
Cockpit81
Safety First
Operating instructions
Practical tips
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
The warning lamp should light up for a few seconds when the ignition is 
switched on. It should go out once the engine is started.
If the battery is disconnected, the indicator remains lit, even with the engine 
running. The warning light only goes of
f after a distance of approx. 50 m.
There is a fault in the electromechanica l steering system if the lamp does not 
go out or lights up whilst the vehicle is in motion. The indicator may appear 
in two different colours to indicate faults. If it lights yellow, this indicates a 
minor fault. If it lights red, seek wo rkshop assistance immediately, if no 
assistance is available stop driving. Stop the vehicle and seek technical 
assistance. The power steering does not work if the battery is flat or if the 
engine is off (for example, for towing). You should take into account that you 
will need considerably more power than  normal to steer the vehicle if the 
steering assistance is reduced or has failed completely.
For those vehicles fitted with ESP* the function “Recommended steering 
manoeuvre” is included. See  ⇒page 185.
Emission control system* 
 
This warning lamp monito rs 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.
The instrument panel displa ys the following message
16): EXHAUST GAS SEE 
WORKSHOP . 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.
The following information text displayed in the instrument panel display : 
EXHAUST GAS SEE WORKSHOP .
Electronic stabilisation programme (ESP)* 
 
This warning lamp monitors the electronic stabilisation 
programme.
This programme includes the ABS, EDL and TCS. This also includes the brake 
assist system (BAS), automatic cleaning of the brake discs and the trailer 
stability programme (TSP).
The warning lamp 
 has the following functions:
•
It will light for about 2 seconds when the ignition is switched on while a 
test of the function is carried out.
•
It flashes when the ESP is activated when driving.
•
It will light up continuously if there is a malfunction in the ESP.
•
It will also come on if a fault should occur in the ABS because the ESP 
operates in conjunction with the ABS.
If the ESP warning lamp 
 lights up and stays on after the engine is started, 
this may mean that the control system has temporarily switched off the ESP. 
In this case the ESP can be reactivated by switching the ignition off and then 
on again. If the warning lamp goes out,  this means the system is fully func-
tional.
If the ESP button is activated, the TCS function deactivates and the warning 
lamp flashes.
16)Depending on the version of the model.
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Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning 155
Safety First
Operating instructions
Practical tips
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
– 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
Maximum heat output, which is needed to defrost the windows quickly, is 
only available when the engine has reached its operating temperature.
Air conditioner
When the air conditioning 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 ambient air humidity is high.
If the air conditioning system cannot be 
switched on this may be caused by 
the following reasons:
•
The engine may not be running.
•
The blower is switched off.
•
The outside temperature is below +3 ?.
•
The air conditioning system compress or has been temporarily switched 
off because the engine coolant temperature is too high.
•
The air conditioning fuse is faulty.
•
Another fault in the vehicle. Have the air conditioning checked by a qual-
ified workshop.
Air recirculation mode   
Air recirculation mode prevents fumes or unpl easant smells from coming from the outside.
Fig. 128  On the dash panel: Climatic controls
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Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning
162Air conditioner
When the air conditioning 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 ambient air hu midity is high.
If the air conditioning system cannot be switched on this may be caused by 
the following reasons:•
The engine is not running.
•
The   button is disconnected.
•
The outside temperature is below +3°C.
•
The air conditioning system compressor has been temporarily switched 
off because the engine coola nt temperature is too high.
•
The air conditioning fuse is faulty.
•
Another fault in the vehicle. Have the air conditioning checked by a qual-
ified workshop.Caution
•
If you suspect that the air conditioning is damaged, switch it off with the   button to prevent further damage and have it checked by a qualified 
workshop.
•
Repairs to the air conditioning system require specialist knowledge and 
special tools. Therefore, we recommend you to take the vehicle to a qualified 
workshop.Note
•
If the humidity and temperature outside the vehicle are high,  condensa-
tion  can drip off the evaporator in the cooling system and so forming a puddle 
underneath the vehicle. This is completely normal and there is no need to 
suspect a leak.
•
Keep the air intake slots in front of the windscreen free of snow, ice and 
leaves to ensure heating and cooling are not impaired, and to prevent the 
windows from misting over.
•
The air from the vents flows through the passenger compartment and is 
extracted by slots designed for this purpose. Therefore, do not cover these 
slots with items of clothing or other objects.
