2012 Seat Alhambra ABS

187
Driving
WARNING
Driving with brakes in bad condition could result in a serious accident.
● If the brake warning lamp  does not go out, or if it lights up when
driving, the brake fluid level in the reservoir is too low or there is a fault
in the brake system. Obtain professional assistance immediately
⇒ page 193, Brake fluid.
● If the brake warning lamp  lights up together with the ABS warning
lamp , the regulation function of the ABS could be malfunctioning. As a
result, the rear wheels can lock relatively easily when braking. If the rear
wheels lock this could result in loss of vehicle control! If possible, reduce
your speed and drive carefully to a specialised workshop close by to
check the brake system. During the following journey, avoid sudden brak-
ing and manoeuvres.
● If the ABS warning lamp  does not go out or if it lights while driv-
ing, the ABS is malfunctioning. The vehicle can only be stopped using
normal braking without ABS. The protection provided by the ABS is not
available. Visit a specialised workshop as soon as possible.
● If  lights, alone or accompanied by a warning message on the in-
strument panel screen, please go immediately to a specialised workshop
to check the brake pads and to replace them if they are worn.
CAUTION
Failure to heed the warning lamps and text messages when they appear
may result in faults in the vehicle. Electronic parking brake
Fig. 136 Detailed view of
the centre console: elec-
tronic parking brake
switch
Applying the electronic parking brake
The parking brake can be applied whenever the vehicle is at a standstill,
even when the ignition is switched off. Always apply the parking brake
when you leave your vehicle and when you park.
● Pull button 
until the control lamp
 on the button lights up.
● The parking brake is applied when the control lamp  lights up on the
instrument panel ⇒ page 186.
Releasing the electronic parking brake
● Switch the ignition on.
● Press button 
. At the same time, press the brake pedal hard or gently
press the accelerator pedal with the engine switched on.
● The control lamps  on the button and  on the instrument panel go
out. 
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191
Driving
Note
When checking the front brake pads, take the time to also check the rear
brake pads. 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. 
Brake assist systems
The brake assist systems ESC, ABS, BAS, ASR and EDL only operate when
the ignition is switched on. They contribute significantly to increasing active
safety.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
ESC reduces the risk of skidding and increases the vehicle stability by brak-
ing individual wheels under specific driving conditions. ESC detects critical
handling situations, such as understeer, oversteer and wheelspin on the
driven wheels. The system stabilises the vehicle by braking individual
wheels or by reducing the engine torque.
The ESC has limits. It is important to realise that the ESC is also subject to
the laws of physics. ESC will not be able to deal with all situations with
which drivers may be faced. For example, if the road surface changes sud-
denly then ESC will not be useful in all cases. If the vehicle suddenly enters
a section covered by water, mud or snow then ESC will not provide assis-
tance 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 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 steering. If the vehicle is driven
through series of bends at high speed, the ESC will not always be as effec-
tive: the vehicle reaction to aggressive driving is not the same as at reduced
speeds. When driving with a trailer, ESC 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 cannot push the limits of the laws of physics; improve the transmission
available or maintain the vehicle on the road if a lack of driver attention cre-
ates an inevitable situation. Otherwise, ESC 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 desired direction. If the
vehicle is driven at such a speed that it will leave the road before ESC can
intervene then the system cannot provide assistance.
The ABS, BAS, ASR and EDL systems are incorporated into the ESC. The ESC
is always on. The ESC should only be turned off using the ASR button
⇒ 
fig. 137 when traction is insufficient. Always remember to turn on the ASR
once more when the vehicle has traction 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 pedal 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
wheels are prevented from digging into loose surfaces. All-terrain ABS only 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications

192Driving
intervenes when driving in a straight line. When the front wheels are turned,
the normal ABS is activated.
Brake 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)
In the event of wheelspin, the traction control system reduces the engine
torque to match the amount of grip available. The ASR makes some situa-
tions easier, for example, when starting, accelerating or going uphill, even
in unfavourable road conditions.
The ASR can be switched on or off manually ⇒ page 193.
Electronic differential lock system (EDL and XDS)
EDL 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.
The XDS function is an extension of the electronic differential lock. The XDS
does not react to the traction of the driving wheels, but to the adherence of
the front wheel on the inside of the curve whilst gripping rapidly in corners.
The XDS gives pressure to the brakes of the wheel on the interior of the cor-
ner to prevent skidding. This improves traction, which assists the vehicle in
continuing the required line.
WARNING
Driving at high speed on icy, slippery wet ground can result in loss of ve-
hicle control and serious injury to the driver and passengers.
● Adjust your speed and driving style to visibility, road, traffic and
weather conditions. Even though the brake assist systems, ABS, BAS,
EDL, ASR and ESC, provide more security, do not take unnecessary risks
while driving.
● Braking assist systems can not overcome the laws of physics. Even
with ESC and other systems, slippery and wet roads will always be dan-
gerous.
● Driving to quickly on wet ground can result in the wheels losing con-
tact with the ground in an effect known as aquaplaning. Without adher-
ence, it is impossible to brake, steer or control the vehicle.
● Brake assist systems cannot avoid accidents if, for example, the driv-
er does not respect safety distances or drives to quickly in difficult condi-
tions.
● Even though brake assist systems are extremely effective and help
control 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
brake assist systems resulting in loss of vehicle control.
WARNING
The effectiveness of the ESC can be considerably reduced if other compo-
nents 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. 

