2010 Seat Alhambra ignition

Checking and refilling levels 294
Follow the legal requirements for the use, storage and transport of
spare fuel canisters.
Insure that the fuel container complies with manufacturing stand-
ards, for example, ANSI or ASTM F852-86.
Caution
xAlways remove any fuel spilled on the vehicle paintwork immediately to
avoid damage to the wheel housing, the tyre and vehicle paintwork.
xRefuelling a petrol engine with diesel or a diesel engine with petrol can
cause serious engine and fuel system damage; the resulting malfunctions
are not covered by the SEAT warranty. If you refuel with the wrong type of fuel,
never start the engine. This applies to even the smallest amount of the wrong
fuel. You should obtain professional assistance. With the engine running, the
composition of the wrong fuel could significantly damage the fuel system and
the engine itself.
xIn vehicles with a diesel engine, under no circumstances should you
refuel or drive with petrol, kerosene, heating oil or any other type of different
fuel. Other types of fuels could cause serious damage to the engine and to
the fuel supply system and the resulting problems are not covered by the
SEAT warranty.
For the sake of the environment
Fuels can contaminate the environment. Collect any spilt service fluids and
allow a professional to dispose of them.
Note
There is no emergency mechanism for the manual release of the tank flap. If
necessary, request assistance from specialised personnel.
Control lamps and fuel gauge
Several warning and control lamps should light up for a few seconds when
the ignition is switched. This signals that the lamp is working properly. They
will switch off after a few seconds.
The auxiliary heater and the auxiliary heater running off petrol will automati-
cally switch off when the indicator
z or  lights.
WARNING (continued)
lights upGauge position
Ÿfig. 169Possible cause ŸSolution
Red mark
(arrow)
The fuel tank is almost
empty.
The reserve tank is
being used
Ÿpage 392.
Refuel as soon as
possible Ÿ.
§Fuel tank not closed
correctly.Stop the vehicle and
close the tank flap
properly.
Fig. 169 On the instru-
ment panel: Fuel gauge for
petrol and diesel.

Checking and refilling levels295
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
WARNING
Driving with insufficient fuel reserve could result in the vehicle breaking
down in traffic and a serious accident.
xIf the fuel level is too low then the fuel supply to the engine can become
irregular especially on slopes.
xIf the engine “is choked” or stalls due to lack of or irregularity of the
fuel supply, the power steering as well as all of the driver assistance
systems including braking assistance will stop working.
xAlways refuel when there is only one quarter of the fuel tank left to
avoid running out of fuel.
Caution
xAlways pay attention to any lit lamps and to the corresponding descrip-
tions and instructions to avoid damage to the vehicle.
xNever run the tank completely dry. An irregular fuel supply may lead to
ignition faults and unburnt fuel could enter the exhaust system. This could
damage the catalytic converter filter or the diesel particulate filter!
Note
The arrow next to the fuel pump symbol on the instrument panel Ÿpage 294,
fig. 169 indicates the side of the vehicle on which the tank flap is located.
Filling the tank with petrol or diesel
Before refuelling, always turn off the engine, the ignition, mobile telephones,
auxiliary heating and keep them off during refuelling.
Unscrewing the tank cap
xThe tank flap is at the rear of the vehicle on the right.
xPress the rear of the tank flap to open it.
xUnscrew the tank cap anti-clockwise and insert it in the hole in the tank
flap hinge Ÿfig. 170.
Refilling
The correct petrol type for the vehicle is located on a sticker inside the fuel
tank flap Ÿpage 297.
xIf the automatic filler nozzle is operated correctly, it will switch itself off as
soon as the tank is full Ÿ.
xDo not continue to refuel if it is turned off! Otherwise, this will fill the
expansion chamber and fuel may leak out if the ambient conditions are warm.
Fig. 170 Open tank flap
with tank cap attached to
the holder.

