Seat Alhambra (2022 year). Manual in english - page 20

Checking and refilling levels

particulate filter needs cleaning (regenera-
tion).

Regeneration of the particulate filter

Requirements for the regeneration journey:

the engine is at operating temperature.

●

Drive at a speed of between 50-120 km/h

(31-75 mph). This increases the temperature
and burns the soot in the filter 

››› 

.

●

Consider the legal speed limits as well as

the recommended gears.

●

End the regeneration journey once the con-

trol warning lamp has gone out.

If the warning lamp stays on after 30 minutes
of running in regeneration mode, have a spe-
cialised workshop repair the fault

WARNING

Always adjust your speed to suit the weath-
er conditions, roads, braking distance and
traffic if the particulate filter is in its regen-
eration phase. Route recommendations
should never make you disregard each
country's specific traffic regulations.

CAUTION

●

When the exhaust system detects that

the particulate filter is close to saturation,
the self-cleaning function of this system
recommends optimal driving for this func-
tion.

●

Due to the high temperatures caused by

the regeneration of the particulate filter, it
is possible that the radiator fan will acti-
vate after stopping the engine, even it its
operating temperature has not been
reached.

●

Noise, smells and high idle speeds can

occur during regeneration.

●

Always use the correct engine oil and the

correct fuel to make sure the useful life of
the particulate filter is not affected. Also
avoid making short trips all the time.

Engine compartment

Working in the engine compart-
ment

Always be aware of the danger of injury and
scalding as well as the risk of accident or fire
when working in the engine compartment
(e.g. when checking and refilling fluids).

Always observe the warnings listed below
and follow all general safety precautions.

The vehicle's engine compartment is a po-
tentially hazardous area 

››› 

.

WARNING

When work is done in the engine compart-
ment, injuries, burns, accidents and even
fires can occur.

●

Switch the engine off, remove the key

from the ignition and apply the electronic
parking brake. If the vehicle has a manual
gearbox, place the lever in neutral; if it has
an automatic gearbox, place the selector
lever in position P. Wait for the engine to
cool down.

●

Never open the bonnet if you see steam

or drips of coolant being released from the
engine compartment. Wait until no steam
or coolant can be seen before opening the
bonnet.

●

Keep children away from the engine

compartment.

●

Never spill liquids used for vehicle opera-

tion on the engine compartment, as these
may catch fire (e.g. the antifreeze in cool-
ant).

●

Avoid causing short-circuits in the elec-

trical system, particularly at the points
where the jump leads are attached

››› 

page 51

. The battery could explode.

●

If working inside the engine compart-

ment, remember that, even when the igni-
tion is switched off, the radiator fan may
start up automatically, and therefore there
is a risk of injury.

»

315

Practical tips

●

Never cover the engine with additional in-

sulating materials such as a blanket. Risk of
fire!

●

Do not unscrew the cap on the coolant

expansion tank when the engine is hot. The
cooling system is under pressure.

●

Protect face, hands and arms by cover-

ing the cap with a large, thick rag to protect
against escaping coolant and steam.

●

Always make sure you have not left any

objects, such as cleaning cloths or tools, in
the engine compartment.

●

If you have to work underneath the vehi-

cle, you must use suitable stands addition-
ally to support the vehicle, there is a risk of
accident!. A hydraulic jack is insufficient for
securing the vehicle and there is a risk of
injury.

●

If any work has to be performed when the

engine is started or with the engine running,
there is an additional, potentially fatal,
safety risk from the rotating parts, such as
the drive belts, alternator, radiator fan, etc.,
and from the high-voltage ignition system.
You should also observe the following:

–

Never touch the electrical wiring of the
ignition system.

–

Ensure that jewellery, loose clothing
and long hair do not get trapped in ro-
tating engine parts. Danger of death.
Before starting any work remove jewel-
lery, tie back and cover hair, and wear
tight-fitting clothes.

–

Never accelerate with a gear engaged
without taking the necessary precau-
tions. The vehicle could move, even if
the handbrake is applied. Danger of
death.

●

Observe the following additional warn-

ings if work on the fuel system or the elec-
trical system is necessary:

–

Always disconnect the battery from the
on-board network.

–

Do not smoke.

–

Never work near naked flames.

–

Always keep an approved fire extin-
guisher immediately available.

For the sake of the environment

●

Inspect the ground underneath your vehi-

cle regularly so that any leaks are detec-
ted at an early stage. If you find spots of oil
or other fluids in the area where it was
parked, have your vehicle inspected at the
workshop.

●

Service fluids leaks are harmful to the en-

vironment. 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
specialised workshop.

