warning lights Seat Altea 2007 Owner's Guide

Lights and visibility
116
Signalling a lane change
– Push the lever up or down to the point where you incur resistance and then release the lever. The turn signal will flash
several times. The corresponding warning lamp will also flash.
Switching main beam on and off
– Turn the light switch to position

.
– Press the lever forward ⇒page 115, fig. 77 to switch on the
main beams.
– Pull the lever back towards you to switch the main beam head- lights off again.
Headlight flasher
– Pull the lever towards the steering wheel to operate the flasher.
Switching on parking lights
– Switch off the ignition and remove the key from the lock.
– Move the lever up or down to turn on the right or left-hand parking lights respectively.
WARNING
The main beam can dazzle other drivers. Risk of accident! Never use the
main beam headlights or the headlight flasher if they could dazzle other
drivers.
Note
•
The turn signals only work when the ignition is switched on. The corre-
sponding warning lamp
 or  flashes in the combi-instrument. The
warning lamp
 flashes when the turn signals are operated, provided a
trailer is correctly attached and connected to the vehicle. If a turn signal bulb
is defective, the warning lamp flashes at double speed. If the trailer turn
signal bulbs are damaged, warning lamp
 does not light up. You should
have the bulb replaced.
•
The main beam headlights can only be switched on if the dipped beam
headlights are already on. The warning lamp
 then comes on in the combi-
instrument.
•
The headlight flasher comes on for as long as you pull the lever – even if
no other lights are switch ed on. The warning lamp
 then comes on in the
combi-instrument.
•
When the parking lights are switched on, the headlight and the rear light
on the corresponding side of the vehicle light up. The parking lights will only
work if the key is removed from the igni tion. If the lights are switched on, a
buzzer gives an audible warning while the driver door is open.
•
If the turn signal lever is left on after the key has been taken out of the
ignition lock, an acoustic signal sounds when the driver door is opened. This
is a reminder to switch off the turn signal, unless of course you wish to leave
the parking light on.
A1
A2
A3
A4
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Lights and visibility121
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Optional heated windscreen in the wiper blade* area (page
In some countries and with some versions, there is the possibility of heating
the windscreen in the area of the windscreen wiper blades in order to aid de-
icing in the zone.
This function is activated by turning the exterior heated rearview mirror*
control forwards
⇒page 125.
WARNING
•
Worn and dirty wiper blades obstruct visibility and reduce safety levels.
•
In cold conditions, you should not use the wash / wipe system unless
you have warmed the windscreen with the heating and ventilation system.
The washer fluid could otherwise freeze on the windscreen and obscure
your view of the road.
•
Always note the corresponding warnings on ⇒page 219.Caution
In icy conditions, always check that th e wiper blades are not frozen to the
glass before using the wipers for the fi rst time. If you switch on the wipers
when the wiper blades are frozen to the windscreen, you could damage both
the wiper blades and the wiper motor.
Note
•
The windscreen wipers will only work when the ignition is switched on.
•
In vehicles fitted with alarms and in certain versions, the windscreen
wipers only operate when the igniti on is on and the bonnet closed.
•
When in use, the wipers do not go as far as the rest position. When the
lever is moved to position 0, they are totally hidden.
•
The next speed down will automatically be selected if wiper speed
⇒ page 120, fig. 84 or is selected when the vehicle stops. The set speed
will be resumed when the vehicle starts again.
•
The windscreen will be wiped again after approximately five seconds once
the “automatic wipe/wash system” has been operated while the vehicle is in
transit (automatic function). If the wi ndscreen wiper function is activated
within three seconds of the automatic function, a new cleaning cycle begins
without performing the final wipe. To reactivate the “automatic” function the
ignition must be turned off and on again.
•
When the “intermittent wi pe function” is on, the intervals are directly
proportional to the speed. This way, the higher the vehicle speed the shorter
the intervals.
•
The wiper will try to wipe away any obstacles that are on the windscreen.
The wiper will stop moving if the obstacle blocks its path. Remove the
obstacle and switch the wiper back on again.
•
Before removing any objects that may be trapped in the side areas of the
windscreen, always move the wiper arms to the service position
(horizontal).
A2
A3
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Lights and visibility123
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Rear window wiper