Checking and refilling levels 300
Selective Catalytic Reduction* (AdBlue)
Introduction
The AdBlue fill level must be checked when the vehicle is being serviced
ŸBooklet “Maintenance Programme”.
Additional information and warnings:
xLuggage compartment Ÿpage 146
xFuel Ÿpage 297
xWheels and tyres Ÿpage 323
xAccessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications Ÿpage 285
WARNING
If the AdBlue fill level is too low, the vehicle may not restart after switching
the ignition off. The emergency start or jump start will not be possible
either!
xTop up with AdBlue at the latest 1000 km or 600 miles before it runs
out.
xDo not allow the AdBlue to run too low.
WARNING
AdBlue is an irritant, corrosive liquid that can cause injuries if it touches
the skin, eyes or respiratory organs.
xIf AdBlue get in contact with eyes and skin, rinse for at least 15 minutes
with plenty of water and seek medical help.
xIf the AdBlue is swallowed, wash the mouth with plenty of water for at
least 15 minutes. Do not try to provoke vomiting unless recommended by a
Doctor. Seek medical advice immediately.
Caution
AdBlue damages surfaces such as painted vehicle parts, plastic, items of
clothing and carpets. Spilt AdBlue should be removed as quickly as possible
using a damp cloth and plenty of cold water.
xIf the AdBlue has crystallised, remove with warm water and a sponge.
Control and warning lamps
Several warning and control lamps should light up for a few seconds when
the ignition is switched. This signals that the lamp is working properly. They
will switch off after a few seconds.
lights upPossible cause ŸSolution
b (red)The engine cannot be
restarted! The level of AdBlue
is too low.Stop the vehicle in a suitable,
safe and flat area then top up
with the minimum quantity of
AdBlue required Ÿpage 302.
b (red)
with
>
The engine cannot be
restarted! AdBlue system
malfunction.Contact a specialist workshop.
Have the system checked there.
b (yel-
low)The AdBlue reserve is low.
Refill AdBlue over the next kilo-
metres or miles as indicated
Ÿpage 302. SEAT recommends
contacting a specialist work-
shop.
b (red)
with

>
There is a fault in the AdBlue
system or unsuitable AdBlue
fluid has been used.Contact a specialist workshop.
Have the system checked there.

Checking and refilling levels303
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xRotate the shut off on the cover clockwise Ÿpage 302, fig. 171 and open
the cover forwards.
xUnscrew the tank filler neck cap Ÿpage 302, fig. 172 anticlockwise.
Refilling AdBlue
Only use AdBlue that is approved by SEAT and that complies with the ISO
22241-1 Standard. Only use genuine bottles.
xObserve the instructions and information provided by the refill bottle
manufacturer.
xObserve the expiry date.
xUnscrew the cap on the refill bottle.
xPlace the refill bottle upside down inside the tank filler neck.
xPress the refill bottle against the filler neck and keep in this position.
xAdd at least 10 litres of AdBlue (6 bottles). A lower quantity would be
insufficient.
xWait until the contents of the refill bottle have been poured into the
AdBlue tank. Do not crush or damage the bottle!
xUnscrew the liquid bottle anticlockwise and remove it carefully Ÿ.
xYou can tell when the AdBlue tank is full because the bottle will be empty.
Closing the tank filling neck
xScrew on the tank filler neck cap Ÿpage 302, fig. 172 clockwise until
it is fully inserted.
xPlace the cover and turn the shut off anticlockwise to close it.
Operations before driving
xOnly switch the ignition on after refilling.
xKeep the ignition switch on for at least 30 seconds so that the system
detects tank refilling.
xWait 30 seconds before starting the engine!
WARNING
Only keep AdBlue in its original container, tightly shut and in a safe place.
xNever keep AdBlue in empty food cans, bottles or other containers to
avoid other people mistaking it for something else.
xKeep the AdBlue out of the reach of small children.
Caution
xOnly refill using AdBlue expressly approved by SEAT. The use of any other
type of AdBlue could cause engine damage!
xAdBlue should never be mixed with water or any other additives. Any type
of damage caused by a mixture will not be covered by the warranty.
xDo not add AdBlue to the diesel fuel tank! Otherwise you may damage the
engine.
xNever leave the refill bottle in the vehicle. It could become permeable due
to temperature changes and bottle damage and the AdBlue could damage
the vehicle interior.
For the sake of the environment
Dispose of the refill bottle in an environment-friendly manner.
Note
Suitable AdBlue refill bottles can be purchased from a qualified workshop.
A1
A2
A1

