Seat Alhambra. Instruction - part 18

Checking and refilling levels

Checking the coolant level and top-
ping up

Fig. 244 

In the engine compartment: Marking

on coolant expansion tank

Fig. 245 

In the engine compartment: coolant

expansion tank cap

If the coolant level is low, the coolant warn-
ing indicator will light.

Preparations

●

Park the vehicle on even, flat and firm

ground.

●

Allow the engine to cool 

››› 

.

●

Open the bonnet 



 

››› 

page 268

.

●

The coolant expansion tank is easily recog-

nisable because of the symbol  on the cap

››› 

Fig. 245

.

Checking the engine coolant level

●

When the engine is cold, check the coolant

level using the side marking on the expan-
sion tank 

››› 

Fig. 244

.

●

If the level is below the “MIN” mark, top up

with coolant. When the engine is hot it may
be slightly above the marked area.

Topping up the engine coolant level

●

Always protect your face, hands and arms

from hot coolant and steam using a large,
thick cloth over the coolant expansion tank
cap.

●

Remove the cap very carefully 

››› 

.

●

Only refill using 

new engine coolant ac-

cording to SEAT specifications (

››› 

page 276

)

››› 

.

●

The engine coolant level should be be-

tween the marks on the coolant expansion
tank 

››› 

Fig. 244

. 

Do not exceed the top level

of the marked area 

››› 

.

●

Screw on the cap tightly.

●

If, in the event of an emergency, you have

no coolant that is compliant to the required
specifications (

››› 

page 276

), do not use an-

other type of additive. Instead, top up with
distilled water only 

››› 

. Then re-establish

the correct proportion of the mixture with the
correct additive as soon as possible

››› 

page 276

.

WARNING

Hot vapours and coolant can cause serious
burns.

●

Never open the coolant expansion tank if

steam or coolant is coming from the engine
compartment. Wait until you cannot see or
hear any steam or coolant escaping.

●

Always wait until the engine has complete-

ly cooled before very carefully opening the
expansion tank cap. Contact with hot ele-
ments of the engine can cause skin burns.

●

When the engine is warm or hot, the cool-

ing system is pressurised. Do not unscrew
the cap on the expansion tank when the en-
gine is hot. Otherwise, coolant may spray out
under pressure causing burns and serious in-
jury.

–

Carefully and slowly unscrew the cap an-
ti-clockwise, gently pressing down on it.

–

Always protect your face, hands and arms
from hot coolant and steam using a large,
thick cloth.

»

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●

When refilling liquids, avoid spilling them

on parts of the engine and the exhaust sys-
tem. Spilled liquids could cause a fire. Under
specific circumstances, the ethylene glycol
can catch fire.

CAUTION

●

Only fill with distilled water. Any other type

of water may lead to considerable rusting in
the engine due to its chemical components.
This could consequently damage the engine.
If you have not used distilled water but an-
other type of water to top up the coolant, a
specialised workshop must immediately re-
place all of the fluid in the engine cooling
system.

●

Only top up coolant to the top level of the

marked area 

››› 

Fig. 244

. Otherwise the ex-

cess coolant will be forced out of the cooling
system when the engine is hot, causing dam-
age.

●

If a lot of liquid coolant has been lost, wait

for the engine to cool down completely before
adding coolant. Extensive coolant loss is an
indication of leaks in the engine cooling sys-
tem. Have the engine cooling system inspec-
ted immediately by a specialised workshop.
Otherwise engine damage may occur.

●

When refilling service liquids, ensure that

you put the liquids into the right tank. Mak-
ing a mistake when refilling could cause seri-
ous malfunctions and damage the engine!

Brake fluid

Checking the brake fluid level

Fig. 246 

In the engine compartment: brake

fluid reservoir cap

Read the additional information carefully

››› 



page 41

In the course of time, the brake fluid absorbs
water from the ambient air. If there is too
much water in the brake fluid, the brake sys-
tem could be damaged. In addition, the boil-
ing 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 system. These bubbles can
significantly reduce braking power, notably
increasing braking distance, and could even
result in the total failure of the brake system.
Ensuring that the brake system is always
functioning correctly is essential for your own

safety and the safety of other road users

››› 

.

Brake fluid specifications
SEAT have developed a special brake fluid
optimised for the brake systems of their vehi-
cles. 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 rea-
sons, use a brake fluid that complies with the
United States standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4 or
the German standard DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4

››› 

.

