heating Seat Altea 2007 Owner's Guide

Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning
158General notesThe pollen filter
The pollution filter (a combined pa rticulate filter and activated carbon filter)
serves as a barrier against impurities in the outside air, including dust and
pollen.
For the air conditioning system to work with maximum efficiency, the pollen
filter must be replaced at the intervals specified in the Service Schedule.
If the filter loses efficiency prematurely due to use in areas with very high
levels of air pollution, the pollen filte r must be changed more frequently than
stated in the Service Schedule.
Caution
•
If you suspect that the air conditioner is damaged, switch off the air condi-
tioner with button to prevent further damage and have it checked by a
qualified workshop.
•
Repairs to the air conditioning system require specialist knowledge and
special tools. Therefore, we recommend that you take the vehicle to a quali-
fied workshop should problems occur.Note
•
If the humidity and temperature outside the vehicle are high, condensa-
tion can drip off the evaporator in the cooling system and form a pool under-
neath the vehicle, this is completely normal and there is no need to suspect
a leak.
•
Keep the air intake slots in front of the windscreen free of snow, ice and
leaves to ensure heating and cooling is not impaired, and to prevent the
windows misting over.
•
The air from the vents flows through the passenger compartment and is
extracted by slots designed for this purpose. Do not cover these slots with
articles of clothing or other objects.
•
The air conditioning system operates most effectively with the windows
and the sliding/tilting roof* closed. Howe ver, if the sun has heated up the
vehicle, the air inside can be cooled more quickly by opening the windows for
a short period.
•
Do not smoke while air recirculation mode is on, as smoke drawn into the
air conditioning system leaves a r esidue on the evaporator, producing a
permanent unpleasant odour.
•
The air conditioning should be turned on at least once a month, to lubri-
cate the system gaskets and prevent leaks. If a decrease in the cooling
capacity is detected, an Authorised Service Centre should be consulted to
check the system.
ECON
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Driving163
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
– Let go of the ignition key as soon as the engine starts; the starter
motor must not be allowed to run on with the engine.After starting a very hot e ngine, you may need to pres s the accelerator briefly.
When starting from cold, the engine ma y be a little noisy for the first few
seconds until oil pressure has built up in the hydraulic valve compensators.
This is quite normal, and no cause for concern.
If the engine does not start immediatel y, switch off the starter after about
10 seconds and try again after about half a minute. If the engine still does not
start, the fuel pump fuse should be checked ⇒page 242, “Fuses”.
WARNING
•
Never start or run the engine in unventilated or closed rooms. The
exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, an odourless and colourless
poisonous gas. Risk of fatal accidents. Carbon monoxide can cause loss of
consciousness. It can also cause death.
•
Never leave the vehicle unattended if the engine is running.
•
Never use “cold start sprays”, they could explode or cause the engine
to run at high revs. Risk of injury.Caution
•
When the engine is cold, you should avo id high engine speeds, driving at
full throttle and ov erloading the engine. Risk of engine dama ge.
•
The vehicle should not be pushed or towed for more than approximately
50 metres to start the engine. Fuel could enter the catalytic converter and
damage it.
•
Before attempting to push-start or tow a vehicle to start it, you should first
try to start it using the battery of another vehicle. Note and follow the instruc-
tions ⇒ page 258, “Jump-starting”.
For the sake of the environment
Do not warm up the engine by running the engine with the vehicle stationary.
You should drive off as soon as you start the engine. This helps the engine
reach operating temperature faster and reduces emissions.Starting diesel engines
The engine can only be started using a genuine SEAT key with
the correct code.– Move the gear lever to the neutral position and depress the clutch pedal fully and hold it in this position, the starter will then
only have to turn the engine.
– Turn the ignition key to the starting position.
– Turn the ignition key to position ⇒page 161, fig. 132 . The
indication lamp

will light for engine pre-heating.
– When the warning lamp goes out, turn the key to position to start the engine. Do not press the accelerator.
– Let go of the ignition key as soon as the engine starts, the starter motor must not be allowed to run on with the engine.