Opening and closing the bonnet

Fig. 283 

Release lever in the driver's footwell

area.

Fig. 284 

Cam under the bonnet

Opening the bonnet

The bonnet is released from inside the vehi-
cle.

Before opening the bonnet, make sure that
the windscreen wiper arms are in place
against the windscreen.

316

Checking and refilling levels

●

Open the door and pull the lever under the

dashboard 

››› 

Fig. 283

 

1

. The bonnet disen-

gages from the locking of the protective lid
due to the effect of a spring.

●

Lift the bonnet using the opening lever

››› 

Fig. 284

 (arrow) and open the bonnet

fully. The bonnet remains open thanks to the
pressurised gas spring.

Closing the bonnet

●

To close the bonnet, pull it down to over-

come the gas strut pressure.

●

Allow the bonnet to fall into the lock holder

locking component from a distance of around
20 cm. 

Don’t push it!

If the bonnet does not close, do not press
downwards. Open it again and let it fall as
mentioned above.

WARNING

Make sure that the bonnet is properly
closed. If it opens when driving, it can
cause an accident.

CAUTION

To avoid damage to the bonnet and to the
windscreen wiper arms, only open it when
the windscreen wipers are in place against
the windscreen.

Checking levels

Fig. 285 

Diagram for the location of the various el-

ements.

»

317

Practical tips

From time to time, the levels of the different
fluids in the vehicle must be checked. Never
fill with incorrect fluids, otherwise serious
damage to the engine may be caused.

Coolant expansion tank 

››› 

page 321

Engine oil level dipstick 

››› 

page 320

Engine oil filler cap 

››› 

page 320

Brake fluid reservoir 

››› 

page 323

Battery (under the cover) 

››› 

page 325

Windscreen washer reservoir

››› 

page 324

Note

The layout of parts may vary depending on
the engine.

1

2

3

4

5

6

Engine oil

General notes

Fig. 286 

In the engine compartment: engine

oil label

Fig. 287 

In the engine compartment: area

where the engine oil label is located

Key to the 

››› 

Fig. 286

:

Information about the engine oil stand-
ard.
Information about engine oil viscosity.

A

B

The engine comes with a special, multi-grade
oil that can be used all year round.

Because the use of high-quality oil is essen-
tial for the correct operation of the engine
and its long useful life, when topping up or
changing oil, use only those oils that comply
with VW standards.

For vehicles with an engine oil label

If the engine oil has to be topped up, use one
of the oils shown on the label 

››› 

Fig. 286

. The

label with the prescribed standard is located
at the front of the engine compartment

››› 

Fig. 287 

1

. If you use the recommended

engine oil, you can top up the oil as often as
necessary.

For vehicles without an engine oil label

Contact a specialised workshop or SEAT offi-
cial service for information about the corre-
sponding standard.

If the engine oil level is too low

If the recommended engine oil is not availa-
ble, in the event of an 

emergency

 you can

change the oil 

once

 with a maximum of 0.5 L

of the next oil until the next oil change:

Petrol and CNG engines:

 VW 504 00,

ACEA C3 or API SN standard.

–

318

Checking and refilling levels

SEAT recommends changing the oil at a spe-
cialised workshop. SEAT recommends an
Official SEAT Service.

SEAT recommends the use of engine oils ap-
proved according to the appropriate VW
standard. Use of engine oils that do not meet
these quality requirements can cause engine
damage.

SEAT recommends the use of Original SEAT
Spare Part engine oils.

Engine oil additives

No type of additive should be mixed with the
engine oil. The deterioration caused by these
additives is not covered by the warranty.

CAUTION

Take the following into account if you have
refilled with an engine oil different to those
specified in the aforementioned standards,
or by your SEAT technical service centre:

●

There is no way of completely avoiding

the danger of causing damage to the en-
gine and particulate filter.

●

You can continue driving with the vehicle

if the refill was no more than 0.5 l of engine
oil. Go to a specialised workshop as soon
as possible and request an oil change. Oth-
erwise, there is a danger of engine dam-
age.

●

If you have topped up more than 0.5 l of

engine oil, drive with the engine at low load

levels and within the medium RPM range as
a maximum. Do not drive at more than 80
km/h and do not travel more than 300 km
(approximately). Go to a specialised work-
shop as soon as possible and request an oil
change. Otherwise, there is a danger of en-
gine damage.

●

You are responsible for the risk of possi-

ble damage to the vehicle (engine, exhaust
system). If in doubt, do not start the engine
and request assistance from the technical
service centre.

●

Do not start the engine if you have top-

ped up with a fluid other than engine oil.
Request assistance from the technical
service centre. Danger of engine damage!

