2011 Seat Alhambra technical specifications

9
Safe driving
● For petrol vehicles: Is unleaded petrol available at the right octane rat-
in g?
● F
or diesel engines: Is diesel fuel available with a low sulphur content?
● Are a suitable engine oil ( ⇒ page 279) and other en
gine fluids comply-
ing with SEAT specifications available in the destination country?
● Will the navigation system fitted at the factory operate correctly in the
destin
ation country with the available navigation data?
● Are special tyres required in the destination country? CAUTION
SEAT does not accept liability for any damage to the vehicle due to the use
of a lo w

er quality fuel, an inadequate service or the non-availability of genu-
ine spare parts. 
Driving along flooded roadways To prevent damage to the vehicle when driving through water, for example,
along a flooded r
o

ad, please observe the following:
● Check the depth of the water before entering the flooded zone. The wa-
ter shoul
d never come above the lower edge of the bodywork ⇒  .
● Do not drive faster than a pedestrian.
● Do not stop in the water, use reverse gear or switch off the engine.
● Oncoming traffic will cause waves which raise the level of the water,
mak in

g it difficult to cross the water. WARNING
When driving through water, mud, melted snow, etc., please remember
that due t

o damp or frozen brake discs and shoes in winter, the braking
effect may be delayed, therefore the required braking distance is greater.
● Dry the brakes and remove ice by braking carefully. Ensure that you
are not end
angering other road-users or breaking traffic regulations in
the process.
● After driving through water, avoid sudden sharp manoeuvres. CAUTION
● Driving through flooded areas may severely damage vehicle compo-
nents s

uch as the engine, transmission, running gear or electrical system.
● Never drive through salt water as salt causes corrosion. Always rinse any
parts
of the vehicle which have been in contact with salt water. Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

74
Unlocking and locking
SEAT recommend having the batteries changed in a Technical Service.
The batt er
y is located to the rear of the vehicle key, under a cover ⇒ fig. 43.
When changing the battery, use another battery of the same model and ob-
serve the polarity when fitting it ⇒  .
To c h

ange the battery
● Unfold the key shaft ⇒ page 71.
● R

emove the cover from the back of the vehicle key ⇒ fig. 43 in the direc-
tion of
the arrow ⇒  .
● Extract the battery from the compartment using a suitable thin object
⇒ fig. 44.
● Place the new battery in the compartment, pressing in the direction of
the arro w a

s shown ⇒ fig. 44 ⇒  .
● Fit the battery compartment cover, pressing in the direction of the arrow
as sho

wn ⇒ fig. 43 until it clicks into place. CAUTION
● If the battery is not changed correctly, the vehicle key may be damaged.
● Use of

unsuitable batteries may damage the vehicle key. For this reason,
alway
s replace the dead battery with another of the same voltage, size and
specifications. For the sake of the environment
● Please dispose of your used batteries correctly and with respect for the
en v

ironment.
● The vehicle key battery may contain perchlorate. Observe the legal re-
quirements f
or their disposal. To synchronise the vehicle key If the button
 is pressed frequently outside of the vehicle range, it is pos-
sib l

e that the vehicle can no longer be locked or unlocked using the key. In
this case, the vehicle key must be synchronised once more as follows:
● Unfold the key shaft ⇒ page 72.
● R

emove the cover from the driver's door handle ⇒ page 314.
● Pr

ess the button  on the vehicle key. For this, it must remain with the
vehic l

e.
● Open the vehicle within one minute using the key shift.
● Turn on the ignition using the vehicle key. The key has been synchron-
ised.
● Rep

lace the driver's door handle cover. 
Central locking and locking system
Introduction Central locking functions correctly when all the doors and the tailgate are
corr
ectly

shut. If the driver's door is open, the vehicle cannot be locked with
the key.
The battery of a vehicle left unlocked during a long period (for instance, in a
private garage) may run down and fail to start the motor.
Additional information and warnings:
● Personal convenience settings in the SEAT information system
⇒ page 62
● V

ehicle key set ⇒ page 71
● Slidin

g doors ⇒ page 81 

165
Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning
Range
The rec eiv
er is in the interior of the vehicle. The remote control, when fitted
with new batteries, has a range of several hundred metres. Obstacles be-
tween the remote control and the vehicle, bad weather conditions and dis-
charged batteries can considerably reduce the range of the remote control.
An optimum range is obtained by keeping the remote control vertical, with
the aerial A pointing upwards. When doing so, do not cover the aerial with
your fin g

