Driving and the environment195
Safety First
Operating instructions
Practical tips
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
during this initial warm-up phase. It is therefore best to drive off immediately
after starting the engine. Avoid running the engine at high speed.
Periodic maintenance
Periodic maintenance work guarantees that, before beginning a journey, you
will not waste fuel. A well-serviced engine gives you the benefit of
improved
fuel efficiency as well as maximum reliability and an enhanced resale value.
A badly serviced engine can consume up to 10% more fuel than necessary.
Avoid short journeys
To reduce the consumption and emission of polluting gases, the engine and
the exhaust filtration systems should reach the optimum service tempera-
ture .
With the engine cold, fuel consumption is proportionally higher. The engine
does not warm up and fuel consumption does not regularise until having
driven some four kilometres. This is the reason why we recommend avoiding
short trips wherever possible.
Maintain the correct tyre pressures
Bear in mind that keeping the tyres at an adequate pressure saves fuel. If the
tyre pressures are just 1 bar too low, this can put the fuel consumption up by
as much as 5 %. Due to the greater rolling resistance, under-inflation also
increases tyre wear and impairs handling.
The tyre pressures should always be checked when the tyres are cold.
Do not use winter tyres all through the year: they will increase fuel consump-
tion by up to 10 %.
Avoid unnecessary weight
Every kilo of extra weight will put up the fuel consumption, so it is worth
checking the luggage compartment occasionally to make sure that no unnec-
essary loads are being transported.
A roof carrier is often left in place for the sake of convenience, even when it is
no longer needed. At a speed of 100-120 km/h your car will use about 12% more fuel as a result of the extra wind resistance caused by the roof carrier
even when it is empty.
Save electrical energy
The engine activates the alternator, which produces electricity. With the need
for electricity, fuel consumption is also increased. Because of this, always
turn off electrical equipment when you do not need them. Examples of equip-
ment that use a lot of electricity are: the fan at high speeds, the rear window
heating or the seat heaters*.
Environmental friendlinessEnvironmental protection is a top priority in the design, choice of materials
and production of your new Seat.
Design measures for economical recycling•
Joints and connections designed for ease of dismantling
•
Modular construction to facilitate dismantling
•
Increased use of single-grade materials
•
Plastic parts and elastomers are labelled in accordance with ISO 1043,
ISO 11469 and ISO 1629
Choice of materials
•
Nearly all materials used can be recycled
•
Similar types of plastics grouped together for easy recycling
•
Recycled materials used in manufacture
•
Reduction of the plastic volatile components
•
CFC-free refrigerant in air conditioning
Compliance with prohibited materials laws: cadmium, asbestos, lead,
mercury, chrome VI.
altea_freetrack_ingles.book Seite 195 Montag, 16. Februar 2009 10:48 10
Checking and refilling levels213
Safety First
Operating instructions
Practical tips
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
−
Never fill the spare fuel canister inside the vehicle or on it. An elec-
trostatic charge could build up during filling, causing the fuel fumes to
ignite. This may be fatally explosive. Always place the canister on the
ground to fill it.
− Insert the fuel nozzle into the mouth of the canister as far as
possible.
− If the spare fuel canister is made of metal, the filling nozzle must be
in contact with the canister during filling. This helps prevent an electro-
static charge building up.
− Never spill fuel in the vehicle or in the luggage compartment. Fuel
vapours are explosive. Danger of death.
Caution
•
Fuel spills should be removed from the paintwork immediately.
•
Never run the tank completely dry. An irregular fuel supply could cause
misfiring. As a result, unburnt fuel could enter the catalytic converter and
cause damage.For the sake of the environment
Do not try to put in more fuel after the automatic filler nozzle has switched off;
this may cause the fuel to overflow if it becomes warm.
PetrolPetrol types
The correct petrol types are listed on a sticker inside the fuel
tank flap.Only unleaded petrol, corresponding to the standard DIN EN 228 , may be
used for vehicles with catalytic converters (EN = “European Standard”).
