2010 Seat Alhambra light

Checking and refilling levels319
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xDo not expose the battery to direct sunlight over a long period of time, as
the intense ultraviolet radiation can damage the battery housing.
xIf the car is left standing for long periods, protect the battery from extreme
cold temperature so that it does not “freeze up” and become damaged.
Warning lamp
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.
WARNING
If the warning lamps and messages are ignored, the vehicle may stall in
traffic, or may cause accidents and severe injuries.
xNever ignore the warning lamps or text messages.
xStop the vehicle safely as soon as possible.
Caution
Failure to heed the warning lamps and text messages when they appear may
result in faults in the vehicle.
Checking the electrolyte level of the vehicle battery
The battery's electrolyte level should be checked regularly in high-mileage
vehicles, in hot countries and in older batteries. Other batteries do not
require maintenance.
lights upPossible causeSolution
FFaulty generator.
Contact a specialist workshop.
Have the electrical system
checked.
Disconnect any unnecessary
electrical consumers. The gener-
ator does not charge the battery
while the vehicle is in motion.
Fig. 180 In the engine
compartment: Remove
the cover from the
vehicle's battery.
Fig. 181 In the engine
compartment: Unfold the
vehicle's battery hose.

Checking and refilling levels 320
Start-Stop systems Ÿpage 223 are equipped with a special battery labelled
“AGM”. For technical reasons, it is not possible to check the electrolyte level
of these batteries
Preparations
xPrepare the vehicle for work in the engine compartment Ÿpage 304
xOpen the bonnet ’ Ÿpage 304.
Opening the battery cover
The battery covers are different depending on the engine size of the vehicle:
xIn the case of a cover: press the tab Ÿpage 319, fig. 180 in the direc-
tion of the arrow and pull the cover upwards.
xIn the case of a hose: fold the cover to one side to remove Ÿpage 319,
fig. 181.
Checking the battery electrolyte level
xMake sure there is sufficient lighting to clearly recognise the colours.
Never use open flames or sparklers as a light source.
xDepending on the level of acid, the Magic eye on the top of the battery will
change colour.
WARNING
Working with the vehicle battery involves a risk of corrosion, explosions
and electric shock.
xAlways wear protective gloves and eye protection.
xBattery acid is very corrosive and caustic. It can burn skin and cause
blindness. When handling the battery, protect yourself from splashes of
acids, above all your hands, arms and face.
xNever tilt the vehicle battery. Battery acid could spill out of the open-
ings to release gases and cause corrosion damage.
xNever open the vehicle battery.
xIf battery acid splashes on you, immediately rinse your eyes and skin
abundantly with water for several minutes. Then seek medical care imme-
diately.
xIf acid is swallowed by mistake, consult a doctor immediately.
Charging, replacing and connecting or disconnecting the
battery
Charging the battery
The vehicle battery should be charged by a specialist workshop only, as
batteries using special technology have been installed and they must be
charged in a controlled environment Ÿ. SEAT recommends visiting a qual-
ified workshop.
Replacing a vehicle battery
The battery has been developed to suit the conditions of its location and has
special safety features. If the battery must be replaced, consult a qualified
SEAT workshop for information on electromagnetic compatibility, the size
and maintenance, performance and safety requirements of the new battery in
your vehicle before you purchase one. SEAT recommends you have the
battery replaced by a qualified SEAT workshop.
Use only maintenance-free genuine batteries conforming to TL 825 06 and
VW 7 50 73 Standards. These standards must be dated April 2008 or later.
Colour indicatorNecessary operations
light yellow or col-
ourlessThe electrolyte level of the vehicle's battery is too low.
Have the battery checked and, where applicable,
replaced by a specialist workshop.
Black indicationThe electrolyte level of the vehicle's battery is correct.
AA
WARNING (continued)

