Cockpit59
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Service interval display
When it is time for a service, the lower counter (trip counter) of the speedom-
eter displays the symbol of a spanner, followed by one of the following
messages:
OIL
- Changing the engine oil
INSP - Maintenance service
The maintenance message switches off 3 minutes after the engine is started.
The trip counter can also be reset, by pressing the reset button for more than
0.5 seconds
2)
The Service Centre who carry out the maintenance service will reset the main-
tenance interval display on completion of the service.
We recommend that the repair and main tenance work only be carried out at
Authorised Service Centres.
The service indicator can also be reset by pressing the trip counter button.
Proceed as follows:
Switch off ignition.
Keep “Reset” button on distance counter pressed.
Connect ignition with the “Reset” button pressed. The fixed mode
display appears.
After a minimum of 10 sec, release the reset button.
Caution
We recommend that the resetting of the service interval indicator be carried
out in an Authorised Service Centre to avoid possible faults in the vehicle.
Note
•
Only the desired service message should be reset in each case. By
pressing the reset button it is possible to change from one message to
another.
•
Do not reset the display between two service intervals, otherwise the
dispaly will be incorrect.
•
The values are stored even when the battery is disconnected.
2)With “Ignition OFF” the maintenance display remains visible.A-A-A-A-
cordoba_ingles Seite 59 Freitag, 7. Oktober 2005 6:00 18
Lights and visibility91
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
•
Never park where the catalytic converter could come into contact with
inflammable materials under the vehicle, for example dry grass or spilt
petrol. This could start a fire!Note
•
The battery will run down if the hazard warning lights are left on for a long
time, even if the ignition is switched off.
•
The use of the hazard warning lights d escribed here is subject to the rele-
vant statutory requirements.
Turn signal and main beam headlight lever
The turn signal and main beam lever also operates the
parking lights and the headlight flasher.
The turn signal and main beam headlight lever has the following
functions:
Switching on the turn signals
– Move the lever all the way up ⇒fig. 60 to indicate right, and
all the way down to indicate left.
Signalling a lane change
– Push the lever up or down to the point where you incur resistance and then release the lever. The turn signal will flash
three times. The corresponding warning lamp will also flash.
Switching main beam on and off
– Turn the light switch to position
.
– Press the lever forward ⇒fig. 60 to switch on the main
beams.
– Pull the lever back towards you to switch the main beam head- lights off again.
Headlight flasher
– Pull the lever towards the steering wheel to operate the flasher.
Switching on parking lights
– Switch off the ignition and remove the key from the lock.
– Move the lever up or down to turn on the right or left-hand parking lights respectively.
WARNING (continued)
Fig. 60 Turn signal and
main beam headlight
lever
A1
A2A1
A2A4
A3
cordoba_ingles Seite 91 Freitag, 7. Oktober 2005 6:00 18
Seats and stowage109
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
First-aid kit, warning triangle, fire
extinguisherFirst aid kit, warning triangles and fire extinguisherThe use of reflective warning triangles is obligatory in emergencies in some
countries. As are the first aid kit and a set of spare lightbulbs.
The first aid kit can be fitted in one of the stowage compartments, located
below the boot floor mat. The warning tria ngle can be attached to the back of
the boot using rubber straps. The fire ex tinguisher can be fixed on the left-
hand side of the boot floor, fastened with velcro.
Note
•
The first aid kit, the warning triangles and the fire extinguisher are not
supplied with the vehicle as standard.
•
The first aid kit, the warning triangles and the fire extinguisher should
meet legal requirements.
•
The expiry date of the content of the first aid kit should be checked.
•
Ensure that the fire extinguisher is fu lly functional. The fire extinguisher
should, therefore, be checked regularly. The sticker on the fire extinguisher
will inform you of the next date for checking.
•
Before acquiring accessories and emergency equipment see the instruc-
tions on ⇒page 162, “Accessories, parts repl acement and modifications”.
Luggage compartmentStowing luggage
All luggage must be securely stowed.Please observe the following points to ensure the vehicle handles
well at all times:
– Distribute the load as evenly as possible.
– Place heavy objects as far forward in the luggage compartment
as possible.
– Secure luggage in the luggage compartment with suitable straps on the fastening rings.
WARNING
•
Loose luggage and other loose items in the vehicle can cause serious
injuries.
•
Loose objects in the luggage compartment can suddenly move and
change the way the vehicle handles.
•
During sudden manoeuvres or ac cidents, loose objects in the
passenger compartment can be flung forward, injuring vehicle occupants.
•
Always store objects in the luggage compartment and secure with suit-
able straps. This is especially important for heavy objects.
•
When you transport heavy objects, always keep in mind that a change
in the centre of gravity can also cause changes in vehicle handling.
