2008 Seat Alhambra warning light

Intelligent technology
182•
If the brake warning lamp
 should light up together with the ABS
warning lamp
, stop the vehicle immediately and check the brake fluid
level in the reservoir ⇒page 221. If the fluid level has dropped below the
“MIN” mark you must not drive on. Risk of accident. You should obtain
professional assistance.
•
If the brake fluid level is correct, the fault in the brake system may have
been caused by a failure of the ABS control function. This could cause the
rear wheels to lock quickly when you brake. This could cause the tail of the
vehicle to skid sideways. Drive carefully to the nearest qualified workshop
and have the fault corrected.
Electronic differential lock (EDL)
The electronic differential lock helps prevent the loss of trac-
tion caused if one of the driven wheels starts spinning.The electronic differential lock (EDL) only works when the engine is running.
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.
It uses the ABS sensors to monitor the speed of the driven wheels.
At speeds of up to approximately 80 km/h, it is able to balance out differ-
ences in the speed of the driven wheels 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 car remains operational
and will behave in the same way as a car 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
Try to always adapt the speed of the vehicle to weather, road and traffic
conditions. Do not let the extra safety afforded by the system tempt you
into taking any risks when driving. Risk of accident.•
When accelerating on a slippery surface, for example on ice and snow,
press the accelerator carefully. Despite EDL, the driven wheels may other-
wise start to spin. This could impair the car's stability.
•
Always adapt your driving style to suit road conditions and the traffic
situation.WARNING
Modifications to the vehicle or work carried out incorrectly (e.g. to the
engine, the brake system, running gear or any components affecting the
wheels and tyres) could affect the efficiency of the ABS, EDL, ESP and TCS
and lessen their efficiency.Electronic stabilisation programme (ESP)
The electronic stabilisation programme helps to reduce the
danger of skidding.The electronic stabilisation programme (ESP) consists of ABS, EDL and TCS
and only works when the engine is running.
The ESP should generally be left switched on at all times. Only when the
necessary drive can not be obtained should the ESP be disconnected.
For example:•
when driving with snow chains,
WARNING (continued)
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Intelligent technology183
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
•
when driving in deep snow or on loose surfaces,
•
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.
When the ESP is deactivated, the TCS is switched off at the same time. This
means that this technology is not available for as long as the ESP remains
switched off.
How ESP works
ESP reduces the danger of skidding by braking the wheels individually. The
system uses the steering wheel angle and road speed to calculate the
changes of direction desired by the driver, and constantly compares them
with the actual behaviour of the car. If the desired course is not being main-
tained accurately (for instance if the car is beginning to skid) the ESP compen-
sates automatically by applying the brake at the appropriate wheel.
The forces acting on the braked wheel bring the car back to a stable condi-
tion. If the car is tending to oversteer (break away at the rear) the brake appli-
cation is concentrated on the outside front wheel; if the car is understeering
(tending to follow a wider radius in a bend), the brake is mainly applied to the
inside rear wheel.
How the Traction Control System (TCS) works
TCS reduces engine power to help prevent the driven wheels of front-wheel
drive vehicles losing traction during acceleration. The system works in the
entire speed range in conjunction with ABS. If a malfunction should occur in
the ABS, the TCS will also be out of action. TCS helps the car to start moving,
accelerate and climb a gradient in slippery conditions where this may other-
wise be difficult or even impossible.
When does the warning lamp light up or flash
?
•
The warning lamp
 lights up when the ignition is switched on and
should go out again after a few seconds.
•
The warning lamp
 will start flashing to indicate that the ESP and TCS
are 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.
•
It will also come on if a fault should occur in the ABS because the ESP
operates in conjunction with the ABS.
If the warning lamp
 lights up and stays on after the engine is started, this
may mean that the control system has temporarily switched off the function.
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 func-
tional
If the battery is disconnected, the warning lamp
 lights after turning the
ignition on. This should turn off after a brief trip.
