Seat ALHAMBRA Owner's Manual page 199

Brake fluid specifications
SEAT have developed a special brake fluid optimised for the brake systems of
their vehicles. To ensure the optimum working of the brake system, SEAT
recommends the use of brake fluid in accordance with the VW 501 14
standard. If this brake fluid is not available or another brake fluid is used for
different reasons, use a brake fluid that complies with the United States
standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4 or the German standard DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4
.
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 Amer-
ican FMVSS 116 DOT 4 standard or the German DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4
standard do not necessarily comply with the VW 501 14 standard. Always
check the information on the brake fluid container and ensure that you are
using suitable brake fluid.
A suitable brake fluid can be obtained from Authorised Service Centres.
Brake fluid level
The level of the brake fluid should always be between the MIN and MAX
marks, or above the MIN mark
It is not always possible to check the level of the brake fluid, as in some
models the engine components make it difficult to see the brake fluid reser-
voir. If you cannot read the exact brake fluid level, consult a specialist.
The brake fluid level drops slightly when the vehicle is being used due to wear
of the brake pads and the automatic readjustment of the brake.
Changing the brake fluid
The brake fluid should be changed in accordance with the instructions given
in the Maintenance Programme. Have the brake fluid changed by a qualified
workshop. SEAT recommends visiting a qualified workshop. This means that
only brake fluid complying with the required specifications will be used.
Safety First
.
Operating instructions
WARNING
If the brake fluid level is low or unsuitable/old brake fluid is used, the brake
system may fail or braking power will be reduced.
Check the brake system and the brake fluid level regularly!
The brake fluid should be changed regularly in accordance with the
instructions given in the Maintenance Programme.
When the brake fluid is used and brakes are subjected to extreme
braking forces, bubbles of vapour form in the brake system. These bubbles
of water vapour can significantly reduce braking power, notably increasing
braking distance, and could even result in the total failure of the brake
system.
Only use 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 affect brake operation and reduce braking
power. 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 stand-
ards.
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 recipi-
ents even if the contents are clearly marked.
Always keep brake fluid in the original container; keep it correctly
sealed and out of reach of children.
Practical tips
Driving
Technical Data
197