Brake fluids conforming to the standard
VW 501 14, fulfil the American requirements
of the FMVSS 116 DOT 4 standard and the
German DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 standard.
However, fluids that comply with the US
FMVSS 116 DOT 4 standard or the German
DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 standard do not nec-
essarily comply with the VW 501 14 stand-
ard. 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
technical service centres.

278

Checking and refilling levels

Brake fluid level
The level of the brake fluid should always be
between the MIN and MAX marks, or above
the MIN mark 

››› 

.

It is not always possible to check the level of
the brake fluid, as in some models the en-
gine components make it difficult to see the
brake fluid reservoir. 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 accord-
ance with the instructions given in the Main-
tenance Programme. Have the brake fluid
changed by a specialised workshop. SEAT
recommends taking your car in for technical
service. This means that only brake fluid
complying with the required specifications
will be used.

WARNING

If the brake fluid level is low or unsuita-
ble/old brake fluid is used, the brake system
may fail or braking power may be reduced.

●

Check the brake system and the brake fluid

level regularly!

●

The brake fluid should be changed regular-

ly in accordance with the instructions given
in the Maintenance Programme.

●

When the brake fluid is used and brakes

are subjected to extreme braking forces, bub-
bles of vapour form in the brake system.
These bubbles can significantly reduce brak-
ing power, notably increasing braking dis-
tance, and could result in the total failure of
the brake system.

●

Only used brake fluid that conforms to the

VW 501 14 standard, FMVSS 116 DOT 4
standard or even the DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4
standard. Other types of brake fluid could af-
fect brake operation and reduce braking pow-
er. Do not use a brake fluid if the container
does not specify compliance 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 container
does not specify compliance with the
VW 501 14, FMVSS 116 DOT 4 or
DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 standards.

WARNING

Brake fluid is poisonous.

●

To reduce the risk of poisoning, do not keep

brake fluid in drinks bottles/containers or
similar. Other people could drink from these
recipients even if the contents are clearly
marked.

●

Always keep brake fluid in the original con-

tainer; keep it correctly sealed and out of
reach of children.

CAUTION

Brake fluid damages the vehicle paintwork.
Wipe off any brake fluid from the paintwork
immediately.

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.

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Windscreen washer reservoir

Checking and topping up the wind-
screen washer reservoir

Fig. 247 

In the engine compartment: wind-

screen washer reservoir top

Read the additional information carefully

››› 



page 41

Check the level in the windscreen washer
tank regularly and top up as required.

●

Open the bonnet 



 

››› 

page 268

.

●

The washer reservoir is marked with the

symbol  on the lid 

››› 

Fig. 247

.

●

Check there is enough water in the reser-

voir.

●

To top up, mix water with a window cleaner

recommended by SEAT 

››› 

. Please follow

the instructions for use found on the packag-
ing.

●

In cold weather, a special antifreeze should

also be added to prevent the water from
freezing 

››› 

.

Filling amounts
The capacity of the tank is approximately 3 li-
tres; in vehicles with a headlight washer sys-
tem, it is approximately 7 litres.

WARNING

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

●

Use clean water with a window cleaner rec-

ommended 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 wind-
screen washer jets.

●

When topping up service fluids, make abso-

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

Vehicle battery

Introduction

The battery is a component of the vehicle's
electrical system.

Never work on the electrical system without
fully understanding the operations required,
the applicable safety standards and without
the correct tools 

››› 

! If required, have any

work carried out by a specialised workshop.
SEAT recommends taking your car in for tech-
nical service. Negligent work can cause seri-
ous injury.

Location and number of batteries in the vehi-
cle
The battery is located in the engine compart-
ment.

Explanation of the warning indications on
the vehicle's battery

Symbol

Meaning



Wear eye protection!



Battery acid is extremely corrosive. Al-
ways wear protective gloves and eye pro-
tection!



Fires, sparks, open flames and smoking
are prohibited.

280

Checking and refilling levels

Symbol

Meaning



A highly explosive mixture of gases is re-
leased when the battery is under charge.



Keep children away from acid and batter-
ies!

WARNING

Working on the vehicle battery and the elec-
trical system can cause corrosion, fire and
electric shocks. Always read and take into ac-
count the following warnings and safety
standards before carrying out any work:

●

Before working on the battery, switch off

the engine, the ignition and all electrical de-
vices then disconnect the negative connec-
tion on the battery.

●

Keep children away from acid and the bat-

tery itself!

●

Wear eye protection.

●

Battery acid is very corrosive and caustic. It

can burn skin and cause blindness. When
handling the battery, protect yourself from
splashes of acids, above all your hands, arms
and face.

