warning lights Seat Alhambra 2013 Owner's Guide

103
Lights and visibility
Sun blind Introduction
WARNING
Sun visors and sun blinds may reduce visibility when open.
● Always roll or fold sun blinds and visors away when not in use.

Sun visors
Fig. 63 Sun visor
Options for adjusting driver and front passenger sun visors:
● Lower by unfolding towards the windscreen.
● The sun visor can be pulled out of its mounting and turned towards the
door ⇒ Fig. 63 1
.
● Swing the sun visor towards the door, longitudinally backwards. Vanity mirror light
There may be a vanity mirror, with a cover, on the rear of the sun visor. When
the cover is opened
2
a light comes on.
The lamp goes out when the vanity mirror cover is closed or the sun visor is
pushed back up.
Note
The light above the sun visor automatically switches off after a few minutes
in certain conditions. This prevents the battery from discharging. 
Rear side window sun blinds
Fig. 64 On the rear
right-hand window: sun
blind
The sun blinds for the vehicle interior are fitted in the side panels of the
windows. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications

105
Lights and visibility
Windscreen wiper and washer
Introduction
Additional information and warnings:
● Recirculation of air conditioner air ⇒ page 156
● Working in the engine compartment ⇒ page 278
● Caring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior ⇒ page 245
WARNING
Water from the windscreen washer water bottle may freeze on the wind-
screen if it does not contain enough anti-freeze, reducing forward visibili-
ty.
● In winter, ensure the windscreen washer contains enough anti-freeze.
● In cold conditions, you should not use the wash/wipe system unless
you have warmed the windscreen with the ventilation system. The anti-
freeze could freeze on the windscreen and reduce visibility.
WARNING
Worn or dirty wiper blades reduce visibility and increase the risk of acci-
dent and serious injury.
● Always replace damaged or worn blades or blades which do not clean
the windscreen correctly.
CAUTION
In icy conditions, always check that the wiper blades are not frozen to the
glass before using the wipers for the first time. In cold weather, it may help
to leave the vehicle parked with the wipers in service position ⇒ page 107. Control lamp
lights upPossible causeSolution
Windscreen wiper fluid level
too lowTop up the windscreen wiper
reservoir as soon as possible
⇒ page 109.
Several warning and control lamps should light up for a few seconds when
the ignition is switched on, signalling that the function is being verified.
They will switch off after a few seconds.
CAUTION
Failure to heed the control lamps and text messages when they appear may
result in faults in the vehicle. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications

109
Lights and visibility
● Damaged blades: A film of water on the damaged blades may lengthen
the activation time, reduce the washing intervals or result in a fast and con-
tinuous wipe.
● Insects: insects on the sensor may trigger the windscreen washer.
● Salt on roads: in winter, salt spread in the roads may cause an extra
long wipe when the windscreen is almost dry.
● Dirt: dry dust, wax, coating on glass (Lotus effect) or traces of detergent
(car wash) may reduce the effectiveness of the rain sensor or make it react
more slowly, later or not at all.
● Cracked windscreen: the impact of a stone will trigger a single wipe cy-
cle with the rain sensor on. Next the rain sensor detects the reduction in the
sensitive surface area and adapts accordingly. The behaviour of the sensor
will vary with the size of the damage caused by the stone.
WARNING
The rain sensor may not detect enough rain to switch on the wipers.
● If necessary, switch on the wipers manually when water on the wind-
screen obstructs visibility.
Note
● Clean the sensitive surface of the rain sensor regularly and check the
blades for damage ⇒ Fig. 69 (arrow).
● To remove wax and coatings, we recommend a window cleaner contain-
ing alcohol. Checking and topping up the windscreen washer reservoir
with water
Fig. 70 In the engine
compartment: wind-
screen washer reservoir
top
Check the water level in the windscreen washer reservoir regularly and top
up as required.
● Open the bonnet 
⇒  page 278.
● The washer reservoir is marked with the symbol  on the lid
⇒ Fig. 70.
● Check there is enough water in the reservoir.
● To top up, mix water with a window cleaner recommended by SEAT
⇒ 
.
Please follow the instructions for use found on the packaging.
● In cold weather, a special antifreeze should also be added to prevent
the water from freezing ⇒ 
.
Reservoir capacity
The reservoir holds approximately 3.0 litres; in vehicles with headlight
washer, it is approximately 7.0 litres. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications

110Lights and visibility
WARNING
Never mix an unsuitable antifreeze or other similar additives with the
windscreen washer water. A greasy layer may be formed on the wind-
screen which will impair visibility.
● Use clean water with a window cleaner recommended by SEAT.
● If necessary, add a suitable antifreeze to the water in the reservoir.
CAUTION
● Do not mix cleaning products recommended by SEAT with other prod-
ucts. This could lead to flocculation and may block the windscreen washer
jets.
● When topping up service fluids, make absolutely certain that you fill the
fluids into the correct reservoirs. Using the wrong fluids could cause serious
malfunctions and engine damage! 
Rear vision mirror
Introduction
Additional information and warnings:
● Personal convenience settings in the SEAT information system
⇒  page 62
● Seat memory
⇒ page 117
● Changing gear
⇒ page 175
● Braking, stopping and parking
⇒ page 184
WARNING
The automatic anti-dazzle rear vision mirror contains an electrolytic fluid
which may leak if the mirror is broken. This fluid can cause irritation to
the skin, eyes and respiratory organs.
● The electrolytic fluid may cause irritation to the skin, eyes and respi-
ratory organs, particularly in individuals suffering from asthma or other
illnesses. Make sure that adequate quantities of fresh air enter and leave
the vehicle if it is not possible to open all the doors and windows.
● If the electrolytic fluid comes into contact with eyes or skin, wash the
area for at least 15 minutes with plenty of water, and seek medical ad-
vice.
● If the electrolytic fluid comes into contact with shoes or clothing,
wash the area for at least 15 minutes with plenty of water. Wash shoes
and clothing before wearing them again.
● If the electrolytic fluid is swallowed, wash your mouth with plenty of
water for at least 15 minutes. Do not try to provoke vomiting unless rec-
ommended by a Doctor. Seek medical advice immediately.
CAUTION
In the event that an automatic anti-dazzle rear vision mirror breaks, an elec-
trolyte fluid may leak. This liquid attacks plastic surfaces. Therefore, it
should be cleaned as fast as possible with a damp sponge or similar. 

111
Lights and visibility
Rear vision mirror
Fig. 71 Manual anti-daz-
zle function for rear vi-
sion mirror
Fig. 72 Automatic anti-
dazzle function for rear
vision mirror
The driver should always adjust the rear vision mirror to permit adequate
visibility through the rear window. Manual anti-dazzle function for interior rear vision mirror
●
Basic position: point the lever at the bottom of the mirror forwards.
● Pull the lever to the back to select the anti-dazzle function ⇒ Fig. 71.
Automatic anti-dazzle function for interior mirror
Legend for the Fig. 72:
control lamp
Control
Light incidence sensor
This function can be activated and deactivated by pressing the rear vision
mirror switch 2
. When it is activated, the warning lamp lights up 1.
When the ignition is on, the sensor 3
automatically moves the rear vision
mirror to the anti-dazzle position depending upon the incidence of the light
from behind.
The automatic anti-dazzle function is deactivated when reverse gear is en-
gaged or the interior or reading lights are on.
Note
If the incidence of the light on the sensor is obstructed or prevented, e.g. by
the sun blinds, the rear vision mirror with automatic anti-dazzle function will
not operate correctly. 
1
23
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications

113
Lights and visibility
WARNING
Fold and unfold the exterior mirror, taking care to avoid injuries.
● Only fold or unfold the exterior mirror when there is no-one in the way
of the mirror.
● When moving the mirror, take care not to trap fingers between the
mirror and the mirror bracket.
WARNING
Failure to correctly estimate the distance of the vehicle behind could lead
to serious accident.
● Rear-view convex or aspheric mirrors increase the field of vision, how-
ever objects appear smaller and further away in the mirrors.
● The use of these mirrors to estimate the distance to the next vehicle
when changing lane is imprecise and could result in serious accident.
● If possible, use the rear vision mirror to estimate distances to vehi-
cles behind you or in other circumstances.
● Make sure that the rear visibility is adequate.
CAUTION
● Before entering a car wash, always ensure that the exterior mirrors are
correctly folded in.
● Electrically-folding exterior mirrors should not be folded and unfolded
mechanically as this may damage the electrical operation.
For the sake of the environment
The exterior mirror heating should be switched off when it is no longer nee-
ded. Otherwise, it is an unnecessary fuel waste.
Note
● The exterior mirror heating initially heats up with a high power, after two
minutes the heat will depend upon the ambient temperature.
● In the event of faults, the electric exterior mirrors can be adjusted man-
ually by pressing the edge of the mirror surface. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications

118Seats and storage
FunctionAction ⇒ Fig. 78To switch system on:Press button . Seat heating is switched on fully.Adjusting the heating
output:Keep pressing button  until the required intensi-
ty is set.
To switch system off:Keep pressing button  until all of the lights are
switched off ⇒ Fig. 78.
WARNING
People whose pain and temperature threshold has been affected by some
kind of medicine, paraplegia or chronic illness (e.g. diabetes) may sus-
tain burns to the back, buttocks and legs from use of the seat heating
that may lead to a long healing process or that may never completely
heal. Seek medical advice if you have doubts regarding your health.
● People with a limit pain and temperature threshold must never use
seat heating.
CAUTION
● To avoid damaging the heating elements of the seat heating, please do
not kneel on the seat or apply sharp pressure at a single point to the seat
cushion and seat backrest.
● Liquids, sharp objects and insulating materials on the seat could dam-
age the seat heating.
● In the event of smells, switch off the seat heating immediately and have
the unit inspected by a specialised workshop.
For the sake of the environment
The seat heating should remain on only when needed. Otherwise, it is an
unnecessary fuel waste. Seat with position memory*
Fig. 80 Memory buttons
on the outside of the
driver seat
Memory buttons
Individual settings for the driver seat and the exterior mirror can be as-
signed to each memory button.
Storing exterior mirror settings for driving forwards
● Connect the automatic parking brake.
● Move the gear lever to neutral.
● Switch the ignition on.
● Adjust the front seat and the exterior mirrors.
● Keep the SET
button held down for more than one second
⇒ Fig. 80.
● Press the required memory button for the following 10 seconds. An au-
dible warning confirms the settings have been stored.
Storing front passenger exterior mirror settings for driving in reverse gear
● Connect the automatic parking brake.
● Move the gear lever to neutral.
● Switch the ignition on. 

160Air conditioning
Control but-
tonAdditional information. Electronic manual air conditioning
⇒ Fig. 122; Climatronic ⇒ Fig. 123.

Climatronic: Accept the temperature selection for the driver
and front passenger sides: When the SYNC button light is lit,
the temperature settings on the driver side also apply to the
passenger side. Press the button or adjust the temperature
control for the passenger side in order to set a different tem-
perature. No lamp lights up on the button.

Climatronic: Automatic temperature, fan, and air distribution
control. Press the button to switch on the function. The con-
trol lamp lights up on the AUTO
button.

Climatronic: Press the button REAR to adjust the air condi-
tioner for the rear seats from the front seats. A lamp is lit in
the REAR
button if the function is activated. The settings for
the rear seats will be displayed. Press the button again to
switch the function off or do not touch any other button for
around 10 seconds.

Climatronic: Press the button REST to use the heat that the
engine radiates. When the engine is still warm but the igni-
tion switched off, the heat given off by the engine can be
used to keep the vehicle interior warm. The REST
button will
light up when the function is switched on. The function will
switch off after around 30 minutes and if the battery level is
low.
a)
Switch off.
Electronic manual air conditioning : Turn the fan switch to
setting 0.
Climatronic: Press the button OFF
or manually set the fan to
0. When the device is switched off the OFF button will light
up.
a) Depending on the version of the model.
WARNING
Never turn off the air fan for a long time or the air in the vehicle interior
will not be refreshed.
● Stuffy or used air will increase fatigue and reduce driver and passen-
ger concentration possibly resulting in a serious accident.
Note
● Not all Climatronic buttons are operational in REAR mode.
● The REAR
button is locked in defrost mode. 
Rear operation
Fig. 124 Details of the
rear operation
Control
⇒ Fig. 124Description
ATemperature selectorBAir flow regulator