When starting from cold, the engine ma y be a little noisy for the first few
seconds until oil pressure has built up in the hydraulic valve compensators.
This is quite normal, and no cause for concern.
If there are problems starting the engine, see ⇒page 258.
A1A2
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Driving
164Glow plug system for the diesel engine
To avoid unnecessary load on the battery, do not use any other major elec-
trical equipment while the glow plugs are pre-heating.
Start the engine as soon as the glow plug warning lamp ⇒page 81 goes out.
Starting the engine after the fuel tank has been completely run dry
If the fuel tank has been completely run dry, it may take longer than normal
(up to one minute) to start the engine afte r refuelling with diesel fuel. This is
because the system must eliminate air first.
WARNING
•
Never start or run the engine in un ventilated or closed rooms. The
exhaust fumes contain carbon mono xide, an odourless and colourless
poisonous gas. Risk of fatal accidents. Carbon monoxide can cause loss of
consciousness. It can also cause death.
•
Never leave the vehicle unattended if the engine is running.
•
Never use “cold start sprays”, they could explode or cause the engine
to run at high revs. Risk of injury.Caution
•
When the engine is cold, you should av oid high engine speeds, driving at
full throttle and over loading the engine. Risk of engine damage.
•
The vehicle should not be pushed or towed for more than approximately
50 metres to start the engine. Fuel could enter the catalytic converter and
damage it.
•
Before attempting to push-start or tow a vehicle to start it, you should first
try to start it using the battery of another vehicle. Note and follow the instruc-
tions ⇒page 258, “Jump-starting”.
For the sake of the environment
Do not warm up the engine by running the engine with the vehicle stationary.
You should drive off as soon as you start the engine. This helps the engine
reach operating temperature faster and reduces emissions.Switching off the engine– Stopping the engine.
– Turn the ignition key to position ⇒page 161, fig. 132 .After the engine is switched off the radiator fan may run on for up to 10
minutes, even if the ignition is switched of f. It is also possible that it will turn
itself on once more if the temperature of the coolant increases due to the
elimination of built-up heat in the engine compartment or if this is heated due
to prolonged exposure to the heat of the sun.
WARNING
•
Never switch off the engine until the vehicle is stationary.
•
The brake servo works only when the engine is running. You will need
more strength to brake the vehicle when the engine is switched off. As you
cannot brake in the normal manner, there is a greater risk of accidents and
serious injury.
•
The steering lock can engage immediately when the key is removed
from the ignition lock. The vehicle cannot be steered. Risk of accident.
A0
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Driving169
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Hill stop
– Hold the vehicle, in all cases, using the foot brake to prevent
rolling back.
– Do not try to slow the vehicle using another forward gear (engine braking).
Descending gradients
– With the gear engaged, release the brake and accelerate.The steeper the gradient the lower the gear must be for effective engine
braking. For example, if 3rd gear is used on a very steep gradient, the engine
braking is insufficient and vehicle accelerates. So that the engine speed does
not become excessive, the gearbox changes to the next highest gear. Depress
the brake pedal and move the selector lever to the Tiptronic gate to return to
3rd gear.
WARNING
•
The driver should never leave the vehicle while the engine is running or
with any gear selected. If for any reason you must leave the vehicle with the
engine running, apply the handbrake and move the selector lever to posi-
tion P.
•
When the engine is running and the po sitions D, S or R are selected, it
is necessary to hold the vehicle with the foot brake because the vehicle will
creep at a low speed.
•
Never accelerate while changing the position of the selector lever (risk
of an accident).
•
The selector lever must never be mo ved into the positions R or P while
moving (risk of an accident).
•
Before descending a steep gradient, reduce speed and use the Tiptronic
programme to select a lower gear.
•
If you must stop on a hill, always hold the vehicle using the footbrake
to avoid rolling back.
•
The footbrake must not be held for a long period of time, not even
lightly; continuous braking will ca use overheating of the brakes and a
reduction or even a loss of braking power and a significant increase in
braking distances.
•
Never allow the vehicle to coast down a gradient with the selector lever
in positions N or D, even when the engine is not running. For descents, the
use of the Tiptronic programme is recommended to keep the speed
reduced.Caution
•
Never use the automatic gearbox to hold the vehicle stationary on a hill,
even for short periods, as this may overheat the gearbox and cause damage.
