2010 Seat Alhambra rims

Wheels and tyres323
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Wheels and tyres
Wheels
Introduction
SEAT recommend that all work on tyres and wheels is carried out by a quali-
fied workshop. They have the necessary special tools and replacement parts,
trained personnel and facilities for disposing of the old tyres. SEAT recom-
mends visiting a qualified workshop.
Additional information and warnings:
xTransporting Ÿpage 13
xTo wi ng m o d e Ÿpage 260
xBraking, stopping and parking Ÿpage 210
xPark assist system Ÿpage 229
xTyre control systems Ÿpage 245
xCaring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior Ÿpage 269
xWheel trims Ÿpage 336
xChange wheel Ÿpage 339
xNotes for the user Ÿpage 283
WARNING
The vehicle cannot be totally controlled or braked if the tyres (new or used)
are worn or damaged.
xIncorrect use of wheels and tyres could make driving more dangerous
and result in serious accidents and damage.
xAll four wheels must be fitted with radial tyres of the same type, size
(rolling circumference) and the same tread pattern.
xNew tyres do not give maximum grip and will not have reached their
maximum braking capacity to start with, and therefore need running in. To
prevent accidents and major damage, extreme caution should be taken for
the first 600 km (370 miles).
xCheck tyre pressures regularly and ensure they are maintained at the
pressures indicated. If the tyre pressure is too low, the tyres could over-
heat, resulting in tread detachment or even burst tyres.
xNever drive on damaged (punctured, cut, cracked or dented) or worn
tyres. Driving on damaged or worn tyres could result in burst tyres, serious
accidents or damage. Worn or damaged tyres must be replaced immedi-
ately.
xNever exceed the maximum permitted speed or loads specified for the
type of tyre fitted on your vehicle.
xThe efficiency of driver and brake assist systems also depends on the
grip of the tyres.
xIf you notice unusual vibration or if the vehicle pulls to one side when
driving, stop the car immediately and check the tyres and wheels for
damage.
xTo minimise the risk of losing control of the vehicle or causing a serious
accident, never undo the bolted joints of beadlock wheels.
xNever mount used tyres or wheels if you are not sure of their previous
history. They may be damaged, although the damage is not immediately
visible.
xOld tyres, even if they have never been used, may lose air or burst unex-
pectedly while driving, resulting in serious accident or damage. If tyres are
over six years old, they should only be used in an emergency and with
extreme caution.
WARNING (continued)

Wheels and tyres325
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
About your tyres and wheels
The tyres of a vehicle are the components which are subjected to most stress
and are the most underestimated. Tyres are very important, as the support
offered by their narrow surface is the only point of contact between the
vehicle and the road.
The service life of tyres is dependent on tyre pressure, driving style, the care
they receive and the correct fitting.
The tyres and wheel rims are an essential part of the vehicle's design. The
tyres and rims approved by SEAT are specially matched to the characteristics
of the vehicle and our critical to good road holding and safe handling.
Avoiding damage to tyres and wheels
xIf 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.
xInspect the tyres regularly for damage (punctures, cuts, cracks, dents).
xRemove any foreign bodies found on the outside of the tread provided
they have not passed through the wall of the tyre Ÿpage 330.
xThe instructions for tyre control systems should always be observed.
xReplace damaged or worn tyres as soon as possible Ÿpage 330.
xRegularly check tyres for non-visible damage Ÿpage 330.
xNever exceed the maximum permitted speed or loads specified for the
type of tyre fitted on your vehicle Ÿpage 333.
xDo not allow tyres to come into contact with aggressive substances,
grease, oil, fuel or brake fluid Ÿ.
xLost valve caps should be replaced immediately.
Tyres with directional tread pattern
Tyres with directional tread pattern have been designed to operate best when
rotating in only one direction. An arrow on the tyre sidewall indicates the
direction of rotation on tyres with directional tread Ÿpage 333. Always
observe the direction of rotation indicated when mounting the wheel. This
guarantees optimum grip and helps to avoid aquaplaning, excessive noise
and wear.
If the tyre is mounted in the opposite direction of rotation, drive with extreme
caution, as the tyre is no longer being used correctly. This is of particular
importance when the road surface is wet. Change the tyre as soon as possible
or remount it with the correct direction of rotation.
Interchanging tyres
To ensure that the wear is equal on all tyres the wheels should be changed
round from time to time according to the system Ÿfig. 182. All the tyres will
then last for about the same time.
SEAT recommends you take the vehicle to a qualified workshop to have the
tyres changed.
Tyres that are over 6 years old
Tyres are subject to an ageing process as a result of physical and chemical
processes. This may affect their performance. Tyres which are stored for long
periods of time without being used, harden and become more fragile than
tyres which are in constant use.
Fig. 182 Diagram for
changing wheels

