Operation
once on the upper part of the rocker switch RES/+ ››› Fig. 137 A .
Complete system deactivation* Vehicles with a manual gearbox
The system is completely turned off
by mov-
ing the control B
››› Fig. 137 all the way to
the right (OFF
engaged), or when the vehicle
is stationary, by switching off the ignition.
Vehicles with automatic gearbox/DSG
automatic gearbox
To completely disengage the system, the se-
lector lever must be placed in one of the fol-
lowing positions: P ,
N, R or 1 or with the vehi-
cle stopped and the ignition turned off. Towing bracket device
Trailer towing Instructions to follow Your vehicle may be used to tow a trailer
when fitted with the correct equipment.
If the car is supplied with a
factory-fitted tow-
in g br
acket it will already have the necessary
technical modifications and meet the statuto-
ry requirements for towing a trailer. If you
wish to retrofit a towing bracket, consult
›
›› page 146.
Connect
ors
Your vehicle is fitted with a 12-pin connector
for the electrical connection between the
trailer and the vehicle.
If the trailer has a 7-pin plug you will need to
use an a
dapter cable. It is available at any
Technical Service.
Trailer weight/drawbar load
Never exceed the authorised trailer weight. If
you do not load the trailer up to the maxi-
mum permitted trailer weight, you can then
climb correspondingly steeper slopes.
The maximum trailer weights listed are only applicable for altitudes up to 1000 m above
sea l
evel. With increasing altitude the engine power and therefore the vehicle climbing
ability are impaired because of the reduced
air density. The maximum trailer weight has
to be reduced accordingly. The weight of the
vehicle and trailer combination must be re-
duced by 10% for every further 1000 m (or
part thereof). The gross combination weight
is the actual weight of the laden vehicle plus
the actual weight of the laden trailer. When
possible, operate the trailer with the maxi-
mum permitted drawbar load on the ball joint
of the t
owing bracket, but do not exceed the
specified limit.
The figures for trailer weights
and drawbar
loads that are given on the data plate of the
towing bracket are for certification purposes
only. The correct figures for your specific
model, which may be lower than these fig-
ures for the towing bracket, are given in the
vehicle documentation or in ››› chapter Tech-
nical Data .
Distributing the load
Distribute loads in the trailer so that heavy
objects are as near to the axle as possible.
Loads carried in the trailer must be secured
to prevent them moving.
144
Towing bracket device
Tyre pressure
Set tyre pressure to the maximum permissi-
ble pressure shown on the sticker on the in-
side of the fuel tank flap. Set the tyre pres-
sure of the trailer tyres in accordance with the
trailer manufacturer's recommendations.
Exterior mirrors
Check whether you can see enough of the
road behind the trailer with the standard rear
vision mirrors. If this is not the case, you
should have additional exterior mirrors fitted.
Both exterior mirrors should be mounted on
hinged extension brackets. Adjust the mirrors
to give sufficient vision to the rear. WARNING
Never transport people in a trailer. This could
result in fatal accidents. Note
● Towing a trailer places additional demands
on the vehicle. We recommend additional
services between the normal inspection inter-
vals if the vehicle is used frequently for tow-
ing a trailer.
● Find out whether special regulations apply
to towing a trailer in your country. Ball coupling of towing bracket*
Depending on the model version, the spheri-
cal head on the trailer hook may be stored in
the tool box.
The ball coupling is provided with instruc-
tions on fitting and removing the ball cou-
pling of the towing bracket.
WARNING
The towing bracket ball coupling must be
stored securely in the luggage compartment
to prevent them being flung through the vehi-
cle and causing injury. Note
● By law, the ball coupling must be removed
if a trailer is not being towed if it obscures
the number plate. Driving tips
Driving with a trailer always requires extra
care.
Weight distribution
The weight distribution of a loaded trailer
with an unladen vehicle is very unfavourable.
However, if this cannot be avoided, drive ex-
tra slowly to allow for the unbalanced weight
distribution.Speed
The stability of the vehicle and trailer is re-
duced with increasing speed. For this reason,
it is advisable not to drive at the maximum
permissible speed in an unfavourable road,
weather or wind conditions. This applies es-
pecially when driving downhill.
You should always reduce speed immediately
if the trailer shows the slightest sign of
snak-
ing . Never try to stop the “snaking” by in-
c r
easing speed.
Always brake in due course. If 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 locking of trail-
er wheels. Select a low gear in due course
before going down a steep downhill. This en-
ables you to use the engine braking to slow
down the vehicle.
Reheating
At very high temperatures and during pro-
longed slopes, driving in a low gear and high
engine speed, always monitor the coolant
temperature gauge ››› page 31.