Apply the handbrake or depress the foot brake to hold the vehicle in position.
•
If the vehicle is allowed to roll with the engine stopped but the selector in
position N then the gearbox may be damaged because it will not be
lubricated.WARNING (continued)
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Driving171
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Note
•
The steering wheel controls may be used in all selector lever positions
while driving.
HandbrakeUsing the handbrake
The handbrake should be applied firmly to prevent the
vehicle from accidentally rolling away.Always apply the handbrake when you leave your vehicle and when
you park. Applying the handbrake
– Pull the handbrake lever up firmly
⇒fig. 141.
Releasing the handbrake
– Pull the lever up slightly and press the locking knob in the direc- tion of the arrow ⇒fig. 141 and guide the handbrake lever down
fully ⇒ .
Always apply the handbrake firmly; this prevents you driving with the hand-
brake applied ⇒.
The handbrake warning lamp
 lights up when the handbrake is applied
and the ignition switched on. The wa rning lamp goes out when the hand-
brake is released.
If you drive faster than 6 km/h with the handbrake on, the following
message* will appear in the instrument display: HANDBRAKE ON . Also, an
audible warning is given.
WARNING
•
Never use the handbrake to slow down the vehicle when it is in motion.
The braking distance is considerably longer, as braking is only applied to
the rear wheels. Ri sk of accident!
•
If it is only partially released this will cause overheating of the rear
brakes, which can impair the function of the brake system and could lead
to an accident. This also causes premature wear on the rear brake
pads/linings.Caution
Always apply the handbrake before you leave the vehicle. The first gear
should also be selected.
Fig. 141 Handbrake
between the front seats
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Intelligent technology
182
Caution•
In order to ensure that ESP functions correctly, all four wheels must be
fitted with the same tyres. Any differences in the rolling radius of the tyres can
cause the system to reduce engine power when this is not desired.
•
Modifications to the vehicle (e.g. to the engine, the brake system, running
gear or any components affecting the wheels and tyres) could affect the effi-
ciency of the ABS, EDL, ESP and TCS.Note
To disconnect using the ESP button ⇒page 160.Anti-lock brake system (ABS)The anti-lock brake system prevents the wheels locking during braking
⇒page 180.Electronic differential lock (EDL)*
The electronic differential lock helps prevent the loss of trac-
tion caused if one of the driven wheels starts spinning.EDL helps the vehicle to start moving, accelerate and climb a gradient in slip-
pery conditions where this may otherwise be difficult or even impossible.
The system will control the revolutions of the drive wheels using the ABS
sensors (in case of an EDL fault the warning lamp for ABS lights up)
⇒page 78.
At speeds of up to approximately 80 km/h, it is able to balance out differ-
ences in the speed of the driven wheel s of approximately 100 rpm caused by a slippery road surface on
one side of the vehicle. It does this by braking the
wheel which has lost traction and distributing more driving force to the other
driven wheel via the differential.
To prevent the disc brake of the braked wheel from overheating, the EDL cuts
out automatically if subjected to excessive loads. The vehicle will continue to
function normally without EDL. For this reason, the driver is not informed that
the EDL has been switched off.
The EDL will switch on again automatically when the brake has cooled down.
WARNING
•
When accelerating on a slippery surface, for example on ice and snow,
press the accelerator carefully. Despite EDL, the driven wheels may start to
spin. This could impair the vehicle's stability.
•
Always adapt your driving style to su it road conditions and the traffic
situation. Do not let the extra safety afforded by EDL tempt you into taking
any risks when driving, this can cause accidents.Caution
Modifications to the vehicle (e. g. to the engine, the brake system, running
gear or any components affecting the wh eels and tyres) could affect the oper-
ation of the EDL ⇒page 201.The traction control system (TCS)The traction control system prevents the drive wheels from spinning when the
car is accelerating ⇒page 180.
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Driving and the environment
184Authorised Service Centre more frequently than recommended in the Service
Schedule.