Wheels and tyres 326
SEAT recommends that tyres over six years old are replaced with new tyres.
This also applies to tyres which appear to be in perfect condition on the
outside and which have a tread depth within the values stipulated by the Law
Ÿ.
The date of manufacture, part of the tyre identification number (TIN), indi-
cates the age of the tyre Ÿpage 333.
Storing tyres
Mark tyres when you remove them to indicate the direction of rotation (left,
right, forwards, backwards). This ensures you will be able to mount them
correctly when you replace them. When removed, the wheels and/or tyres
should be stored in a cool, dry and preferably dark location. Do not place
tyres mounted on the wheel in a vertical position.
Protect tyres not mounted on wheels from dirt by storing them in suitable
bags and standing them on the ground on their tread.
WARNING
Aggressive fluids or substances could result in visible or invisible damage
with the consequent risks.
xAlways ensure that tyres do not come into contact with chemical prod-
ucts, oil, grease, fuel, brake fluid or other aggressive substances.
WARNING
Old tyres, even if they have never been used, may lose air or burst unex-
pectedly while driving, resulting in serious accident or damage.
xIf tyres are over six years old, they should only be used in an emergency
and with extreme caution.
For the sake of the environment
Old tyres must be disposed of by qualified personnel according to the laws in
the country concerned.
Wheel rims
The design of wheel bolts is matched to the rims. If different rims are fitted,
the correct wheel bolts with the right length and correctly shaped bolt heads
must be used. This ensures that wheels are fitted securely and that the brake
system functions correctly Ÿpage 339.
For technical reasons, it is not generally possible to use the wheels from other
vehicles. In some cases, this may also be true for the same model of wheel.
The tyres and rims approved by SEAT are specially matched to the character-
istics of the vehicle and are critical to good road holding and safe handling.
Wheel bolts
Wheel bolts must be tightened to the correct torque Ÿpage 339.
Beadlock wheel rims
Beadlock wheel rims have various components. These are joined together by
special bolts using a special procedure. This ensures good performance, a
better seal, improved safety and wheel run out. Therefore, worn rims should
always be replaced and must only be repaired in a qualified workshop. SEAT
recommends visiting a qualified workshop Ÿ.
Wheel rims with bolted trims
Wheel rims may be fitted with interchangeable trim parts which are attached
to the rim using self-locking bolts. Worn trims should only be replaced at a
qualified workshop. SEAT recommends visiting a qualified workshop Ÿ.

Wheels and tyres327
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WARNING
The use of worn or damaged wheel rims could make driving more
dangerous and result in serious accidents and damage.
xOnly wheel rims which have been approved for use with your vehicle
should be used.
xInspect wheel rims regularly for damage and replace as required.
WARNING
If the bolted joints of wheel rims with bolted ring trims are not correctly
tightened or loosened, this could result in serious accident.
xNever loosen the bolted joints of wheel rims with bolted ring trims.
xAny work relating to wheel rims with bolted rims should be carried out
at qualified workshop. SEAT recommends visiting a qualified workshop.
Replacement of new tyres and wheel rims
New tyres
xWhen tyres are new, drive with extreme caution for the first 500 km (310
miles), as all tyres need to be run-in. Tyres which have not been run-in do not
have such good grip Ÿ or braking capacity Ÿ.
xAll four wheels must be fitted with radial tyres of the same type, size
(rolling circumference) and the same tread pattern.
xThe tread depth of new tyres may vary, according to the type and make of
tyre and the tread pattern.
Replacing tyres
xWhere possible, always replace both wheels on an axle (both wheels on
the front axle or both wheels on the rear axle) Ÿ.
xOld tyres should only be replaced by SEAT approved tyres for the vehicle
in question, and in accordance with the maximum permitted size, diameter,
load and speed capacity.
xNever use tyres which are larger than SEAT approved tyres. If the tyres are
too big, they may knock or rub against the chassis or other components,
resulting in damage.
WARNING
New tyres do not give maximum grip and will not have reached their
maximum braking capacity to start with, and therefore need running in.
xTo prevent accidents and major damage, extreme caution should be
taken for the first 600 km (370 miles).
WARNING
There should be adequate space between the tyres and the vehicle in
accordance with the vehicle design. If this is not the case, the tyres may rub
against parts of the running gear, chassis or brake lines, leading to faults
in the brake system or to tread detachment, and the risk of burst tyres.
xThe true tyre dimension should not be greater than the dimensions of
tyres manufactured and approved by SEAT and should not rub against parts
of the vehicle.
Note
Although tyres may be shown as being the same size, the true dimensions of
different types of tyre may vary with respect to the nominal size, or tread
patterns may be different.
Note
If you use tyres that are approved by SEAT, you can be sure that the true tyre
dimensions will be correct for your vehicle. For other tyre models, the tyre