The windscreen wiper lever operates the windscreen wiper
and the wash and wipe system for the rear window.Switching on the interval wipe
– Press the lever forwards to position ⇒fig. 87 . The wiper will
wipe the window approximately every 6 seconds.
Switching off the interval wipe function
– Pull the lever back from positi on towards the steering wheel.
The wiper will continue to function for a short period if you switch
off whilst the wipers are in motion. Switching on the windscreen wiper and washer system
– Press the lever fully forwards to position
⇒fig. 87. The wash
function will start immediately and the wiper will start with a
slight delay. The windscreen wash system will function as long as
you hold the lever in this position.
– Return the lever back to the rest position. The wiper then wipes for approximately 4 seconds, and then in intervals again.
– Return the lever back to the rest position. The washer system stops and the wipers function.
WARNING
•
A worn or dirty wiper blade will obstruct visibility and reduce safety.
•
Always note the corresponding warnings on ⇒page 219.Caution
In icy conditions, always check that the wiper blade is not frozen to the glass
before using the wiper for the first time. If you switch on the wiper when the
wiper blade is frozen to the glass, this could damage both the wiper blade
and the wiper motor.
Note
•
The windscreen wiper will only function when the ignition is switched on
and the tailgate is closed.
•
In reverse gear, with the windscreen wipers switched on, the rear wind-
screen wiper will make one wipe.
F i g . 8 7 W i n d o w w a s h a n d
wipe lever: Rear window
wiper
A6
A6
A7
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Lights and visibility
124Headlight washer system
The headlight washers clean the headlight lenses.The headlight washers are activated automatically when the windscreen
washer is used and the windscreen wiper lever is pulled towards the steering
wheel for at least 1.5 seconds – provided the dipped headlights or main
beams are switched on. Clean off stubborn dirt (insects, etc.) from the head-
lights at regular intervals, for in stance when filling the fuel tank.
Note
•
To ensure that the headlight washers work properly in winter, keep the
nozzle holders in the bumper free of snow and remove any ice with a de-icer
spray.
•
To remove water, the windscreen wiper s will be activated from time to
time, the headlight wipers will be activated every three cycles.
MirrorsInterior mirror
It is dangerous to drive if you cannot see clearly through the
rear window.Manual anti-dazzle function for interior mirror
In the basic mirror position, the lever at the bottom edge of the mirror should
be at the front. Pull the lever to the back to select the anti-dazzle function.
Automatic anti-dazzle interior mirror*
The automatic anti-dazzle function can be switched on and off
as desired.Switching off anti-dazzle function
– Press button ⇒fig. 88 . Warning lamp goes out.
Switching on anti-dazzle function
– Press button ⇒fig. 88 . Warning lamp is lit.Anti-dazzle function
The anti-dazzle function is activated every time the ignition is switched on.
The green indicator lamp ligh ts up in the mirror housing.
When the anti-dazzle function is acti vated the interior mirror will darken auto-
matically according to the amount of light it receives (for example from the
headlights of a vehicle behind). The anti-dazzle function is cancelled if
reverse gear is engaged.
Fig. 88 Automatic anti-
dazzle interior mirror.
AA
AB
AA
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Lights and visibility
126
2. Turn the rotary knob to position the mirror so that you have a good view to the rear of the vehicle. The right exterior mirror will
be adjusted at the same time (synchronised).
WARNING
•
The rear view convex or aspheric mirror increase the field of vision
however the objects appear smaller and further away in the mirrors. If you
use these mirrors to estimate the distance to vehicles behind you when
changing lane, you could make a mistake. Risk of accident.
•
If possible, use the interior mirror to estimate distances to vehicles
behind you.
•
Make sure that you do not get your finger trapped between the mirror
and the mirror base when folding back the mirrors. Risk of injury!For the sake of the environment
The exterior mirror heating should be switched off when it is no longer
needed. Fuel is wasted otherwise.
Note
•
If the electrical adjustment ever fa ils to operate, the mirrors can be
adjusted by hand by lightly pressing the edge of the mirror glass.
•
The following guideline applies to vehicles with electric exterior mirrors:
If the mirror housing is moved as a resu lt of exterior force (e.g. knocked when
parking the vehicle), the mirrors must be folded in electrically to the final
position. Do not readjust the mirror h ousing by hand, as this will interfere
with the mirror adjuster function.
•
The rear view mirrors can be adjusted separately or simultaneously, as
described before.
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Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning 155
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
The air conditioning system only works when the engine is running
and the blower is switched on.
– Press the temperature control buttons ⇒page 154, fig. 127
or in order to adjust the temperature on the left hand side or
the right-hand side respectively.
– T he