If you drive with wet brakes, for example after driving through water, after
heavy rainfall or after washing the car, the braking effect will be reduced as
the brake discs will be wet, or possibly frozen (in winter): the brakes must be
“dried” through careful braking.
The brake fluid must be changed every two years at the latest. Heavy use of
the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the brake fluid is left in the system for
too long. This prevents the brakes developing their full braking effect.
WARNING
Longer braking distances and faults in the brake system increase the risk
of accidents.•
New brake pads must be run-in and do not have the correct friction
during the first 200 km. However, the reduced braking capacity may be
compensated by pressing on the brake pedal a little harder. This also
applies when new brake pads are fitted.
•
If brakes are wet or frozen, or if you are driving on roads which have
been gritted with salt, braking power may set in later than normal.
•
On steep descents if the brakes are excessively used they will over
heat. Before driving down a long steep gradient, it is advisable to reduce
speed and change to a lower gear (or mo ve the selector lever to a lower gear
if your vehicle has automatic transmission). This makes use of engine
braking and relieves the brakes.
•
Never let the brakes “rub” by applying light pressure. Continuous
braking will cause the brakes to overheat and will increase the braking
distance. Apply and then release the brakes alternately.
•
Never let the vehicle coast with the engine switched off. The braking
distance is increased considerably as the brake servo does not function.
•
Very heavy use of the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the brake fluid
is left in the system for too long. This impairs the braking effect.
•
Non-standard or damaged front spoilers could restrict the airflow to the
brakes and cause them to overheat. Observe the relevant instructions
before purchasing accessories ⇒page 201, “Modifications”.
•
If a brake circuit fails, the braking distance will be increased consider-
ably. Contact a qualified workshop immediately and avoid unnecessary
journeys.
Exhaust gas purification systemCatalytic converter*To conserve the useful life of the catalytic converter
– Always use unleaded petrol.
– Do not run the fuel tank dry.
– For engine oil changes, do not replenish with too much engine oil ⇒page 214, “Topping up engine oil ”.
– Never tow the vehicle to start it, use jump leads if necessary ⇒page 258.If you notice misfiring, uneven running or loss of power when the vehicle is
moving, reduce speed immediately and have the vehicle inspected at the
nearest qualified workshop. In general, the exhaust warning lamp will light
up when any of the described symptoms occur ⇒page 72. If this happens,
unburnt fuel can enter the exhaust system and escape into the environment.
The catalytic converter can also be damaged by overheating.
WARNING (continued)
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Driving and the environment185
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
WARNING
The catalytic converter reaches very high temperatures! Fire hazard!•
Never park where the catalytic converter could come into contact with
dry grass or inflammable materials under the vehicle.
•
Do not apply additional underseal or anti-corrosion coatings to the
exhaust pipes, catalytic converter or the heat shields on the exhaust
system. These materials could catch fire when the vehicle is driven.Caution
Never fully drain the fuel tank, in this case, the irregularity of the fuel supply
may cause ignition problems. This allow s unburnt fuel to enter the exhaust
system, which could cause overheating and damage the catalytic converter.
For the sake of the environment
Even when the emission control system is working perfectly, there may be a
smell of sulphur from the exhaust unde r some conditions. This depends on
the sulphur content of the fuel used. Quite often the problem can be reme-
died by changing to another brand of fuel.Diesel engine particulate filter*
The diesel engine particulate filter eliminates soot produced
by burning diesel.The diesel engine dust filter eliminates most of the soot from the exhaust gas
system. The soot particulates accumulate in the filter where they are regularly
burned. In order to facilitate this process, occasional journeys at speeds of more than 60 kmh should be made. If the vehicle is only used for short trips
then the soot will build up in the particulate filter.
WARNING
•
The diesel engine particulate filter may reach extremely high tempera-
tures; it should not enter into contact with flammable materials under-
neath the vehicle. Failure to comply could result in fire.Caution
Vehicles equipped with a diesel engine particulate filter must not be refuelled
using biodiesel (RME), given that the fuel system may be damaged.Driving abroadNotesFor driving abroad, the following must be taken into consideration:•
For vehicles fitted with a catalytic converter ensure that unleaded petrol is
available for the journey. See the chap ter “Refuelling”. Automobile organisa-
tions will have information about service station networks selling unleaded
fuel.