Note

Before a long trip, we recommend finding
an engine oil that conforms to the corre-
sponding VW specifications and recom-
mend keeping it in the vehicle. This way, the
correct engine oil will always be available
for a top-up if needed.

Warning lamp



Flashes red



 

Do not carry on driving!

Engine oil pressure too low.

Switch off the engine. Check the engine oil level.

If the warning lamp 



 flashes although the oil level

is correct, 

stop

 driving. Do not even run the engine at

idle speed! Obtain technical assistance.



It lights up yellow

Check the engine oil level as soon as possible.

Replace oil as soon as you have the opportunity to

do so 

››› 

page 320

.



It flashes yellow

Fault in the oil level sensor.
Have the check done by a specialised workshop. Un-
til then it is advisable to check the oil level every time

you refuel.

WARNING

Observe the safety warnings 

››› 

 in Con-

trol and warning lamps on page 88

.

319

Practical tips

Checking the engine oil level

Fig. 288 

Engine oil dipstick.

The engine oil dipstick indicates the level of
the oil.

Checking oil level

–

Park the vehicle in a horizontal position.

–

Briefly run the engine at idle speed until the
operating temperature is reached and then
stop.

–

Wait for about two minutes.

–

Pull out the dipstick. Wipe the dipstick with
a clean cloth and insert it again, pushing it
in as far as it will go.

–

Then pull it out once more and check the oil
level 

››› 

Fig. 288

. Top up with engine oil if

necessary.

The oil must leave a mark between zones 

A

and 

C

. It can never go above zone 

A

.

●

Zone 

A

: do not add oil.

●

Zone 

B

: you can add oil but keep the level

in that zone.

●

Zone 

C

: add oil until zone 

B

.

Depending on how you drive and the condi-
tions in which the vehicle is used, oil con-
sumption can be up to 0.5 l/1000 km. Oil
consumption is likely to be higher for the first
5,000 km. For this reason the engine oil level
must be checked at regular intervals, prefera-
bly when filling the tank and before a journey.

WARNING

Any work carried out in the engine com-
partment or on the engine must be carried
out cautiously.

●

When working in the engine compart-

ment, always observe the safety warnings

››› 

page 315

.

CAUTION

If the oil level is above area 

A

, do not start

the engine. This could result in damage to
the engine and catalytic converter. Con-
tact a Technical Service.

Topping up the engine oil

Fig. 289 

In the engine compartment: Engine

oil filler cap.

Before opening the bonnet, read and observe
the warnings 

››› 

 in Working in the engine

compartment on page 315

.

Topping up engine oil

●

Unscrew cap from engine oil filler opening

››› 

Fig. 289

.

●

Carefully add oil in small quantities (no

more than 0.5 l).

●

To avoid adding too much oil, whenever you

add a certain amount, wait about 2 minutes
and recheck the oil level 

››› 

page 320

.

●

If necessary, add some more oil.

●

When the oil level reaches at least zone

››› 

Fig. 288

 

B

, unscrew the engine oil filler

cap carefully 

››› 

.

320

Checking and refilling levels

The position of the oil filler opening is shown
in the corresponding engine compartment il-
lustration 

››› 

page 317

.

Engine oil specification 

››› 

page 318

.

WARNING

Oil is highly inflammable! Ensure that no oil
comes into contact with hot engine compo-
nents when topping up.

CAUTION

If the oil level is above area 

››› 

Fig. 288 

A

,

do not start the engine. This could result in
damage to the engine and catalytic con-
verter. Contact a specialised workshop.

For the sake of the environment

The oil level must never be above zone

››› 

Fig. 288 

A

. Otherwise oil can be drawn

in through the crankcase breather and leak
into the atmosphere via the exhaust sys-
tem.

Note

Before a long trip, we recommend finding
an engine oil that conforms to the corre-
sponding VW specifications and recom-
mend keeping it in the vehicle. This way, the
correct engine oil will always be available
for a top-up if needed.

Engine oil change

We recommend that you have the engine oil
changed by a Technical Service.

WARNING

Only change the engine oil yourself if you
have the specialist knowledge required!

●

Before opening the bonnet, read and ob-

serve the warnings 

››› 

page 315

.

●

Wait for the engine to cool down. Hot oil

may cause burn injuries.

●

Wear eye protection to avoid injuries,

such as acid burns, caused by splashes of
oil.

●

When removing the oil drain plug with

your fingers, keep your arm horizontal to
help prevent oil from running down your
arm.

●

Wash your skin thoroughly if it comes into

contact with engine oil.

●

Engine oil is poisonous! Used oil must be

stored in a safe place out of the reach of
children.

