2010 Seat Alhambra warning

Trailer towing 262
The warning lamp
xWhen the indicator flashes, the tow ball is not in its final position, has not
engaged or is damaged Ÿ.
xWhen the indicator remains lit and the tailgate is open, the tow ball has
inserted correctly into the folded or deployed position.
xWhen the tailgate is closed, the indicator is turned off.
WARNING
The incorrect use of the tow hitch can cause accidents and injury.
xEnsure that no person, animal or object gets in the way of the tow ball.
xNever push the button when there is a trailer hitched or when any kind
of carrier or accessory is fitted to the tow hitch ball.
xWhile the ball is moving, do not interfere with any tool.
xDo not drive with a trailer if the indicator does not light.
xIf there is a fault in the electric system or the trailer tow hitch, visit a
specialist workshop to have it checked.
xIf the diameter of the tow hitch is less than 49 mm, never use this for a
trailer.
Caution
xIf anything is attached to the tow hitch ball, do not, under any circum-
stances press the button.
xNever direct a high-pressure or steam cleaning system directly at the tow
hitch ball or trailer power socket. This could cause damage to seals or remove
lubricating grease.
Note
In extremely low temperatures, it is possible that the tow hitch is not
released. In this case, place the vehicle in a warmer location (for example, a
garage).
Installing a bicycle carrier to the tow hitch
The maximum load permitted for a bicycle carrier on the tow hitch ball is 75
kg, with a maximum distance of 300 mm from the support. The distance
between supports is the distance between the bicycle carrier centre of gravity
(with the bicycles) and the centre of point of the tow hitch ball.
WARNING
The incorrect use of the tow hitch with a bicycle carrier installed can cause
accidents and injury.
xNever exceed the load and distances between supports indicated.
xNever fit the bicycle carrier to the tow hitch ball neck, underneath the
tow hitch given that the bicycle carrier may be incorrectly fitted due to the
shape of the tow hitch and the model of bicycle carrier.
xAlways read and take the manufacturer assembly instructions into
account.
Caution
Exceeding the maximum load and distance between supports indicated can
cause considerable damage to the vehicle.
xNever exceed the specifications.
Hitching and connecting the trailer
Trailer cable
Always secure the trailer cable to the towing vehicle correctly. Leave a little bit
of slack in the cable for turning. However, ensure that the cable does not rub
off the ground while driving.

Trailer towing263
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a Trailer electric socket
The electric connection between vehicle and trailer is a 13-pin socket. If the
trailer plug has seven pins, an adapter cable must be used.
Trailer rear lights
Check the trailer rear lights to ensure they work correctly and remain legal.
Ensure that the trailer does not use more than the maximum power
Ÿpage 260.
Trailer connected to the antitheft alarm:
xWhen a vehicle comes from the factory fitted with an antitheft alarm and
tow hitch.
xWhen the trailer is connected to the vehicle using the socket.
xWhen the vehicle and trailer electrical systems work correctly and are not
damaged.
xWhen the vehicle is locked using the vehicle key and the antitheft alarm
is turned on.
When the vehicle is locked, the alarm is triggered when the electrical connec-
tion between the vehicle and the trailer is removed.
Always turn off the anti-theft alarm system before connecting or discon-
necting a trailer. Otherwise, the tilt sensor may erroneously activate the
alarm.
WARNING
Erroneous or unsuitable connection of electric cables may supply energy to
the trailer causing an anomaly in the vehicle electronics that could result
in an accident with serious consequences.
xAll work on the electrical system must be carried out only by a
specialist workshop.
xNever connect the trailer's electric system to the electrical connections
of the rear lights or any other power sources.
Caution
Do not leave the trailer connected to the vehicle when parked; places on its
support wheel or its supports. For example, when changing the load or a
puncture, the vehicle will be pushed up or down. The force acting on the tow
hitch and the trailer could damage the vehicle or the trailer.
Note
In case of a fault in the vehicle or trailer electrical system or in case of prob-
lems with the antitheft alarm system, have the system checked by a specialist
workshop.
Note
If the trailer accessories use energy from the socket when the engine is
stopped, the battery will be discharged.
Note
For technical reasons, trailers fitted with rear LED lights cannot be connected
to the antitheft alarm system.
Note
If the vehicle battery is running low, the electrical connection with the trailer
is automatically cut.
Note
With the engine running, the electrical equipment on the trailer will consume
power.