Electronic Stability Control*
The ESC* system helps to stabilise the trailer
in case of skidding or rocking.
145
Technical specifications
Advice
Operation
Safety
Operation
Fitting a towing bracket* Fig. 138
Attachment points for towing brack-
et. If a towing bracket is to be fitted after the ve-
hicle is purchased, this must be completed
according to the instructions of the towing
bracket manufacturer. The attachment points for the towing bracket
A are on the lower part of the vehicle.
The distance between the centre of the ball
coupling and the ground should never be
lower than the indicated value, even with a
fully loaded vehicle and including the maxi-
mum drawbar load.
Elevation values for securing the towing
bracket: ALTEAALTEA XLALTEA FREE- TRACK
B65 mm (minimum)
C350 mm to 420 mm (fully laden vehicle)
D357 mm344 mm
E569 mm531 mm
F875 mm1,044 mm
G1040 mm Fitting a towing bracket
●
Driving with a trailer involves an extra effort
for the vehicle. Therefore, before fitting a
towing bracket, please contact a Technical
Service to check whether your cooling system
needs modification.
● The legal requirements in your country
must be observed (e.g. the fitting of a sepa-
rate control lamp). ●
Certain vehicle components, e.g. the rear
bumper, must be removed and reinstalled.
The towing bracket securing bolts must be
tightened using a torque wrench, and a pow-
er socket must be connected to the vehicle
electrical system. This requires specialised
knowledge and tools.
● Figures in the illustration show the eleva-
tion value and the attachment points which
must be considered if you are retrofitting a
towing bracket. WARNING
The towing brackets should be fitted at a spe-
cialised workshop.
● If the towing bracket is incorrectly instal-
led, there is a serious danger of accident.
● For your own safety, please observe the tow
bracket manufacturer's instructions. CAUTION
● If the power socket is incorrectly installed,
this could cause damage to the vehicle elec-
trical system. Note
For the sports model (Altea FR), fitting of a
trailer bracket is not recommended due to the
design of the bumpers. 146
Advice
Checking and refilling levels
Fuel Refuelling Fig. 139
Tank flap open. The tank flap is released manually and is lo-
cated at the rear of the vehicle on the right.
The tank holds approximately 55 litres. For
all-wheel drive vehicles, the tank capacity is
approximately 60 litres.
Vehicles using LPG have two fuel tanks: one
for LPG and another for petrol
››› page 160.
Opening the fuel tank cap
– Lift the lid.
– Hold the cap firmly with one hand, then in-
sert the key into the lock and rotate 180° to
the left. –
Unscrew the cap, turning it anticlockwise.
Closing the fuel tank cap
– Screw the tank cap to the right until it
“clicks”.
– Turn the key in the lock, without releasing
the cap, clockwise through 180°.
– Remove the key and close the flap until it
clicks into place. The tank cap is secured
with an anti-loss attachment
If the automatic filler nozzle is operated cor-
rectly, it will switch itself off as soon as the
tank is full. Never attempt to fill beyond this
point, as this will fill the expansion chamber.
Fuel may leak out if ambient conditions are
warm.
The correct fuel grade for your vehicle is giv-
en on a sticker on the inside of the fuel tank
flap. Here you will find further information on
fuel. WARNING
● Fuel is highly flammable and can cause se-
rious burns and other injuries.
–Never smoke or come into contact with
sparks when filling the fuel tank of the
vehicle or a spare fuel canister with fuel.
This is an explosion hazard.
– Follow legal requirements for the use of
spare fuel canisters. –
For safety reasons we do not recommend
carrying a spare fuel canister in the vehi-
cle. The canister could be damaged in an
accident and leak.
● If, in exceptional circumstances, you have
to carry a spare fuel canister, please observe
the following:
–Never fill the spare fuel canister inside
the vehicle or on it. An electrostatic
charge could build up during filling, caus-
ing the fuel fumes to ignite. This could
cause an explosion. Always place the
canister on the ground to fill it.
– Insert the fuel nozzle into the mouth of
the canister as far as possible.
– If the spare fuel canister is made of met-
al, the filling nozzle must be in contact
with the canister during filling. This
helps prevent an electrostatic charge
building up.
– Never spill fuel in the vehicle or in the
luggage compartment. Fuel vapours are
explosive. Danger of death. CAUTION
● Fuel spills should be removed from the
paintwork immediately.