•
Please observe information on safe driving ⇒page 7, “Safe driving”.
cordoba_ingles Seite 109 Freitag, 7. Oktober 2005 6:00 18
Driving
132If, while driving, the selector lever accidentally moves to position N, first
release the accelerator pedal and wait until the engine slows to idling before
selecting a forwards gear ⇒ .
Starting
Select a range ( R, D, 3, 2, 1). Wait until the change has taken place and the
power transmission of the drive wheels has stabilised (slight pressure is
noticeable). Then depress the accelerator.
Stopping
In the case of a temporary stop, for example at a traffic lights, it is not neces-
sary to move to position N , it is sufficent to brake using the brake pedal. The
engine should only run at idle speed.
Parking
On slopes, first pull handbrake on firmly and then connect block. This
prevents overloading the blocking mechanism, making the subsequent
disconnect ion easier ⇒ .
Emergency start
in vehicles fitted with an automatic gearbox the engine can not be started by
towing or pushing the vehicle ⇒ page 217.
If the vehicle battery is flat, a battery from another car can be used to jump-
start the car using a set of jump leads ⇒ pa ge 125.
To w i n g
If the vehicle requires towing at any time, observe the instructions of
⇒ page 217, “Towing and tow-starting”
Back-up programme
In the event of a malfunction of the gearbox electronics, emergency
programmes are activated, according to the type of fault.•
The gearbox continues to connect gears automatically, but the operations
are jerky. Consult the Authorised Service Centre.
•
The gearbox does not automatically engage gears.
In this case they can be change d manually. 3rd gear is only available in posi-
tions D, 3 and 2 of the selector lever.
In positions 1 and R of the selector lever 1st gear and reve rse gear are available
respectively as normal
As the torque converter is required to work more, especially due to the lack of
2nd gear, it is possible that the gearbox oil may overheat. In this case,
consult the Auth orised Service Centre as soon as possible.
WARNING
•
In all the ranges the vehicle must always be held with the foot brake
when the engine is running. This is because an automatic gearbox still
transmits power even at idling speed , and the vehicle tends to “creep”.
•
If, when the car is at a standstill and the engine is idling, a range is
connected, take care not to accelerate accidentally (for example, when
working in the engine compartment), as the car will start to move immedi-
ately.
•
Before working on a running engine, place the selector lever in position
P and apply the handbrake.
•
To prevent the vehicle from moving out of control, the handbrake
should always be applied when the vehicle is at a standstill. In addition
move the selector lever to position P.
cordoba_ingles Seite 132 Freitag, 7. Oktober 2005 6:00 18
Checking and refilling levels
172•
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 secured when the vehicle is
moving, stop the vehicle immediately and close the bonnet properly. Risk
of accident.
Engine oilEngine oil specifications
The engine used must conform to exact specifications.Specifications
The engine comes with a special, high quality, multi grade oil that can be
used in all seasons of the year except for those regions affected by extreme
cold.
As the use of good qualit y oil is necessary for the correct operation and long
service life of the engine, when it be comes necessary to replenish or change
the oil, always use an oil that complies to the VW standards.
If it is not possible to find oil conforming to the VW standards then oil
conforming to the ACEA or API standards with an appropriate viscosity at
atmospheric temperature should be used instead. The use of this type of oil
may have some repercussions on the performance of the engine for example,
long starting time, increased consumption and a higher emission level.
If a top up is required then different oils may be mixed as long as they all
conform to the VW standards.
The specifications (VW standards) set out in the following page should
appear on the container of the service oil; the container will display together the different standards for petrol and diesel engines, the oil can be used for
both types of engines.
WARNING (continued)
cordoba_ingles Seite 172 Freitag, 7. Oktober 2005 6:00 18
Checking and refilling levels
182Brake fluidChecking the brake fluid level
The brake fluid is checked at the intervals given in the service
schedule.– Read off the fluid level at the transparent brake fluid reservoir. It
should always be between the “MIN” and “MAX” marks.The position of the coolant expansion tank is shown in the corresponding
engine compartment diagram ⇒page 224. The brake fluid reservoir has a
black and yellow cap.
The brake fluid level drops slightly when the vehicle is being used as the
brake pads are automatically adjusted as they wear. However, if the level goes down noticeab
ly in a short time, or drops below the
“MIN” mark, there may be a leak in the brake system. A display on the instru-
ment panel will warn you if the brake fluid level is too low ⇒page 60.
WARNING
Before opening the bonnet to check the brake fluid level, read and observe
the warnings ⇒page 169.Changing the brake fluid
The brake fluid must be renewed every two years.We recommend that you have the brake fluid changed by an Authorised
Service Centre.