Checking and refilling levels 304
Working in the engine compartment
Introduction
Before working in the engine compartment, make sure that the vehicle is
parked on horizontal and firm ground.
The engine compartment of the vehicle is a hazardous area. Never work on
the engine or in the engine compartment if you are not familiar with the oper-
ations to be carried out, the applicable safety standards and especially if you
do not have the instruments, liquids and tools necessary Ÿ! Have the
work carried out by a qualified workshop if you are uncertain. Negligent work
can cause serious injury.
Additional information and warnings:
xWindscreen wash system Ÿpage 124
xStart and stop the engine Ÿpage 195
xBrake fluid Ÿpage 210
xVehicle battery Ÿpage 318
xChecks when filling up Ÿpage 293
xEngine oil Ÿpage 309
xEngine coolant Ÿpage 313
xAccessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications Ÿpage 285
WARNING
If the vehicle moves unexpectedly, this could cause serious injury.
xNever work underneath the vehicle if it is not secured against moving.
If you must work underneath the vehicle with the wheels in contact with
the ground then it should be parked on flat ground, the wheels should be
prevented from moving and the key must be removed from the ignition.
xIf you have to work underneath the vehicle, you must use suitable
stands additionally to support the vehicle, there is a risk of accident!. The
jack is not intended for this kind of work and its failure could lead to severe
injuries.
WARNING
The engine compartment is a dangerous area capable of causing serious
injury.
xFor all type of work, always take the utmost precautions, work carefully
and note the general safety standards in force. Never take personal risks.
xNever work on the engine or in the engine compartment if you are not
familiar with the necessary operations. If you are not sure about proce-
dures then visit a qualified workshop to carry out the necessary work.
Incorrect work can cause serious injuries.
xNever open the bonnet if you see steam or coolant escaping from the
engine compartment. Hot vapours and coolant can cause serious burns.
Always wait until you cannot see or hear the sound of steam or coolant
coming from the engine compartment.
xAlways allow the engine to cool down before opening the bonnet.
xContact with hot elements of the engine and the exhaust system can
cause burns.
xOnce the engine has cooled, follow the instructions below before
opening the bonnet:
Turn on the electronic parking brake and place the gear selector lever
in P or the gear stick in neutral.
Remove the key from the ignition.
Keep children away from the engine compartment and never leave
them unsupervised.
WARNING (continued)

Checking and refilling levels305
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xWhen the engine is warm or hot, the cooling system is pressurised! Do
not unscrew the cap on the expansion tank when the engine is hot. Other-
wise, coolant may spray out under pressure causing burns and serious
injury.
Carefully and slowly unscrew the cap anticlockwise, gently pressing
down on it.
Always protect your face, hands and arms from hot coolant and
steam using a large, thick cloth.
xWhen refilling liquids, avoid spilling them on parts of the engine and
the exhaust system. Spilled liquids could cause a fire.
WARNING
The high voltages of the electrical system can give electric shocks as well
as causing burns and serious injury and possibly even death!
xNever cause short circuits in the electrical system. The battery could
explode.
xTo minimise the risk of electric shock and serious consequences while
the engine is running or starting the engine, note the following:
Never touch the electrical wiring of the ignition system.
Never touch electric cables or the gas discharge lamps.
WARNING
In the engine compartment, there are rotating parts that could cause
serious injury.
xNever place your hands on or near the radiator fan. Touching the rotor
blades could seriously harm you. The ventilator works according to the
engine temperature and could start suddenly even when the ignition is
turned off and the key is removed.
xIf any work has to be performed when the engine is started or with the
engine running, there is an additional, potentially fatal, safety risk from the
rotating parts, such as the drive belts, alternator, radiator fan etc as well as
from the high-voltage ignition system. Always work with the utmost
caution.
Always make sure that no parts of your body, jewellery, ties, loose
clothing and long hair can be trapped by the rotating parts of the
engine. Before any work, remove ties and jewellery ( necklaces, etc), tie
longhair back and tie all items of loose clothing to your body to make
sure that they cannot be trapped by engine components.
Take extreme caution when operating the accelerator and remain
attentive. The vehicle could move, even with the electronic parking
brake activated.
xAlways make sure you have not left any objects, such as cloths or tools,
in the engine compartment. If any object is left in the engine compartment,
this could cause malfunctions, engine faults and even a fire.
WARNING
Refill liquids and certain materials can catch fire easily in the engine
compartment, causing a fire and serious injury!
xNever smoke.
xNever work close to places exposed to flames or sparks.
xNever pour service fluids over the engine. These fluid may ignite hot
engine parts and cause injuries.
xIf it is necessary to work on the fuel system or the electrical system,
please follow the instructions below:
Always disconnect the vehicle battery. When disconnecting the
battery, ensure that the vehicle is unlocked otherwise the antitheft
alarm will be triggered.
WARNING (continued)WARNING (continued)