ers or with the palm of your hand.
There must be a minimum distance of two metres between the remote con-
trol and the vehicle. CAUTION
● The radiofrequency remote control contains electronic components.
Ther ef

ore, avoid getting the remote control wet and from being knocked
and protect it from direct sunlight.
● Use of inappropriate batteries may damage the remote control. For this
rea

son, always replace the dead battery with another of the same voltage,
size and specifications. For the sake of the environment
● Please dispose of old batteries so that they do not harm the environ-
ment .
● The r

emote control battery may contain perchlorate. Observe the legal
requirements
for their disposal. 
Programming the auxiliary heater The heater or ventilation inside the vehicle can be programmed for a certain
period. Before programming, check that the day is correctly set in the
Auxi
liary heat-
er - day of the week menu ⇒  .
Enab lin
g the Auxiliary heater menu on the instrument panel
● From the main menu, select the Auxili
ary heater submenu and press the
OK button on the windscreen wiper lever.
● ALTERNATIVELY: pre s
s the  or
 arrow buttons on the multi-function
st eerin
g wheel until the Auxiliary heater menu is displayed. Menu options Description
Switching on
Swit
c

hing off The auxiliary heater can be set to come on automati-
cal
ly

if required. To do so, select a timer:
– The timer is displayed marked with a .
– Only one timer can be selected. If a timer has been
selected, Prog. ON will be displayed on the screen. If
no timer has been selected, the instrument panel
screen will display Prog. OFF.
– To modify the programmed timer, select another tim-
er or select the Off option. Timer 1
Timer 2
Timer 3 Three different timers (hh.mm) can later be selected
us
in

g the On option. If the auxiliary heater is to be
switched on for just a certain day of the week, select
the day of the week and the time for the auxiliary heat-
er to come on. Duration The operating time may vary between 10 and 60 mi-
nute
s

and can be set to 5-minute intervals. Operating mode Set to heat or ventilate the vehicle interior when the
auxi
li

ary heater is switched on. Day Set the current day of the week.
Manufacturer's
setting
s The predefined factory values for the functions of this
menu are r
e

stored. Back This returns to the main menu
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. 

233
Trailer towing
Driving with a trailer Tec hnic
al requirements If the car is supplied with a
factor
y-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 in-
structions. Never fit a trailer tow hitch “that distributes the load” or “balan-
ces 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 re-
quirements. The trailer braking system should never be connected to the ve-
hicle braking system.
Trailer cable
Always use a cable between the vehicle and the trailer ⇒ page 235.Trailer rear lights
The rear lights

of a trailer must fulfil the corresponding standards
⇒ page 235.
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 spe-
cialist workshop. SEAT recommends visiting a Technical Service.
Wing mirrors
When the field of vision behind the trailer cannot be seen using the stand-
ard 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: Electrical consumer Maximum power
Position lights and rear lights 50 Watts
Indicator (each side) 54 Watts
Brake lights (total) 84 Watts
Reversing lights (total) 42 Watts
Rear fog light 42 Watts
WARNING
If the tow hitch is badly fitted or unsuitable, the trailer may separate from
the v ehic

le causing an accident with serious consequences. Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

235
Trailer towing
The warning lamp
● When the indicator flashes , the t ow ball is not in its final position, has
not engaged or is damaged ⇒  .
● When the indicator remain s
lit and the tailgate is open, the tow ball has
inserted correctly into the folded or deployed position.
● When the tailgate is closed, the indicator is turned off. WARNING
The incorrect use of the tow hitch can cause accidents and injury.
● Ensure that no person, animal or object gets in the way of the tow
ba l

l.
● Never push the button when there is a trailer hitched or when any
kind of c
arrier or accessory is fitted to the tow hitch ball.
● While the ball is moving, do not interfere with any tool.
● Do not drive with a trailer if the indicator does not light.
● If there is a fault in the electric system or the trailer tow hitch, visit a
speci
alist workshop to have it checked.
● If the diameter of the tow hitch is less than 49 mm, never use this for
a trail
er. CAUTION
● If anything is attached to the tow hitch ball, do not, under any circum-
s t

ances press the button.
● Never direct a high-pressure or steam cleaning system directly at the
tow hit
ch 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 re-
le a

sed. 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
, w

ith a maximum distance of 300 mm from the support. The distance
between supports is the distance between the bicycle carrier centre of gravi-
ty (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
cau se ac

cidents and injury.
● Never exceed the load and distances between supports indicated.
● Never fit the bicycle carrier to the tow hitch ball neck, underneath the
tow hit
ch given that the bicycle carrier may be incorrectly fitted due to
the shape of the tow hitch and the model of bicycle carrier.
● Always read and take the manufacturer assembly instructions into ac-
count
. CAUTION
Exceeding the maximum load and distance between supports indicated can
cau se c

onsiderable damage to the vehicle.
● Never exceed the specifications. 
Hitching and connecting the trailer Trailer cable
Alw
a

ys 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. Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

