2011 Seat Alhambra brake

187
Driving
● On slopes, turn the front wheels so that they are against the edge of the
k erb
.
● Uphill, turn the wheels towards the centre of the road. WARNING
The components of the exhaust system reach very high temperatures.
This c

ould cause a fire and considerable damage.
● Always park your vehicle so that no part of the exhaust system can
come in cont
act with flammable materials (such as wood, leaves, spilled
fuel, dried grass, etc). CAUTION
● Special care should be taken when parking in areas with high kerbs or
fi x

ed barriers. Objects protruding from the ground may damage the bumper
or other parts of the vehicle during manoeuvres. To avoid damage, stop be-
fore the wheels touched the barrier or kerb.
● Special attention is required when driving through entrances, over
ramps, k
erbs or other objects. The vehicle underbody, bumpers, mudguards
and running gear, and the engine and exhaust system could be damaged as
you drive over these objects. 
Information about the brakes For the first 200 to 300 km (100 to 200 miles),
new brake p
ads have not yet
reached their maximum braking capacity, and need to be “run in” first ⇒  .
The slightly r
educed braking effect can be compensated for by increasing
pressure on the brake pedal. While running in, the full braking distance or
emergency braking distance is larger then when the brake pads have been
run in. While running in, avoid full power braking or situations requiring
braking performance. For example, in heavy traffic. The rate of wear of the brake pads
depends
to a great extent on the condi-
tions in which the vehicle is used and the way the vehicle is driven. If the
vehicle is used frequently in city traffic or for short trips or driven sport style,
visit a specialist workshop regularly more frequently than advised in the
Maintenance Programme to have the bake pads checked.
If you drive with wet brakes, for example, after crossing areas of water, in
heavy rainfall or even after washing the car, the effect of the brakes is less-
ened as the brake discs are wet or even frozen (in winter). At higher speed,
dry the brakes as quickly as possible by braking gently several times. Only
do this without endangering vehicles behind you or any other road users
⇒  .
A la y

er of salt on the discs and brake pads will reduce brake efficiency and
increase braking distance. If you drive for a prolonged period on salted
roads without braking then brake carefully several times to eliminate the
layer of salt on the brakes ⇒  .
If the v

ehicle remains parked for considerable lengths of time, is used little,
or if the brakes are not used, there may be corrosion on the brake discs and
a buildup of dirt on the brake pads. If the brakes are not used frequently, or
if rust has formed on the discs, SEAT recommends cleaning the pads and
discs by braking firmly a few times at a moderately high speed. Only do this
without endangering vehicles behind you or any other road users ⇒  .
Fau lt

s in the brake system
During braking, if you notice that the vehicle does not react as usual (that
the braking distance has increased suddenly) it may be possible that there
is a fault in the braking system. The  warning lamp lights up and a text
message displayed. Take the vehicle to a Technical Service immediately and
have the fault repaired. Drive at a moderate speed and be prepared to use
more pressure on the brake pedal, and allow for longer stopping distances.
Brake servo
The brake servo only operates when the engine is running and the pressure
applied by the driver on the brake pedal increases. Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

188
Driving
If the brake servo does not operate or the vehicle must be towed, then the
brak e ped
al will have to be pressed with more force given that the braking
distance will be increased when the brake servo does not operate ⇒  .
WARNING
New brake pads do not brake to full efficiency.
● For the first 320 km (200 miles), new brake pads have not yet reached
their max imum br

aking capacity, and need to be run in first. For this, to
compensate for reduced braking efficiency the brake pedal will have to
be pressed with more force.
● To avoid losing control of the vehicle and causing serious accidents,
alwa
ys take great care when driving with new brake pads.
● When running in new brake pads, always respect the safety distances
between y
ou and other vehicles and do not cause situations requiring ex-
treme braking performance. WARNING
When brakes overheat, braking is less efficient and braking distances in-
cr e

ase.
● When driving on slopes, brakes can be overloaded and overheat
quickly
.
● Reduce speed, move down a gear or select a shorter range of gears
before lon
g steep slopes. This allows you to use the engine braking ef-
fect and to reduce the strain on the brake system.
● Non-standard or damaged front spoilers could restrict the airflow to
the brake
s and cause them to overheat. WARNING
Wet, frozen or salt-covered brakes take time to brake and this increases
brak in

g distances.
● Test the brakes carefully.
● Dry the brakes, free them of ice and salt by braking gently several
times, when we
ather, road and traffic conditions permit. WARNING
Driving without the brake servo may significantly increase the braking
dist
ance and result in a severe accident.
● Never allow the vehicle to move forwards when the engine is switched
off.
● If the br

ake servo does not operate or the vehicle must be towed,
then the brake ped
al will have to be pressed with more force given that
the braking distance will be increased when the brake servo does not op-
erate. CAUTION
● Never make the brakes slip by pressing the pedal gently, if it is not really
nec e

ssary to brake. Continuously pressing on the brake pedal will heat the
brakes. This could significantly reduce braking power, increase braking dis-
tance or even result in the total failure of the brake system.
● Reduce speed, move down a gear or select a shorter range of gears be-
fore lon
g steep slopes. This allows you to use the engine braking effect and
to reduce the strain on the brake system. Otherwise, the brakes may over-
heat and fail. Only use the brakes to reduce speed or to stop. 