•
In some countries it is possible that a vehicle model is sold under condi-
tions where some spare parts are not available or that the Authorised Service
Centre may only carry out limited repairs.
SEAT importers and distributors will gladly provide information about the
technical preparation of your vehicle in addition to necessary maintenance
and repair possibilities.
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Driving and the environment
190
WARNING
The towing bracket ball coupling must be stored securely in the luggage
compartment to prevent them being flung through the vehicle and causing
injury.
Note
•
By law, the ball coupling must be removed if a trailer is not being towed
and it obscures the number plate.
Driving tips
Driving with a trailer always requires extra care.Weight distribution
The weight distribution of a loaded trailer with an unladen vehicle is very
unfavourable. However, if this cannot be avoided, drive extra slowly to allow
for the unbalanced weight distribution.
Speed
The stability of the vehicle and trailer is reduced with increasing speed. For
this reason it is advisable not to drive at the maximum permissible speed in
unfavourable road, weather or wind conditions. This applies especially when
driving downhill.
You should always reduce speed immediately if the trailer shows the slightest
sign of snaking . Never try to stop the “snaking” by increasing speed.
Always brake in good time. If the trailer has an overrun brake, apply the
brakes gently at first and then firmly. This will pr event the jerking that can be
caused by the trailer wheels locking. Select a low gear in good time before
going down a steep descent. This enables you to use the engine braking to
slow down the vehicle. Heating
At very high temperatures and during prolonged ascents, driving in a low gear
and high engine speed, always moni
tor the temperature indicator for the
coolant ⇒page 55.
Electronic Stabilisation Program*
Do not switch off the ESP* when towing a trailer. The ESP* makes it easier to
stabilise if the trailer starts to snake.
Driving economically and with respect for the
environmentGeneral notes
Fuel consumption depends largely on your personal driving
style.Fuel economy, environmental impact and wear on the engine, brakes and
tyres depend largely on three factors:•
Personal driving style
•
Conditions of use (weather, road surface)
•
Technical requirements
By adopting an economical driving style and anticipating the traffic situation
ahead, you can easily reduce fuel consumption by 10-15%. This section
suggests methods of lessening the impact on the environment and reducing
your operating costs at the same time.
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Cleaning and caring for your vehicle
196•
The heating element for the rear window is located on the inner side of the
window. To prevent damage, do not put stickers over the heating elements on
the inside of the window.
Cleaning windscreen wiper bladesClean wiper blades are essential for clear vision.
1. Use a soft cloth to remove dust and dirt from the windscreen wiper blades.
2. Use window cleaner to clean the windscreen wiper blades. Use a sponge or a cloth to remove stubborn stains.Care of rubber seals
If rubber seals are well looked after, they will not freeze so
quickly.1. Use a soft cloth to remove dust and dirt from the rubber seals.
2. Apply a specialist care product to the rubber seals.The weather strips on the doors, windows, bonnet and rear lid will remain
pliable and last longer if they are treated with a suitable care product (for
example silicone spray).
Caring for rubber seals will also prevent premature ageing and leaks. The
doors will be easier to open. If rubber seals are well looked after, they will not
freeze so quickly in winter.
Door lock cylinders
The door lock cylinders can freeze up in winter.To de-ice the lock cylinders you should only use spray with lubricating and
anti-corrosive properties.Cleaning chrome parts1. Clean chrome parts with a damp cloth.
2. Polish chrome parts with a soft, dry cloth.If this does not provide satisfying results, use a specialist chrome cleaning
product . Chrome cleaning products will remo ve stains and coatings from the
surface.
Caution
To prevent scratching chrome surfaces:•
Never use an abrasive care product on chrome.
•
Do not clean or polish chrome part s in a sandy or dusty environment.
Steel wheels– Clean steel wheels regularly using a separate sponge.Use an industrial cleaner to remove brake dust. Any damage to the paint on
steel wheels should be repaired before the metal starts to rust.
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