Checking and refilling levels321
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a Start-Stop systems Ÿpage 223 are equipped with a special battery. There-
fore, it must only be replaced with a battery of the same specifications.
Disconnecting the vehicle's battery
If you must disconnect the battery from the electrical system, please note the
following:
xSwitch off the ignition and all electrical equipment.
xThe vehicle must be unlocked before disconnecting the battery, otherwise
the alarm will be triggered.
xFirst disconnect the negative cable and then the positive Ÿ.
Connecting the vehicle's battery
xBefore reconnecting the battery, switch off the engine, the ignition and
electric devices.
xFirst reconnect the positive cable and then the negative Ÿ.
Different control lamps may light up after connecting the battery and
switching the ignition on. They will be turned off after a short trip at a speed
of between 15 - 20 km/h (10 - 12 mph). If the warning indicators remain lit,
please visit a specialised workshop to have the vehicle checked.
If the battery has been disconnected for a long time, it is possible that the
next service date is not displayed or calculated correctly Ÿpage 64. Respect
the maximum service intervals permitted ŸBooklet “Maintenance
Programme”.
Vehicles with the KESSY system (Ÿpage 86): If, after connecting the battery,
the ignition cannot be switched on, lock and unlock the vehicle from outside.
Then try to switch the ignition back on. If the ignition can still not be switched
on, request the assistance of a specialist workshop.
Automatic consumer disconnection
The intelligent vehicle electrical system automatically implements a range of
measures to prevent the battery from discharging when high demands are
made on it:
xthe idling speed is increased so that the alternator provides more elec-
tricity.
xwhere necessary, the power of the most powerful consumers is reduced
or even completely disconnected.
xOn starting the engine, the power supply from the 12-volt sockets and the
cigarette lighter may be interrupted for a short time.
The on-board management program cannot always prevent the battery from
running flat. For example, if the ignition is left on for a long period with the
engine off or if the side lights or parking lights are left on while the vehicle is
stationary.
Why does the battery run flat?
xWhen stationary for a long time without starting the engine, particularly if
the ignition is switched on.
xUse of electrical consumers with the engine switched off.
xIf the auxiliary heater is running Ÿpage 187.
WARNING
Incorrectly securing the battery or using the wrong battery can cause
short-circuits, fire and serious injuries.
xAlways use only maintenance free batteries that do not run flat alone
and whose properties, specifications and size correspond to the standard
battery. The specifications are indicated on the battery case.
WARNING
A highly explosive mixture of gases is released when the battery is under
charge.
xThe batteries should be charged in a well-ventilated room only.
xNever charge a frozen or recently thawed battery. A flat battery can
freeze at temperatures around 0°C (+32 °F).

Checking and refilling levels 322
xAlways replace a battery which has frozen.
xBattery cables not correctly connected may cause a short circuit.
Reconnect first the positive cable and then the negative cable.
Caution
xNever disconnect the battery if the ignition is switched on or if the engine
is running. This could damage the electrical system or electronic compo-
nents.
xNever plug accessories supply current, such as solar panels or a battery
charger, to the 12-volt sockets or the cigarette lighter. This could damage the
vehicle's electrical system.
For the sake of the environment
Dispose of the battery in an environment-friendly manner. Batteries contain
toxic substances such as sulphuric acid and lead.
For the sake of the environment
Battery acid can contaminate the environment. Collect any spilt service fluids
and allow a dispose of them correctly.
WARNING (continued)

Wheels and tyres339
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Changing a wheel*
Introduction
The tyres mounted on the vehicle are anti-puncture. The wheels should only
be changed when switching from summer to winter tyres or vice-versa. The
tools required for changing a wheel are only supplied with the vehicle if the
vehicle is supplied from the factory with winter tyres. If this is not the case,
please take the vehicle to a specialised workshop to have the wheels
changed.
You should only change the wheels yourself if the vehicle is parked in a safe
place, you are familiar with the procedure and you have all the necessary
tools! Otherwise, you should seek professional assistance.
Additional information and warnings:
xVehicle key set Ÿpage 78
xWheels and tyres Ÿpage 323
xWheel trims Ÿpage 336
xVehicle tools Ÿpage 353
WARNING
Changing a wheel can be dangerous, especially on the hard shoulder.
Please observe the following rules to minimise the risk of injury:
xStop the vehicle safely as soon as possible. Park your vehicle as safe
distance from surrounding traffic to change a wheel.
xWhen changing a wheel, keep all passengers and particularly children
a safe distance away from the work area.
xTurn on the hazard warning lights to warn other road users.
xEnsure the ground on which you park is flat and solid. If necessary,
support the jack on a wide solid base.
xIf you are changing a wheel yourself, you should be familiar with the
required procedure. Otherwise, you should seek professional assistance.
xOnly use suitable tools that are not damaged when changing a wheel.
xAlways stop the engine, turn on the electronic parking brake and place
the gear selector lever in position P, for an automatic gearbox, or engage a
gear for a manual gearbox to reduce the risk of the vehicle moving acciden-
tally.
xHave the tightening torque of the wheel bolts checked as soon as
possible with a reliable torque wrench.
Preparations for changing a wheel
Check list
Before changing a wheel, complete the following operations in the order
given Ÿ:
1. Park the vehicle on an even and solid surface.
2. Connect the electronic parking brake Ÿpage 210.
3. Automatic gearbox: Move selector lever to position P Ÿpage 201.
4. Stop the engine and remove the key from the ignition Ÿpage 195.
5. Manual gearbox: Select a gear Ÿpage 201.
6. Have all vehicle occupants get out of the vehicle and wait in a safe place
(for example, behind the safety barrier).
7. Block the opposite wheel with two folding wedges taken from the vehicle
tool kit Ÿpage 354, fig. 208 or similar objects.
8. When towing a trailer: unhook the trailer from the towing vehicle and
park it correctly.
9. If the luggage compartment is full: take the baggage out of the vehicle.
WARNING (continued)