193
Driving
WARNING (Continued)
● Changes to the vehicle suspension or using unapproved wheel/tyre
combinations can affect operation of the ABS, BAS, ASL EDL and ESC and
their effectiveness.
● Likewise, the effectiveness of ESC depends on the use of suitable
tyres ⇒ page 297.
Note
● To ensure that the ESC and ASR work properly, all four wheels must be
fitted with identical tyres. Any differences in the rolling radius 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, EDL and ASR will also
be out of action.
● Noises may be heard while any of the above systems are operating. 
Turning on and off the ASR
Fig. 137 Detailed view of
the centre console: but-
ton used to switch ASR
on and off (vehicles with
ESC). The electronic stability control ESC consists of ABS, EDL and ASR and only
works when the engine is running.
The ASR can be switched off while the engine is running by pressing the
 OFF
⇒ fig. 137 button. The ASR (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 back on by pressing the button  OFF
⇒ fig. 137.
Brake fluid
Fig. 138 In the engine
compartment: 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 FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications

225
Driving
Tyre monitoring systems Introduction
The tyre monitor indicator monitors the tyre pressure of each wheel during
driving using the ABS sensors. The ABS sensors monitor the tyre tread pe-
rimeter and vibrations of each tire. The tyre monitor indicator warns the driv-
er if it detects a considerable drop in tyre pressure of one or several tyres
while driving. Loss of tyre pressure will be indicated by the indicator  as
well as a sound and sometimes a text message on the screen of the instru-
ment panel. When you open the driver's door, you will find a label indicat-
ing the tyre pressure recommended by the manufacturer for the maximum
vehicle load for each tyre approved for the vehicle in question. By pressing
the adjustment button on the tyre monitoring indicator, you may change the
reference pressure for the tyres so that the tyre pressure to be monitored co-
incides with actual tyre pressure ⇒ page 227.
Suitable use of the adjustment button ⇒ page 227.
Additional information and warnings:
● Transporting ⇒  page 13
● Braking, stopping and parking ⇒  page 185
● Caring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior ⇒ page 246
● Wheels and tyres ⇒ page 297
● Accessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications ⇒ page 261
WARNING
Unsuitable handling of the wheels and tyres may lead to sudden tyre
pressure losses, to tread separation or even to a blow-out.
● Check tyre pressures regularly and ensure they are maintained at the
pressures indicated. If the tyre pressure is too low, the tyres could over-
heat, resulting in tread detachment or even burst tyres.
● Tyre pressure should be that indicated on the label when the tyres are
cold at all times ⇒ page 301.
● Regularly check the cold inflation pressure of the tyres. If necessary,
change the tyre pressure of the vehicle tyres while they are cold.
● Regularly check your tyres for damage and wear.
● Never exceed the maximum permitted speed or loads specified for the
type of tyre fitted on your vehicle.
WARNING
Incorrect use of the tyre monitoring indicator button could result in the
indicator giving erroneous messages or prevented from indicating the
danger caused by a defective tyre ⇒ page 227.
CAUTION
● The tyre valves may be damaged if the cap is not in place. Check that the
caps are identical to the standard caps and have been correctly tightened.
Do not use metal caps ⇒ page 227.
● Do not damage the valves when changing the tyres ⇒ page 227.
For the sake of the environment
Under-inflated tyres lead to increased fuel consumption and tyre wear. 
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226Driving
Note
● Do not only rely on the tyre monitoring system. Regularly check your
tyres to ensure that the tyre pressure is correct and that the tyres are not
damaged due to puncture, cuts, tears and impacts/dents. Remove objects
from the tyres only when the tyres have not been pierced by these.
● The tyre monitoring system is set to the tyre pressure recommended by
the manufacturer and indicated on the label ⇒ fig. 178.
Elements of the tyre monitoring indicator
Tyre monitoring indicator with button.See ⇒ page 227. Warning lamp  on the instrument panel.  SET button on the centre console.
Monitoring the tread of all tyres using ABS sensors (indirect measure-
ment).
 Adjustable medium and full-load tyre pressures. Button to update the system when the tyre pressure is changed. Control lamp
Lights
up or
flashesPossible cause ⇒ Solution

