
Cockpit51
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
Rev counter
The rev. counter displays the engine speed in revolutions per 
minute.The start of the red zone on the dial ⇒ page 50, fig. 31   indicates the 
maximum engine speed which may be used briefly when the engine is warm 
and after it has been run-in  properly. However, it is advisable to change up a 
gear or move the selector lever to D (or li ft your foot off the accelerator) before 
the needle reaches the red zone.
Caution
The rev counter needle must never enter the red zone on the scale. Risk of 
engine damage.
For the sake of the environment
Changing up a gear early will help you to save fuel and minimise engine 
noise.
Engine coolant temperature display 
 
This gauge shows the engine coolant temperature.
Needle in cold zone 
Avoid high engine speeds and heavy engine loads  ⇒fig. 32.
Needle in normal zone 
In normal driving conditions, the needle  should be in the middle section of 
the scale. The temperature may also rise when the engine is working hard, 
especially at high outside temperatures. This is no cause for concern, as long 
as the warning lamp   does not li ght up on the instrument panel.
Needle in warning zone 
The warning lamp*  ⇒page 58, fig. 39    will light up and a buzzer will be 
heard if the needle is in the warning zone.  Stop the car and switch off the 
engine.  Check the coolant level ⇒ page 183 ⇒ .
Even if the coolant level is correct  do not continue driving. You should obtain 
technical assistance.
A1
Fig. 32  Engine coolant 
temperature
AAABACAC
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Cockpit61
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
There is a fault in the electro-hydraulic steering system if the lamp does not 
go out or lights up whilst the vehicle is in motion. Take the vehicle to the 
Authorised Service Centre as soon as possible.
Engine management 
 
This warning lamp monitors th e engine management system 
for petrol engines.
The warning lamp 
 (Electronic Power Control) lights up when the ignition 
is switched on to show that the lamp  is working properly. It should go out 
when the engine has started running.
If a fault develops in the electronic engine management system while you are 
driving, this warning lamp will light  up. Stop the vehicle and seek technical 
assistance.
Glow plug system / Engine fault* 
 
The warning lamp lights up to show that the glow plugs are 
preheating. It flashes if there is an engine fault.
Warning lamp 
 is lit
The warning lamp  lights up while the glow plugs are preheating. When the 
warning lamp goes off, the engine should be started straight away.
Warning lamp 
 flashes
If a fault develops in the engine management system while you are driving, 
the glow plug lamp will flash 
. Take the vehicle to an Authorised Service 
Centre as soon as possible and have the engine checked.
Tu r n  si g nals  
 
The warning lamp flashes when the turn signals are in oper-
ation.Depending on which turn signal is operated, either the left 
 or right 
 indi-
cator lamp flashes. Both warning lamps  will flash at the same time when the 
hazard warning lights are switched on.
If one turn signal fails, the warning  lamp will start flashing twice as fast.
Further information on the turn signals  ⇒page 91.
Coolant Level* / temperature 
The warning lamp lights up if the coolant temperature is too 
high or if the coolant level is too low.There is a fault if:•
The warning symbol does not go out again after a few seconds.
•
The warning lamp lights up or flashes while the vehicle is moving, while 
three acoustic warning signals  ⇒  are emitted.
This means that either the coolant level is too low or the coolant temperature 
is too high.
Coolant temperature too high
First look at the coolant temperature gauge. The coolant temperature is too 
high if the needle is over the warning area on the dial.  Stop the vehicle, 
switch off the engine and wait for it to cool down.  Check the coolant level.
If the coolant level is correct, the over heating may be caused by a malfunction 
of the radiator fan. Check the radiator fan fuse and have it replaced if neces-
sary  ⇒page 208.
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Cockpit63
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
WARNING
•
Before opening the bonnet, read and observe the warnings on 
⇒ page 176, “Working in the engine compartment”.
•
If the brake warning lamp 
 should light up together with the ABS 
warning lamp 
, stop the vehicle immediately and check the brake fluid 
level in the reservoir  ⇒page 188, “Brake fluid”. If the fluid level has 
dropped below the “MIN” mark you must not drive on. Risk of accident. 