Before opening the bonnet, please read and follow the warnings ⇒ in
“Safety instructions on working in the engine compartment” on page 169 in
“Working in the engine compartment”.
Brake fluid absorbs moisture. In the cour se of time, it will absorb water from
the ambient air. If the water content in the brake fluid is too high, the brake
system could corrode. This also consider ably reduces the boiling point of the
brake fluid. Heavy use of the brakes may then cause a vapour lock which
could impair the braking effect.
For this reason the brake fluid must be renewed every two years.
It important that you use only use brake fluid compliant with the US standard
FMVSS 116 DOT 4. We recommend the use of Genuine SEAT brake fluid.
WARNING
Brake fluid is poisonous. Old brake fluid impairs the braking effect.
Fig. 126 In the engine
compartment: Brake fluid
reservoir cover
cordoba_ingles Seite 182 Freitag, 7. Oktober 2005 6:00 18
Checking and refilling levels
184charge. Never short the battery terminals. High-energy sparks can cause
injury.•
A highly explosive mixture of gases is given off when the battery is
under charge. The batteries should be charged in a well-ventilated room
only.
•
Keep children away from acid and batteries.
•
Before working on the electrical system, you must switch off the
engine, the ignition and all consumers. The minus cable on the battery
must be disconnected. When a light bulb is changed, you need only switch
off the light.
•
Deactivate the anti-theft alarm by unlocking the vehicle before you
disconnect the battery! The alarm will otherwise be triggered.
•
When disconnecting the battery from the vehicle electrical system,
disconnect first the negative cable and then the positive cable.
•
Switch off all electrical consumers 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 explosions and chemical burns. Always replace a battery which
has frozen. A flat battery can freeze at temperatures around 0
°C.
•
Ensure that the vent hose is always connected to the battery.
•
Never use a defective battery. This may be fatally explosive. Replace a
damaged battery immediately.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 compo-
nents.
•
Do not expose the battery to direct sunlight over a long period of time, as
the intense ultraviolet radiation can damage the battery housing.
•
If the vehicle is left standing in cold conditions for a long period, protect
the battery from frost. If it “freezes” it will be damaged.
Checking the electrolyte level
The electrolyte level should be checked regularly in high-
mileage vehicles, in hot countries and in older batteries.– Open the bonnet and open the battery cover at the front ⇒ in
“Safety instructions on working in the engine compartment” on
page 169 ⇒ in “Warnings on handling the battery” on
page 183.
– 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 show n in the corresponding engine compart-
ment diagram ⇒page 224.
The round window (“magic eye”) on the top of the battery changes colour,
depending on the charge level and electrolyte level of the battery.
If the colour in the window is colourless or bright yellow, the electrolyte level
of the battery is too low. Have the battery checked by a qualified workshop.
The colours green and black are used by the workshops for diagnostic
purposes.
WARNING (continued)
cordoba_ingles Seite 184 Freitag, 7. Oktober 2005 6:00 18
Checking and refilling levels187
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
Tyre service life
The service life of tyres is dependent on tyre pressure, driving
style and fitting.
Wear indicators
The original tyres on your vehicle have 1.6 mm high “tread wear
indicators”⇒fig. 127 running across the tread. Depending on the make,
there will be six to eight of them even ly spaced around the tyre. Markings on
the tyre sidewall (for instance the letters “TWI” or other symbols) indicate the
positions of the tread wear indicators. The minimum tread depth required by
law is 1.6 mm (measured in the tread grooves next to the tread wear indica-
tors). Worn tyres must be replaced. Di fferent figures may apply in export
countries ⇒.
Tyre pressure
Incorrect tyre pressure causes premature wear and could cause tyre blow-out.
For this reason, the tyre pressure should be checked at least once per month
⇒ page 186.
Driving style
Fast cornering, heavy acceleration and hard braking all increase tyre wear.
Changing wheels around
If the front tyres are worn considerably mo re than the rear ones it is advisable
to change them around as shown ⇒fig. 128 . All the tyres will then last for
about the same time.
Wheel balance
The wheels on new vehicles are balanced. However, various factors encoun-
tered in normal driving can cause them to become unbalanced, which results
in steering vibration.
Unbalanced wheels should be rebalanced, as they otherwise cause excessive
wear on steering, suspension and tyres. A wheel must also be rebalanced
when a new tyre is fitted.
Incorrect wheel alignment
Incorrect wheel alignment causes excessive tyre wear, impairing the safety of
the vehicle. If tyres show excessive wear, you should have the wheel align-
ment checked by an Authorised Service Centre.
Fig. 127 Tyre tread wear
indicatorsFig. 128 Changing
wheels
cordoba_ingles Seite 187 Freitag, 7. Oktober 2005 6:00 18