●

Do not smoke and never work close to pla-

ces exposed to flames or sparks.

●

Avoid sparks and electrostatic discharges

when working with cables and electrical devi-
ces.

●

Never short the battery terminals.

●

Never use a damaged battery. It can ex-

plode. Replace a damaged battery immedi-
ately.

●

Replaced damaged or frozen batteries as

soon as possible. A flat battery can also
freeze at temperatures close to 0°C (+32°F).

●

For vehicles with the battery in the luggage

compartment: Check that the battery gas
ventilation hose is securely attached.

CAUTION

●

Never disconnect the battery if the ignition

is switched on or if the engine is running.
This could damage the electrical system or
electronic components.

●

Do not expose the battery to direct sunlight

over a long period of time, as the intense ul-
traviolet radiation can damage the battery
housing.

●

If the car is left standing for long periods,

protect the battery from extreme cold temper-
ature so that it does not “freeze up” and be-
come damaged.

Warning lamp



It lights up

Faulty generator.

Contact a specialised workshop.
Have the electrical system checked.
Disconnect any unnecessary electri-
cal devices. The generator does not
charge the battery while the vehicle
is in motion.

Several warning and control lamps light up
for a few seconds when the ignition is switch-
ed on, signalling that the function is being
verified. They will switch off after a few sec-
onds.

WARNING

If the warning lamps and messages are ignor-
ed, 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 control lamps and text
messages when they appear may result in
faults in the vehicle.

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Checking the electrolyte level of the
vehicle battery

Fig. 248 

In the engine compartment: remove

the lid from the vehicle's battery.

Fig. 249 

In the engine compartment: lift off

the cover from the vehicle's battery.

Read the additional information carefully

››› 



page 41

The battery's electrolyte level should be
checked regularly in high-mileage vehicles,

in hot countries and in older batteries. Other
batteries do not require maintenance.

Start-Stop systems (

››› 

page 207

) are equip-

ped with a special battery labelled “AGM”.
For technical reasons, it is not possible to
check the electrolyte level of these batteries

Preparations

●

Prepare the vehicle for work in the engine

compartment 

››› 

page 268

●

Open the bonnet 



 

››› 

page 268

.

Opening the battery cover
The battery covers are different depending on
the engine size of the vehicle:

●

In the case of a lid: press the tab 

››› 

Fig. 248

A

 in the direction of the arrow and pull the

cover upwards.

●

In the case of a cover: fold the cover to one

side to remove 

››› 

Fig. 249

.

Checking the battery electrolyte level

●

Make sure there is sufficient lighting to

clearly recognise the colours. Never use
flames or flashing objects as a light source.

●

Depending on the level of acid, the Magic

eye on the top of the battery will change col-
our.

Colour in-
dicator

Necessary operations

Light yellow
or Colourless

The electrolyte level of the vehicle's bat-
tery is too low. Have the battery checked
and, where applicable, replaced by a
specialised workshop.

Black

The electrolyte level of the vehicle's bat-
tery is correct.

WARNING

Working with the vehicle battery involves a
risk of corrosion, explosions or electric
shock.

●

Never tilt the vehicle battery. Battery acid

could spill out of the openings for the release
of gases and cause corrosion damage.

●

Never open the vehicle battery.

●

If battery acid splashes on you, immediate-

ly rinse your eyes and skin abundantly with
water for several minutes. Then seek medical
care immediately.

●

If acid is swallowed by mistake, consult a

doctor immediately.

Charging, replacing and connecting or
disconnecting the battery

Charging the battery
The vehicle battery should be charged by a
specialised workshop only, as batteries us-
ing special technology have been installed

282

Checking and refilling levels

and they must be charged in a controlled en-
vironment 

››› 

. SEAT recommends taking

your car in for technical service.

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.

Use only maintenance-free genuine batteries
conforming to TL 825 06 and VW 7 50 73
Standards. These standards must be dated
April 2008 or later.

Start-Stop systems (

››› 

page 207

) are equip-

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

Disconnecting the vehicle's battery
If you must disconnect the battery from the
electrical system, please note the following:

●

Switch off the ignition and all electrical

equipment.

●

The vehicle must be unlocked before dis-

connecting the battery, otherwise the alarm
will be triggered.

●

First disconnect the negative cable and

then the positive 

››› 

.

Connecting the vehicle's battery

●

Before reconnecting the battery, switch off

the engine and all electrical devices.

●

First reconnect the positive cable and then

the negative 

››› 

.