Obtain technical assistance.
•
If the brake fluid level is correct, the fault in the brake system may have 
been caused by a failure of the ABS system. This could cause the rear 
wheels to lock quickly when you brake. This could cause the rear to break 
away. Risk of skidding. Stop the vehicle and seek technical assistance.
Brake system* / handbrake 
 
The warning lamp lights up if the handbrake is applied, if the 
brake fluid level falls too low or if there is a fault in the brake 
system.
This warning lamp 
 lights up if
•
If the handbrake is on
•
If the brake fluid level is too low  ⇒page 188
•
If there is a fault in the brake system
This warning lamp can light up together with the anti-lock brake system 
warning lamp.
WARNING
•
If the brake warning lamp does not  go out, or if it lights up when 
driving, the brake fluid level  ⇒page 188, “Brake fluid” in the reservoir is 
too low. Risk of accident. Stop the vehicle and do not drive on. Obtain tech-
nical assistance.
•
If the brake warning lamp 
 lights up together with the ABS warning 
lamp 
, the control function of the ABS could be out of action. This could 
cause the rear wheels to lock quickly when you brake. This could cause the 
rear to break away. Risk of skidding. Stop the vehicle and seek technical 
assistance.
Emission control system* 
 
This warning lamp monitors the exhaust system.
Warning lamp 
 flashes:
When there is misfiring that can damage the catalytic converter. Reduce 
speed and drive carefully to the nearest qualified workshop to have the 
engine checked.
Warning lamp  is lit:
If a fault has developed during driving which has reduced the quality of the 
exhaust gas (e. g. lambda probe fault). Reduce speed and drive carefully to 
the nearest qualified workshop to have the engine checked.
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Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning
122
– Turn the temperature control switch until the desired interior temperature is obtained.
– Turn the blower switch to one of the settings 1-4.
– Use the air distribution control to guide the flow of air in the  required direction:   (to the windscreen),   (to the upper 
body),   (to the foot well) and   (to the windscreen and to the 
foot well).Heating system
Maximum heat output, which is needed to defrost the windows quickly, is 
only available when the engine has reached its operating temperature.
Cooling system
When the cooling system is switched on, not only the temperature, but also 
the air humidity in the vehicle interior is reduced. This improves comfort for 
the vehicle occupants and prevents misting of the windows when the outside 
air humidity is high.
If the cooling system cannot be switched on this may be due to the following 
reasons:•
the engine is not running.
•
The blower is switched off.
•
The outside temperature is lower than +5°C.
•
the cooling system compressor has been temporarily switched off 
because the engine coolant temperature is too high.
•
The air conditioner fuse is faulty.
•
Another fault in the vehicle. Have the air conditioner checked by a quali-
fied workshop.
Air recirculation   
Air recirculation mode prevents fumes or unpleasant smells 
from entering the vehicle.When air recirculation mode is switched on (button  ⇒page 121, fig. 94    
with warning lamp) strong odours in the  outside air do not enter the vehicle 
interior, for example when passing through a tunnel or in queuing traffic.
When the outside temperature is low, us ing air recirculation mode provides 
more effective heating by heating air from the vehicle interior instead of cold 
air from outside.
When the outside temperature is high,  using air recirculation mode provides 
more effective cooling by cooling air fr om the vehicle interior instead of warm 
air from outside.
For reasons of safety, air recirculation is  not possible when the control for air 
distribution is set to the windscreen setting 
.
WARNING
In air recirculation mode, no ambient air enters the vehicle interior. If the 
air conditioning system is switched off, the windows can quickly mist over. 
Therefore, you should never leave the air recirculation mode switched on 
for longer periods, as this increases the risk of an accident.
Note
•
When reverse gear is engaged the air recirculation connects automatically 
to prevent the entrance of exhaust fumes in the vehicle on travelling back-
wards. The control light on th e button   does not light up.