189
Driving Note
When checking the front brake pads, take the time to also check the rear
brak e p
ads. The thickness of the brake pads should be checked visually and
regularly, by looking through the openings in the wheel rims or from under-
neath the vehicle. If necessary, remove the wheels to check them thorough-
ly. SEAT recommends visiting a Technical Service. 
Assisted braking systems The assisted braking systems ESC (ESP), ABS, BAS, ASR (TCS) and EDS only
operat
e when the ignition i

s switched on. They contribute significantly to in-
creasing active safety.
Electronic stability programme ESC (ESP)
ESC (ESP) reduces the risk of skidding and increases the vehicle stability by
braking individual wheels under specific driving conditions. ESC (ESP) de-
tects critical handling situations, such as understeer, oversteer and wheel-
spin on the drive wheels. The system stabilises the vehicle by braking indi-
vidual wheels or by reducing the engine torque.
The ESC (ESP) has limits. It is important to realise that the ESC (ESP) is also
subject to the laws of physics. ESC (ESP) will not be able to deal with all sit-
uations with which drivers may be faced. For example, if the road surface
changes suddenly then ESC (ESP) will not be useful in all cases. If the vehi-
cle suddenly enters a section covered by water, mud or snow then ESC (ESP)
will not provide assistance in the same way as on dry ground. If the vehicle
loses its grip on the ground and moves on a film of water (“aquaplaning”),
the ESC (ESP) will not be able to assist the driver to control the vehicle due
to the loss of adherence with the road surface preventing braking and steer-
ing. If the vehicle is driven through series of bends at high speed, the ESC
(ESP) will not always be as effective: the vehicle reaction to aggressive driv-
ing is not the same as at reduced speeds. When driving with a trailer, ESC
(ESP) does not provide the same amount of vehicle control as without a
trailer. Adjust your speed and driving style to road, traffic and weather conditions.
ESC (E

SP) cannot push the limits of the laws of physics; improve the trans-
mission available or maintain the vehicle on the road if a lack of driver at-
tention creates an inevitable situation. Otherwise, ESC (ESP) assists in
maintaining vehicle control in extreme situations and uses the movements
of the steering made by the driver to maintain the vehicle moving in the de-
sired direction. If the vehicle is driven at such a speed that it will leave the
road before ESC (ESP) can intervene then the system cannot provide assis-
tance.
The ABS, BAS, ASR (TCS) and EDS systems are incorporated into the ESC
(ESP). The ESC (ESP) is always on. The ESC (ESP) should only be turned off
using the ASR (TCS) button ⇒ fig. 136 when traction is insufficient. Always remember to turn on the ASR (TCS) once more when the vehicle has traction
once again.
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
ABS can prevent the wheels from locking during braking until just before
the vehicle stops thus helping the driver to steer the vehicle and maintain
control. This means that, even during full braking, the risk of skidding is re-
duced:
● Press and hold the brake pedal fully. Do not remove your foot from the
brake ped
al or reduce braking force!
● Do not “pump” the brake pedal, or reduce braking force!
● Maintain vehicle direction when braking fully.
● When the brake pedal is released or when the brake force is reduced,
ABS is
turned off.
ABS control can be observed by vibration of the brake pedal and noise. You
should never expect the ABS to reduce the braking distance under any cir-
cumstances. Braking distances will increase when driving on gravel, recent
snow or on icy and slippery ground.
When driving on loose ground, the all-terrain configuration of the ABS is au-
tomatically turned on. When ABS is activated, the front wheels may lock
briefly. This shortens the braking distance in off-road situations as the Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