CAUTION

No additives should be used with engine oil.
This could result in engine damage. Any
damage caused by the use of such addi-
tives would not be covered by the factory
warranty.

For the sake of the environment

●

We recommend that you change the en-

gine oil and the filter at a technical service
centre.

●

Never pour oil down drains or into the

ground.

●

Use a suitable container when draining

the used oil. It must be large enough to hold
all the engine oil.

Cooling system

Coolant specifications

The engine cooling system is supplied from
the factory with a specially treated mixture of
water and at least 40 % of the additive

G12evo

 (TL-VW 774 J), purple. This mixture

gives the necessary frost protection down to
-25°C (-13°F) and protects the light alloy
parts of the engine cooling system against
corrosion. It also prevents scaling and con-
siderably raises the boiling point of the cool-
ant.

To protect the cooling system, the percent-
age of additive must always be at least 40 %,
even in warm climates where anti-freeze pro-
tection is not required.

If for weather reasons further protection is
necessary, the proportion of additive may be

»

321

Practical tips

increased, but only up to 60 %; otherwise an-
tifreeze protection will diminish and this will
worsen cooling.

When the coolant is topped up, use a mixture
of 

distilled water

 and at least 40 % of the

additive 

G12evo

 for optimal protection

against corrosion. Mixing 

G12evo

 with G13

(TL-VW 774 J), G12 plus-plus (TL-VW 774 G),
G12 plus (TL-VW 774 F), G12 (red) or G11
(green blue) engine coolants decreases pro-
tection again corrosion and should be avoi-
ded.

WARNING

If there is not enough anti-freeze in the
coolant system, the engine may fail lead-
ing to serious damage.

●

Ensure that the percentage of additive is

correct for the lowest expected ambient
temperature in the zone in which the vehi-
cle is to be used.

●

When the outside temperature is very

low, the coolant could freeze and the vehi-
cle would be immobilised.

CAUTION

The original additives should never be
mixed with coolants which are not ap-
proved by SEAT.

●

If the fluid in the expansion tank is not

purple but is, for example, brown, this indi-
cates that the G12evo additive has been

mixed with an inadequate coolant. The
coolant must be changed as soon as possi-
ble if this is the case!

For the sake of the environment

Coolants and additives can contaminate
the environment. If any fluids are spilled,
they should be collected and correctly dis-
posed of, with respect to the environment.

Refilling coolant

Fig. 290 

In the engine compartment: marking

on coolant expansion tank.

Fig. 291 

Engine compartment: coolant expan-

sion tank cap.

The coolant tank is located in the engine
compartment 

››› 

page 317

.

Top up coolant when the level is below the 



(minimum) mark.

Checking coolant level

–

Park the vehicle in a horizontal position.

–

Switch the ignition off.

–

Read off the coolant level on coolant ex-
pansion tank. When the engine is cold, the
coolant level should be between the marks

››› 

Fig. 290

. When the engine is hot, it may

be slightly above the upper mark.

Topping up coolant

–

Wait for the engine to cool down.

322

Checking and refilling levels

–

Cover the coolant expansion tank cap with
a cloth and carefully unscrew it to the left

››› 

.

–

Top up the coolant only if there is still cool-
ant in the expansion tank, otherwise you
could 

damage the engine

. If there is no

coolant in the expansion tank, do not con-
tinue driving. You should obtain professional
assistance 

››› 

.

–

If there is still some coolant in the expansion
tank, top up to the upper mark.

–

Top up with coolant until the level becomes
stable.

–

Screw the cap back on correctly.

If there is a coolant leak, take the vehicle spe-
cialised workshop to have the cooling system
examined.

WARNING

●

The cooling system is under pressure. Do

not unscrew the cap on the coolant expan-
sion tank when the engine is hot: risk of
burns!

●

Store the antifreeze in its original con-

tainer and keep it out of reach of children.

●

If working inside the engine compart-

ment, remember that, even when the igni-
tion is switched off, the radiator fan may
start up automatically, and therefore there
is a risk of injury.

CAUTION

If you run out of coolant in the expansion
tank, park the car in a safe place and do
not continue driving. Obtain technical as-
sistance.

Brake fluid

Check and refill the brake fluid

Fig. 292 

Engine compartment: brake fluid res-

ervoir cap.

The brake fluid reservoir is located in the en-
gine compartment 

››› 

page 317

.

Checking the brake fluid level

The brake fluid level must be between the 



and 



 markings.

However, if the brake fluid level goes down
noticeably in a short time, or drops below the



 mark, there may be a leak in the brake

system. Seek specialist assistance. A warning
light on the instrument panel display monitors
the brake fluid level 

››› 

page 87

.