Trailer towing 264
Loading the trailer
Trailer weight / drawbar load
The trailer weight is the load that the vehicle can pull Ÿ. The drawbar load
is the vertical weight of the trailer hitch on the tow hitch ball Ÿpage 267.
The figures for trailer weights and draw bar weights given on the data plate of
the towing bracket are for values of this model only. The correct figures for
your specific vehicle, which may be lower than these figures for the tow hitch,
are given in the registration documents. The instructions in the official
vehicle documents take precedence.
For the sake of road safety, SEAT recommends using the maximum allowed
drawbar load. The handling of the combined vehicle and trailer will be poor if
the drawbar load is too low.
The drawbar load increases the weight on the rear axle, reducing the vehicle
carrying capacity.
Gross combination weight
This figure refers to the combined weight of the loaded vehicle and loaded
trailer.
Loading the trailer
The combined vehicle and trailer must be balanced. Use the maximum
drawbar load authorised and do not overload the front or the rear of the
trailer:
xDistribute loads in the trailer so that heavy objects are as near to the axle
as possible or even above it.
xCorrectly secure the trailer load.
Tyre pressure
Inflate the trailer tyres according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Inflate the towing vehicles tyres to the maximum Ÿpage 323.
WARNING
Exceeding the maximum authorised axle load, drawbar load or the gross
combination weight of the towing vehicle and trailer could cause a serious
accident with severe consequences.
xNever exceed the specifications.
xWith the actual load on the front and rear axles, the maximum axle load
should never be exceeded. The weight on the front and rear should never
exceed the gross vehicle weight.
WARNING
If the load moves, the stability and safety of the vehicle and trailer combi-
nation will be seriously affected and this could result in a serious accident.
xAlways correctly load the trailer.
xAlways secure loads correctly with suitable and undamaged attach-
ment rope or straps.
Driving with a trailer
Adjusting the headlights
When towing a trailer, the front of the vehicle may rise and so the dipped
beam headlights may blind 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. Vehicles with high-intensity
discharge lamps adapt automatically and do not require adjustment.
Details of driving with a trailer
xIf the trailer has an overrun brake, apply the brakes gently at first and
then, firmly. This will prevent the jerking that can be caused by the trailer
wheels locking.

Trailer towing265
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xAs of the combined vehicle and trailer mass, braking distances will be
greater.
xSelect a low gear before driving down a steep hill to use the engine
braking effect to slow down the vehicle. Otherwise, the braking system could
overheat and fail.
xThe vehicle centre of gravity and handling change because of the trailer
load and because of the increased combined mass of the vehicle and trailer.
xIf the towing vehicle is empty and the trailer loaded then the load distri-
bution is incorrect. If you must travel in these conditions, drive carefully and
reduce your speed accordingly.
Hill starts with a trailer
Depending on the hill and the gross combined weight, it is possible that the
combined vehicle and trailer move backwards slightly when starting.
For a hill start with a trailer, proceed as follows:
xPress and hold the brake pedal.
xPress the button once to turn off the electric parking brake
Ÿpage 210.
xPress and hold the button to hold the vehicle and trailer combination
using the parking brake.
xWith a manual gearbox: press the clutch pedal to the floor.
xEngage first gear or the gear range D Ÿpage 201, “Changing gear”.
xRelease the brake pedal.
xMove off slowly. To do this, gently release the clutch pedal (for manual
gearbox).
xRelease the button only when the engine provides sufficient power to
move the vehicle and trailer combination.
WARNING
Jerking the trailer in an unsuitable manner could cause loss of vehicle
control with the subsequent serious consequences.
xDriving with a trailer and transporting heavy or a large objects will
change the vehicle handling and braking distances.
xAnticipate traffic and be extremely cautious. Brake early.
xAdjust your speed and driving style to visibility, road, traffic and
weather conditions. Reduce your speed, especially on steep hills.
xAccelerate gently and carefully. Avoid brusque manoeuvres and sudden
braking.
xAlways take the following precautions seriously. Reduce your speed
immediately if you observe the trailer rocking from side to side.
xNever try to stop the “snaking” by increasing speed.
xAlways take the speed limits for vehicles with and without trailers in
each country into account.
Stabilising the vehicle and trailer combination
Stabilisation of the vehicle and trailer combination is an extension of the
electronic stability programme (ESP) and helps, with the assistance of the
trajectory control, to reduce trailer “snaking”.
Stabilisation of the vehicle and trailer combination is active when the ESP
«
indicator on the dashboard remains lit for about two seconds more than the
ABS indicator.
Requirements for stabilising the vehicle/trailer combination
xAn original tow hitch is fitted by the manufacturer or a compatible model
is retrofitted.
xThe ESP is on. The warning indicator in the control panel « is not lit.
xThe trailer is connected to the vehicle using the socket.
xThe vehicle is driven faster than 60 km/h.
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WARNING (continued)