Different control lamps may light up after
connecting the battery and switching the ig-
nition on. They will be turned off after a short
trip at a speed of between 15-20 km/h
(10-12 mph). If the warning indicators remain
lit, please visit a specialised workshop to
have the vehicle checked.

If the battery has been disconnected for a
long time, it is possible that the next service
date is not displayed or calculated correctly

››› 

page 100

. Respect the maximum service

intervals permitted 

››› 

Booklet Maintenance

Programme

.

Vehicles with Keyless Access (

››› 

page 115

):

if, after connecting the battery, the ignition
cannot be switched on, lock and unlock the
vehicle from outside. Then try to switch on
the ignition again. If the ignition does not
work, seek professional assistance.

Automatically disconnecting 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.

Why does the battery run flat?

●

When stationary for a long time without

starting the engine, particularly if the ignition
is switched on.

●

Use of electrical devices with the engine

switched off.

●

If the auxiliary heater is running

››› 

page 177

.

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WARNING

Incorrectly securing the battery or using the
wrong battery can cause short-circuits, fire
and serious injuries.

●

Always use only maintenance free batteries

that do not run flat alone and whose proper-
ties, specifications and size correspond to
the standard battery. The specifications are
indicated on the battery case.

WARNING

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.

●

Never charge a frozen or recently thawed

battery. A flat battery can also freeze at tem-
peratures close to 0°C (+32°F).

●

Always replace a battery which has frozen.

●

Battery cables not correctly connected may

cause a short circuit. Reconnect first the posi-
tive cable and then the negative cable.

CAUTION

●

Never disconnect the battery if the ignition

is switched on or if the engine is running.
This could damage the electrical system or
electronic components.

●

Never plug accessories that supply current,

such as solar panels or a battery charger, to
the 12-volt power sockets or the cigarette

lighter. This could damage the vehicle's elec-
trical system.

For the sake of the environment

●

Dispose of the battery in an environment-

friendly manner. Batteries contain toxic sub-
stances such as sulphuric acid and lead.

●

Battery acid can contaminate the environ-

ment. If it has leaked use adequate care col-
lecting it (gloves and protective glasses), and
dispose of it correctly.

Wheels and tyres

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
protective 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 tech-
nical service.

WARNING

The vehicle cannot be totally controlled or
braked if the tyres (new or used) are worn or
damaged.

●

Incorrect use of wheels and tyres could

make driving more dangerous and result in
serious accidents and damage.

284

Wheels and tyres

●

All four wheels must be fitted with radial

tyres of the same type, size (rolling
circumference) and the same tread pattern.

●

New tyres do not give maximum grip and

will not have reached their maximum braking
capacity to start with, and therefore need
running in. To prevent accidents and major
damage, extreme caution should be taken for
the first 500 km (310 miles).

●

Check tyre pressures regularly and ensure

they are maintained at the pressures indica-
ted. If the tyre pressure is too low, they could
overheat, resulting in tread detachment or
even burst tyres.

●

Never drive on damaged (punctured, cut,

cracked or dented) or worn tyres. Driving on
damaged or worn tyres could result in burst
tyres, serious accidents or damage. Worn or
damaged tyres must be replaced immediate-
ly.

●

Never exceed the maximum permitted

speed or loads specified for the type of tyre
fitted on your vehicle.

●

The effectiveness of driver and brake assist

systems also depends on the grip of the
tyres.

●

If you notice unusual vibration or if the ve-

hicle pulls to one side when driving, stop the
car immediately and check the tyres and
wheels for damage.

●

To minimise the risk of losing control of the

vehicle or causing a serious accident, never
undo the bolted joints of beadlock wheels.

●

Never mount used tyres or wheels if you are

not sure of their previous history. They may
be damaged, although the damage is not im-
mediately visible.

●

Old tyres, even if they have never been

used, may lose air or burst unexpectedly
while driving, resulting in serious accident or
damage. If tyres are over six years old, they
should only be used in an emergency and
with extreme caution.

Note

●

For technical reasons, it is not generally

possible to use the wheels from other vehi-
cles. In some cases, this may also be true for
the same model of wheel. Please refer to the
vehicle documentation or ask at a technical
service.

Handling tyres and wheels

Fig. 250 

Diagram for changing wheels

The tyres of a vehicle are the components
which are subjected to most stress and are
the most underestimated. Tyres are very im-
portant, as the support offered by their nar-
row surface is the only point of contact be-
tween the vehicle and the road.