Wheels and tyres 344
Changing a wheel
Removing the wheel
xPlease observe the check list Ÿpage 339.
xLoosen the wheel bolts Ÿpage 340.
xJacking up the vehicle Ÿpage 342.
xUsing the hexagonal socket in the wheel brace Ÿfig. 194, unscrew the
slackened wheel bolts and place them on a clean surface.
xTake off the wheel.
Putting on the spare wheel
Check the direction of rotation of the tyre Ÿpage 325.
xFit the wheel.
xScrew on the anti-theft locking bolt with the adapter in position
Ÿpage 340, fig. 191 or clockwise and tighten gently.
xReplace the other wheel bolts and tighten slightly using the hexagonal
socket on the end of the wheel brace.
xLower the car with the jack.
xTighten all of the wheel bolts clockwise Ÿ. Tighten the bolts in diag-
onal pairs (not in a circle).
xPut the caps, trim or full hubcap back on Ÿpage 336.
WARNING
If the wheel bolts are not treated suitably or not tightened to the correct
torque then this could lead to loss of vehicle control and to a serious acci-
dent.
xAll the wheel bolts and hub threads should be clean and free of oil and
grease. The wheel bolts should be easily tightened to the correct torque.
xThe hexagonal socket in the wheel brace should be used for turning
wheel bolts only. Do not use it to loosen or tighten the wheel bolts.
After changing the wheel
xClean the wheel brace, if necessary and put it away in the luggage
compartment Ÿpage 353.
xHave the tightening torque of the wheel bolts checked as soon as
possible with a torque wrench Ÿpage 341.
Note
If the vehicle is fitted with a tyre monitoring system, this should be “repro-
grammed” if necessary whenever a tyre is changed Ÿpage 248.
Fig. 194 Changing the
wheel: loosen wheel bolts
with the socket at the end
of the wheel brace.
A2A3

If and when345
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
If and when
In case of emergency
Introduction
Additional information and warnings:
xBraking, stopping and parking Ÿpage 210
xEmergency locking and unlocking Ÿpage 348
xVehicle tools Ÿpage 353
WARNING
A faulty vehicle in traffic represents a risk of accident for the driver and for
other road users.
xStop the vehicle safely as soon as possible. Park the vehicle a safe
distance from surrounding traffic to lock all the doors in case of an emer-
gency. Turn on the hazard warning lights to warn other road users.
xNever leave children or disabled people alone in the vehicle if the doors
are to be locked. In case of an emergency, passengers will be trapped
inside the vehicle. Individuals locked in the vehicle can be exposed to very
high or very low temperatures.
Protecting yourself and securing the vehicle
Always fulfil legal requirements for securing a broken down vehicle. In a
number of countries it is now obligatory, for example, to turn on the hazard
warning lights and use a reflective safety vest Ÿpage 347.
When being towed with the hazard warning lights on, a change in direction or
traffic lane can be indicated as usual using the turn indicator lever. The
hazard lights will be interrupted temporarily.
Checklist
For your own safety and that of other passengers, the following points should
be observed in the order given Ÿ:
1. Park the vehicle a safe distance from traffic and on suitable ground
Ÿ.
2. Turn on the hazard warning lights with the button Ÿfig. 195.
Fig. 195 In the centre of
the instrument panel:
Switch for hazard warning
lights.


If and when 346
3. Connect the electronic parking brake Ÿpage 210.
4. Move the selector lever to its intermediate position or to P Ÿpage 201.
5. Stop the engine and remove the key from the ignition Ÿpage 195.
6. Have all occupants leave the vehicle and move to safety, for example
behind a guard rail.
7. When leaving the vehicle, take all keys with you.
8. Place an emergency warning triangle to indicate the position of your
vehicle to other road users.
9. Allow the engine to cool and check if a specialist is required.
Examples of when to use the hazard warning lights:
xIf the vehicles ahead suddenly slow down or reach the end of a traffic jam,
to warn the vehicles behind.
xIn case of an emergency.
xIf the vehicle breaks down.
xWhen being towed.
Always comply with the applicable laws regarding the use of hazard warning
lights.
If the hazard warning lights are not working, you must use an alternative
method of drawing attention to your vehicle. This method must comply with
traffic legislation.
WARNING
Failure to follow the checklist prepared for your own safety could lead to
accidents and severe injuries.
xAlways complete the operations given in the checklist and observe the
general rules of safety.
WARNING
The components of the exhaust system reach very high temperatures. This
could cause a fire and considerable damage.
xAlways park your vehicle so that no part of the exhaust system can
come in contact with flammable materials (such as dried grass or fuel).
Note
The vehicle battery will discharge and run down if the hazard warning lights
remain on for too much time (even with the ignition turned off).
Note
For some vehicles, the brake lights will blink when braking suddenly at
speeds of approximately 80 km/h to warn vehicles behind. If braking
continues, then the hazard warning lights will automatically be turned on at
the speed of less than approximately 10 km an hour. The brake lights remain
lit. Upon accelerating, the hazard warning lights will be automatically turned
off.