WARNING
Try to always adapt the speed of the vehicle to weather, road and traffic
conditions. Do not let the extra safety afforded by the system tempt you
into taking any risks when driving. Risk of accident.•
The ESP and TCS cannot defy the laws of motion. 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.
•
The ESP cannot reduce the risk of accident if, for example, you are
driving with an unsuitable load or too close to the preceding vehicle.WARNING
•
Modifications to the vehicle or work carried out incorrectly (e.g. to the
engine, the brake system, running gear or any components affecting the
wheels and tyres) could affect the efficiency of the ABS, EDL, ESP and TCS
and lessen their efficiency.
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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
Driving and the environmentRunning-inRunning in a new engine
The engine needs to be run-in over the first 1,500 km.Up to 1,000 kilometres
– Do not drive at speeds of more than 2/3 the maximum speed.
– Do not use full throttle.
– Avoid high engine revolutions.
– Do not tow a trailer.
From 1000 to 1500 km
– Speeds can be gradually increased to the maximum road speed
or maximum permissible engine speed (rpm).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.
For the sake of the environment
If the engine is run in gently, the life of the engine will be increased and its oil
consumption reduced.
Running in tyres and brake pads
New tyres should be run-in carefully for the first 500 km. New
brake pads should be run-in carefully for the first 200 km.During the first 200 km, you can compensate for the reduced braking effect
by applying more pressure to the brake pedal. If you need to make an emer-
gency stop, the braking distance will be longer with new brake pads than with
brake pads which have been run-in.
WARNING
•
New tyres do not give maximum grip to start with, and need running in.
This may cause an accident. Drive particularly carefully in the first 500 km.
•
New brake pads must be “run in” an d do not have the correct friction
properties during the first 200 km. However, you can compensate for the
slightly reduced braking effect by applying more pressure on the brake
pedal.
Braking effect and braking distance
The braking effect and braking distance are influenced by
driving situations and road conditions.The efficiency of the brakes depends directly on the brake pad wear. The rate
of wear of the brake pads depends to a great extent on the conditions under
which the vehicle is operated and the way the vehicle is driven. If you often
drive in town traffic, drive short distances or have a sporty driving style, we
recommend that you have the thickness of your brake pads checked by SEAT
Service more frequently than recommended in the service schedule.
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Driving and the environment
186If you drive with wet brakes, for example, after crossing areas of water, in
heavy rainfall or even after washing the car, the effect of the brakes is less-
ened as the brake discs are wet or even frozen (in winter): in this case, “dry”
the brakes by applying the brakes carefully several times
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. The slightly reduced braking effect can be compen-
sated for by increasing pressure on the brake pedal. 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.
•
When driving downhill, the brakes work hard and get hot very quickly.
Before driving down a long steep gradient, it is advisable to reduce speed
and change to a lower gear (or move the selector lever to a lower gear if
your vehicle has automatic transmission). In this way you will make use of
the engine braking effect and relieve the load on the brakes.
•
Never let the brakes “rub” by only 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 work.
•
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 notes ⇒page 202 before
buying accessories.
•
If a brake circuit fails, the braking distance will be increased consider-
ably. Contact a qualified workshop immediately and avoid unnecessary
journeys.
Exhaust gas emission control 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 215, “Topping up engine oil ”.
– Never tow the vehicle to start it, use jump leads if necessary ⇒page 249.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. These symptoms are communicated by the
exhaust gas warning lamp ⇒page 70. 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
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, because the heat from the engine could ignite them.
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Driving and the environment187
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Caution
Never fully drain the fuel tank, in this case, the irregularity of the fuel supply
may cause ignition problems. This allows 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 under 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. Under normal driving conditions, the filter cleans itself. If driving
conditions do not allow the filter to clean itself (for example, multiple short
trips) the filter will be obstructed by dust and pollen and the diesel engine
particulate filter warning lamp will light up.