The service life of tyres is dependent on tyre
pressure, driving style, the care they receive
and the correct fitting.

The tyres and wheel rims are an essential
part of the vehicle's design. The tyres and
rims approved by SEAT are specially matched
to the characteristics of the vehicle and our
critical to good road holding and safe han-
dling.

Avoiding damage to tyres and wheels

●

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 kerb.

●

Inspect the tyres regularly for damage

(punctures, cuts, cracks, dents).

●

Remove any foreign bodies found on the

outside of the tyre tread and ensure that 

they

have not passed through the wall of the tyre

››› 

page 290

.

●

In addition, the instructions for tyre control

systems should always be observed.

●

Replace damaged or worn tyres as soon as

possible 

››› 

page 290

.

»

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●

Regularly check tyres for non-visible dam-

age 

››› 

page 290

.

●

Never exceed the maximum permitted

speed or loads specified for the type of tyre
fitted on your vehicle 

››› 

page 291

.

●

Do not allow tyres to come into contact with

aggressive substances, grease, oil, fuel or
brake fluid 

››› 

.

●

Lost valve caps should be replaced imme-

diately.

Changing wheels
To ensure that the wear is equal on all tyres
the wheels should be changed round from
time to time according to the system

››› 

Fig. 250

. The useful life of all the tyres will

then be about the same time.

SEAT recommends you take the vehicle to a
specialised workshop to have the tyres
changed.

Tyres over 6 years old
Tyres are subject to an ageing process as a
result of physical and chemical processes.
This may affect their performance. Tyres
which are stored for long periods of time
without being used, harden and become
more fragile than tyres which are in constant
use.

SEAT recommends that tyres over six years
old are replaced with new tyres. This also ap-
plies to tyres which appear to be in perfect

condition on the outside and which have a
tread depth within the values stipulated by
the Law 

››› 

.

The date of manufacture, part of the tyre
identification number (TIN), indicates the age
of the tyre 

››› 

page 291

.

Storing tyres
Mark tyres when you remove them to indicate
the direction of rotation (left, right, forwards,
backwards). This ensures you will be able to
mount them correctly when you replace
them. When removed, the wheels and/or
tyres should be stored in a cool, dry and pref-
erably dark location. Do 

not place tyres

mounted on the wheel in a vertical position.

Protect tyres not mounted on wheels from
dirt by storing them in suitable bags and
standing them on the ground on their tread.

WARNING

Aggressive fluids or substances could result
in visible or invisible damage with the conse-
quent risks.

●

Always ensure that tyres do not come into

contact with chemical products, oil, grease,
fuel, brake fluid or other aggressive substan-
ces.

WARNING

Old tyres, even if they have never been used,
may lose air or burst unexpectedly while driv-
ing, resulting in serious accident or damage.

●

If tyres are over six years old, they should

only be used in an emergency and with ex-
treme caution.

For the sake of the environment

Old tyres must be disposed of by qualified
personnel according to the laws in the coun-
try concerned.

Wheels

The design of wheel bolts is matched to the
rims. If different rims are fitted, the correct
wheel bolts with the right length and correct-
ly shaped bolt heads must be used. This en-
sures that wheels are fitted securely and that
the brake system functions correctly

››› 

page 84

.

For technical reasons, it is not generally pos-
sible to use the wheels from other vehicles.
In some cases, this may also be true for the
same model of wheel.

The tyres and rims approved by SEAT are spe-
cially matched to the characteristics of the
vehicle and are critical to good road holding
and safe handling.

286

Wheels and tyres

Wheel bolts
Wheel bolts must be tightened to the correct
torque 

››› 

page 84

.

Beadlock wheel rims
Beadlock wheel rims have various compo-
nents. These are joined together by special
bolts using a special procedure. This ensures
good performance, a better seal, improved
safety and wheel run out. Therefore, worn
rims should always be replaced and must on-
ly be repaired in a specialised workshop.
SEAT recommends visiting a technical service

››› 

.

Wheel rims with bolted trims
Wheel rims may be fitted with interchangea-
ble trim parts which are attached to the rim
using self-locking bolts. Worn trims should
only be replaced at a specialised workshop.
SEAT recommends visiting a technical service

››› 

.

WARNING

The use of worn or damaged wheel rims could
make driving more dangerous and result in
serious accidents and damage.

●

Only wheel rims which have been approved

for use with your vehicle should be used.

●

Inspect wheel rims regularly for damage

and replace as required.

WARNING

If the bolted joints of wheel rims with bolted
ring trims are not correctly tightened or loos-
ened, this could result in serious accident.