Fuel types are differentiated by the octane rating, e.g: 91, 95, 98 RON (RON
= “Regulation Octane Number, unit for determining the knock resistance of
petrol”). You may use petrol with a higher octane number than the one recom-
mended for your engine. However, this has no advantage in terms of fuel
consumption and engine power.
The appropriate type of fuel for your vehicle is specified in your engine tech-
nical table. “Technical Data” Section
Caution
•
Petrol that follows EN 228 may be mixed with small quantities of ethanol.
However, the so-called “bioethanol fuels” available at commercial establish-
ments with reference E50 or E85, which contain a high percentage of ethanol,
may not be used, as they will damage the fuel system.
•
Even one tankful of leaded fuel would permanently impair the efficiency
of the catalytic converter.
•
High engine speed and full throttle can damage the engine when using
petrol with an octane rating lower than the correct grade for the engine.For the sake of the environment
Just one full tank of leaded fuel would seriously impair the efficiency of the
catalytic converter.
WARNING (continued)
altea_freetrack_ingles.book Seite 213 Montag, 16. Februar 2009 10:48 10
Checking and refilling levels215
Safety First
Operating instructions
Practical tips
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Winter driving
Diesel can thicken in winter.Winter-grade diesel
When using “summer-grade diesel fuel”, difficulties may be experienced at
sub-zero temperatures because the fuel thickens due to wax separation.
Therefore, “winter-grade diesel fuel” is available in some countries during
the cold months. It can be used at temperatures as low as -22°C.
In countries with different climatic conditions the diesel fuel generally sold
has different temperature characteristics. Check with an Authorised Service
Centre or filling stations in the country concerned regarding the type of diesel
fuels available.
Filter pre-heater
Your vehicle is fitted with a fuel filter pre-heater, making it well equipped for
operation in winter. This ensures that the fuel system remains operational to
approx. -24°C, provided you use winter-grade diesel which is safe to -15°C.
However, if the fuel has waxed to such an extent that the engine will not start
at temperatures of under -24°C, simply place the vehicle in a warm place for
a while.
Caution
Do not mix fuel additives (“thinners”, or similar additives) with diesel fuel.
Working in the engine compartmentSafety instructions on working in the engine compartment
Any work carried out in the engine compartment or on the
engine must be carried out cautiously.Before starting any work on the engine or in the engine compart-
ment:
1. Switch off the engine and remove the key from the ignition.
2. Apply the handbrake.
3. Move the gear stick to neutral or the selector lever to position P .
4. Wait for the engine to cool down.
5. Keep children away from the vehicle.
6. Raise the bonnet ⇒page 217.You should not do any work in the engine compartment unless you know
exactly how to carry out the jobs and have the correct tools! Have the work
carried out by a qualified workshop if you are uncertain.
All service fluids and consumables, e.g. coolant, engine oil, spark plugs and
batteries, are being constantly developed. SEAT provides a constant flow of
information to the Authorised Service Centres concerning modifications. For
this reason, we recommend you to have service fluids and consumables
replaced by an Authorised Service Centre. Please observe the relevant
instructions ⇒page 210. The engine compartment of any motor vehicle is a
hazardous area. ⇒ .
altea_freetrack_ingles.book Seite 215 Montag, 16. Februar 2009 10:48 10
Wheels and tyres
232Wheels and tyresWheelsGeneral notesAvoiding damage
– If you have to drive over a kerb or similar obstacle, drive very
slowly and as near as possible at a right angle to the kerb.
– Keep grease, oil and fuel off the tyres.
– Inspect the tyres regularly for da mage (cuts, cracks or blisters,
etc.). Remove any foreign objects embedded in the treads.
Storing tyres
– Mark tyres when you remove them to indicate the direction of rotation. This ensures you will be able to install them correctly
when you replace them.
– When removed, the wheels and/or tyres should be stored in a cool, dry and preferably dark location.
– Store tyres in a vertical position if they are not fitted on wheel rims.New tyres
New tyres have to be run in ⇒page 192.