163
Air conditioning
Switching off: Press the button  until the lamp on the button switches off.
Switching the recirculation mode on and off manually on the
Climatronic 
Switching on: Press the button  until the lamp on the button lights up.
Switching off: Press the button  until the lamp on the button switches
off.
Automatic air recirculation mode 
Fresh air enters the vehicle interior in position . If the system detects a
high concentration of hazardous substances in the ambient air, air recircu-
lation mode is switched on automatically. When the level of impurities
drops to within a normal range, recirculation mode is switched off.
The system is unable to detect unpleasant smells.
With the following outside temperatures and conditions the air recirculation
does not switch on automatically:
● The cooling system is switched on (the AC
button is lit up) and the out-
side temperature is below +3 °C (+38 °F).
● The cooling system and the windscreen wipers are switched off and the
outside temperature is below +10 °C (+50 °F).
● The cooling system is switched off and the outside temperature is below
+15 °C (+59 °F). The windscreen wiper is switched on.
Switching the automatic air recirculation mode on and off
Switching on: Press the button  until the right lamp on the button lights
up.
Switching off: Press the button  until all the lamps on the button are
switched off. Switching the automatic air recirculation mode off temporarily
●
Press the  button once to temporarily switch to manual air recircula-
tion mode in the event of unpleasant smells from outside. The left indicator
lamp turns on.
● After more than two seconds, press the  button again to restart auto-
matic air recirculation. The right indicator lamp turns on.
WARNING
Stuffy or used air will increase fatigue and reduce driver concentration
possibly resulting in a serious accident.
● Never use recirculation mode for long periods as it does not refresh
the air inside the vehicle.
● If the cooling system is switched off and air recirculation mode
switched on, the windows can mist over very quickly, considerably limit-
ing visibility.
● Switch air recirculation mode off when it is not required.
CAUTION
Do not smoke when air recirculation is switched on in vehicles with an air
conditioner. The smoke taken in could lie on the cooling system vaporiser
and on the activated charcoal cartridge of the dust and pollen filter, leading
to a permanently unpleasant smell.
Note
Climatronic: Air recirculation mode switches on to prevent exhaust gas from
entering the vehicle interior when it is in reverse and while the automatic
windscreen wash and wipe is working. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications

167
Air conditioning
Checking programming
If the timer has been switched on after switching the ignition off, the instant
on button 
will remain lit for around ten seconds.
WARNING
Never program the independent heating system to be activated and oper-
ated in closed, unventilated areas. The auxiliary heater fumes contain
carbon dioxide, an odourless and colourless toxic gas. Carbon monoxide
can cause people to lose consciousness. It can also cause death.

Operating instructions
The auxiliary heater exhaust system located below the vehicle must be kept
clear of snow, mud and other objects. The exhaust gases must not be ob-
structed in any way. The exhaust gases generated by the auxiliary heater are
removed via an exhaust pipe fitted underneath the vehicle.
On heating the vehicle interior, depending on the outside temperature the
warm air is first directed at the windscreen and then to the rest of the vehi-
cle interior through the air vents. If the air vents are turned towards the win-
dows, for example, the form of air distribution may be affected.
Depending on the outside temperature, the temperature at which the auxili-
ary heater warms the vehicle interior may be somewhat higher if the heating
or air conditioner temperature control is set to maximum before switching
the heating on.
Depending on the engine, vehicles with auxiliary heater may be fitted with a
second battery in the luggage compartment that is responsible for powering
the auxiliary heater. Cases in which the auxiliary heater will not switch on
●
The auxiliary heater requires about as much power as the dipped beam
headlights. If the battery charge is low, the auxiliary heater will switch off
automatically or will not even switch on. This avoids problems when starting
the engine.
● The heater will switch just once each time. The timer will also have to be
switched back on every time it is required.
Note
● Noise will be heard while the auxiliary heater is running.
● When the air humidity is high and the outside temperature low, the
heating system may evaporate condensation from the auxiliary heater. In
this case, steam may be released from underneath the vehicle. This is com-
pletely normal and there is no need to suspect a fault!
● If the auxiliary heater runs several times over a prolonged period, the ve-
hicle battery may run flat. To re-charge the battery, drive the vehicle for a
long distance. In general: drive for as much time as the auxiliary heating
was working. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications