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 179 ⇒ .
Even if the coolant level is correct do not continue driving. You should obtain
technical assistance.
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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 light 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 90.
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 202.
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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 172, “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 183, “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 183
•
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 183, “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 119
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
– 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 th e 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 118, fig. 90
with warning lamp) strong odours in th e outside air do not enter the vehicle
interior, for example when passing th rough a tunnel or in queuing traffic.
When the outside temperature is low, using 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 from the vehicle interior instead of warm
air from outside.
For safety reasons, 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 the 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 fu nction indicator will light.
AC
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Driving129
Safety First
Operating instructions
Tips and Maintenance
Te c h n i c a l D a t a
– 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 e ngine, you may need to pres s 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 immediatel y, 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 202, “Fuses”.
WARNING
•
Never start or run the engine in unventilated or closed rooms. The
exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, 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 avo id high engine speeds, driving at
full throttle and over-loading th e 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 218, “Jump-starting”.
For the sake of the environment
Do not warm up the engine by running the 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 neutral 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 127, fig. 95 . 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 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 there are problems starting the engine, see ⇒page 218.
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Driving and the environment
152On the right headlight, if you are chan ging from driving on the left-hand side
to the right-hand side ⇒page 151, fig. 116 .
On the left headlight, if you are changing from driving on the left-hand side to
the right-hand side ⇒page 151, fig. 117 .Trailer towingWhat do you need to bear in mind when towing a trailer?Your vehicle may be used to tow a trailer when fitted with the correct equip-
ment.
If the car is supplied with a factory-fitted towing bracket it will already have
the necessary technical modifications and meet the statutory requirements
for towing a trailer. For the after-market fitting of a trailer towing bracket see
⇒ page 167.
Connectors
Your vehicle is fitted with a 12-pin connector for the electrical connection
between the trailer and the vehicle.
If the trailer has a 7-pin plug you will need to use an adapter cable. This is
available from any SEAT dealer.
Trailer weight / draw bar loading
Never exceed the authorised towing limit. If you do not load the trailer up to
the maximum permitted tr ailer weight, you can then climb correspondingly
steeper gradients.
The maximum trailer weights listed are only applicable for altitudes up to
1,000 m above sea level. With increasing altitude the engine power and
therefore the vehicle’s climbing ability are impaired because of the reduced
air density. The maximum trailer weight has to be reduced accordingly. The weight of the vehicle and trailer co
mbination must be reduced by 10% for
every further 1,000 m (or part thereof). The gross combination weight is the
actual weight of the laden vehicle plus the actual weight of the laden trailer.
Where possible, operate the trailer with the maximum permitted draw bar
weight on the ball joint of the towing bracket, but do not exceed the specified
limit.
The figures for trailer weights and draw bar weights that are given on the
data plate of the towing bracket are for certification purposes only. The
correct figures for your spec ific model, which may be lower than these figures
for the towing bracket, are given in the registration documents ⇒Section
“Technical data”.
Distributing the load
Distribute loads in the trailer so that heavy objects are as near to the axle as
possible. Loads carried in the trailer must be secured to prevent them
moving.
Tyre pressure
Set tyre pressure to the maximum permissible pressure shown on the sticker
on the inside of the fuel tank flap. Set the tyre pressure of the trailer tyres in
accordance with the trailer manufacturer’s recommendations.
Exterior mirrors
Check whether you can see enough of the road behind the trailer with the
standard mirrors. If this is not the case you should have additional mirrors
fitted. Both exterior mirrors shoul d be mounted on hinged extension
brackets. Adjust the mirrors to give sufficient vision to the rear.
WARNING
Never transport people in a trailer. This could result in fatal accidents.
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Driving and the environment
154Driving economically and with respect for the
environmentGeneral notes
Fuel consumption depends largely on your personal driving
style.Fuel economy, environmental impact and wear on the engine, brakes and
tyres depend largely on three factors:•
Personal driving style
•
Conditions of use (weather, road surface)
•
Technical requirements
By adopting an economical driving styl e and anticipating the traffic situation
ahead, you can easily reduce fuel consumption by 10-15%. This section
suggests methods of lessening the impact on the environment and reducing
your operating costs at the same time.
Think ahead when drivingA vehicle uses most fuel when accelerating. If you think ahead when driving,
you will need to brake less and thus accelerate less. Wherever possible, let
the vehicle roll slowly to a stop, for instance when you can see that the next
traffic lights are red.
Regular servicingBy taking your car to an Authorised Service Centre for regular servicing you
can establish a basis for good fuel economy before you start driving. A well-
serviced engine gives you the benefit of improved fuel efficiency as well as
maximum reliability and an enhanced resale value.
A badly serviced engine can consume up to 10% more fuel than necessary.
Check the oil level every time you fill the tank ⇒page 176. Oil consumption
depends to a great extent on the engine load and engine speed. Depending
on your personal driving style, oil consumption can be up to 1 litre per 1,000
km.Avoid short journeysThe engine and catalytic converter need to reach their proper working
temperature in order to minimise fuel consumption and emissions.
Fig. 118 Fuel consump-
tion in litres per 100 km at
two different ambient
temperatures
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Checking and refilling levels
174Opening 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. 121 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 the 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 172.
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. 121 Detail of the foot
well: The release lever for
the bonnet is located in
the driver side foot well
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