functions will be switched on when the buttons are pressed.
When these functions are activated, they are indicated in the
display. Also, the de-icing and re ar heated window functions will
turn on along with their corres ponding yellow symbol. Press the
button again to switch off the function.
The temperature can be adjusted separately for the left and right sides of the
vehicle interior.
Display of the selected interior temperature for the left side.
Button – Manual air recirculation mode
Button – Central air distribution
Button – Downward air distribution
Button – Upward air distribution
Display of the selected interior temperature for the right side.
Button – defrost function for the windscreen. The air drawn in from
outside the vehicle is directed at the windscreen. The air recirculation
mode, if switched on, will be switched off as soon as the defrost function
is switched on. At temperatures over 3°C, the air conditioning system will
be switched on automatically and the blower speed will be increased by
one level in order to dry the air. The button lights up yellow and the
symbol appears in the display.
Button – Rear window heating. The heating will be switched off auto-
matically approximately 20 minutes after switching on. However, it may
be turned off by pushing the button. The button lights up yellow and the
symbol appears in the display.
Temperature selector for the left side ⇒page 155 Blower control
⇒page 156
Button – Switches the 2C-Climatronic on and off ⇒page 156
Button – Automatic temperature, ventilation and air distribution
control ⇒page 155
Button – Switches heating, ventilation and air-conditioning
system off
Temperature selector for the right side ⇒page 155
WARNING
For road safety all windows must be clear of ice, snow, and condensation.
This is essential to ensure good visibility. Please familiarise yourself with
the correct operation of the heating and ventilation system, including the
anti-fog/defrost functions for the windows.
Note
Please observe the general notes ⇒page 158.Automatic mode
In automatic mode air temperature, airflow and distribution
are automatically regulated so that a specified temperature is
attained as quickly as possible and then maintained.The temperature can be adjusted separately for the left and right
sides of the vehicle interior.
Switching on automatic mode
– Press the button ⇒page 154, fig. 127 . “AUTO” is shown
on the display.
A9
A14
A1A2

A3

A4

A5

A6A7

A8

A9
A10A11
OFF
A12
AUTO
A13
ECON
A14
AUTO
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Driving161
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
•
when rocking the vehicle backwards and forwards to free it from mud, for
example.
You should press the button to switch the ESP back on when you no longer
need wheel spin.
The TCS and EDL are also switched off if the ESP is switched off. That is to say,
these systems are not available while ESP is not activated.
When does the button light up or flash?
•
It lights up when the ignition is switched on and should go out again after
about 2 seconds.
•
It will start flashing to indicate that ESP is counteracting an unstable
driving condition.
•
It will light up continuously if there is a malfunction in the ESP.
•
It will light up continuously if the ESP is switched off.
WARNING
•
The electronic stabilisation program (ESP) cannot defy the laws of
physics. This should be kept in mind, particularly on slippery and wet
roads and when towing a trailer.
•
Always adapt your driving style to suit the condition of the roads and
the traffic situation. Do not let the extra safety afforded by ESP tempt you
into taking any risks when driving, this can cause accidents.
•
Please refer to the corresponding warning notes on ESP in ⇒page 179,
“Intelligent technology”.
Ignition lockPosition of the ignition keyIgnition switched off, steering lock
In the position ⇒fig. 132 the ignition and the engine are OFF and the
steering may be locked.
For the Steering lock to operate without the ignition key, turn the steering
wheel until it locks with an audible sound. You should always lock the
steering wheel when you leave your vehicle. This will help prevent theft of the
vehicle ⇒ .
Switching on the ignition or glow plug system
Tu rn the ignition key to this position and let go of the key. If the key canno t b e
turned or is difficult to turn from position to position , move the
steering wheel (to take the load off the steering lock mechanism) until the key
turns freely.

Fig. 132 Ignition key
positions
A0
A1
A0
A12
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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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Checking and refilling levels
218Washer fluid and windscreen wiper bladesTopping up washer fluid

The water for cleaning the windscreen should always be
mixed with washer fluid.The windscreen washer and the headlight washing system are supplied with
fluid from the windscreen washer fluid container in the engine compartment.
The reservoir is located on the right-hand side of the engine compartment.
Plain water is not enough to clean th e windscreen and headlights. We recom-
mend that you always add a product to the windscreen washer fluid.
Approved windscreen cleaning products exist on the market with high deter-
gent and anti-freeze properties, thes e may be added all-year-round. Please
follow the dilution instructions on the packaging.
WARNING
Any work carried out in the engine compartment or on the engine must be
carried out cautiously.•
When working in the engine compartment, always observe the safety
warnings ⇒page 208.Caution
•
Never put radiator anti-freeze or other additives into the windscreen
washer fluid.
•
Always use approved windscreen cleansing products diluted as per
instructions. If you use other washer fluids or soap solutions, the tiny holes
in the fan-shaped nozzles could become blocked.
Fig. 164 In the engine
compartment: Cap of
windscreen washer fluid
reservoir.
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