● Never run the tank completely dry. Irregular
fuel supply can cause misfiring. As a result,
unburnt fuel could enter the catalytic convert-
er and cause damage. 158
Checking and refilling levels
For the sake of the environment
Service fluids leaks are harmful to the envi-
ronment. For this reason you should make
regular checks on the ground underneath
your vehicle. If you find spots of oil or other
fluids, have your vehicle inspected in a speci-
alised workshop. Opening the bonnet
Fig. 144
Detail of footwell area on driver side:
lever for unlocking the bonnet Fig. 145
Handle for releasing the bonnet. The bonnet is released from inside the vehi-
cle.
Before opening the bonnet ensure that the
windscreen wipers are in rest position.
– To release the bonnet, pull the lever under
the dash panel ››› Fig. 144 in the direction
indic at
ed (arrow). The bonnet will be re-
leased by a spring action ››› .
– Lift the bonnet using the release lever (ar-
row) and open the bonnet.
– Release the bonnet stay and secure it in
the fixture designed for this in the bonnet. WARNING
Hot coolant can scald!
● Never open the bonnet if you see steam,
smoke or coolant escaping from the engine
compartment. ●
Wait until no more steam, smoke or coolant
is emitted from the bonnet, then carefully
open the bonnet.
● When working in the engine compartment,
always observe the safety warnings
››› page 163. Closing the bonnet
–
Slightly lift the bonnet.
– Release the bonnet stay and replace it in its
support.
– At a height of approximately 30 cm let it fall
so it locks.
If the bonnet does not close, do not press
downwards. Open it once more and let it fall
as before. WARNING
If the bonnet is not closed properly, it could
open while you are driving and completely
obscure your view of the road. Risk of acci-
dent.
● After closing the bonnet, always check that
it is properly secured. The bonnet must be
flush with the surrounding body panels.
● If you notice that the bonnet latch is not se-
cured when the vehicle is moving, stop the
vehicle immediately and close the bonnet
properly. Risk of accident. 165
Technical specifications
Advice
Operation
Safety
Advice
For the sake of the environment
Old tyres must be disposed of according to
the laws in the country concerned. Note
● For technical reasons, it is not generally
possible to use the wheels from other vehi-
cles. This can also apply to wheels of the
same model. The use of wheels or tyres
which have not been approved by SEAT for
use with your model may invalidate the vehi-
cle's type approval for use on public roads.
● If the spare tyre is not the same as the
tyres that are mounted on the vehicle (e.g.
winter tyres) you should only use the spare
tyre for a short period of time and drive with
extra care. Refit the normal road wheel as
soon as possible. Wheel bolts
The design of wheel bolts is matched to the
rims. If different wheel rims are fitted, the
correct wheel bolts with the right length and
correctly shaped bolt heads must be used.
This ensures that wheels are fitted securely
and that the brake system functions correctly.
In certain circumstances, you should not use
wheel bolts from a different vehicle, even if it
is the same model
›››
page 147. After the wheels have been changed, the
tightening torque of the wheel bolts should
be checked as soon as possible with a torque
wrench
››› . The tightening torque for steel
and alloy wheels is 120 Nm. WARNING
If the wheel bolts are not tightened correctly,
the wheel could become loose while driving.
Risk of accident.
● The wheel bolts must be clean and turn
easily. Never apply grease or oil to them.
● Use only wheel bolts which belong to the
wheel.
● If the tightening torque of the wheel bolts
is too low, they could loosen whilst the vehi-
cle is in motion. Risk of accident! If the tight-
ening torque is too high, the wheel bolts and
threads can be damaged. CAUTION
The prescribed tightening torque for wheel
bolts for steel and alloy wheels is 120 Nm. Winter service
Winter tyres In winter conditions winter tyres will consid-
erably improve the vehicle's handling. Sum-mer tyres (width, rubber compound, tread
pattern) provide less grip on ice and snow.
Winter tyres must be inflated to a
pressure of
0.2 bar (2.9 psi/20 kPa) higher than the pres-
sures specified for summer tyres (see sticker
on fuel tank flap).
Winter tyres must be fitted on all four wheels.
Information on permitted winter tyre sizes
can be found in the vehicle's registration
documentation. Use only radial winter tyres.
All tyre sizes listed in the vehicle documenta-
tion also apply to winter tyres.
Winter tyres lose their effectiveness when the
tread is worn down to a depth of 4 mm.
The speed rating code ››› page 179, New
tyres and wheels determines the following
speed limits for winter tyres:
›
› › max. 160 km/h
max. 180 km/h
max. 190 km/h
max. 210 km/h
In some countries, vehicles which can exceed
the speed rating of the fitted tyre must have
an appropriate sticker in the driver's field of
view. These stickers are available from your
technical service. The legal requirements of
each country must be followed.