•
The air conditioning system operates most effectively with the windows 
and the sliding/tilting roof* closed. Howe ver, if the vehicle has been over-
heated by sun, the air inside can be cooled quicklier by opening the windows 
for a short time.
•
Do not smoke while air recirculation mode is on, as smoke drawn into the 
air conditioning system leaves a r esidue on the evaporator, producing a 
permanent unpleasant odour.
•
It is advisable to connect the air conditioning at least once a month, to 
lubricate the system gaskets and prevent leaks. If a decrease in the cooling 
capacity is detected, an Authorised Service Centre should be consulted to 
check the system.
AC
AC
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Driving167
Safety First
Operating instructions
Practical tips
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
If the engine does not start immediately, switch the starter off after 
10 seconds and try again after half a minute. If the engine still does not start, 
the fuel pump fuse should be checked 
⇒page 248, “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 more than 50 metres to start 
the engine. Unburnt fuel could enter the catalytic converter and damage it.
•
Before attempting to push-start or tow a vehicle in order to start it, you 
should first try to start it using the battery of another vehicle. Note and follow 
the instructions  ⇒page 262, “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 star t 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 
its correct code.– Move the gear lever to the neutral position and depress the  clutch pedal thoroughly and hold it in this position for the starter 
to turn the engine on.
– Turn the ignition key to the starting position.
– Turn the ignition key to position  ⇒page 165, fig. 136   . The 
indication lamp 
 will light for engine pre-heating.
– When the warning lamp turns off, 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 a very cold engine, it 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 262.
Glow plug system for the diesel engine
To avoid unnecessary discharging of the battery, do not use any other major 
electrical equipment while th e glow plugs are pre-heating.
Start the engine as soon as the glow plug warning lamp  ⇒page 76 goes out.
Starting the engine after the fuel tank has been completely run dry
If the fuel tank has been completely ru n dry, it may take longer than normal 
(up to one minute) to start the engine afte r refuelling with diesel fuel. This is 
because the system must eliminate air first.
A1A2
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Intelligent technology189
Safety First
Operating instructions
Practical tips
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
Caution
•
Never let the brakes “drag” by leaving your foot on the pedal when you do 
not really intend to brake. This overhe ats the brakes, resulting in longer stop-
ping distances and greater wear.
•
Before driving down a long, steep gradient, it is advisable to reduce speed 
and change to a lower gear (or move the selector lever to a lower gear position 
if your car has automatic transmission). This makes use of engine braking 
and prolongs the service life of the brakes. If you still have to use the brakes, 
it is better to brake firmly at intervals than to apply the brakes continuously.Note
•
If the brake servo is not functioning due to a malfunction, or if the vehicle 
has to be towed, you will have to press the brake pedal considerably harder 
to make up for the lack of servo assistance.
•
If you wish to equip the car with accessories such as a front spoiler or 
wheel covers, it is important that the flow of air to the front wheels is not 
obstructed, otherwise the brakes can overheat.
Power steering (servotronic*)
The power steering assists the driver when turning the 
steering wheel (with the engine running).The power steering assists the driver by reducing the force needed to turn the 
steering wheel. In cars equipped with servotronic* power steering the degree 
of power assistance is regulated  electronically according to road speed.
The power steering  will keep on working in spite  servotronic* device fails. The 
degree of power assistance will, however, no longer adapt to different 
speeds. If the electronic regulating system is not working properly, this is 
most noticeable when turning the steering wheel at low speeds (for instance  when parking) – more effort will be requ
ired than usual. The fault should be 
corrected by a qualified work shop as soon as possible.
The power steering does not work if the engine is off. In this case the steering 
wheel is very hard to turn.
If the steering is held at its  turning limit when the car is stationary, this will 
place an excessive load on the power steering system. Turning the steering 
wheel to its limit places a load on the sy stem, which causes noise. It will also 
reduce the idling speed of the engine.
Caution
When the engine is running, do not tu rn the steering wheel to its limit for 
more than 15 seconds. Otherwise, there is a risk of damaging the power 
steering.
Note
•
If the power steering should fail at any time or the engine is switched off 
(for instance when being towed), the car can still be steered. However, more 
effort will be required to turn the steering wheel.
•
If the system is leaking or malfunctioning, please take the car to a quali-
fied workshop as soon as possible.
•
The power steering requires a special hydraulic fluid. The container is 
located in the engine compartment (front  left). The correct fluid level in the 
reservoir is important for the power steering to function properly. The 
hydraulic fluid level is checked at the Inspection Service.