237
Trailer towing
For the sake of road safety, SEAT recommends using the maximum allowed
dra wb
ar 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:
● Distribute loads in the trailer so that heavy objects are as near to the
axle a
s possible or even above it.
● Correctly secure the trailer load.
Tyr

e pressure
Inflate the trailer tyres according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Inflate the towing vehicles tyres to the maximum ⇒ page 293.WARNING
Exceeding the maximum authorised axle load, drawbar load or the gross
comb in

ation weight of the towing vehicle and trailer could cause a seri-
ous accident with severe consequences.
● Never exceed the specifications.
● With the actual load on the front and rear axles, the maximum axle
load shou
ld 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 com-
bin ation w

ill be seriously affected and this could result in a serious acci-
dent.
● Always correctly load the trailer.
● Always secure loads correctly with suitable and undamaged attach-
ment rope or s
traps. 
Driving with a trailer Adjusting the headlights
When to
w

ing 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
● If the trailer has an overru
n brake, apply the brakes gently at first and
then, firmly. This will prevent the jerking that can be caused by the trailer
wheels locking.
● As of the combined vehicle and trailer mass, braking distances will be
great
er.
● Select a low gear before driving down a steep hill to use the engine
brakin
g effect to slow down the vehicle. Otherwise, the braking system
could overheat and fail. Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

257
Accessories, parts replacement and modifications
Accessories, parts replacement and modifications Accessories, replacement of parts and
modification s
Intr
oduction WARNING
The use of spare parts and accessories, or incorrectly performed modifi-
cation s

or repairs may result in damage to the vehicle, accidents and se-
rious injury.
● SEAT strongly recommends you to only use SEAT approved accesso-
ries and
SEAT ®
original spare parts. These parts and accessories have
been specially tested by SEAT for suitability, reliability and safety.
● Have any repairs or modifications carried out at a Technical Service.
Qualified work
shops have the necessary tools, diagnostics equipment,
repair information and qualified personnel.
● Only mount parts with the same specifications as the parts fitted at
factor
y.
● Never mount, fasten or fit objects such as drink holders or telephone
cra

dles over the covers of the airbag modules or within their radius of ac-
tion.
● Only use wheels and tyre combinations which have been approved by
SEAT f
or your vehicle type. 
Accessories and spare parts SEAT recommends you consult an Official Service before purchasing acces-
sories
and s

pare parts or consumables. For example, when fitting accesso- ries at a later date, or when replacing a component. A Technical Service will
advi

se you as to the legal requirements and manufacturer's recommenda-
tions regarding accessories, spare parts and other components.
SEAT recommend you use only approved SEAT accessories and genuine
SEAT spare parts ®
. These parts and accessories have been specially tested
by SEAT for suitability, reliability and safety. In addition the Technical Serv-
ice will guarantee that the assembly is carried out professionally.
Although we continually monitor the market, SEAT cannot guarantee that
products not approved by SEAT are reliable, safe and suitable for the vehi-
cle. Therefore, SEAT cannot accept liability, even in those cases authorised
by an officially recognised technical inspection office or other official body.
Any retro-fitted equipment which has a direct effect on the vehicle and/or
the way it is driven must be approved by SEAT for use in your vehicle and
bear the e mark (the European Union's authorisation symbol). This includes
cruise control systems or electronically controlled suspension.
If any additional electrical components are fitted which do not serve to con-
trol the vehicle itself, these must bear the  mark (European Union manu-
facturer conformity declaration). This includes refrigerator boxes, laptops or
ventilator fans. WARNING
Unprofessional repairs or modifications to the vehicle may affect the per-
form anc

e of the airbags, resulting in operating faults or fatal accident.
● Never mount, fasten or fit objects such as drink holders or telephone
cra

dles over the covers of the airbag modules or within their radius of ac-
tion.
● Objects placed over the airbag covers, or within their radius of action,
coul
d lead to serious injury or loss of life if the airbags are triggered. 
Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data