2010 Seat Alhambra check engine

Driving and the environment255
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Engine management and exhaust gas
purification system
Introduction
Additional information and warnings:
xChanging gear Ÿpage 201
xRefuelling Ÿpage 293
xFuel Ÿpage 297
xEngine oil Ÿpage 309
xVehicle battery Ÿpage 318
xInformation stored in the control units Ÿpage 285
xTow-starting and towing away Ÿpage 375
WARNING
The components of the exhaust system reach very high temperatures. This
could cause a fire.
xAlways park your vehicle so that no part of the exhaust system can
come in contact with flammable materials (such as dried grass).
xDo not apply additional underseal or anti-corrosion coatings to the
exhaust pipes, catalytic converter, heat shields or the diesel particulate
filter.
Warning lamps
lights upPossible causeSolution
%0#Fault in engine management
(Electronic Power Control).Take the vehicle to a qualified
workshop as soon as possible
and have the engine checked.
DPre-heating a diesel engine
before starting the engine.Ÿpage 195
BFault in catalytic converter.
You should reduce speed accord-
ingly. Drive carefully until you
reach the next qualified work-
shop. Have the engine checked
there.
¬Diesel particulate filter
blocked
Drive for 15 minutes in 4th gear
(manual gearbox), or in D (auto-
matic gearbox) at a minimum
speed of 70 km/h (45 mph).
Observe speed limits Ÿ.
If the warning lamp remains lit
up, take the vehicle to a quali-
fied workshop Ÿpage 256.
flashesPossible causeSolution
DFault in the engine manage-
ment (diesel engines).Take the vehicle to a qualified
workshop as soon as possible
and have the engine checked.
B
Combustion fault which could
damage the catalytic con-
verter.You should reduce speed accord-
ingly. Drive carefully until you
reach the next qualified work-
shop. Have the engine checked
there.

Trailer towing 260
Driving with a trailer
Technical requirements
If the car is supplied with a factory-fitted tow hitch it will already have the
necessary technical modifications and meet the statutory requirements for
towing a trailer.
Only use an approved trailer hitch for the gross trailer weight rating. The tow
hitch must be suitable for both the vehicle and trailer and must be securely
fitted to the vehicle chassis. Only use a tow hitch with a removable ball joint.
Always check and take into account the tow hitch manufacturer's instruc-
tions. Never fit a trailer tow hitch “that distributes the load” or “balances the
load”.
Bumper mounted tow hitch
Never fit a tow hitch or its attachments to the bumper. A tow hitch should
never interfere with the bumper performance. Do not modify the exhaust
system and brake system. Regularly check the tow hitch to ensure it is firmly
fitted.
Engine cooling system
Driving with a trailer increases the load on the engine and cooling system.
The cooling system should always have sufficient coolant and to be able to
cope with the vehicle and trailer.
Electric trailer brake
If the trailer has its own braking system, please note the relevant legal
requirements. The trailer braking system should never be connected to the
vehicle braking system.
Trailer cable
Always use a cable between the vehicle and the trailer Ÿpage 262.Trailer rear lights
The rear lights of a trailer must fulfil the corresponding standards
Ÿpage 262.
Never connect the trailer's rear lights directly to the vehicle electric system. In
case of any doubt about the electrical connection of the trailer, ask a
specialist workshop. SEAT recommends visiting a qualified workshop.
Wing mirrors
When the field of vision behind the trailer cannot be seen using the standard
wing mirrors of the towing vehicle, additional wing mirrors are required
according to the legal requirements of each country. The wing mirrors must
be fitted before driving and must provide a sufficient field of vision behind.
Trailer electricity consumption
Never exceed the specifications:
WARNING
If the tow hitch is badly fitted or unsuitable, the trailer may separate from
the vehicle causing an accident with serious consequences.
Caution
xIf the rear lights of the trailer are not correctly connected, the vehicle elec-
tronics may be damaged.
Electrical consumerMaximum power
Position lights and rear lights50 Watts
Indicator (each side)54 Watts
Brake lights (total)84 Watts
Reversing lights (total)42 Watts
Rear fog light42 Watts

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.

Vehicle maintenance and cleaning 276
Before applying the product, use a soft cloth to remove dust and dirt from the
rubber seals.
De-icing the door lock cylinder
To de-ice the lock cylinders, SEAT recommend the use of genuine SEAT spray
with lubricating and anti-corrosive properties.
Caution
The use of products containing degreasing agents to de-ice the locks may
rust the lock cylinder.
Protection of vehicle undercarriage
The vehicle underbody is coated to protect it from chemical and mechanical
damage. The protective coat on the undercarriage may wear through use
while driving. Therefore, SEAT recommends that the protective coating on the
undercarriage and on the running gear should be regularly checked, and
repaired if necessary.
WARNING
Additional underseal or anti-corrosion products could catch fire due to the
high temperatures reached by the exhaust gas system and other engine
components.
xDo not apply additional underseal or anti-corrosion products to the
exhaust pipes, catalytic converters, heat shields or other parts of the
vehicle which reach high temperatures.
Cleaning the engine compartment
The engine compartment of any motor vehicle is a potentially hazardous area
Ÿpage 304.
The engine compartment should only be cleaned by qualified personnel. If it
is not correctly cleaned, the anti-corrosion coating and consequently elec-
trical components may be damaged. Moreover, water may filter directly into
the vehicle interior through the water chamber Ÿ.
If the engine compartment is very dirty, always take the vehicle to a qualified
workshop for professional cleaning. SEAT recommends visiting a qualified
workshop.
Water box
The water box is in the engine compartment, between the windscreen and the
engine, and beneath a perforated cover. Air is taken in through the water box
from outside to the vehicle interior via the heating and air conditioning
system.
Leaves and other loose objects should be regularly cleaned away from the
water box either by hand or with a vacuum.
WARNING
When working on the engine or in the engine compartment, there is a risk
of injury, burns, accident or fire.
xBefore starting work, please ensure you are familiar with the required
procedure and the safety precautions Ÿpage 304.
xSEAT recommends you have this work performed by a qualified dealer-
ship.
Caution
If water is manually poured into the water box (for example, using a high pres-
sure cleaning appliance), this could cause significant damage to the vehicle.

Vehicle maintenance and cleaning 278
Caring for and cleaning the vehicle interior
Introduction
The dye from many items of modern clothing (e.g. dark jeans) is not always
solid enough. Seat upholstery (material and leather), especially when light-
coloured, may visibly discolour if the dye comes out of clothing (even when
used correctly). This is not an upholstery defect but indicates that the dye in
the item of clothing is not solid enough.
Additional information and warnings:
xCaring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior Ÿpage 269
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
xCleaning products which contain solvents will damage the material.
xTo avoid damage, stubborn stains should be removed by a specialist
cleaning company.
Note
Suitable car care products are available from your Technical Service.
Treating your upholstery
Check list
For information on how to treat and care for the vehicle upholstery, please
bear the following in mind Ÿ:
xBefore entering the vehicle, fasten all Velcro fastenings which could come
into contact with upholstery and coverings. If the Velcro fastenings on uphol-
stery and material covers are not securely fastened, this could damage them.
xTo prevent damage, do not allow the upholstery or covers to come into
contact with sharp or decorative objects. Decorative objects such as zips,
rivets and rhinestones on clothing and belts.
xDust and grit in the pores and seams should be removed regularly to
prevent them scratching and damaging the surface.