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
•
The vehicle has not been designed to refuel with mixtures of FAME fuel
(biodiesel) over 7%. The diesel particulate filter is damaged when the mixture
percentage is exceeded.
Economical and environmentally friendly
drivingEconomical and environmentally friendly drivingFuel consumption, environmental pollution and wear to the engine, brakes
and tyres depends in large part on your driving style. By adopting an econom-
ical driving style and anticipating the traffic situation ahead, you can easily
reduce fuel consumption by 10-15%. Some tips on how to help you reduce
pollution while saving money are listed below.
As you drive try to anticipate the traffic situation
A vehicle uses most fuel when accelerating. By anticipating the situation, you
are required to brake less often and, therefore accelerate less. If it is possible,
let the vehicle roll with a gear engaged, for example, if you see a red light
ahead. The braking effect achieved in this way helps to reduce the wear of
brakes and tyres; emissions and fuel consumption are reduced to zero
(disconnection due to inertia).
Change gear early to save energy
An effective way of saving fuel is to change up through the gears quickly.
Running the engine at high rpm in the lower gears uses an unnecessary
amount of fuel.
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Driving and the environment
190Trailer towingWhat do you need to bear in mind when towing a trailer?The vehicle can, if suitably equipped, be used to tow a trailer or caravan.
If the car is supplied with a factory-fitted towing bracket it will already have
the necessary technical modifications and meet the statutory requirements
for towing a trailer. If you wish to retrofit a towing bracket ⇒page 204.
Connectors
Your vehicle is fitted with a 12-pin connector for the electrical connection
between the trailer and the vehicle.
If the trailer has a 7-pin plug, you will need to use an adapter cable. This is
available from SEAT Service.
Trailer weight / draw bar loading
Never exceed the maximum permitted trailer weights. If you do not load the
trailer up to the maximum permitted trailer weight, you can then climb corre-
spondingly steeper gradients.
The maximum trailer weights listed are only applicable for altitudes up to
1,000 m above sea level. With increasing altitude the engine power and
therefore the vehicle's climbing ability are impaired because of the reduced
air density. The maximum trailer weight has to be reduced accordingly. The
weight of the vehicle and trailer combination must be reduced by 10% for
every further 1,000 m (or part thereof). Where possible, operate the trailer
with the maximum permitted draw bar weight on the ball joint of the towing
bracket, but do not exceed the specified limit.
The figures for trailer weights and draw bar weights given on the data plate
of the towing bracket are for certification purposes only. The correct figures
for your specific model, which may be lower than these figures for the towing
bracket, are given in the registration documents and “Technical data”. Gross combination weight
The gross combination weight is the actual weight of the laden vehicle plus
the actual weight of the laden trailer. If the maximum permissible trailer
weight is to be utilized, the weight of the vehicle may have to be reduced.
Distributing the load
Distribute loads in the trailer so that heavy objects are as near to the axle as
possible. Loads carried in the trailer must be secured to prevent them
moving.
Tyre pressu re
Set tyre pressure to the maximum permitted pressure shown on the sticker on
the inside of the tank flap. Set the tyre pressure of the trailer tyres in accord-
ance with the trailer manufacturer's recommendations.
Exterior mirrors
Check whether you can see enough of the road behind the trailer with the
standard mirrors. If this is not the case you should have additional mirrors
fitted. Both exterior mirrors should be mounted on hinged extension
brackets. Adjust the mirrors to give sufficient vision to the rear.
Headlight adjustment
If towing a trailer the dipped light may dazzle 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.
WARNING
•
Never transport people in a trailer. This could result in fatal accidents.
•
To avoid dazzling other drivers, adjust the dipped beam according to
the load. If not, an accident may occur.
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Cleaning and caring for your vehicle193
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Cleaning and caring for your vehicleGeneral notesRegular washing and care help maintain the value of your
vehicle.Regular care
Regular and expert care helps to maintain the value of the vehicle. This may
also be one of the requirements for acknowledging warranty claims in the
event of corrosion or paint defects.