Changing brake fluid

We recommend that you have the brake fluid
changed by a Technical Service.

WARNING

If the brake fluid level is low or unsuita-
ble/old brake fluid is used, the brake sys-
tem may fail or braking power may be re-
duced.

●

Check the brake system and the brake

fluid level regularly!

●

When the brake fluid is used and brakes

are subjected to extreme braking forces,
bubbles of vapour form in the brake sys-
tem. These bubbles can significantly re-
duce braking power, notably increasing
braking distance, and could result in the to-
tal failure of the brake system.

●

Be sure to always use the correct brake

fluid. Only use brake fluid that expressly
meets the VW 501 14 standard.

●

You can buy VW 501 14 standard brake

fluid in a SEAT dealership or a SEAT Official
Service. If none is available, use only high-
quality brake fluid that meets DIN ISO 4925

»

323

Practical tips

CLASS 4 standards, or USA Standards
FMVSS 116 DOT 4.

●

The replacement brake fluid must be

new.

●

Brake fluid should be stored in the closed

original container in a safe place out of
reach of children. Risk of poisoning!

CAUTION

Brake fluid should not come into contact
with the vehicle paintwork, as it is abrasive.

For the sake of the environment

Brake fluid is an environmental pollutant.
Collect any spilt service fluids and allow a
professional to dispose of them.

Windscreen washer reservoir

Checking the level of the window
washer tank and refilling it

Fig. 293 

In the engine compartment: blue cap

of the windscreen washer tank.

The window washer tank is in the engine
compartment 

››› 

page 317

.

Check the water level in the windscreen
washer reservoir regularly and top up as re-
quired.

The container for the windscreen washer
contains the cleaning fluid for the wind-
screen, the rear window and the headlight
washer system.

●

Open the bonnet 



 

››› 

page 315

.

●

The window washer tank is marked with the



 symbol on the cap.

●

Check there is enough windscreen water in

the reservoir.

Plain water is not enough to clean the wind-
screen and headlights. We recommend that
you always add a product to the windscreen
washer fluid.

Recommended windscreen wipers

●

For the hottest seasons we recommend

summer G 052 184 A1 for clear glass. Propor-
tions of the mixture in the washer fluid tank:
1:100 (1 part concentrate per 100 parts wa-
ter).

●

All year round, G 052 164 A2 for clear glass.

Approximate proportion of the winter mixture,
up to -18°C (0°F): 1:2 (1 part concentrate per 2
parts water); otherwise, a 1:4 proportion of
mixture in the washer fluid tank.

The capacity of the window washer tank can
be found in 

››› 

page 357

.

CAUTION

If the water from the windscreen washer
does not contain enough anti-freeze, it may
freeze on the windscreen and rear window,
reducing forward and rear visibility.

●

In winter, ensure the windscreen washer

contains enough anti-freeze.

●

In cold conditions, you should not use the

windscreen wiper system unless you have

324

Checking and refilling levels

warmed the windscreen with the ventila-
tion system. The antifreeze could freeze on
the windscreen and reduce visibility.

CAUTION

Never mix an unsuitable antifreeze or other
similar additives with the windscreen wash-
er water. A greasy layer may be formed on
the windscreen which will impair visibility.

●

Use clean water with a window cleaner

recommended by SEAT.

●

If necessary, add a suitable antifreeze to

the water in the reservoir.

CAUTION

●

Do not mix cleaning products recommen-

ded by SEAT with other products. This
could lead to flocculation and may block
the windscreen washer jets.

●

When topping up service fluids, make ab-

solutely certain that you fill the fluids into
the correct reservoirs. Using the wrong flu-
ids could cause serious malfunctions and
engine damage!

●

Not having windscreen wiper fluid re-

duces visibility through the windscreen,
and leads to loss of visibility in headlights
in models with headlight washer.

12-volt battery

General information

The battery is located in the engine compart-
ment and is almost 

maintenance-free

. It is

checked as part of the Inspection Service.
Nevertheless, check the terminals are clean
and have the correct tightening torque, espe-
cially in summer and winter.

All work on batteries requires specialist
knowledge. Please refer to a SEAT Official
Service or a workshop specialising in batter-
ies: risk of burns or exploding battery!

The battery must not be opened.

 Never try

to change the fluid level of the battery. Oth-
erwise explosive gas is released from the bat-
tery that could cause an explosion.

Battery warning indications



Wear eye protection.



Battery acid is extremely corrosive. Wear pro-
tective gloves and eye protection. Rinse any

splashes of electrolyte with plenty of water.



Fires, sparks, open flames and smoking are

prohibited.



