
Contents
4Trailer towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Driving economically and with respect for the 
environment  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cleaning and caring for your vehicle
 . . . . . . . 
General notes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Care of the vehicle exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Care of the vehicle interior  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Accessories, parts replacement and 
modifications
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Accessories and parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Roof aerial*  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Mobile telephones and two-way radios . . . . . . . 
Fitting a towing bracket* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Checking and refilling levels
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Refuelling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Petrol  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Working in the engine compartment . . . . . . . . . 
Engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Washer fluid and windscreen wiper blades . . . . 
Brake fluid  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Battery  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
If and when
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Tools, tyre repair kit and spare wheel  . . . . . . . . 
Wheel change  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Tyre repair kit* (Tyre Mobility System)  . . . . . . . . 
Fuses  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Bulb change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Jump-starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Towing and tow-starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
General notes on the technical data
 . . . . . . . 
What you should be aware of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
How are the figures measured?  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Towing a trailer  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Techn ical  Data
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Checking fluid levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Petrol engine 1.4 litre 63 kW (86 bhp)  . . . . . . . 
Petrol engine 1.6 litre 75 kW (102 bhp)  . . . . . . 
Petrol engine 2.0 litre 110 kW (150 hp). Manual
Petrol engine 2.0 litre 110 kW (150 hp). 
Automatic  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Petrol engine 2.0 litre 147 kW (200 hp). Manual
Petrol engine 2.0 litre 147 kW (200 hp). 
Automatic  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Diesel engine 1.9 litre TDI 77 kW (105 bhp) . . . 
Diesel engine 2.0 litre TDI 100 kW (136 bhp) . . 
Diesel engine 2.0 TDI 100 kW (136 bhp). 
Automatic  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Diesel engine 2.0 litre TDI 103 kW (140 bhp) . . 
Diesel engine 2.0 TDI 103 kW (140 bhp). 
Automatic  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Diesel engine 2.0l 125 kW (170 bhp)  . . . . . . . . 
Dimensions and capacities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
Index
 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 
188
190
192
192
193
198
201
201
201
202
202
203
205
205
206
207
208
211
215
218
221
223
225
232
232
234
240
242
249
258
261 267
267
267
269
270
270
272
272
273
274
275
276
278
279
280
282
283
284
285
287
289
291
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Cockpit79
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
Traction control system (TCS)*
The traction control system prevents the driven wheels from 
spinning when the vehicle is acceleratingThe warning lamp lights up  when the ignition is switched on and should turn 
off after about 2 seconds.
When the TCS is operating while driving, the warning lamp flashes. If the 
system is deactivated or if there is any fault in the same, the warning lamp will 
remain lit.
It will also come on if a fault should occur in the ABS because the TCS oper-
ates in conjunction with the ABS. For further information see  ⇒page 179, 
“Brakes”.Soot accumulation in the dies el engine particulate filter* 
The warning lamp lights up when the ignition is switched on.
If the symbol 
 lights, soot has built up in the diesel engine particulate filter 
due to continuous short trips. In this case, drive the vehicle at a constant 
speed of at least 60 km/h (with an engine speed of about 1400 rpm) for 
about 10 minutes. The increase in temperature generated may burn the accu-
mulated soot in the filter. Once this is done, the symbol should disappear.
If the symbol  is not deactivated, bring the vehicle to a specialized work-
shop to repair the fault.
For more information on the diesel particulate filter  ⇒page 185.
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.Alternator 
 
This warning lamp signals a fault in the alternator.
The warning lamp 
 lights up when the ignition is switched on. It should go 
out when the engine has started running.
If the warning lamp  lights up while driving, th e alternator is no longer 
charging the battery. You should immediately drive to the nearest qualified 
workshop.
You should avoid using electrical equipment that is not absolutely necessary 
because this will drain the battery.
If the indicator flashes, the voltage is insufficient for normal vehicle 
operation.
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Cockpit
80Tyre pressure* 
The tyre monitor indicator compares wheel revolutions and uses this informa-
tion to compare the diameter of each wheel using the ABS sensors. If the 
diameter of a wheel changes, the tyre monitor indicator lights 
. The wheel 
diameter changes when:
•
Tyre pressure is insufficient.
•
The tyre structure is damaged.
•
The vehicle is unbalanced because of a load.
•
The wheels of one axle are under more pressure (for example, driving with 
a trailer or on extreme slopes).
•
The vehicle is fitted with snow chains.
•
The emergency wheel is fitted.
•
The wheel on one axle is changed. Tyre pressure adjustment
Following the modification to tyre pressure or changing one or more wheels, 
the button 
⇒fig. 48 must be kept pressed while the ignition is on, until an 
acoustic signal is heard.
If the wheels are under excessive load (for example, driving with a trailer or 
heavy load), the tyre pressure must be increased to the recommended value 
for a full load (see the sticker on the inside of the fuel flap). If the tyre monitor 
system button is pressed the new tyre pressures are confirmed.
The tyre pressure monitor indicator 
 lights
If the tyre pressure of one wheel is much  lower than the value set by the driver 
then the indicator lights  ⇒.