The best way to protect the car against environmental contaminants is to
wash and wax it frequently. The longer substances such as insects, bird drop-
pings, resinous tree sap, road dirt, industrial deposits, tar, soot or road salt
and other aggressive materials remain on the vehicle, the more damage they
do to the paintwork. High temperatures (for instance in strong sunlight)
further intensify the corrosive effect.
After the period when salt is put on the roads it is important to have the
underside of the vehicle washed thoroughly.
Car care products
Car care products are available from your Authorised Service Centre. Keep the
product instructions until you have used up the product.
WARNING
•
Car care products can be toxic. For this, they must always be kept
closed in their original container. Keep out of children's reach. Failure to
comply could result in poisoning.
•
Always read and observe the instructions and warnings on the package
before using car care products. Improper use could damage your health or your vehicle. The use of certain products may produce noxious vapours;
these should be used in well ventilated areas.
•
Never use fuel, turpentine, engine oil, nail varnish remover or other
volatile fluids. These are toxic and highly flammable. There is a fire / explo-
sion risk.
•
Before you wash your vehicle, or carry out any maintenance, switch off
the engine, apply the handbrake firmly and remove the key from the igni-
tion.Caution
Never attempt to remove dirt, mud or dust if the surface of the vehicle is dry.
Never use a dry cloth or sponge for cleaning purposes. This could damage the
paintwork or glass on your vehicle. Soak dirt, mud or dust with plenty of
water.
For the sake of the environment
•
When purchasing car care products, try to select ones which are not
harmful to the environment.
•
L e ft ove r ca r car e p rod u ct s sh o u l d n ot b e d isp o se d of with o rd in ar y h ou s e-
hold waste. Observe the disposal information on the package.WARNING (continued)
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Cleaning and caring for your vehicle
194Care of the vehicle exteriorAutomatic car washesThe paint is so durable that the car can normally be washed without problems
in an automatic car wash. However, the effect on the paint depends to a large
extent on the design of the car wash, the brushes used, the filtering of the
wash water and the type of detergents and wax solutions used, etc.
After the car has been washed, the brakes could respond later than normal as
the brake discs and brake pads will be wet, or even frozen in winter. “Dry” the
brakes by braking several times.
WARNING
Moisture, ice and salt on the brakes may affect braking efficiency. Risk of
accident.Washing by handWashing the vehicle
– First soften the dirt with plenty of water and rinse off.
– Clean the vehicle with a soft sponge, a glove or a brush. Start on the roof and work your way down. Use only light pressure.
– Rinse the sponge or glove as much as possible.
– Special car shampoo should only be used for very stubborn dirt.
– Clean the wheels, sill panels etc. last using a different sponge or glove. – Rinse the vehicle thoroughly with water.
– Dry the surface of the vehicle gently using a chamois leather.
– If it is
cold, dry the rubber seals and the surfaces they touch with
a cloth to prevent them freezing. Apply silicone spray to the
rubber seals.
After cleaning the vehicle
– If possible, avoid sudden braking directly after washing the vehicle. “Dry” the brakes by braking several times.
WARNING
•
The ignition must always be switched off before the vehicle is washed.
•
Protect your hands and arms from cuts on sharp metal edges when
cleaning the underbody, the inside of the wheel housings etc. Risk of
injury.
•
Moisture, ice and salt on the brakes may affect braking efficiency. Risk
of accident.Caution
•
Never attempt to remove dirt, mud or dust if the surface of the vehicle is
dry. Never use a dry cloth or sponge for cleaning purposes. This could scratch
the paintwork or glass on your vehicle.
•
Washing the vehicle in low temperatures: if the vehicle is rinsed with a
hose, do not direct the water into the lock cylinders or the gaps around the
doors, luggage compartment, or bonnet. Otherwise there is a risk of malfunc-
tion.
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