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Driving and the environment
190Driving and the environmentRunning-inRunning in a new engine
The engine needs to be run-in over the first 1,500 km.Up to 1,000 kilometres
– Do not drive faster than two thirds of top speed.
– Do not accelerate hard.
– Avoid high engine revolutions.
– Do not tow a trailer.
From 1000 to 1500 km
–Speeds can be gradually  increased to the maximum road speed 
or maximum permissible engine speed (rpm).During its first few hours of running, the internal friction in the engine is 
greater than later on, when all the moving parts have bedded in.
For the sake of the environment
If the engine is run in gently, its life  will be increased and its oil consumption, 
reduced.
Braking 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 frequen tly than recommended in the Service 
Schedule.
If you drive with  wet brakes, for example, after crossing water areas, in heavy 
rainfall or even after washing the car, the effect of the brakes is lessened as 
the brake discs are wet or even frozen (in winter): The brakes should be 
“dried” by pressing the pedal to restore 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 400 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 po wer may set in later than normal.
•
On steep stopes, if brakes are excessively used, they will overheat. 
Before driving down a long steep stopes, it is advisable to reduce speed 
and change down into a lower gear (or move the selector lever to a lower 
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Driving and the environment193
Safety First
Operating instructions
Practical tips
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
during this initial warm-up phase. It is therefore best to drive off immediately 
after starting the engine. Avoid running the engine at high speed.
Periodic maintenance
Periodic maintenance work guarantees 
that, before beginning a journey, you 
will not waste fuel. 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.
Avoid short journeys
To reduce the consumption and emission of polluting gases, the engine and 
the exhaust filtration systems should reach the optimum  service tempera-
ture .
With the engine cold, fuel consumption is proportionally higher. The engine 
does not warm up and fuel consumption does not regularise until having 
driven some  four kilometres. This is the reason why we recommend avoiding 
short trips wherever possible.
Maintain the correct tyre pressures
Bear in mind that keeping  the tyres at an adequate pressure saves fuel. If the 
tyre pressures are just 1 bar too low, this can put the fuel consumption up by 
as much as 5 %. Due to the greater rolling resistance, under-inflation also 
increases  tyre wear and impairs handling.
The tyre pressures should always be checked when the tyres are  cold.
Do not use  winter tyres  all through the year: they will increase fuel consump-
tion by up to 10 %.
Avoid unnecessary weight
Every kilo of  extra weight  will put up the fuel consumption, so it is worth 
checking the luggage compartment occasionally to make sure that no unnec-
essary loads are being transported.
A roof carrier is often left in place for the sake of convenience, even when it is 
no longer needed. At a speed of 100-120 km/h your car will use about 12%  more fuel as a result of the extra wind resistance caused by the roof carrier 
even when it is empty.
Save electrical energy
The engine activates the alternator, whic
h produces electricity. With the need 
for electricity, fuel consumption is also increased. Because of this, always 
turn off electrical equipme nt when you do not need them. Examples of equip-
ment that use a lot of electricity are: the fan at high speeds, the rear window 
heating or the seat heaters*.
 Environmental friendlinessEnvironmental protection is a top priori ty in the design, choice of materials 
and production of your new Seat.
Design measures for economical recycling•
Joints and connections designed for ease of dismantling
•
Modular construction to facilitate dismantling
•
Increased use of single-grade materials
•
Plastic parts and elastomers are labelled in accordance with ISO 1043, 
ISO 11469 and ISO 1629
Choice of materials
•
Nearly all materials used can be recycled
•
Similar types of plastics grouped together for easy recycling
•
Recycled materials used in manufacture
•
Reduction of the plastic volatile components
•
CFC-free refrigerant in air conditioning
Compliance with prohibited materials laws : cadmium, asbestos, lead, 
mercury, chrome VI.
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Trailer towing195
Safety First
Operating instructions
Practical tips
Te c h n i c a l  D a t a
Trailer towingInstructions to followYour 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 197.
Connectors
Your vehicle is fitted with a 12-pin co nnector 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 in 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 trailer weight , you can then climb correspondingly 
steeper slopes.
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. 
When 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 specific 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 ca se, you should have additional mirrors 
fitted. Both exterior mirrors should 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.
Note
•
Towing a trailer places additional demands on the vehicle. We recom-
mend additional services between the normal inspection intervals if the 
vehicle is used frequently for towing a trailer.
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