The tyre pressure monitor indicator  flashes
If the tyre pressure indicator flashes, this indicates a fault. Go to the nearest 
specialist workshop.
WARNING
•
When the tyre pressure indicator lights, reduce speed immediately and 
avoid any sudden manoeuvre or braking. Stop when possible, and check 
the tyre pressure and status.
•
The driver is responsible for correct tyre pressure. For this reason, tyre 
pressure must be regularly checked.
•
Under certain circumstances (for example, in a sports situation, in 
winter conditions or on a dirt track) the tyre monitor indicator may light or 
function incorrectly.Note
If the battery is disconnected, the yellow indicator 
 lights after turning the 
ignition on. This should turn off after a brief trip.
Fig. 48  Centre console: 
tyre monitor system 
button
altea_ingles_0706.book  Seite 80  Mittwoch, 30. August 2006  3:48 15 

Cockpit
82•
It will light up continuously if the ESP is switched off.
•
It will also come on if a fault should occur in the ABS because the ESP 
operates in conjunction with the ABS.
If the ESP warning lamp 
 lights up and stays on after the engine is started, 
this may mean that the control system has temporarily switched off the ESP. 
In this case the ESP can be reactivated by switching the ignition off and then 
on again. If the warning lamp goes out, this means the system is fully 
functional.
Operating the foot brake 
The footbrake must be depressed when this warning lamp lights up. This is 
necessary when the automatic gearbox* selector lever is moved out of the 
positions P  or N.Power steering system* 
For vehicles with power steering, the level of steering assistance depends on 
the vehicle's speed and on the steering angle.
The warning lamp should light up for a few seconds when the ignition is 
switched on. It should go out when the engine has started running.
If the battery is disconnected, the indicator remains lit, even with the engine 
running. The warning light  only goes off after a distance of approx. 50 m.
There is a fault in the electromechanica l steering system if the lamp does not 
go out or light up, whilst the vehicle is in motion. The indicator may  appear  in 
two different colours to indicate faults. If it lights yellow, this indicates a 
minor fault. If it lights red, seek wo rkshop assistance immediately, if no 
assistance is available stop driving. Stop the vehicle and seek technical 
assistance. The power steering does not work if the battery is flat or if the  engine is off (for example, for towing). You should take into account that you 
will need considerably more power than normal to steer the vehicle if the 
steering assistance is reduced 
or has failed completely.
For those vehicles fitted with ESP* the function “Recommended steering 
manoeuvre” is included. See  ⇒page 181.
Brake pad wear indicator* 
As the brake pad wear indicator only monitors the front brake pads, it is advis-
able to have the rear brake pads inspected at the same time.
The information text displayed in the instrument panel display is
15): CHECK 
BRAKE PADS .
WARNING
Have the brake pads inspected immediately by a qualified dealership if the 
warning display 
 lights up.
Indicator for open doors or tailgate 
This indicator lights if one of th e doors or the tailgate is open.The warning light 
 should go off when all the doors are closed correctly.
The system also works when the ignition is switched off. It should go off 
about 15 seconds after the vehicle is locked.
15)Depending on the model version
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Unlocking and locking
100Radio frequency remote controlLocking and unlocking the vehicle
The remote control key can be used to lock and unlock the 
vehicle from a distance.
Using the button  ⇒fig. 64  (arrow) on the control, the key shaft is released.
Unlocking the vehicle    ⇒fig. 64 .
Locking the vehicle    ⇒fig. 64 .
Unlocking the tailgate. Press the button    ⇒fig. 64   until all indicators 
on the vehicle briefly flash. When the unlocking button     is pressed, 2 
minutes remain for opening the door. Once this time has passed, it will lock 
once more.
Also, the battery indicator on the key  ⇒fig. 64 , will flash.
The remote control transmitter and the batteries are integrated in the key. The 
receiver is in the interior of the vehicle. The maximum range of the remote 
control depends on various conditions. The range is reduced when the 
batteries start to lose power.
Selective unlocking*
When the button    ⇒fig. 64    is used the driver's door is unlocked, all 
others remain locked.
Press the button    ⇒fig. 64   twice to unlock all doors.
Fig. 64  Assignment of 
buttons on the remote 
control key
Fig. 65  Range of the 
remote control
A1
A2
A3
A3
A1
A1
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Unlocking and locking101
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
WARNING
•
Incorrect use of the key can result in critical injuries.
•
Never leave children or disabled persons in the vehicle; in case of emer-
gency they may not be able to leave  the vehicle or look after themselves.
•
Never leave any of the vehicle keys in the vehicle. This could result in 
serious injuries, accidents or the theft of your vehicle. Always take the key 
with you when you leave the vehicle.
•
Unsupervised use of a key could me an that the engine is started or that 
electrical equipment is used (e.g. elec tric windows). Risk of accident. The 
vehicle can be locked using the remote control key. This could result in 
people being trapped in the vehicle in an emergency.Note
•
The radio-frequency remote control ca n also be programmed so that only 
the driver's door is unlocked the first time that the unlocking button on the 
radio frequency remote control key is pressed. When the button is pressed 
once more, all doors and the tailgate will be unlocked.
•
The remote control functions only when you are in range  ⇒page 100, 
fig. 65 (red area).
•
If the vehicle is unlocked using th e     button, the vehicle will be 
locked again automatically if any of the doors or the tailgate are not opened 
within 30 seconds of unlocking the vehicle. This function prevents the vehicle 
from remaining unlocked if the unlocking button is pressed by mistake.
•
If the vehicle cannot be opened and closed using the remote control, the 
remote control key will have  to be re-synchronised ⇒page 101.
Changing the batteryIf the battery indicator does not flash when the buttons are pushed, the 
battery must be replaced.
Caution
Use of inappropriate batteries may damage the radio frequency remote 
control. For this reason, always replac e the dead battery with another of the 
same size and power.
For the sake of the environment
The flat batteries must be disposed of in accordance with regulations 
governing the protection of the environment.Synchronising the remote control keySynchronising the remote control key
– Use both keys that have been delivered with the vehicle; the key  with the remote and the normal key  ⇒page 100, fig. 64  
⇒ page 100, fig. 65 .
– Unlock the vehicle from the driver side door using the key  without the remote.
– Turn the ignition ON using the key without the remote control.
– Lock the vehicle from the driver side door lock using the key with  the remote control  ⇒page 100, fig. 64  ⇒ page 100, fig. 65 .
– In a time of maximum 30 seconds the following operations must 
be carried out:
A1
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Unlocking and locking
102
– Operate the button   once for locking on the remote control, the indicators will flash.
– Operate the button   once for unlocking on the remote control  for more than 2 seconds.
– The key will have been programmed and the vehicle will unlock,  confirming at the same  time the synchronisation.It is possible that the vehicle could no  longer be opened and closed with the 
remote control if the button   is repeatedly pressed outside of the effective 
range of the radio frequency remote cont rol. The remote control key will have 
to be resynchronised.
Spare remote control keys are available from Authorised Service Centres, they 
must be matched to the locking system.
Up to eight remote control keys can be used.Anti-theft alarm system*Description of anti-theft alarm system*
The anti-theft alarm triggers an alarm if unauthorised move-
ments are detected around the vehicle.The anti-theft alarm makes it more diffi cult to break into the vehicle or steal 
it. Audible and visible alarms are triggered if the car is opened using the 
mechanical key, or if unauthorised access is gained to the vehicle.
The anti-theft alarm system is automatically switched on when the vehicle is 
locked. The system is then primed. When does the system trigger an alarm?
The system triggers an alarm if the fol
lowing unauthorised actions are carried 
out when the car is locked:
•
Mechanical opening of the vehicle with the vehicle key
•
Opening a door
•
Opening the bonnet
•
Opening the tailgate
•
Switching on the ignition
•
Movements in the vehicle
•
Undue manipulation of the alarm
•
Battery handling
The horn sounds and the indicators flash  for approx. 30 seconds. This may be 
repeated up to 10 times depending on the country.
Opening the doors mechanically (emergency opening)
If the remote control function fails, you  will have to use the key to unlock the 
car. This is done as follows:
•
Unfold the key by pressing the button shown by the (arrow).
•
Use the lock on the driver door to un lock the vehicle. The anti-theft alarm 
system remains active, but an alarm is not triggered immediately.
•
Switch on the ignition within 15 seconds. When the ignition is switched 
on, the electronic immobiliser recognises a valid vehicle key and deactivates 
the anti-theft alarm system. If you do not switch on the ignition within 15 
seconds, the alarm is triggered.
How is the alarm switched off?
When the vehicle is unlocked via the unlocking button of the remote control 
or when the key is inserted in the ignition lock.
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Unlocking and locking103
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
Note
•
If, after the alarm goes off, access is gained to a second secured zone 
(e.g. the tailgate is opened after a door has been opened), the warning signal 
is triggered again.
•
Vehicle monitoring remains  active even if the battery is disconnected or 
not working for any reason.
•
The alarm is triggered immediately if one of the battery cables is discon-
nected while the alarm system is active.
Volumetric sensor*
Monitoring or control function  incorporated in the anti-theft 
alarm* that detects unauthorized vehicle entry using ultra-
sound.The system consists of 3 sensors, 2 emitters and a receptor.
Activation
– It is automatically turned on with the anti-theft alarm, when the 
vehicle is locked mechanically with the key and when the button  on the remote control is used.
Deactivation
– Press the button   on the remote control twice. Only the volu- metric sensor is deactivated.  The alarm system remains acti-
vated.
WARNING
•
The “safe” security system remains deactivated if the volumetric 
sensor is deactivated.
•
For those vehicles in which a separate sunblind is fitted in the 
passenger compartment, the alarm will not function correctly due to inter-
ference with the sensor.Note
•
If the alarm has been triggered by the volumetric sensor, this will be indi-
cated by a flashing of the indicator on th e driver's door. This flashing will be 
different to that for an activated alarm.
altea_ingles_0706.book  Seite 103  Mittwoch, 30. August 2006  3:48 15