Checking and refilling levels 306
Never work close to heaters, heat sources or places exposed to
flames or sparks.
xAlways keep a recently serviced and perfectly working fire extinguisher
close by.
Caution
When refilling or changing service liquids, ensure that you put the liquids into
the right tank. Making a mistake when refilling could cause serious malfunc-
tions and damage the engine!
For the sake of the environment
Service fluids leaks are harmful to the environment. For this reason you
should make regular checks on the ground underneath your vehicle. Take the
vehicle to a specialist workshop to be checked if you see stains, oil or other
fluids on the ground. Collect any spilt service fluids and allow a professional
to dispose of them.
Preparing the vehicle for work in the engine compartment
Checklist
Carry out the operations below in the order indicated before starting work in
the engine compartment Ÿ:
xPark the vehicle on an even and solid surface.
xPress and hold the brake pedal until the vehicle comes to a standstill.
xConnect the electronic parking brake Ÿpage 210.
xMove the selector lever to its intermediate position or to P Ÿpage 201.
xStop the engine and remove the key from the ignition Ÿpage 195.
xWait for the engine to cool down.
xAlways keep children and other people far from the engine compartment.
xEnsure that the vehicle can not move off unexpectedly.
WARNING
Ignoring this checklist, drawn up for your own safety, could result in
serious injury.
xAlways complete the operations given in the checklist and observe the
general rules of safety.
WARNING (continued)

Checking and refilling levels313
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Engine coolant
Introduction
Never work on the engine cooling system or if you are not familiar with the
operations to be carried out, the applicable safety standards and especially
if you do not have the instruments, liquids and tools necessary Ÿ! Have
the work carried out by a qualified workshop if you are uncertain. SEAT recom-
mends visiting a qualified workshop.
Negligent work can cause serious injury.
Additional information and warnings:
xTo wi ng m o d e Ÿpage 260
xWorking in the engine compartment Ÿpage 304
xAccessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications Ÿpage 285
WARNING
Engine coolant is toxic!
xOnly keep engine coolant in its original container, tightly shut and in a
safe place.
xNever store engine coolant in empty food containers or bottles as other
people may accidentally drink it.
xAlways keep engine coolant out of reach of children.
xEnsure that the proportion of engine coolant additive corresponds to
the lowest outside temperature to which the vehicle will be exposed.
xIf the outside temperature is extremely low, the engine coolant could
freeze causing the vehicle to stop. As this would also cause the heating to
stop working, passengers without sufficient clothing could freeze.
For the sake of the environment
Coolants and additives can contaminate the environment. Collect any spilt
fluids in suitable containers and dispose of in accordance with legislation
and with the utmost respect for the environment.
Coolant temperature warning lamp and gauge
When driving normally, the needle will remain in the middle area. The temper-
ature may also rise when the engine is working hard, especially at high
outside temperatures and so the indicator will move quite far to the right-
hand side.
Several warning and control lamps should light up for a few seconds when
the ignition is switched. This signals that the lamp is working properly. They
will switch off after a few seconds.
Fig. 177 Engine coolant
temperature gauge on the
instrument panel: cold
area; normal area;
warning area.
AAABAC