The battery should only be charged in a well-
ventilated zone. Risk of explosion!



Keep children away from acid and batteries!



Always follow the instruction manual.

Disconnecting the battery

The battery should only be disconnected in
exceptional cases. When the battery is dis-
connected, some of the vehicle's functions
are lost. These functions will require resetting
after the battery is reconnected.

When disconnecting the battery from the ve-
hicle on-board network, disconnect first the
negative cable and then the positive cable.

Deactivate the anti-theft alarm before you
disconnect the battery. Otherwise the alarm
will be triggered.

Winter conditions

During the winter, the starting power may be
reduced, and if necessary, the battery should
be charged 

››› 

WARNING

Always be aware of the danger of injury
and chemical burns as well as the risk of
accident or fire when working on the bat-
tery and the electrical system:

●

Wear eye protection. Protect your eyes,

skin and clothing from acid and particles
containing lead.

●

Battery acid is extremely corrosive. Wear

protective gloves and eye protection. Do
not tilt the batteries. This could spill acid
through the vents.

●

Neutralise any electrolyte splashes on

the skin, eyes or clothing with a soapy

»

325

Practical tips

solution, and rinse off with plenty of water.
If acid is swallowed by mistake, consult a
doctor immediately.

●

Fires, sparks, open flames and smoking

are prohibited. When handling cables and
electrical equipment, avoid causing sparks
and electrostatic charge. Never short the
battery terminals. High-energy sparks can
cause injury.

●

A highly explosive mixture of gases is re-

leased when the battery is under charge.
The batteries should be charged in a well-
ventilated room only.

●

Keep children away from acid and bat-

teries.

●

Before working on the electrical system,

you must switch off the engine, the ignition
and all electrical devices. The negative ca-
ble on the battery must be disconnected.
When a light bulb is changed, you need on-
ly switch off the light.

●

Deactivate the anti-theft alarm by un-

locking the vehicle before you disconnect
the battery! The alarm will otherwise be
triggered.

●

When disconnecting the battery from the

vehicle on-board network, disconnect first
the negative cable and then the positive
cable.

●

Switch off all electrical devices before

reconnecting the battery. Reconnect first
the positive cable and then the negative
cable. Never reverse the polarity of the

connections. This could cause an electrical
fire.

●

Never charge a frozen battery, or one

which has thawed. This could result in ex-
plosions and chemical burns. Always re-
place a battery which has frozen. A flat
battery can also freeze at temperatures
close to 0°C (+32°F).

●

Ensure that the vent hose is always con-

nected to the battery.

●

Never use a defective battery. This could

cause an explosion. Replace a damaged
battery immediately.

CAUTION

●

Do not expose the battery to direct sun-

light over a long period of time, as the in-
tense ultraviolet radiation can damage the
battery housing.

●

If the vehicle is left standing in cold con-

ditions for a long period, protect the bat-
tery from “freezing”. If it freezes it will be
damaged.

Warning lamp



It lights up red

Alternator fault.

The control lamp lights up when the ignition is
switched on. It should go out when the engine
has started running.

If the control lamp 



 lights up while driving,

the alternator is no longer charging the bat-
tery. You should immediately drive to the
nearest specialised workshop.

You should avoid using electrical equipment
that is not absolutely necessary because this
will drain the battery.

Checking the battery electrolyte
level

Fig. 294 

Sight glass on the top of the 12 volt

battery (schematic representation).

The electrolyte level should be checked reg-
ularly in high-mileage vehicles, in hot coun-
tries and in older batteries.

326

Checking and refilling levels

●

Open the bonnet and then lift the cover

that protects the front part of the battery

››› 

 in Working in the engine compart-

ment on page 315

.

●

Check the colour display in the "magic eye"

on the top of the battery.

●

If there are air bubbles in the window, tap

the window gently until they disperse.

The position of the battery is shown in the
corresponding engine compartment diagram

››› 

page 317

.

The “magic eye” indicator, located on the top
of the battery changes colour, depending on
the charge state and electrolyte level of the
battery.

There are two different colours:

The battery's electrolyte

level is too low. Go to a specialised work-
shop to have the battery checked and
replaced if necessary.

The battery’s electrolyte level is cor-

rect.

Charging or changing the battery

If you often drive short distances or if the ve-
hicle is not driven for long periods, the battery
should be checked by a specialised work-
shop between the scheduled services.

Yellow or colourless:

Black:

If the battery has discharged and you have
problems starting the vehicle, the battery
might be damaged. If this happens, we rec-
ommend you have the vehicle battery
checked by a Technical Service where it will
be re-charged or replaced.