Do not have winter tyres fitted for unnecessa-
rily long periods. Vehicles with summer tyres Q
S
T
H
180
Advice
●
Never start the engine when the vehicle is
on the jack. Risk of accident.
● If work is to be carried out underneath the
vehicle, this must be secured by suitable
stands. Otherwise, there is a risk of injury. Note
The jack does not generally require any main-
tenance. If required, it should be greased us-
ing universal-type grease. Compact spare wheel* (temporary
spare wheel)
Fig. 154
Luggage compartment. Accessing
the spare wheel. The compact spare wheel (temporary spare
wheel for vehicles without the anti-puncture
kit) should only be used when strictly neces-
sary. The temporary spare wheel is stored under
the floor panel in the luggage compartment
and is attached by a thumbnut.
How to use the temporary spare wheel
Should you ever have a punctured tyre, the
compact temporary spare wheel is only inten-
ded for temporary use until you can reach a
workshop. The standard-size road wheel
should be replaced as soon as possible.
Please note the following restrictions when
using the temporary spare wheel. This tem-
porary spare wheel has been specially de-
signed for your vehicle, thus, it cannot be re-
placed by a temporary spare wheel from an-
other vehicle.
No other type of tyre (normal summer or win-
ter tyre) may be fitted on the compact tempo-
rary spare wheel rim.
Snow chains
For technical reasons, snow chains must
not
be used on the compact temporary spare
wheel.
If you have a puncture on one of the front
wheels when using snow chains, fit the com-
p act
temporary spare wheel in place of one of
the rear wheels. You can then attach the
snow chains to the wheel taken from the rear
and use this wheel to replace the punctured
front wheel. WARNING
● The tyre pressures must be checked and
corrected as soon as possible after fitting the
temporary spare wheel. The pressure of the
spare wheel sized 125/70R16 125/70R18
135/90R16 should be 4.2 bar
(61 psi/420 kPa). For other sizes, check the
label on the fuel cap. Failure to follow this in-
struction could result in an accident.
● Do not drive faster than 80 km/h (50 mph),
since higher speeds can cause an accident.
● Avoid heavy acceleration, hard braking and
fast cornering. Risk of accident.
● Never use more than one temporary spare
wheel at the same time, risk of accident.
● No other type of tyre (normal summer or
winter tyre) may be fitted on the compact
temporary spare wheel rim. Wheel change
Preparation work –
If you have a flat tyre or puncture, park the
vehicle as far away from the flow of traffic
as possible. Choose a location that is as
level as possible.
– All vehicle occupants should leave the ve-
hicle. They should wait in a safe area (for
instance behind the roadside crash barri-
er).
182
Emergencies
– Switch off the engine. Switch on the hazard
warning lights.
– Apply the handbrake firmly.
– En g
age the first gear , or put
the selector
lever to position P for those vehicles with
an automatic gearbox.
– If you are towing a trailer, unhitch it from
your vehicle.
– Take the vehicle tools and the spare wheel
out of
the luggage compartment. WARNING
Put the hazard warning lights on and place
the warning triangle in position. This is for
your own safety and also warns other road
users. CAUTION
If you have to change the tyre on a gradient,
block the wheel opposite the wheel being
changed by placing a stone or similar object
under it to prevent the vehicle from rolling
away. Note
Please observe related legal requirements. Changing a wheel
Change the wheel as described below: –
Remove the wheel cover
. A
l
so refer to
››› Fig. 155.
– Slac
ken the wheel bolts .
– Rai
se the vehicle with the jack at the corre-
spondin
g area.
– Remove the wheel and put
on the spare
one.
– Lower the vehicle.
– Tighten the wheel
bolts firmly with the box
sp
anner.
– Replace the hub cap.
Aft
er changing a wheel –
Put the tools back in their storage location.
– Place the wheel with the defective tyre in
the luggage compartment and secure it.
– Check the tyre pressure of the newly fitted
tyre as soon as possible.
– Have the tightening torque of the wheel
bolts checked as soon as possible with a
torque wrench. The prescribed torque must
be 120 Nm. Note
● If you notice that the wheel bolts are corro-
ded and difficult to turn when changing a wheel, they must be replaced before having
the wheel bolt tightening torque checked.
● For safety reasons, drive at moderate
speeds until the wheel bolt tightening torque
has been checked. Wheel trims
Fig. 155
Changing a wheel: remove the wheel
trim. The wheel trims must be removed to gain ac-
cess to the wheel bolts.
Removing
– Insert the extraction hook from the tools in-
to the designated ring, located in one of
the bolt hole covers of the wheel cover
››› Fig. 155 .
»
183
Technical specifications
Advice
Operation
Safety