stop function) ⇒ page 196●
Wheels and tyres ⇒ page 297
● Accessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications ⇒ page 261
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.
● Only use a tow hitch in good condition and correctly installed.
● Never change or repair a tow hitch.
● To 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.
● Never 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.
● Always secure loads correctly with suitable and undamaged attach-
ment rope or straps.
● Adjust your speed and driving style to visibility, road, traffic and
weather conditions. 
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240Trailer towing
Trailer electric socket
The electric connection between vehicle and trailer is a 13-pin socket. If the
trailer plug has seven pins, an adapter cable must be used.
Trailer rear lights
Check the trailer rear lights to ensure they work correctly and remain legal.
Ensure that the trailer does not use more than the maximum power
⇒ page 237.
Trailer connected to the anti-theft alarm:
● When a vehicle comes from the factory fitted with an anti-theft alarm
and tow hitch.
● When the trailer is connected to the vehicle using the socket.
● When the vehicle and trailer electrical systems work correctly and are
not damaged.
● When the vehicle is locked using the vehicle key and the anti-theft alarm
is turned on.
When the vehicle is locked, the alarm is triggered when the electrical con-
nection between the vehicle and the trailer is removed.
Always turn off the anti-theft alarm system before connecting or disconnect-
ing a trailer. Otherwise, the tilt sensor may erroneously activate the alarm.
WARNING
Erroneous or unsuitable connection of electric cables may supply energy
to the trailer causing an anomaly in the vehicle electronics that could re-
sult in an accident with serious consequences.
● All work on the electrical system must be carried out only by a speci-
alised workshop.
● Never connect the trailer's electric system to the electrical connec-
tions of the rear lights or any other power sources.
CAUTION
Do not leave the trailer connected to the vehicle when parked; places on its
support wheel or its supports. For example, when changing the load or a
puncture, the vehicle will be pushed up or down. The force acting on the
tow hitch and the trailer could damage the vehicle or the trailer.
Note
● In case of a fault in the vehicle or trailer electrical system or in case of
problems with the anti-theft alarm system, have the system checked by a
specialised workshop.
● If the trailer accessories use energy from the socket when the engine is
stopped, the battery will be discharged.
● For technical reasons, trailers fitted with rear LED lights cannot be con-
nected to the anti-theft alarm system.
● If the vehicle battery is running low, the electrical connection with the
trailer is automatically cut.
● With the engine running, the electrical equipment on the trailer will con-
sume power. 
Loading the trailer
Trailer weight / drawbar load
The trailer weight is the load that the vehicle can pull ⇒ . The drawbar
load is the vertical weight of the trailer hitch on the tow hitch ball
⇒  page 244.
The figures for trailer weights and draw bar weights given on the data plate
of the towing bracket are for values of this model only. The correct figures
for your specific vehicle, which may be lower than these figures for the tow
hitch, are given in the registration documents. The instructions in the offi-
cial vehicle documents take precedence. 

241
Trailer towing
For the sake of road safety, SEAT recommends using the maximum allowed
drawbar load. The handling of the combined vehicle and trailer will be poor
if the drawbar load is too low.
The drawbar load increases the weight on the rear axle, reducing the vehicle
carrying capacity.
Gross combination weight
This figure refers to the combined weight of the loaded vehicle and loaded
trailer.
Loading the trailer
The combined vehicle and trailer must be balanced. Use the maximum
drawbar load authorised and do not overload the front or the rear of the
trailer:
● Distribute loads in the trailer so that heavy objects are as near to the
axle as possible or even above it.
● Correctly secure the trailer load.
Tyre pressure
Inflate the trailer tyres according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Inflate the towing vehicles tyres to the maximum ⇒ page 297.
WARNING
Exceeding the maximum authorised axle load, drawbar load or the gross
combination weight of the towing vehicle and trailer could cause a seri-
ous accident with severe consequences.
● Never exceed the specifications.
● With the actual load on the front and rear axles, the maximum axle
load should never be exceeded. The weight on the front and rear should
never exceed the gross vehicle weight.
WARNING
If the load moves, the stability and safety of the vehicle and trailer com-
bination will be seriously affected and this could result in a serious acci-
dent.
● Always correctly load the trailer.
● Always secure loads correctly with suitable and undamaged attach-
ment rope or straps.