190
Driving
wheels are prevented from digging into loose surfaces. All-terrain ABS only
inter v
enes when driving in a straight line. When the front wheels are turned,
the normal ABS is activated.
Braking assist system (BAS)
The brake assist system may reduce the required braking distance. The
brake assist system boosts the braking force if you press the brake pedal
quickly in an emergency. As a result, the braking pressure increases rapidly,
the braking force is multiplied and the braking distance is reduced. This en-
ables the ABS to be activated more quickly and efficiently.
¡Do not lift your foot off the brake pedal! When the brake pedal is released
or when the brake force is reduced, braking assist automatically turns off
the brake servo.
Traction control when accelerating ASR (TCS)
In the event of wheelspin, the ASR (TCS) reduces the engine torque to match
the amount of grip available. The ASR (TCS) makes some situations easier,
for example, when starting, accelerating or going uphill, even in unfavoura-
ble road conditions.
The ASR (TCS) can be switched on or off manually ⇒ page 191.
Electronic differential lock system (EDS)
EDS is available when driving in straight lines under normal conditions.
When the EDL detects wheelspin, it brakes the spinning wheel and directs
the power to the other drive wheels. To prevent the disc brake of the braked
wheel from overheating, the EDL cuts out automatically if subjected to ex-
cessive loads. The EDL will switch on again automatically when the brake
has cooled down. WARNING
Driving at high speed on icy, slippery wet ground can result in loss of ve-
hicl e c

ontrol and serious injury to the driver and passengers.
● Adjust your speed and driving style to visibility, road, traffic and
weather c
onditions. Even though the braking assist systems ABS, BAS,
EDS, ASR (TCS) and ESC (ESP) provide more security, do not take unnec-
essary risks while driving.
● Braking assist systems can not overcome the laws of physics. Even
with ESC
(ESP) and other systems, slippery and wet roads will always be
dangerous.
● Driving to quickly on wet ground can result in the wheels losing con-
tact w
ith the ground in an effect known as aquaplaning. Without adher-
ence, it is impossible to brake, steer or control the vehicle.
● Braking assist systems cannot avoid accidents if, for example, the
driver does
not respect safety distances or drives to quickly in difficult
conditions.
● Even though braking assist systems are extremely effective and help
contro
l the vehicle in difficult situations, remember that the vehicle sta-
bility depends on tyre grip.
● When accelerating on a slippery surface, for example on ice and
snow
, press the accelerator carefully. The wheels can still slip even with
braking assist systems resulting in loss of vehicle control. WARNING
The effectiveness of the ESC (ESP) can be considerably reduced if other
component s

and systems affecting driving dynamics are not maintained
or are not functioning correctly. This includes, among others, brakes,
tyres and other systems already mentioned.
● Remember that changing and fitting other components to the vehicle
can affect
operation of the ABS, BAS, ASL EDL and ESC (ESP). 

191
Driving WARNING (Continued)
● Changes to the vehicle suspension or using unapproved wheel/tyre
c omb
inations can affect operation of the ABS, BAS, ASL EDL and ESC
(ESP) and their effectiveness.
● Likewise, the effectiveness of ESC (ESP) depends on the use of suita-
ble ty
res ⇒ page 293. Note
● To ensure that the ESC (ESP) and ASR (TCS) work properly, all four
wheel s

must be fitted with identical tyres. Any differences in the rolling radi-
us of the tyres can cause the system to reduce engine power when this is
not desired.
● If a malfunction should occur in the ABS, the ESC (ESP), ASR (TCS) and
EDS w
ill also be affected.
● Noises may be heard while any of the above systems are operating. 
Turning on and off the ASR (TCS) Fig. 136 Detailed view of
the centr
e c

onsole: but-
ton used to switch ASR
(TCS) on and off (vehicles
with ESC (ESP)). The electronic stabilisation control ESC (ESP) consists of ABS, EDL and ASR
(TCS) and on

ly works when the engine is running.
The ASR (TCS) can be switched off while the engine is running by pressing
the  OFF ⇒ fig. 136 butt
on.
The ASR (TCS) (and similar) is only switched off
when the required traction is not obtained:
● When driving through deep snow or on loose ground (gravel...).
● When freeing a trapped vehicle.
Turn the ASR (TC
S) back on by pressing the button  OFF ⇒ fig. 136.

Brake fluid Fig. 137 In the engine
comp
ar

tment: brake fluid
reservoir, lid
In the course of time, the brake fluid absorbs water from the ambient air. If
there is
too much water contained in the brake fluid, the brake system could
be damaged. In addition, the boiling point of the brake fluid is significantly
lowered. When the brake fluid contains too much water and the brakes are
subject to considerable forces, bubbles of water vapour can form in the sys-
tem. These bubbles of water vapour can significantly reduce braking power, Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

192
Driving
notably increasing braking distance, and could even result in the total fail-
ure of the br
ake system. Ensuring that the brake system is always function-
ing correctly is essential for your own safety and the safety of other road
users ⇒  .
Brak e fluid s

pecifications
SEAT have developed a special brake fluid optimised for the brake systems
of their vehicles. To ensure the optimum working of the brake system, SEAT
recommends the use of brake fluid in accordance with the VW 501 14
standard. If this brake fluid is not available or another brake fluid is used for
different reasons, use a brake fluid that complies with the United States
standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4 or the German standard DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4
⇒  .
Brak e fluid

s conforming to the standard VW 501 14, fulfil the American re-
quirements of the FMVSS 116 DOT 4 standard and the German
DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 standard. However, fluids that comply with the Amer-
ican FMVSS 116 DOT 4 standard or the German DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4
standard do not necessarily comply with the VW 501 14 standard. Always
check the information on the brake fluid container and ensure that you are
using suitable brake fluid.
A suitable brake fluid can be obtained from Authorised Service Centres.
Brake fluid level
The level of the brake fluid should always be between the MIN and MAX
marks, or above the MIN mark ⇒  .
It i s

not always possible to check the level of the brake fluid, as in some
models the engine components make it difficult to see the brake fluid reser-
voir. If you cannot read the exact brake fluid level, consult a specialist.
The brake fluid level drops slightly when the vehicle is being used due to
wear of the brake pads and the automatic readjustment of the brake.
Changing the brake fluid
The brake fluid should be changed in accordance with the instructions giv-
en in the Maintenance Programme. Have the brake fluid changed by a Tech- nical Service. SEAT recommends visiting a Technical Service. This means
that on

ly brake fluid complying with the required specifications will be
used. WARNING
If the brake fluid level is low or unsuitable/old brake fluid is used, the
brak e sy

stem may fail or braking power will be reduced.
● Check the brake system and the brake fluid level regularly!
● The brake fluid should be changed regularly in accordance with the
instruction
s given in the Maintenance Programme.
● When the brake fluid is used and brakes are subjected to extreme
brakin
g forces, bubbles of vapour form in the brake system. These bub-
bles of water vapour can significantly reduce braking power, notably in-
creasing braking distance, and could even result in the total failure of the
brake system.
● Only used brake fluid that conforms to the VW 501 14 standard,
FMVS
S 116 DOT 4 standard or even the DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 standard.
Other types of brake fluid could affect brake operation and reduce brak-
ing power. Do not use a brake fluid if the container does not specify com-
pliance with the VW 501 14, FMVSS 116 DOT 4 or DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4
standards.
● The replacement brake fluid must be new.
● Always ensure that you use suitable brake fluid. Do not use a brake
fluid if the cont
ainer does not specify compliance with the VW 501 14,
FMVSS 116 DOT 4 or DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 standards. 

193
Driving WARNING
Brake fluid is poisonous.
● To reduce the risk of poisoning, do not keep brake fluid in drinks bot-
tle s/c
ontainers or similar. Other people could drink from these recipients
even if the contents are clearly marked.
● Always keep brake fluid in the original container; keep it correctly
seal
ed and out of reach of children. CAUTION
Brake fluid could damage the paintwork. Wipe off any brake fluid from the
paintw ork

immediately. For the sake of the environment
Brake fluid is an environmental pollutant. Collect any spilt service fluids and
allo w a pr

ofessional to dispose of them. Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

194
Driving
Start assist systems
Introduction Additional information and warnings:
●
SEAT information system ⇒ pag e 62
● Br
aking, stopping and parking ⇒ page 183
● V

ehicle battery ⇒ page 288
● Wheel

s and tyres ⇒ page 293
● A

ccessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications ⇒ page 257
● Jump s

tarting ⇒ page 337 WARNING
The intelligent technology in the start assist systems cannot change the
la w

s of physics. The improved comfort provided by start assist systems
should not prompt you to take risks.
● Unintentional movements of the vehicle could cause serious injury.
● The start assist systems are not a replacement for driver awareness.
● Always try to adapt the speed of the vehicle and your style of driving
to the condition of
the ground or the road and to weather and traffic con-
ditions.
● The start assist system cannot keep the vehicle stationary in all con-
ditions on a gr
adient or cause it to brake on steep downhill gradients,
e.g. if the road is slippery or icy. Auto Hold function*
Fig. 138 Detailed view of
the centr
e c

onsole: Au-
to Hold button.
The control lamp on the button switches on when the Auto Hold function is
on.
When the Auto Hol

d function is on, it helps the driver if they must regularly
stop the vehicle or if they must stop with the engine running for prolonged
periods, for example, on hills, before a traffic light or in traffic jams with
continuous stopping and starting.
The Auto Hold function automatically prevents the vehicle from rolling away
accidentally when at a standstill, without the driver having to keep his/her
foot on the brake pedal.
When the system that detects that the vehicle has stopped, the Auto Hold
keeps the vehicle at a standstill. The brake pedal can be released.
If the driver presses the brake pedal briefly or presses the accelerator to
start off, the Auto Hold function releases the brake once more. The vehicle
moves according to the gradient. 