2010 Seat Alhambra tow

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could mean that your vehicle registration documents are no longer valid.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 modifications 290
If the vehicle is fitted with a suitable hands-free device, it will comply with the
legislation in many countries which only permits the use of mobile phones
inside vehicles using a hands-free device.
The hands-free system mounted at the factory has been designed for use with
conventional mobile phones and phones with Bluetooth technology. Mobile
phones should be placed on a suitable phone cradle. In addition, the cradle
should always be correctly fitted into the base plate. This ensures that the
mobile phone is securely fastened to the instrument panel and connected to
the exterior aerial of the vehicle.
If the mobile phone is connected to an aerial incorporated into the vehicle or
an exterior aerial connected to the vehicle, this will help to reduce the elec-
tromagnetic radiation transmitted and the risk to human health. It will also
improve the quality of the connection.
If the phone is used inside the vehicle without the hands-free system, it will
not be securely fastened and will not be connected to the exterior aerial of the
vehicle telephone. Nor will the telephone charge if it is not on the support. In
addition, some calls may break off and the quality of the connection will be
affected.
Mobile phones should only be used inside the vehicle if they are connected
to a hands-free system with an exterior aerial.
WARNING
If the mobile phone 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, mobile phones must be securely fastened in position,
outside the radius of action of the airbags, or safely stowed away.
WARNING
When using a mobile phone 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.
xA minimum of 20 centimetres should be kept between mobile phone
aerials and artificial pacemakers, as mobile telephones may affect the
working of pacemakers.
xDo not carry a mobile phone in your breast pocket directly over the
pacemaker when the phone is switched on.
xIf you suspect interference, switch the mobile phone off immediately.

Checking and refilling levels 312
Engine oil consumption
The consumption of engine oil can be different from one engine to another
and can vary during the useful life of the engine.
Depending on driving style and the conditions of use, the consumption of
engine oil can reach 1 litre every 2,000 km (one quarter of a gallon every
1,200 miles); for new vehicles, this could be higher for the first 5,000 km
(3,000 miles). For this reason the engine oil level must be checked at regular
intervals, preferably when filling the tank and before a journey.
When the engine is working hard, for instance during sustained high-speed
motorway cruising in summer, when towing a trailer or climbing mountain
passes, the oil level should preferably be kept within area Ÿpage 310,
fig. 175 .
Changing the engine oil
The engine oil must be changed regularly according to the specifications of
the Maintenance Programme.
Due to the problems linked with disposing of used oil and the need for suit-
able tools and special knowledge, always visit a qualified workshop to have
the engine oil and filter changed. SEAT recommends visiting a qualified work-
shop.
Detailed information on the service intervals are shown in the Maintenance
Programme.
Engine oil additives make new oil darker after the engine has been running
for a short period. This is normal and does not mean more frequent oil
changes are required.
WARNING
If, in exceptional circumstances, you must change the engine oil yourself,
please note the following:
xWear eye protection.
xAlways wait until the engine has completely cooled to avoid being
burned.
xAlways keep your arms horizontal when unscrewing the oil drainage
bolt so that the oil does not run down your arms when it begins to drain.
xUse a suitable and large enough container to collect all of the used oil
in the engine.
xNever collect engine oil in empty food containers, cans, bottles and
other containers as not all people are able to identify engine oil.
xOil is toxic and must be kept out of the reach of children.
For the sake of the environment
Before changing the engine oil, find a suitable location or service for proper
disposal.
For the sake of the environment
Always dispose of engine oil with the utmost respect for the environment.
Never dispose of used engine oil in places such as a garden, woods, drains,
roads, paths, rivers and drainage systems.
AA

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 tyres343
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTe c h n i c a l D a t a Raise the vehicle using only the designated jacking points.
Check list
For your own safety and that of other passengers, the following points should
be observed in the order given Ÿ:
1. Select a suitable flat and firm surface for raising the vehicle.
2. Switch off the engine, engage a gear (manual gearbox) or place the
selector lever in position P Ÿpage 201 and turn on the electronic
parking brake Ÿpage 210.
3. When towing a trailer: unhook the trailer from the towing vehicle and
park it correctly.
4. Loosen the wheel bolts on the wheel to be changed Ÿpage 340.
5. Look below the vehicle for the jacking point Ÿpage 342, fig. 192
closest to the tyre which has to be changed.
6. Raise the jack with the handle until it can be inserted below the jacking
point.
7. Ensure that the foot of the jack is firmly on the ground and that it is
placed immediately below the lifting point on the vehicle Ÿpage 342,
fig. 193.
8. Straighten the jack and continue raising it using the handle until the claw
holds the vertical reinforcement beneath the vehicle Ÿpage 342,
fig. 193.
9. Raise the vehicle until the wheel is clear of the ground.
WARNING
If the vehicle is not correctly raised, it could fall off the jack causing serious
injury. Please observe the following rules to minimise the risk of injury:
xYou should only use a jack approved by SEAT for your vehicle. Other
jacks, even those approved for other SEAT models, might slip out of place.
xThe ground should be firm and flat. If the ground is sloped or soft then
the vehicle could slip and fall off the jack. If necessary, support the jack on
a wide solid base.
xIf the ground is slippery (for example, on tiles), place a non-slip surface
(for example a floor mat) beneath the jack to avoid slipping.
xOnly fit the jack at the prescribed jacking points. The claw of the jack
should grip the reinforcement nerve on the underbody Ÿpage 342,
fig. 193.
xYou should never have any limbs beneath a raised vehicle which is only
supported by a jack.
xIf you have to work underneath the vehicle, you must use suitable
stands additionally to support the vehicle, there is a risk of accident!.
xNever raise the vehicle if it is tilting to one side or the engine is running.
xNever start the engine when the vehicle is raised. The vehicle may come
loose from the jack due to the engine vibrations.
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 (continued)

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.

If and when 352
Manually unlocking the gear selection lever
If the vehicle power supply should ever fail (discharged battery, etc.) and the
vehicle has to be pushed or towed, the selector lever must first be moved to
position N using the manual release mechanism.The emergency release mechanism is located underneath the gearbox cover
panel to the right-hand side. To release the gear selector lever mechanism, a
suitable tool is required, for example a screwdriver.
Preparations
xApply the parking brake. If the parking brake cannot be activated in the
vehicle must be secured otherwise so that it cannot move.
xSwitch the ignition off.
To remove the gearbox cover panel
xPull the cover up around the dust guard on the gear selector lever
Ÿfig. 204.
xTake the cover off by passing it over the gear selector lever Ÿ.
Manual release of selector lever
xPress the release lever Ÿfig. 205 in the direction of the arrow and hold it
in this position.
xPress the lock button Ÿfig. 204 on the gear selector lever knob and
place the gear selector lever in the N position.
WARNING
Never move the gear selector lever from the position P while the electronic
parking brake is deactivated. Otherwise, the vehicle may accidentally
move off on hills or steep slopes causing serious accidents.
Caution
If the vehicle is moved on its wheels with the engine stopped and the selector
lever in position N for a prolonged period of time and at high speed, for
example for towing, then the automatic gearbox will be damaged.
Fig. 204 Remove the
lining from the area of the
gear indication.
Fig. 205 Manual release
of gear selector lever.
A1