●

Never loosen the bolted joints of wheel

rims with bolted ring trims.

●

Any work relating to wheel rims with bolted

rims should be carried out at specialised
workshop. SEAT recommends taking your car
in for technical service.

Note

A SEAT Service Centre should be consulted 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).

Replacement of wheel rims and new
tyres

New tyres

●

When tyres are new, drive with extreme

caution for the first 500 km (310 miles), as
all tyres need to be run in. Tyres which have
not been run in do not have such good grip
or 

››› 

 braking capacity 

››› 

.

●

All four wheels must be fitted with radial

tyres of the same type, size (rolling circumfer-
ence) and the same tread pattern.

●

The tread depth of new tyres may vary, ac-

cording to the type and make of tyre and the
tread pattern.

Replacing tyres

●

Where possible, always replace both

wheels on an axle (both wheels on the front
axle or both wheels on the rear axle) 

››› 

.

●

Old tyres should only be replaced by SEAT

approved tyres for the vehicle in question,
and in accordance with the maximum permit-
ted size, diameter, load and speed capacity.

●

If replacing tyres, make sure the new ones

have an emergency ride system (Conti-
Seal/Run flat). Otherwise, we recommend
carrying a tyre mobility system.

●

Never use tyres which are larger than SEAT

approved tyres. If the tyres are too big, they
may knock or rub against the chassis or other
components, resulting in damage.

WARNING

New tyres do not give maximum grip and will
not have reached their maximum braking ca-
pacity to start with, and therefore need run-
ning in.

●

To prevent accidents and major damage,

extreme caution should be taken for the first
500 km (310 miles).

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WARNING

There should be adequate space between the
tyres and the vehicle in accordance with the
vehicle design. If this is not the case, the
tyres may rub against parts of the running
gear, chassis or brake lines, leading to faults
in the brake system or to tread detachment,
and the risk of burst tyres.

●

The true tyre dimension should not be

greater than the dimensions of tyres manu-
factured and approved by SEAT and should
not rub against parts of the vehicle.

Note

●

Although tyres may be shown as being the

same size, the true dimensions of different
types of tyre may vary with respect to the
nominal size, or tread patterns may be differ-
ent.

●

If you use tyres that are approved by SEAT,

you can be sure that the true tyre dimensions
will be correct for your vehicle. For other tyre
models, the tyre vendor should provide the
manufacturer's certificate with the tyre, indi-
cating that this type of tyre is suitable for
your vehicle. This certificate should always
be carried with the vehicle.

Tyre pressure

Fig. 251 

Position of tyre pressure specifica-

tion plate

The correct tyre pressures for tyres fitted at
the factory is shown on a label and is valid
for summer and winter tyres. This label

››› 

Fig. 251

 is either on the driver door strut or

inside the fuel tank flap.

Under-inflation or over-inflation will reduce
the life of the tyres considerably and also im-
pair the car's handling 

››› 

. It is essential to

maintain the correct tyre pressures, especial-
ly if driving at 

high speeds. Incorrect tyre

pressure causes premature wear and could
cause tyre blow-out.

The pressure should therefore be checked at
least once a month and before starting a
journey.

As a general rule, the pressures given are for
cold tyres. When the tyres are hot, the pres-
sures are greater.

Never deflate a hot tyre in order to obtain the
required pressure. This could result in very
low tyre pressures which may lead to sudden
blow-outs.

Checking tyre pressures
Tyre pressures should only be checked when
the vehicle has not been driven for more than
a few kilometres (miles) at low speeds in the
past three hours.

●

The tyre pressures should be checked regu-

larly, and only when the tyres are cold. Al-
ways check all the tyres. Tyre pressures
should be checked more often in colder re-
gions, and only when the vehicle has not
been driven recently. Always use a correctly-
operating tyre gauge.

●

Adjust tyre pressures to the loads carried in

the vehicle.

●

After checking the pressure, always replace

the valve caps, and where applicable, ob-
serve the instructions given for adjusting the
tyre control system 

››› 

page 231

.

288

Wheels and tyres

WARNING

If tyre pressures are too high or too low, the
tyre may deflate or burst suddenly while driv-
ing. This could result in a serious accident.

●

If the tyre pressure is too low, they could

overheat, resulting in tread detachment or
even burst tyres.

●

When driving at high speeds and/or fully

loaded, the tyre could suddenly overheat,
burst or be subject to tread detachment, with
the resultant loss of control of the vehicle.