Driving with a trailer
Adjusting the headlights
When towing a trailer, the front of the vehicle may rise and so the dipped
beam headlights may blind other drivers. Use the headlight range control to
lower the cone of light. If you do not have headlight range control, have the
headlights adjusted by a qualified dealership. Vehicles with high-intensity
discharge lamps adapt automatically and do not require adjustment.
Details of driving with a trailer
● If the trailer has an overrun brake, apply the brakes gently at first and
then, firmly. This will prevent the jerking that can be caused by the trailer
wheels locking.
● As of the combined vehicle and trailer mass, braking distances will be
greater.
● Select a low gear before driving down a steep hill to use the engine
braking effect to slow down the vehicle. Otherwise, the braking system
could overheat and fail. 
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247
Vehicle maintenance and cleaning
Washing the vehicle
The longer substances such as insects, bird droppings, resinous tree sap,
road dirt, industrial deposits, tar, soot or road salt and other aggressive ma-
terials remain on the vehicle, the more damage they do to the paintwork.
High temperatures (for instance due to strong sunlight) further intensify the
corrosive effect. The vehicle undercarriage should also be thoroughly wash-
ed at regular intervals.
Automatic car washes
Always observe the instructions provided at the automatic car wash. The
standard precautionary measures prior to entering the car wash should be
taken to avoid damage to the vehicle (close all windows, fold in exterior mir-
rors). If the vehicle is fitted with additional components (spoiler, roof-rack,
aerial...), check with the car wash supervisor whether these can enter the
car wash ⇒ 
.
The vehicle paintwork is so durable that the vehicle can normally be washed
without problems in an automatic car wash tunnel. However, wear and dam-
age to the paintwork will depend on the type of car wash used. SEAT recom-
mends the use of car washed without brushes.
To remove traces of wax on windows and to prevent wiper blades from
scratching, please observe the following ⇒ page 249, Cleaning windows
and exterior mirrors.
Washing the car by hand
When washing the car by hand, use plenty of water to soften the dirt first,
and rinse off as well as possible.
Then clean the vehicle with a soft sponge, glove or brush using only slight
pressure. Start at the roof and work downwards. Special car shampoo
should only be used for very persistent dirt.
Rinse the sponge or glove thoroughly and often.
Wheels, sills and similar should be cleaned last. Use a second sponge for
this.
WARNING
Sharp components on the vehicle may cause injury.
● Protect arms and hands from sharp edges when cleaning the vehicle
undercarriage or the interior of the wheel hubs.
WARNING
After the vehicle has been washed, the braking effect will be reduced
(and the braking distance increased) due to moisture (and ice in winter)
on the brakes.
● Dry the brakes and remove ice by braking carefully. Ensure that you
are not endangering other road-users or breaking traffic regulations in
the process.
CAUTION
● The temperature of the water must not exceed +60 °C (+140 °F).
● To avoid damage to the paintwork, do not wash the vehicle in full sun.
● Do not use rough sponges or similar which could damage the surface to
clean away the traces of insects.
● Never wipe the headlights with a dry cloth or sponge, always moisten
first. It is best to use soapy water.
● Washing the vehicle in low temperatures: When washing the vehicle
with a hose, do not direct water into the lock cylinders or the gaps around
the doors, tailgate, or sunroof. Locks and seals could freeze!
CAUTION
To prevent damage to the vehicle, please observe the following before en-
tering an automatic car wash :
● Compare the distance between the vehicle wheels and the distance be-
tween the guide-rails of the car wash to prevent damage to the wheels and
tyres! 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications

252Vehicle maintenance and cleaning
● Use a clean, damp, lint-free cloth to clean anodized surfaces.
● If there is a lot of dirt, use a special cleaning product which does not
contain solvents.
CAUTION
To prevent damage to the anodized surfaces:
● Do not use products containing solvents.
● Do not use polish or hard wax.
● Do not use abrasive products.
● Do not polish anodized surfaces in sandy or dusty environments.
● Do not polish dirty surfaces. 
Cleaning wheels
Cleaning steel wheels
Use an industrial cleaner to remove brake dust. Therefore, clean wheels reg-
ularly with a separate sponge.
Any damage to the paint on steel wheels should be touched up before the
metal starts to rust.
Caring for and cleaning alloy wheels
Remove road salt and brake dust by washing the wheels approximately
once a fortnight. Use an acid free detergent to clean the wheel rims. SEAT
recommends treating the wheels thoroughly with a wax compound about
once every three months.
It is important to remove road salt and brake dust by washing the wheels at
regular intervals, otherwise the finish will be impaired.
Always use an acid-free detergent for alloy wheel rims. Car polish or other
abrasive agents should not be used. If the protective coating on the paint has been damaged (for example, hit by
a stone), it should be repaired immediately.

Caring for rubber seals
The rubber seals on doors, windows, etc., remain flexible, provide a better
seal and last longer if they are regularly treated with a product specifically
designed for use on rubber.
Before applying the product, use a soft cloth to remove dust and dirt from
the rubber seals. 
De-icing the door lock cylinder
To de-ice the lock cylinders, SEAT recommend the use of genuine SEAT spray
with lubricating and anti-corrosive properties.
CAUTION
The use of products containing degreasing agents to de-ice the locks may
rust the lock cylinder. 
Protection of vehicle undercarriage
The vehicle underbody is coated to protect it from chemical and mechanical
damage. The protective coat on the undercarriage may wear through use
while driving. Therefore, SEAT recommends that the protective coating on
the undercarriage and on the running gear should be regularly checked, and
repaired if necessary. 