Wheels and tyres 332
Note
If the vehicle is fitted with a tyre control system, this should be “repro-
grammed” whenever a tyre is changed Ÿpage 248.
Note
Please ask at SEAT qualified workshops for information about the permitted
sizes for winter tyres.
Snow chains
When using snow chains, applicable local legislation and maximum
permitted speed limits must be observed.
In winter weather, snow chains not only help to improve grip but also improve
the braking capacity.
Snow chains must only be mounted on the front wheels, even on all-wheel
drive vehicles, and only with the tyre and rim combinations listed below:
SEAT recommends you ask a SEAT qualified workshop for further information
on wheel, tyre and chain sizes.
Wherever possible use fine-link chains measuring less than 15 mm (37/64
inch) including the lock.
Remove wheel hub covers and trim rings before fitting snow chains Ÿ.
The wheel bolts should be covered with caps for safety reasons. These are
available from qualified workshops.
WARNING
The use of unsuitable or incorrectly fitted chains could lead to serious acci-
dents and damage.
xAlways the appropriate snow chains.
xObserve the fitting instructions provided by the snow chain manufac-
turer.
xNever exceed the maximum permitted speeds when driving with snow
chains.
Caution
xYou must remove the snow chains to drive on roads which are free of
snow. Otherwise they will impair handling, damage the tyres and wear out
very quickly.
xWheel rims may be damaged or scratched if the chains come into direct
contact with them. SEAT recommends the use of covered snow chains.
Note
Snow chains are available in different sizes according to the vehicle type.Tyre sizeWheel rim
205/60 R166 1/2 J x 16 ET 33
215/60 R166 1/2 J x 16 ET 33

Wheels and tyres 336
Wheel trims*
Introduction
Additional information and warnings:
xCaring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior Ÿpage 269
xChange wheel Ÿpage 339
xVehicle tools Ÿpage 353
WARNING
If the wheel trims are not appropriate or not fitted correctly, they could
cause major accidents or damage.
xIncorrectly mounted wheel trims may come off while driving and
endanger other road users.
xDamaged trims must never be mounted on the wheels.
xAlways ensure that the brake ventilation and cooling is not cut off or
blocked. This is also valid if hubcaps are fitted later. If there is not enough
air, you may require significantly longer braking distances.
Caution
Remove and remount wheel trims taking care to avoid damage to the
vehicle.
Hubcaps
Depending upon the version, the hubcap is removed by pulling it Ÿfig. 186,
or by unscrewing it Ÿfig. 187.
Fig. 186 Removing the
hub cap.
Fig. 187 Remove the
hubcap by turning it
outwards.

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 340
10. Take the vehicle tool kit out of the luggage compartment.
11. Remove the wheel trims Ÿpage 336.
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.
Wheel bolts
Only use the tool supplied with the vehicle to loosen the wheel bolts.
Loosen the wheel bolts only about one turn before raising the vehicle with the
jack.
If the wheel bolt is very tight, you may be able to loosen it by pushing down
on the end of the wheel brace carefully with your foot. Hold on to the car for
support and take care not to slip.
Loosening wheel bolts
xFit the wheel brace as far as it will go over the wheel bolt Ÿfig. 190.
xHold the wheel brace at the end and rotate the bolt approximately one
turn anticlockwise Ÿ.
Loosening anti-theft wheel bolts
For wheels with full hubcap, the anti-theft wheel lock must be threaded into
position Ÿfig. 191 or before mounting the hubcap. Otherwise it will
not be possible to mount the full hubcap.
xTake the adapter for anti-theft wheel bolts out of the vehicle tool kit.
xInsert the adapter onto the wheel bolt.
Fig. 190 Changing the
wheel: Slacken the wheel
bolts.
Fig. 191 Changing the
wheel: Tyre valve and
position of anti-theft
wheel locking bolt or
.A1
A2A3
A2A3