•
If the temperature control is turned to the coldest setting (blue point) and 
the switch   is activated, the “Air recirculation” function is automatically 
activated in order to cool the passenger compartment rapidly using a 
minimum of energy and the function indicator will light.
AC
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Driving
132
– Let go of the ignition key as soon as the engine starts; the starter motor must not be allowed to run on with the engine.After starting a very hot engine, you may need to press the accelerator briefly.
When starting from cold, the engine ma y be a little noisy for the first few 
seconds until oil pressure has built up in the hydraulic valve compensators. 
This is quite normal, and no cause for concern.
If the engine does not start immediately, switch off the starter after about 
10 seconds and try again after about half a minute. If the engine still does not 
start, the fuel pump fuse should be checked  ⇒page 208, “Fuses”.
WARNING
•
Never start or run the engine in un ventilated or closed rooms. The 
exhaust fumes contain carbon mono xide, an odourless and colourless 
poisonous gas. Risk of fatal accidents. Carbon monoxide can cause loss of 
consciousness. It can also cause death.
•
Never leave the vehicle unattended if the engine is running.
•
Never use “cold start sprays”, they could explode or cause the engine 
to run at high revs. Risk of injury.Caution
•
When the engine is cold, you should av oid high engine speeds, driving at 
full throttle and overloading the  engine. Risk of engine damage.
•
The vehicle should not be pushed or towed for more than approximately 
50 metres to start the engine. Fuel could enter the catalytic converter and 
damage it.
•
Before attempting to push-start or tow  a vehicle to start it, you should first 
try to start it using the battery of another vehicle. Note and follow the instruc-
tions  ⇒page 225, “Jump-starting”.
For the sake of the environment
Do not warm up the engine by running th e engine with the vehicle stationary. 
You should drive off as soon as you start the engine. This helps the engine 
reach operating temperature faster and reduces emissions.Starting diesel engines
The engine can only be started using a genuine SEAT key with 
the correct code.– Move the gear lever to the ne utral position and depress the 
clutch pedal fully and hold it in this position, the starter will then 
only have to turn the engine.
– Turn the ignition key to the starting position.
– Turn the ignition key to position  ⇒page 130, fig. 99   . The 
indication lamp 
 will light for engine pre-heating.
– When the warning lamp goes out, turn the key to position   to  start the engine. Do not press the accelerator.
– Let go of the ignition key as soon as the engine starts, the starter  motor must not be allowed to run on with the engine.
When starting from cold, the engine may be a little noisy for the first few 
seconds until oil pressure has built up in the hydraulic valve compensators. 
This is quite normal, and no cause for concern.
If there are problems starting the engine, see  ⇒page 225.
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Driving and the environment
150Braking effect and braking distance
The braking effect and braking distance are influenced by 
driving situations and road conditions.The efficiency of the brakes depends directly on the  brake pad wear. The rate 
of wear of the brake pads depends to a great extent on the conditions under 
which the vehicle is operated and the way the vehicle is driven. If you often 
drive in town traffic, drive short distances or have a sporty driving style, we 
recommend that you have the thickness of your brake pads checked by an 
Authorised Service Centre more frequently than recommended in the Service 
Schedule.
If you drive with  wet brakes, for example after driving through water, after 
heavy rainfall or after washing the car,  the braking effect will be reduced as 
the brake discs will be wet, or possibly frozen (in winter): the brakes must be 
“dried” through careful braking.
The brake fluid  must be changed every two years at the latest. Heavy use of 
the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the brake fluid is left in the system for 
too long. This prevents the brakes developing their full braking effect.
WARNING
Longer braking distances and faults in the brake system increase the risk 
of accidents.•
New brake pads must be run-in and do not have the correct friction 
during the first 200 km. However, the reduced braking capacity may be 
compensated by pressing on the brake pedal a little harder. This also 
applies when new brake pads are fitted.
•
If brakes are wet or frozen, or if you are driving on roads which have 
been gritted with salt, braking power may set in later than normal.