The tyre pressure of a wheel
has dropped considerably in
relation to the pressure set by
the driver ⇒ page 227.
 Stop the vehicle! Reduce your
speed immediately! Stop the ve-
hicle safely as soon as possible.
Avoid sudden manoeuvres and
braking!
Check all tyres and pressures.
Replace any damaged tyres.
System malfunction.
Consult a specialised workshop
if the tyre pressure is correct and
the lamp remains lit after
switching the ignition off and
back on again. Have the system
checked there.
Several warning and control lamps should light up for a few seconds when
the ignition is switched. This signals that the lamp is working properly. They
will switch off after a few seconds.
WARNING
When the tyres are inflated at different pressures or at a pressure that is
too low then a tyre may the damaged resulting in a loss of control of the
vehicle and a serious or mortal accident.
● If the indicator  lights, stop immediately and check the tyres.
● If the tyres are inflated at different pressures or if a tyre pressure is
too low, this will increase tyre wear, negatively affecting vehicle stability
and increasing braking distances. 

227
Driving
WARNING (Continued)
● If tyres are inflated at different pressures or a tyre pressure is too low,
a tyre may be damaged and burst resulting in a loss of control of the ve-
hicle.
● The driver is responsible for ensuring that all of the vehicle tyres are
correctly inflated to the right pressure. The recommended tyre pressure
is indicated on the label ⇒ fig. 178.
● The tyre monitoring system can only operate correctly if all of the
tyres are inflated to the correct pressure when cold.
● Driving with tyres at the wrong pressure can cause damage to them
and result in an accident. Ensure that the tyre pressures of all the tyres
correspond to the vehicle load.
● Before starting a journey, always inflated tyres to the correct pres-
sure.
● If tyre pressure is too low then the tyre is subject to greater forces
and it may be heated to such an extent that the tread can rupture and the
tyre will burst.
● With an overloaded vehicle at high speed, the tyres can overheat and
burst resulting in a loss of vehicle control.
● Tyre pressures which are too high or too low reduce the useful life of
the tyre, affecting the vehicle's performance.
● If a tyre has not been punctured then it does not have to be changed
immediately; drive to the nearest specialised workshop at a moderate
speed and have the tyre checked and inflated to the correct pressure.
WARNING
If the warning lamps and messages are ignored, the vehicle may stall in
traffic, or may cause accidents and severe injuries.
● Never ignore the warning lamps or text messages.
● Stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible.
CAUTION
Failure to heed the warning lamps and text messages when they appear
may result in faults in the vehicle. 
Tyre monitoring indicator
Fig. 156 Detailed view of
the centre console: but-
ton for the tyre pressure
monitoring indicator.
The tyre monitor indicator compares wheel revolutions and, with this infor-
mation, the tread of each wheel using the ABS sensors. If the tread of a
wheel is changed, the tyre monitoring indicator will indicate as such on the
instrument panel. The wheel tread changes when:
● Tyre pressure is insufficient.
● Tyre structure is damaged.
● The vehicle is unbalanced because of a load.
● The wheels on an axle are subject to a heavier load (e.g. when towing a
trailer). 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical tipsTechnical Specifications

238Trailer towing
CAUTION
● If the rear lights of the trailer are not correctly connected, the vehicle
electronics may be damaged.
● If the trailer absorbs excessive electric current, the vehicle electronics
may be damaged.
● Never 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
recommend additional services between the normal inspection intervals if
the vehicle is used frequently for towing a trailer.
● In some countries, an additional fire extinguisher is required if the trailer
weight is more than 2500 kg 
Electric tow hitch ball*
Fig. 158 Right-hand
side of the luggage com-
partment: button to elec-
trically release the tow
hitch ball. The rotation radius of the tow hitch ball should be free of people, animals
and objects
⇒ 
.
The tow hitch is located in the bumper. The electric tow ball is fixed and can-
not be removed.
Releasing and unfolding the tow ball
● Stop the vehicle and apply the electric parking brake.
● Switch the engine off.
● Open the tailgate.
● Press the knob briefly ⇒ fig. 158. The tow ball is released electronically
and folds out automatically; the button indicator will blink.
● Move the ball joint until it inserts and the button indicator lights.
● Close the tailgate.
● Before hitching the trailer, remove the dust guard from the ball.
● The indicator only lights when the tailgate is open and when a trailer is
not hitched.
Restoring the tow ball to its originally position
● Stop the vehicle and apply the electric parking brake.
● Switch the engine off.
● Remove the trailer and disconnect the cable between the vehicle and
trailer. If necessary, remove the socket adapter.
● Place the dust guard over the ball.
● Open the tailgate.
● Press the knob briefly ⇒ fig. 158. The tow ball is electronically released;
the indicator blinks.
● Push the tow ball into the bumper until it locks in position and the but-
ton indicator lights.
● Close the tailgate. 