Contents3
ContentsManual structure
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Content
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Safety First
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Safe driving
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Brief introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Proper sitting position for occupants . . . . . . . . .
Pedal area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stowing luggage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seat belts
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brief introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Why wear seat belts? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Belt tension devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Airbag system
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Brief introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Knee airbag* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Side airbags* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Curtain airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deactivating airbags* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Child safety
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Brief introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Child seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Securing child seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Controls and equipment
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Cockpit
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Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instruments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Warning and indicator lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driver information system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Auto-check system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Speed warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
On-board computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Menu display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tyre pressure monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Steering wheel controls
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The multi-function steering wheel . . . . . . . . . . .
Unlocking and locking
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Remote control keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Central locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tailgate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Childproof locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Remote control key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Anti-theft alarm system* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electric windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sun roof / deflector* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lights and visibility
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Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interior lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Visibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windscreen wipers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear-view mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seats and stowage
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual adjustment of the front seats . . . . . . . .
Electric adjustment of front seats* . . . . . . . . . . .
Lumbar support* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Memory for driver's seat* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Armrests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Luggage compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Roof carrier / roof rails* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Drink holders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ashtray*, cigarette lighter* and power points . .
Compartments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning
. .
2C-Climatronic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving
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Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ignition lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Starting and stopping the engine . . . . . . . . . . .
Handbrake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Parking aid acoustic system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cruise control (GRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual gearbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic gearbox* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Practical tips
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intelligent technology
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Electronic stabilisation programme (ESP) . . . . .
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Servotronic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving and the environment
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Running-in . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exhaust gas purification system . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
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31
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51 57
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103
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107
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112
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116
124
127
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137 138
140
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196
ExeoST_EN.book Seite 3 Donnerstag, 3. September 2009 12:24 12
Cockpit
72CD, radio and telephone* displayIf the radio is switched on and no Priority 2 faults are indicated by the auto-
ch e ck co n t r o l , t h e “ O K ” s y m b o l wi ll go o u t a n d t h e d i s p la y w i ll s h o w t h e na m e
or frequency of the selected radio station and various other information,
depending on the type of radio fitted.
When in CD mode*, the display will show the current track.
If you have a compatible telephone*, the phone book or telephone dialled
can also be seen on this display.
These displays appear in addition to the display on the radio itself.
Ambient temperature displayThe ambient temperature is shown in the display when the ignition is
switched on ⇒fig. 49 . On vehicles with an automatic gearbox, the display
does not appear until the driver has engaged a gear.
At temperatures below +5°C a snowflak e symbol appears next to the temper-
ature display. This is to warn the driver to take extra care when there is a risk
of ice on the road. When the vehicle is stationary or travelling at very low
speeds, the temperature displayed may be slightly higher than the actual
ambient temperature as a result of heat coming from the engine.
If the vehicle has an air conditioning and the display is changed over to °F
(degrees Fahrenheit), the ambient temperature display automatically
changes over to °F ⇒page 165.
WARNING
Do not rely on the ambient temperature display as an ice warning. Please
bear in mind that there may be ice on the roads even at ambient tempera-
tures of +5°C – beware of ice patches.
Fig. 48 Display: addi-
tional radio information
Fig. 49 Display: Ambient
temperature display
ExeoST_EN.book Seite 72 Donnerstag, 3. September 2009 12:24 12
Cockpit
80Brake light failure
This warning light will appear on the upper part of the display if any of the
brake lights has failed. A text message in the central part of the display indi-
cates which brake light has failed (left or right).Fuel level low
When this symbol
comes on for the first time, there are about 8 to 10 litres
of fuel left in the tank. You should fill up as soon as possible ⇒page 222.
Check engine oil level
If the
symbol lights up, please check the engine oil level as soon as
possible ⇒page 230. Top up the oil at the next opportunity ⇒page 230.
Engine oil sensor defective*
If the
symbol lights up, take the vehicle to a qualified workshop and have
the oil level sensor checked. Until then it is advisable to check the oil level
every time you fill up with fuel ⇒page 230.
Diesel particulate filter obstructed
If the symbol
lights up, you may be able to contribute towards automatic
filter cleaning by driving in the right manner. To do this, drive about 15
minutes in 4th or 5th gear (automatic gearbox: S gear range) at a speed of 60 km/h, with the engine running at approximately 2000 rpm. The increase in
temperature will burn off any soot in the filter. When cleaning is successful,
the symbol switches off.
If the light on symbol
does not go off, take the vehicle to a specialist
garage to repair the fault.
For further information on the diesel particulate filter, see ⇒page 197.
WARNING
It is essential that you adjust your speed to suit the weather, road, terrain
and traffic conditions. The recommended driving speed must never lead to
the driver disregarding the traffic regulations.Light sensor/ rain sensor faulty
Automatic headlights / automatic wipers faulty
If the symbol appears, this means that the light sensor / rain sensor is not
working. For safety reasons, the dipped beam headlights will then be
switched on permanently when the light switch is set to the AUTO position.
However, you can still switch the lights on and off in the normal way with the
light switch. If the rain sensor is faulty, the functions operated via the wind-
screen wiper lever will still be available. You should have the light sensor /
rain sensor checked by a specialist garage as soon as possible.
Worn brake pads
If the
symbol lights up, have the front brake pads (and, for safety's sake,
the rear pads as well) inspected by a specialist garage.
ExeoST_EN.book Seite 80 Donnerstag, 3. September 2009 12:24 12
Driving
172Switching on the ignition/pre-heating glow plugs
If the key is difficult to turn in the lock, move the steering wheel (to take the
load off the steering lock mechanism) until the key turns freely. In the case of
vehicles with a diesel engine, the key is turned to this position to preheat the
glow plugs.