Charging the battery

The vehicle battery should be charged by a
specialised workshop only, as batteries using
special technology have been installed and
they must be charged in a controlled environ-
ment.

Replacing a vehicle battery

The battery has been developed to suit the
conditions of its location and has special
safety features. If the battery must be re-
placed, consult a technical service for infor-
mation on electromagnetic compatibility, the
size and maintenance, performance and
safety requirements of the new battery in
your vehicle before you purchase one. SEAT
recommends you have the battery replaced
by a technical service.

Start-Stop systems (

››› 

page 245

) are equip-

ped with a special battery. Therefore, it must
only be replaced with a battery of the same
specifications.

Automatic disconnection of devices

The intelligent vehicle electrical system auto-
matically implements a range of measures to
prevent the battery from discharging when
high demands are made on it:

●

the idling speed is increased so that the al-

ternator provides more electricity.

●

where necessary, the power of the most

powerful devices is reduced or even com-
pletely disconnected.

●

On starting the engine, the power supply

from the 12-volt power sockets and the ciga-
rette lighter may be interrupted for a short
time.

The on-board management program cannot
always prevent the battery from running flat.
For example, if the ignition is left on for a long
period with the engine off or if the side lights
or parking lights are left on while the vehicle is
stationary.

WARNING

●

Always use only maintenance free bat-

teries that do not run flat alone and whose
properties, specifications and size corre-
spond to the standard battery. The specifi-
cations are indicated on the battery case.

●

Before starting any work on the batteries,

you must read and observe the warnings

››› 

 in General information on page 325

.

»

327

Practical tips

For the sake of the environment



 Batteries contain toxic substances such

as sulphuric acid and lead. They must be
disposed of appropriately and must not be
disposed of with ordinary household waste.

Wheels

Wheels and tyres

Introduction

The SEAT Alhambra is equipped as standard
with anti-puncture technology tyres (Conti-
Seal). In the event of a puncture or air leak of
up to 5 mm, the tyre seals the hole with a pro-
tective layer inside the tread.

The inclusion of this technology means that
there is no type of spare wheel included in
the vehicle's equipment.

SEAT recommend that all work on tyres and
wheels is carried out by a specialised work-
shop. These workshops have the necessary
special tools and replacement parts, trained
personnel and facilities for disposing of the
old tyres while respecting the environment.
SEAT recommends taking your car in for
technical service.

General notes

–

When driving with 

new tyres

, be especially

careful during the first 500 km (300 miles).

–

If you have to drive over a kerb or similar
obstacle, drive very slowly and as near as
possible at a right angle to the obstacle.

–

Check from time to time if the tyres are
damaged (punctures, cuts, cracks or
dents). Remove any foreign objects em-
bedded in the treads.

–

Damaged wheels and tyres must be re-
placed immediately.

–

Keep grease, oil and fuel off the tyres.

–

Replace any missing valve caps as soon as
possible.

–

Mark the wheels before taking them off so
that they rotate in the same direction when
put back.

–

When removed, the wheels or tyres should
be stored in a cool, dry and preferably dark
place.

Low profile tyres

Low profile tyres have a wider tread, a larger
wheel diameter and a lower sidewall height.
Therefore, its driving behaviour is more agile.

Low profile tyres may deteriorate more quick-
ly than standard tyres, for instance due to
strong knocks, potholes, manhole covers and
kerbs. Correct tyre pressure is very important

››› 

page 331

.

To avoid damage to tyres and wheels, drive
with special care when driving on roads in
poor condition.

Visually check your wheels every 3000 km.

328

Wheels

If the tyres or rims have received a heavy im-
pact or have been damaged, have a special-
ised workshop check whether or not it is nec-
essary to change the tyre.

Low profile tyres may deteriorate more quick-
ly than standard tyres.

Concealed damage

Damage to tyres and rims is often not readily
visible. If you notice unusual 

vibration

 or the

car 

pulling to one side

, this may indicate

that one of the tyres is damaged. Reduce
speed immediately if there is any reason to
suspect that damage may have occurred. In-
spect the tyres for damage. If no external
damage is visible, drive slowly and carefully
to the nearest specialised workshop and
have the car inspected.

Foreign objects inserted in the tyre

●

Do not remove foreign bodies if they have

penetrated through the tyre wall!

●

If the vehicle comes with a tyre mobility

system, where necessary seal the damaged
tyre as shown in section 

››› 

page 42

. Use a

specialised workshop for repair or replace-
ment. SEAT recommends visiting a SEAT
dealership for this.

The sealant at the lower part of the tyre tread
wraps around the foreign body and provision-
ally seals the tyre.