Trailer towing 266
xThe maximum drawbar load is used.
xThe trailer must have a fixed drawbar.
xTrailers with brakes must be equipped with a mechanical inertia brake.
WARNING
Do not let the extra safety afforded by the stabilisation system tempt you
into taking any risks when driving.
xAdjust your speed and driving style to visibility, road, traffic and
weather conditions.
xIf the road surface is slippery, take care when accelerating.
xWhen a system is operating, lift your foot off the accelerator.
WARNING
It is possible that the combination stabilisation system does not correctly
recognised all driving situations.
xIt is possible that the stabilisation system does not detect snaking of a
light trailer and thus does not intervene.
xWhen driving on slippery ground, the trailer could jack-knife despite
the stabilisation system.
xTrailers with a high centre of gravity may even tip over before they start
to rock sideways.
xIf a trailer is not used at the trailer socket is connected (for example,
installation of a bicycle carrier with lights), repeated automatic braking
may occur in extreme driving conditions.
Retrofitting a tow hitch
Fig. 164 Measurements and attachments to retrofit a tow hitch.
SEAT recommends visiting a specialist workshop to retrofit a tow hitch. For
example, it may be necessary to adjust the cooling system or to include
thermal plates. SEAT recommends visiting a qualified workshop.
In any case, the separation distances must be observed when fitting a tow
hitch. The distance between the centre of the tow hitch ball and the road
surface Ÿfig. 164 must never be lower than that indicated. This also
applies when the vehicle is fully laden, including maximum drawbar load.
Separation distances Ÿfig. 164:
Attachment points.
1,040 mm (41 inches)
74 mm (3 inches)
364 mm (14 inches)
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AA
AB
AC
AD

Trailer towing267
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a 247 mm (10 inches)
596 mm (23 inches)
1,097 mm (43 inches)
1,102 mm (43 inches)
WARNING
Erroneous or unsuitable connection of electric cables may cause anomalies
in the vehicle electronics that could result in an accident with serious
consequences.
xNever connect the trailer's electric system to the electrical connections
of the rear lights or any other unsuitable power sources. Only use suitable
connectors to connect a trailer.
xVisit a specialist workshop if you wish to retrofit a tow hitch to the
vehicle.
WARNING
If the tow hitch is badly fitted or unsuitable, the trailer may separate from
the vehicle while driving. This could result in serious accident.
Note
Use only tow hitches approved by SEAT for the vehicle.
Maximum gross trailer weight
The instructions in the official vehicle documents take precedence. All the
technical data provided in this documentation is applicable to the basic
model. The vehicle data label in the Maintenance Programme or the vehicle
documents show which engine is installed in your vehicle.The figures may be different depending on if additional equipment is fitted,
for different models and for special vehicles.
WARNING
Exceeding the maximum trailer weight indicated could cause a serious
accident.
xNever exceed the indicated trailer weight.
Caution
Exceeding the maximum trailer weight indicated could cause damage to the
vehicle.
xNever exceed the indicated trailer weight.
Gross combined vehicle weight rating
The instructions in the official vehicle documents take precedence. All the
technical data provided in this documentation is applicable to the basic
model. The vehicle data label in the Maintenance Programme or the vehicle
documents show which engine is installed in your vehicle.
The figures may be different depending on if additional equipment is fitted,
for different models and for special vehicles.
The maximum combined weights listed are only applicable for altitudes up to
1,000 m above sea level. The weight of the car and trailer must be reduced by
about 10% for every further 1000 m (or part thereof).
WARNING
Exceeding the maximum weight indicated could cause a serious accident.
xNever exceed the gross combined weight rating.
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AH