●

Tyre pressures which are too high or too

low reduce the service life of the tyre, affect-
ing the vehicle's performance.

●

Tyre pressures should be checked regularly,

at least once a month and before long jour-
neys.

●

Adjust the pressures of all the tyres to the

vehicle load.

●

Never deflate excess pressure from hot

tyres.

CAUTION

●

Take care not to tilt the manometer when

placing it on the valve. Otherwise, the valve
may be damaged.

●

If tyre valves are not protected by caps, or if

the caps are not screwed on correctly, they
may become damaged. Check that the caps
are identical to the standard caps and have
been correctly tightened.

For the sake of the environment

Under-inflated tyres will increase fuel con-
sumption.

Note

When checking tyre pressures, please ob-
serve the instructions for the tyre control sys-
tem 

››› 

page 231

.

Wear indicator depth profile

Fig. 252 

Tyre tread: tread wear indicators

Tread depth
Certain driving conditions require a deeper
tread, as well as needing the tread to be ap-
proximately the same on the front and rear
tyres. This is particularly important when
driving in winter, in cold temperatures and on
wet roads 

››› 

.

The minimum tread depth required by law in
the majority of cases is 1.6 mm (1/16 of an
inch), measured in the tread grooves next to
the tread wear indicators. Observe legal re-
quirements in each country.

Winter tyres lose much of their performance
when their tread has worn to 4 mm
(5/32 inch).

The tread depth of new tyres may vary, ac-
cording to the type and make of tyre and the
tread pattern.

Wear indicators on the tyre
The original tyres on your vehicle have
1.6 mm (1/16 inch) high 

››› 

Fig. 252

 tread

wear indicators running across the tread. A
number of these indicators are equally
spaced around the tyre tread. Certain marks
on the tyre walls (e.g. the letters “TWI” or
other symbols) indicate the position of the
wear indicators.

Tread wear indicators indicate if a tyre is
worn. They must always be replaced before
the tyre tread has worn to the level of the in-
dicator.

WARNING

Driving with worn tyres is dangerous, and
may lead to loss of control of the vehicle with
serious consequences.

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●

Tyres must be replaced before the wear in-

dicators are at the same level as the tread
pattern.

●

Worn tyres have significantly reduced grip,

especially on wet surfaces, increasing the
risk of “aquaplaning”.

●

Worn tyres make control of the vehicle

more difficult in normal or difficult driving
conditions, increasing the braking distance
and the risk of skidding.

Tyre damage

Damage to wheels and tyres is often invisible
to the naked eye. If you notice unusual 

vibra-

tion or the car pulling to one side, this may
indicate that one of the tyres is damaged

››› 

.

●

Slow down immediately if you think you

have a damaged wheel.

●

Check the wheels and tyres for damage.

●

If tyres are worn, stop driving and seek

qualified assistance.

●

If there is no visible exterior damage, drive

slowly and carefully to the nearest special-
ised workshop and have the vehicle checked.

Foreign bodies 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 85

. Use a

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

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

Tyre wear
The wear of tyres depends on a number of
factors, for example:

●

Driving style.

●

Unbalanced wheels.

●

Running gear settings.

Driving style: Driving round bends quickly or
sudden acceleration or braking speed accel-
erates tyre wear. When the driving style is
normal, if the tyres wear too quickly, have the
running gear settings checked at a special-
ised workshop.

Wheel run-out: The wheels on new vehicles
are balanced. However, certain circumstan-
ces may lead to imbalance (run-out), which is
detected as vibrations in the steering wheel.
Run-out leads to wear of the steering and
suspension. In the event of run out, the
wheels should be balanced again. When a
new wheel is fitted, it should be balanced
again.

Running gear settings: an incorrectly posi-
tioned running gear increases the wear of
tyres and affects your safety while driving. If
tyres wear too quickly, have the wheel align-
ment checked at a specialised workshop.

WARNING

If you notice unusual vibration or the car pulls
to one side while driving, this may indicate
that one of the tyres is damaged.

●

Reduce speed immediately and stop, while

observing the highway code.

●

Check the wheels and tyres for damage.

●

Never carry on driving on worn tyres or

wheels. Request qualified assistance immedi-
ately.

●

If there is no visible exterior damage, drive

slowly and carefully to the nearest special-
ised workshop and have the vehicle checked.