The tread depth of new tyres may vary, according to the type and make of tyre
and the tread pattern. Concealed damage
Damage to tyres and rims is often not readily visible. If you notice unusual
vibrations or the car pulling to one side, this may indicate that one of the tyres
is damaged. The tyres should be checked immediately by an Authorised
Service Centre.
Tyres with directional tread pattern
An arrow on the tyre sidewall indicates the direction of rotation on tyres with
directional tread. Always observe the direction of rotation indicated when
fitting the wheel. This guarantees optimum grip and helps to avoid aqua-
planing, excessive noise and wear.
WARNING
•
New tyres do not have maximum grip in the first 500 km. Drive particu-
larly carefully to avoid risk of accident.
•
Never drive with damaged tyres. This may cause an accident.
•
If you notice unusual vibration or if the vehicle pulls to one side when
driving, stop the vehicle immediately and check the tyres for damage.
Checking tyre pressure
The correct tyre pressure can be seen on the sticker on the
inside of the tank flap.1. Read the required tyre inflation pressure from the sticker. The values refer to Summer tyres. For Winter tyres, you must add 0.2
bar to the values given on the sticker.
altea_freetrack_ingles.book Seite 232 Montag, 16. Februar 2009 10:48 10
Wheels and tyres
236
Driving with anti-puncture tyres (emergency gear)
– Leave the ESP/TCS (electronic stabilisation programme) switched on, or switch on ⇒page 187.
– Continue driving carefully and slowly (80 km/h maximum).
– Avoid sudden manoeuvres and sharp turns.
– Avoid driving over obstacles (for example kerbs) or potholes.
– Look out for the ESP/TCS intervening often, smoke coming from the tyres or the smell of rubber, the vehicle vibrating or a clat-
tering noise. If any of these occur, stop the vehicle.The anti-puncture tyres have a tag on the side of the tyre, with the description:
“DSST”, “Eufonia”, “RFT”, “ROF”, “RSC”, “SSR” or “ZP”.
The sides of this type of tyre are reinforced. When the tyres lose air they are
supported on the sides (emergency driving).
The loss of pressure in the tyre is shown on the instrument panel. You can
then drive a maximum of 80 km and if the circumstances are favourable (for
example, low load), even more.
The damaged tyre should be changed as soon as possible. The rim should be
checked in a specialist workshop to detect possible damage and replace it if
necessary. We recommend you contact Technical Service. If more than one
tyre is being used under emergency conditions, this reduces the distance
which can be travelled.
Starting driving in emergency conditions
When the loss in tyre pressure is displayed on the instrument panel, this
implies that at least one tyre is being driven in emergency conditions ⇒.
End of emergency operation
Do not drive on if:
•
smoke is coming from one of the tyres,
•
there is a smell of rubber,
•
the vehicle vibrates,
•
there is a rattling noise.
When is it no longer possible to continue driving even using anti-puncture
tyres?
•
If one of the tyres has been severely damaged in an accident, etc. If a tyre
has been badly damaged there is a risk that parts of the tread can be thrown
off and cause damage to the fuel lines, brake pipes or fuel filler.
•
It is also advisable to stop driving if severe vibrations occur, or if the wheel
starts overheating and gives off smoke.
WARNING
When driving in emergency conditions, the driving quality of the vehicle is
considerably impaired.•
The maximum permitted speed of 80 km/h is subject to road and
weather conditions. Please observe legal requirements when doing so.
•
Avoid sharp turns and rapid manoeuvres, and brake earlier than usual.
•
Avoid driving over obstacles (for example kerbs) or potholes.
•
If one or more tyres is being driven in emergency conditions, the driving
quality of the vehicle is impaired and there is a risk of accident.Note
•
The anti-puncture tyres do not “deflate” on losing pressure because they
are supported on the reinforced sides. Therefore defects in the tyre can not be
detected with a visual inspection.