Tyres with directional tread pattern

An arrow on the tyre sidewall indicates the di-
rection of rotation on single drive tyres. Al-
ways note the direction of rotation indicated
when mounting the wheel. This makes sure
that optimal use is made of tyre properties in
terms of aquaplaning, grip, excessive noise
and wear.

Subsequent fitting of accessories

If you wish to change or fit wheels, rims or
wheel trims, we recommend that you consult
with a SEAT Official Service centre for advice
regarding current techniques.

Speed symbols

The speed rating indicates the maximum
speed permitted for the tyres.

max. 150 km/h (93 mph)
max. 160 km/h (99 mph)
max. 170 km/h (106 mph)
max. 180 km/h (112 mph)
max. 190 km/h (118 mph)
max. 200 km/h (124 mph)
max. 210 km/h (130 mph)
max. 240 km/h (149 mph)
max. 240 km/h (149 mph)
max. 270 km/h (168 mph)
max. 300 km/h (186 mph)

P
Q
R
S
T
U
H
V
Z
W
Y

Some manufacturers use the letters “ZR” for
tyres with a maximum authorised speed
above 240 km/h (149 mph).

WARNING

●

New tyres do not have maximum grip dur-

ing the first 500 km. Drive particularly
carefully to avoid possible accidents.

●

Never drive with damaged tyres. This

may cause an accident.

●

If you notice unusual vibrations or if the

vehicle pulls to one side when driving, stop
the vehicle immediately and check the
tyres.

●

Never use old tyres or those with an un-

known history of use.

New wheels and tyres

It is best to have all wheels and tyres serviced
by a specialised workshop. There they have
the required knowledge, the special tools and
the corresponding spare parts.

●

Even winter tyres lose their grip on ice. If you

have installed new tyres, drive the first 500
km carefully and at a moderate speed.

●

All four wheels must be fitted with tyres of

the same type, size (rolling circumference)
and, if possible, tread pattern.

●

When changing tyres, do not change just

one; change at least two on the same axle.

»

329

Practical tips

●

If you want to equip your vehicle with a

combination tyres and rims that are different
to those fitted in the factory, inform your spe-
cialised workshop before purchasing them

››› 

The sizes of the rims and tyres approved for
your vehicle are listed in the vehicle docu-
mentation (e.g. EC Certificate of Conformity
or COC document

1)

). The vehicle documen-

tation varies depending on the country of res-
idence.

If the type of spare wheel is different form the
normal wheels — e.g. in the case of winter
tyres or particularly wide tyres — the spare
wheel should only be used temporarily in the
event of a puncture, and the vehicle should
be driven with care. Refit the normal road
wheel as soon as possible.

In vehicles with four-wheel drive, the 4 wheels
must be fitted with tyres of the same brand,
type and tread so that the traction system is
not damaged by a difference in the number
of turns of the wheels. Therefore, in the event
of a puncture, only a spare wheel with the
same perimeter as normal tyres should be
used.

Manufacturing date

The manufacturing date is also indicated on
the tyre sidewall (or on the inside face of the
wheel):

DOT ... 2218 ...

it means, for example, that the tyre was man-
ufactured in the 22nd week of 2018.

WARNING

●

Use only combinations of tyres and rims,

as well as suitable wheel nuts, approved by
SEAT. Otherwise the vehicle may be dam-
aged, causing an accident.

●

For technical reasons it is not possible to

use wheels of other vehicles; in some cases
not even wheels from the same vehicle
model should be used.

●

Always ensure that the tyres you have

chosen have adequate clearance. When
selecting replacement tyres, do not rely
entirely on the nominal tyre size marked on
the tyre, since the nominal tyre size can dif-
fer significantly depending on the manu-
facturer. Lack of clearance can damage
the tyres or the vehicle and, as a result, en-
danger road safety. Risk of accident!

●

Only use tyres that are over 6 years old in

an emergency, and drive with due care.

●

The fitting of tyres with run-flat proper-

ties is not permitted on your vehicle! Pro-

hibited use can cause accidents or can
damage your vehicle.

●

If decorative hubcaps are subsequently

fitted, make sure that they allow enough air
in to cool the braking system. Risk of acci-
dent!

For the sake of the environment

Old tyres must be disposed of according to
the laws in the country concerned.

Note

●

A SEAT Service Centre should be consul-

ted to find out whether wheels or tyres of
different sizes to those originally fitted by
SEAT can be fitted, and to find out about
the combinations allowed between the
front axle (axle 1) and the rear axle (axle 2).

●

Never mount used tyres if you are not

sure of their “previous history”.

1)

COC = 

certificate of conformity

.

330