2010 Seat Alhambra brake

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 towing261
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xIf the trailer absorbs excessive electric current, the vehicle electronics
may be damaged.
xNever connect the trailer's electric system to the electrical connections of
the rear lights or any other power sources. Only use suitable connections for
providing electric current to the trailer.
Note
Towing a trailer places additional demands on the vehicle. At SEAT, we recom-
mend additional services between the normal inspection intervals if the
vehicle is used frequently for towing a trailer.
Note
In some countries, an additional fire extinguisher is required if the trailer
weight is more than 2500 kg
Electric tow hitch ball
The rotation radius of the tow hitch ball should be free of people, animals and
objects Ÿ.
The tow hitch is located in the bumper. The electric tow ball is fixed and
cannot be removed.
Releasing and unfolding the tow ball
xStop the vehicle and apply the electric parking brake.
xSwitch the engine off.
xOpen the tailgate.
xPress the knob briefly Ÿfig. 163. The tow ball is released electronically
and folds out automatically; the button indicator will blink.
xMove the ball joint until it inserts and the button indicator lights.
xClose the tailgate.
xBefore hitching the trailer, remove the dust guard from the ball.
xThe indicator only lights when the tailgate is open and when a trailer is
not hitched.
Restoring the tow ball to its originally position
xStop the vehicle and apply the electric parking brake.
xSwitch the engine off.
xRemove the trailer and disconnect the cable between the vehicle and
trailer. If necessary, remove the socket adapter.
xPlace the dust guard over the ball.
xOpen the tailgate.
xPress the knob briefly Ÿfig. 163. The tow ball is electronically released;
the indicator blinks.
xPush the tow ball into the bumper until it locks in position and the button
indicator lights.
xClose the tailgate.
Fig. 163 Right-hand side
of the luggage compart-
ment: button to electri-
cally release the tow hitch
ball.

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.
G
G
G
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)
AD
AA
AB
AC
AD

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.

Vehicle maintenance and cleaning271
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
xWashing the vehicle in low temperatures: When washing the vehicle with
a hose, do not direct water into the lock cylinders or the gaps around the
doors, tailgate, or sunroof. Locks and seals could freeze!
Caution
To prevent damage to the vehicle, please observe the following before
entering an automatic car wash:
xCompare the distance between the vehicle wheels and the distance
between the guide-rails of the car wash to prevent damage to the wheels and
tyres!
xSwitch off the rain sensor and the Auto Hold function before entering a car
wash.
xCompare the height and width of your vehicle with the available height
and width when entering and driving through the car wash.
xFold in exterior mirrors Electrically retractable exterior mirrors must NOT
be folded in or out by hand. Always use the electrical power control.
xTo avoid damaging the bonnet paintwork, rest the wipers on the wind-
screen after drying them. Do not let them fall!
xLock the tailgate to prevent it from opening unexpectedly while inside the
car wash.
Washing the vehicle with high pressure cleaning equipment
When cleaning the vehicle with a high-pressure cleaner, always follow the
operating instructions for the equipment. Pay special attention to the
required pressure of the jet and the distance between the jet and the vehicle
Ÿ.
Keep a suitable distance from soft materials, such as rubber hoses or insu-
lating material, and from the parking distance warning system sensors. The parking distance sensors are fitted in the rear bumpers and, where appli-
cable, in the front bumpers Ÿ.
Do not use a nozzle that sprays the water out in a direct stream or one that
has a rotating jet for forcing off dirt Ÿ.
WARNING
The incorrect use of high pressure cleaning equipment could result in
permanent damage, visible or invisible, to the tyres or other materials. This
could result in serious accident.
xEnsure there is a suitable distance between the nozzle and the tyres.
xNever wash tyres with a concentrated jet or so-called “dirt blasters”.
Even at large spraying distances and short cleaning times, you may
damage the tyres.
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 be above +60 °C (+140 °F).
xTo avoid damage to the paintwork, do not wash the vehicle in full sun.
xThe sensors on the bumpers should be kept clean and free of ice at all
times to ensure the parking distance warning system and the parking aid
system operate correctly. When cleaning with pressure hoses and steam
cleaners, the sensors should be sprayed only briefly. A distance of 10 cm
between the sensors and the steam / hose nozzle must be observed.

Vehicle maintenance and cleaning275
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a
Cleaning chrome parts
Clean chrome parts with a damp cloth. SEAT recommends the use of a chrome
care product to clean stains and dirt from chrome surfaces. Use a soft dry
cloth to polish chrome parts.
Caution
To prevent scratching chrome surfaces:
xDo not use abrasive products.
xDo not clean or polish chrome parts in a sandy or dusty environment.
xDo not polish dirty surfaces.
Caring for and cleaning anodized surfaces
It is not easy to detect the difference between aluminium and an anodized
surface, for example, a radiator grille. However, anodized surfaces must not
be treated in the same way as aluminium surfaces. Never use rough sponges
or cloths to wipe away insect remains.
xUse a clean, damp, lint-free cloth to clean anodized surfaces.
xIf there is a lot of dirt, use a special cleaning product which does not
contain solvents.
Caution
To prevent damage to the anodized surfaces:
xDo not use products containing solvents.
xDo not use polish or hard wax.
xDo not use abrasive products.
xDo not polish anodized surfaces in sandy or dusty environments.
xDo not polish dirty surfaces.
Cleaning wheels
Cleaning steel wheels
Use an industrial cleaner to remove brake dust. Therefore, clean wheels regu-
larly with a separate sponge.
Any damage to the paint on steel wheels should be touched up before the
metal starts to rust.
Caring for and cleaning alloy wheels
Remove road salt and brake dust by washing the wheels approximately once
a fortnight. Use an acid free detergent to clean the wheel rims. SEAT recom-
mends treating the wheels thoroughly with a wax compound about once
every three months.
It is important to remove road salt and brake dust by washing the wheels at
regular intervals, otherwise the finish will be impaired.
Always use an acid-free detergent for alloy wheel rims. Car polish or other
abrasive agents should not be used.
If the protective coating on the paint has been damaged (for example, hit by
a stone), it should be repaired immediately.
Caring for rubber seals
The rubber seals on doors, windows, etc., remain flexible, provide a better
seal and last longer if they are regularly treated with a product specifically
designed for use on rubber.