•
On steep descents if the brakes are excessively used they will over 
heat. Before driving down a long steep gradient, it is advisable to reduce 
speed and change to a lower gear (or mo ve the selector lever to a lower gear  if your vehicle has automatic transmission). This makes use of engine 
braking and relieves the brakes.
•
Never let the brakes “rub” by applying light pressure. Continuous 
braking will cause the brakes to overheat and will increase the braking 
distance. Apply and then release the brakes alternately.
•
Never let the vehicle coast with the engine switched off. The braking 
distance is increased considerably as the brake servo does not function.
•
Very heavy use of the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the brake fluid 
is left in the system for too long . This impairs the braking effect.
•
Non-standard or damaged front spoilers  could restrict the airflow to the 
brakes and cause them to overheat. Observe the relevant instructions 
before purchasing accessories  ⇒page 169, “Modifications”.
•
If a brake circuit fails, the braking distance will be increased consider-
ably. Contact a qualified workshop immediately and avoid unnecessary 
journeys.
Exhaust gases purification systemCatalytic converter*To conserve the useful life of the catalytic converter
– Always use unleaded petrol.
– Do not run the fuel tank dry.
– For engine oil changes, do not replenish with too much engine oil  ⇒page 181, “Topping up engine oil  ”.
WARNING (continued)
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Checking and refilling levels
178Opening the bonnet
The bonnet is released from inside the vehicle.Before opening the bonnet ensure that the windscreen wipers are in 
rest position.
– To release the bonnet, pull the lever under the dashboard 
⇒fig. 125 in the direction indicated (arrow). The bonnet will be 
released by a spring action  ⇒.
– Lift the bonnet using the release lever (arrow) and open the  bonnet.
– Release the bonnet stay and secure it in fixture designed for this  in the bonnet.
WARNING
Hot coolant can scald!•
Never open the bonnet if you see steam, smoke or coolant escaping 
from the engine compartment.
•
Wait until no more steam, smoke or  coolant is emitted from the bonnet, 
then carefully open the bonnet.
•
When working in the engine compartment, always observe the safety 
warnings  ⇒page 176.
Closing the bonnet–Raise the bonnet slightly
– Release the bonnet stay and replace it in its support.
– At a height of about 30 cm let it fall so it is locked.If the bonnet does not close, do not press downwards. Open it once more and 
let it fall as before.
WARNING
If the bonnet is not closed properly, it  could open while you are driving and 
completely obscure your view of the road. Risk of accident.•
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.
Fig. 125  Arrester hook 
for bonnet.
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Checking and refilling levels185
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
•
When the engine is warm or hot, the cooling system is pressurised! Do 
not unscrew the cap on the expansion t ank when the engine is hot. This is 
a burn injury risk.Caution
•
When mixed with other additives the colour of G 12 will change to brown. 
If this occurs you should have the coolant changed immediately. Failure to do 
so will result in engine damage!
•
If a lot of coolant has been lost, wait for the engine to  cool down before 
putting in cold coolant. This avoids damaging the engine. Large coolant 
losses are an indication of leaks in the cooling system. See a specialised 
workshop immediately and have the c ooling system checked. Otherwise, 
there is a risk of engine damage.
Washer fluid and windscreen wiper bladesTopping up washer fluid 
The water for cleaning the windscreen should always be 
mixed with washer fluid.The  windscreen washer and the headlight washing system  are supplied with 
fluid from the windscreen washer fluid  container in the engine compartment. 
The container holds approx. 2 litres; in vehicles with headlamp washers* it 
holds approx. 4.5 litres.
The reservoir is located on the right-hand side of the engine compartment.
Plain water is not enough to clean th e windscreen and headlights. We recom-
mend that you always add a product to the windscreen washer fluid. 
Approved windscreen cleaning products exist on the market with high deter-
gent and anti-freeze properties, these may be added all-year-round. Please 
follow the dilution instructions on the packaging.
WARNING (continued)
Fig. 130  In the engine 
compartment: Cap of 
windscreen washer fluid 
reservoir.
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