Vehicle maintenance and cleaning269
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Vehicle maintenance and cleaning
Care and cleaning the vehicle exterior
Introduction
Regular maintenance and washing help to maintain the value of the vehicle.
This may also be one of the requirements for acknowledging warranty claims
in the event of bodywork corrosion or paint defects.
Products suitable for the care of your vehicle are available at any Technical
Service.
Additional information and warnings:
xCare and cleaning of the vehicle interior Ÿpage 278
xWorking in the engine compartment Ÿpage 304
xAccessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications Ÿpage 285
WARNING
Car care products may be toxic and hazardous. If car care products are not
suitable or are used inappropriately, this could result in accident, serious
injury, burns or intoxication.
xCar care products must always be stored in the original container which
should be kept closed.
xObserve information provided by the manufacturer.
xTo prevent confusion, never store car care products in empty food cans,
bottles or other containers.
xKeep all care products out of reach of children.
xHarmful vapours may be produced when using car care products. There-
fore, care products should only be used in well-ventilated spaces or in the
open air.
xNever use fuel, turpentine, engine oil, acetone or any other volatile
liquid to wash, clean or care for the vehicle. These are toxic and highly
flammable.
WARNING
Inappropriate care and cleaning of vehicle components may effect the
vehicle safety equipment, increasing the risk of severe injury.
xVehicle components should only be cleaned and maintained in accord-
ance with the manufacturer's instructions.
xOnly use approved or recommended care products.
Caution
Cleaning products which contain solvents will damage the material.
For the sake of the environment
Only wash the vehicle in areas allocated for this purpose, to prevent dirty
water which may be contaminated by oil, grease or fuel, from entering the
drains. In some districts, washing vehicles outside wash bays is prohibited.
For the sake of the environment
Where possible, always use products which respect the environment.
WARNING (continued)

Vehicle maintenance and cleaning 270
For the sake of the environment
The remains of car care products should not be disposed of with ordinary
household waste. Observe information provided by the manufacturer.
Washing the vehicle
The longer substances such as insects, bird droppings, resinous tree sap,
road dirt, industrial deposits, tar, soot or road salt and other aggressive mate-
rials remain on the vehicle, the more damage they do to the paintwork. High
temperatures (for instance due to strong sunlight) further intensify the corro-
sive effect. The vehicle undercarriage should also be thoroughly washed at
regular intervals.
Automatic car washes
Always observe the instructions provided at the automatic car wash. The
standard precautionary measures prior to entering the car wash should be
taken to avoid damage to the vehicle (close all windows, fold in exterior
mirrors). If the vehicle is fitted with additional components (spoiler, roof-rack,
aerial...), check with the car wash supervisor whether these can enter the car
wash Ÿ.
The vehicle paintwork is so durable that the car can normally be washed
without problems in an automatic car washing tunnel. However, wear and
damage to the paintwork will depend on the type of car wash used. SEAT
recommends the use of car washed without brushes.
To remove traces of wax on windows and to prevent wiper blades from
scratching, please observe the following Ÿpage 272, “Cleaning windows
and exterior mirrors”.
Washing the car by hand
When washing the car by hand, use plenty of water to soften the dirt first, and
rinse off as well as possible.Then clean the vehicle with a soft sponge, glove or brush using only slight
pressure. Start at the roof and work downwards. Special car shampoo should
only be used for very persistent dirt.
Rinse the sponge or glove thoroughly and often.
Wheels, sills and similar should be cleaned last. Use a second sponge for
this.WARNING
Sharp components on the vehicle may cause injury.
xProtect arms and hands from sharp edges when cleaning the vehicle
undercarriage or the interior of the wheel hubs.
WARNING
After the vehicle has been washed, the braking effect will be reduced (and
the braking distance increased) due to moisture (and ice in winter) on the
brakes.
xDry the brakes and remove ice by braking carefully. Ensure that you are
not endangering other road-users or breaking traffic regulations in the
process.
Caution
xThe temperature of the water must not exceed +60 °C (+140 °F).
xTo avoid damage to the paintwork, do not wash the vehicle in full sun.
xDo not use rough sponges or similar which could damage the surface to
clean away the traces of insects.
xNever wipe the headlights with a dry cloth or sponge, always moisten
first. It is best to use soapy water.