•
Snow chains must not be used on front tyres used in emergency
conditions.
altea_freetrack_ingles.book Seite 236 Montag, 16. Februar 2009 10:48 10
If and when241
Safety First
Operating instructions
Practical tips
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Compact temporary spare wheel*
The compact spare wheel (emergency wheel for vehicles
without the anti-puncture kit) should only be used when
strictly necessary.The temporary spare wheel is stored under the floor panel in the luggage
compartment and is attached by a thumbnut.
How to use the compact temporary spare wheel
Should you ever have a punctured tyre, the compact temporary spare wheel
is only intended for temporary use until you can reach a workshop. The
standard-size road wheel should be replaced as soon as possible.
Please note the following restrictions when using the compact temporary
spare wheel. This spare wheel has been specially designed for your vehicle,
thus, it cannot be changed with the spare wheel from another vehicle.
No other type of tyre (normal summer or winter tyre) may be fitted on the
compact temporary spare wheel rim. Snow chains
For technical reasons, snow chains must not
be used on the compact tempo-
rary spare wheel.
If you should have a puncture on one of the front wheels when using snow
chains, fit the compact temporary spare in place of one of the rear wheels.
You can then attach the snow chains to the wheel taken from the rear and use
this wheel to replace the punctured front wheel.
WARNING
•
The tyre pressures must be checked and corrected as soon as possible.
The emergency tyre pressure for dimensions 125/70R16 125/70R18
135/90R16 is 4.2 bar; for all other tyre dimensions please refer to the label
on the fuel cap. Failure to do so could result in an accident.
•
Do not drive faster than 80 km/h. Higher speeds can cause an accident.
•
Avoid heavy acceleration, hard braking and fast cornering. Risk of acci-
dent.
•
Never use two or more compact spare tyres at the same time, risk of
accident.
•
No other type of tyre (normal summer or winter tyre) may be fitted on
the compact temporary spare wheel rim.
Tyre repa ir kit
The tyre repair kit (for vehicles not including a spare wheel) is
stored under the floor panel in the luggage compartment.Your vehicle is equipped with the Tyre Mobility System “Tyre repair kit”.
The tyre repair kit consists of a container with sealing compound to repair the
puncture and a compressor to generate the required tyre pressure. The kit will
Fig. 169 Luggage
compartment. Access to
the spare wheel
altea_freetrack_ingles.book Seite 241 Montag, 16. Februar 2009 10:48 10
Index
284Engine oil pressure
monitor indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Warning lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194 Environmental friendliness . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Environmental tip Avoiding pollution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
ESP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83, 187
Example of menu use Program a speed limit warning . . . . . . . . . . 67
To activate and deactivate the speed limit warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Example of the use of the menus Open the Configuration menu with the MFD lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Open the Configuration menu with the steering wheel controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Examples of menu use Open the main menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Open the winter tyres menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
To close the winter tyres menu . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Exhaust gasses purification system . . . . . . . . 193
Exterior mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204FFabric trim cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
Fastening rings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Fire extinguisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Floor mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Fog lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 folding table* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Folding the seat backrests down . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Foot brake
Warning lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Four wheel drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
Front airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Front interior light type 1 Switching light off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Switching light on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Front interior light type 2 Switching light off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Switching light on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Front passenger airbag deactivation . . . . . . . . . 44
Front reading lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Front seat adjustment Lumbar support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
Frontal airbags Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
safety notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Fuel Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
Fuel level Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Fuel reserve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 warning message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Fuel Tank Opening the fuel tank flap . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Fuel tank See Fuel reserve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Fuel: saving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 251
GG 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222
Gear shift pattern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
General overview of the engine compartment 275
Glove compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Glow plug system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
Warning lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78HHandbrake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176Warning lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81, 177
Hazard warning lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
head restraints Adjusting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131, 132
adjustment of the head restraint angle . . . 132
Removing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
head restraints, correct adjustment . . . . . . . . . 13 In-use and non-use positions . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Headlight flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Headlight range control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Headlights Driving abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Fog lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Washer system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Heated front seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
altea_freetrack_ingles.book Seite 284 Montag, 16. Februar 2009 10:48 10