290

Wheels and tyres

Tyre code

Fig. 253 

Universal code on tyres

Radial
Rim diameter code
Load index & speed rating
DOT tyre identification number
Severe snow conditions
Tyre ply composition and materials used
Max. load rating
Treadwear, traction and temperature
grades
Max. permissible inflation pressure
Passenger car tyre
Nominal width of tyre in millimetres

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

Ratio of height to width (aspect ratio)

Tyre code (example): Meaning

Make, logotype

Manufacturer

Product name

Name of tyre assigned by manufac-
turer.

P215 /
55 R 16

Size:

P

Passenger vehicle code.

215

Nominal width between
walls, in mm.

55

Height/width ratio in %

R

Tyre type (R indicates "ra-
dial").

16

Rim diameter in inches

91 V

Load index 

››› 

page 292

 and speed

rating 

››› 

page 292

.

XL

Reinforced tyres (“Reinforced”).

M+S or M/S

Winter tyres (mud and snow tyres)

››› 

page 292

.

SSR or DSST,
Eufonia, RFT,
ROF, RSC, ZP,
Conti-Seal

Specific manufacturer codes for run-
flat tyres.

RADIAL
TUBELESS

Radial tyre without inner tube.

12

Tyre code (example): Meaning

E4 ...

E-mark certifying tyre complies with
international legislation followed by
a number denoting the country
granting the authorisation. The au-
thorisation number ( several digits)
is shown below.

DOT BT RA TY5
1709

Tyre identification number (

TIN

a)

,

may be only on interior wall of wheel)
and date of manufacture:

DOT

The tyre complies with the
legal requirements of the
US Department of Trans-
port, responsible for tyre
safety regulations.

BT

Place of manufacture
code.

RA

Information about manu-
facturer and tyre size.

TY5

Manufacturer's tyre speci-
fications.

1709

Date of manufacture:
Week 17 of 2009.

TWI

This identifies the position of the
Tread Wear Indicator 

››› 

page 289

.

MAX LOAD
615 KG
(1356 LBS)

US load rating, indicating maximum
permitted load per tyre.

MAX INFLATION
350 KPA
(51 PSI)

US limit, indicating maximum permit-
ted tyre pressure.

»

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Tyre code (example): Meaning

SIDEWALL 1 PLY
RAYON

Information about tyre wall compo-
nents:
1 layer of rayon (artificial silk).

TREAD 4 PLIES
1 RAYON +
2 STEEL +
1 NYLON

Information about tread compo-
nents:
In the example, there are 4 layers be-
low the tread: 1 layer of rayon (artifi-
cial silk), 2 layers of steel reinforce-
ment and 1 layer of nylon.

Information for the end consumer concerning the com-
parative values of the established base tyres (standar-
dised test procedures):

TREADWEAR
280

Relative service life of the tyre, with
respect to specific US standard test.

TRACTION AA

Braking capacity of tyre on wet sur-
face (AA, A, B or C).

TEMPERATURE A

Tyre temperature resistance at higher
test speeds (A, B or C).

If there are different letters, they are specific codes of
the tyre manufacturer or specific national codes.

a)

The letters TIN refer to the tyre serial number.

Tyres with directional tread patterns
Tyres with directional tread pattern have
been designed to operate best when rotating
in only one direction. An arrow on the tyre
sidewall indicates the direction of rotation on
tyres with directional tread. Always observe
the direction of rotation indicated when
mounting the wheel. This guarantees opti-

mum grip and helps to avoid aquaplaning,
grip, noise and wear.

Tyre load rating
The load rating code indicates the maximum
load in kilogrammes each wheel can carry
(load capacity).

615 kg (1,356 pounds)
650 kg (1,433 pounds)
690 kg (1,521 pounds)
730 kg (1,609 pounds)
775 kg (1,709 pounds)

Speed rating
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)

91
93
95
97
99

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).

Winter service

Winter tyres*

In winter conditions winter tyres will consid-
erably improve the vehicle's handling. The
design of summer tyres (width, rubber com-
pound, tread pattern) gives less grip on ice
and snow. Winter tyres also improve the vehi-
cle braking performance, reducing the brak-
ing distance in winter weather. SEAT recom-
mend that winter tyres be fitted to the vehicle
at temperatures below +7°C (+45°F).

The performance of winter tyres is much re-
duced if the 

tyre tread is worn below 4 mm

(1/16 inch). The 

age of the tyre is another

factor affecting performance, regardless of
the depth of the tyre tread.

Please observe the following when using
winter tyres:

●

Observe legal requirements in each coun-

try.

●

Winter tyres must be fitted on all four

wheels.

●

Only use winter tyres in wintery weather

conditions.

292