Accessories, parts replacement and modifications 288
xNever fit recycled or reused airbag components in your vehicle.
WARNING
Modifications to the vehicle suspension, including the use of unauthorised
wheel and tyre combinations, may affect the performance of the airbags
and increase the risk of serious or fatal injury in the event of accident.
xNever fit suspension components which are not identical to the original
parts mounted in the vehicle.
xNever use wheel and tyre combinations not approved by SEAT.
Retro-fitting of two-way radios
An exterior aerial is required for the use of two-way radios in the vehicle.
The retro-fitting of electrical or electronic appliances in the vehicle is subject
to their approval for use in your vehicle. Under certain circumstances, this
could mean that your vehicle registration documents are no longer valid.
SEAT has approved your vehicle for use with two-way radios providing the
following conditions are observed:
xThe exterior aerial must be mounted professionally.
xThe maximum transmitting power is 10 watts.
An only external aerial is needed to give the equipment its optimal reach.
Check first with a qualified dealer if you wish to use a two-way radio with a
transmitting power of over 10 watts. The qualified workshops are familiar
with the technical options for installation. SEAT recommends visiting a quali-
fied workshop.All legal requirements, together with the instructions for the use of two-way
radios must be observed.
WARNING
If the two-way radio is not securely fastened in position, it could be sent
flying around the vehicle in the event of sharp braking, sudden manoeuvres
or accident, causing injury.
xWhile driving, two-way radios must be securely fastened in position,
outside the radius of action of the airbags, or safely stowed away.
WARNING
When using a two-way radio without a connection to an exterior aerial, the
maximum permitted levels of electromagnetic radiation may be exceeded.
This is also the case if the aerial has not been correctly installed.
xYou should only use a two-way radio inside the vehicle if it has first
been correctly connected to an exterior aerial.
Information stored by the control units
Your vehicle is fitted at the factory with a series of electronic control units
responsible for the engine and gearbox management. In addition, the control
units supervise the performance of the exhaust gas system and the airbag
systems.
Therefore, while the vehicle is being driven, these electronic control units are
continuously analysing the vehicle data. In the event of faults or deviations
from the theoretical values, only this data is stored. Normally, the warning
lamps on the instrument panel light up in the event of faults.
This data can only be read and analysed using special equipment.
WARNING (continued)

Accessories, parts replacement and modifications291
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Jacking points for raising vehicle
Always use the jacking points indicated in the figures Ÿfig. 167 and
Ÿfig. 168 when raising the vehicle. If the vehicle is not lifted at these points,
it could be seriously damaged Ÿ or lead to serious injury Ÿ.The vehicle should not be lifted using lifting platforms with lift pads
containing fluid.
When raising a vehicle using a platform or jack, a series of precautionary
measures are required. Never raise the vehicle with a lifting platform or jack
unless you have received training in how to do so and know how to lift the
vehicle safely.
Notes on raising the vehicle with a jack Ÿpage 342.
WARNING
The improper use of the lifting platform or the jack when raising the vehicle
may result in accidents or serious injury.
xBefore raising the vehicle, please observe the manufacturer's instruc-
tions for the platform or jack, and the legal requirements, where appli-
cable.
xThere should not be anyone inside the vehicle when it is being raised or
once it is in the air.
xOnly use the jacking points indicated in the figures Ÿfig. 167 and
Ÿfig. 168 when raising the vehicle. If the vehicle is not lifted at the indi-
cated points, it may fall from the platform while the engine or gearbox is
being dismounted, for example.
xThe jacking points should be centrally aligned and firmly positioned on
the platform support plates.
xNever start the engine when the vehicle is raised! The vehicle may fall
from the platform due to the engine vibrations.
xIf it is necessary to work underneath the vehicle while it is raised, you
should check that the supporting stands have an adequate load capacity.
xNever climb onto the lifting platform.
xAlways make sure that the weight of the vehicle does not exceed the
lifting platform load capacity.
Fig. 167 Front jacking
points for raising vehicle
with lifting platform or
jack.
Fig. 168 Rear jacking
points for raising vehicle
with lifting platform or
jack.

Accessories, parts replacement and modifications 292
Caution
xNever raise the vehicle at the engine oil sump, the gearbox or the rear or
front axles.
xAlways use an intermediate rubber support to prevent damage to the
vehicle underbody. Check that the arms of the lifting platform are able to
move with obstruction.
xThe arms should not come into contact with the side running boards or
other parts of the vehicle.