Starting the engine
The engine is started in this position. Electrical components with a high
power consumption are switched off temporarily.
After the engine has started, the ignition key returns to position by itself.
The ignition key has to be turned back to position before re-starting the
engine. The starter inhibitor in the ignition lock prevents the starter motor
from engaging when the engine is running, as this could cause damage.
Switching off the ignition
Turn the ignition key to this position.
WARNING
•Never remove the ignition key until the vehicle is stationary! Otherwise
the steering lock could engage suddenly, which could cause an accident.•Always take the key with you when leaving the vehicle, even if you only
intend to be gone for a short time. This is particularly important if there are
children in the car, as they might otherwise be able to start the engine or
use power-operated equipment (e.g. the electric windows), which could
lead to injuries.Note
•If the battery has been disconnected and then reconnected, it will be
necessary to leave the key in position for about 5 seconds before starting
the engine.•Vehicles with automatic gearbox: After switching off the ignition, you can
only remove the ignition key if the gear selector lever is in position “P” (parking lock). The gear selector lever is locked after the ignition key has been
removed.
Starting and stopping the engineStarting the engine
The engine can only be started with an original SEAT key.Vehicles with a petrol engine:
– Use the foot brake.
– Manual gearbox: Push the clutch pedal all the way down.
– Move the gear lever into neutral (automatic gearbox: gear
selector lever to P or N) ⇒.
A2
A3
A2
A1
A1
A2
Fig. 148 Ignition key
positions
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Driving173
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
– Turn the ignition key to position without pressing the acceler-
ator.
– Release the ignition key as soon as the engine starts (the starter motor must not be allowed to run on with the engine).
Vehicles with a diesel engine:
– Use the foot brake.
– Manual gearbox: Push the clutch pedal all the way down.
– Move the gear lever into neutral (automatic gearbox: gear selector lever to P or N) ⇒.
– Turn the ignition key to position . The pre-heating indicator light
comes on while the glow plugs are preheating.
– When the indicator light
goes out, turn the ignition key to
position . Do not press the accelerator.
– Release 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 the engine fails to start straight-away, switch off the starter after about 10
seconds and try again after about half a minute.
Glow plug system*
To assist starting at low temperatures, diesel engines are equipped with a
glow plug preheating system. The preheating time depends on the coolant
temperature and the outside temperature. Start the engine as soon as the
glow plug indicator light
goes out. When the engine is warm or at outside temperatures above +8°C, the glow
plug indicator light will only come on for about one second. This means that
the engine can be started
immediately.
If the engine will not start...
•⇒ page 285•⇒page 288•⇒page 222, “Refuelling”WARNING
Never run the engine in confined spaces, as the exhaust gases are
poisonous.
Caution
Avoid high engine speeds, full throttle and extreme load conditions until the
engine has reached its normal operating temperature, otherwise this can
damage the engine.
For the sake of the environment
Do not warm up the engine by running the engine with the vehicle stationary.
Start immediately. This will help avoid unnecessary exhaust emissions.Stopping the engine– Turn the ignition key to position ⇒page 172, fig. 148 .
WARNING
•Never switch the engine off until the vehicle is stationary.
A3A2
A3
A1
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Driving175
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
If you drive by mistake with the handbrake still applied, you will hear a
warning buzzer and the display will show the message:
Handbrake applied
The handbrake warning is enabled after driving for 3 seconds at a speed
above 5 km/h.
The handbrake warning lamp
lights up when the handbrake is applied
with the ignition on.
WARNING
Please note that the handbrake should be released all the way. If it is only
partially released, this will cause rear brakes overheating, which can
impair the function of the brake system and could lead to an accident.
Caution
Once the vehicle has come to a standstill, always apply the handbrake firmly
and then, on a manual gearbox, engage a gear, or select P on an automatic.Parking
The following points will ensure there is no risk of the car
rolling away accidentally after it is parked.– Use the foot brake to stop the vehicle.
– Apply handbrake firmly.
– Switch the engine off.
– On a manual gearbox engage 1st gear or on an automatic move the selector lever to P ⇒ .
When parking on slopes:
Turn the steering wheel so that the, if the vehicle moves, it will do so towards
the curb.
WARNING
•Do not leave anyone (especially children) in the vehicle when it is
locked. Locked doors could delay assistance in an emergency, potentially
putting lives at risk.•Never leave children unsupervised in the vehicle. They could release
e.g. the handbrake or gear lever, moving the vehicle and causing an
accident.
Parking aid acoustic systemGeneral notesVarious systems are available to help you when parking or manoeuvring in
tight spaces, depending on the equipment fitted on your vehicle.
The SEAT parking system gives an acoustic warning if there are any obstacles
behind your car ⇒ page 176.
When you are parking, SEAT parking system plus warns you acoustically and
optically about obstacles in front of and behind the vehicle ⇒page 176.
Note
To ensure the acoustic parking aid works properly, the sensors must be kept
clean and free of snow and ice.
ExeoST_EN.book Seite 175 Donnerstag, 3. September 2009 12:24 12
Driving
178SEAT parking system*
There is no distance warning.
SEAT parking system plus*
There is no rear distance warning. The system will still give a warning when
obstacles are detected while driving forwards.Fault messages*If you hear a long beep for a few seconds and the LED on the switch
* starts
flashing when you switch on the parking aid, a system fault has occurred.
Please have the fault corrected by a Dealer or specialist garage.
Note
If the fault is not corrected before you switch off the ignition, it will only be
indicated by the flashing LED on the switch
* the next time you switch on
the parking aid.
Cruise control (GRA)Introduction
The cruise control system allows you to maintain a constant
speed.Using this equipment, any speed over 30 km/h can be kept constant up to the
power output of the engine. This is subject to power output and braking
ability of the engine. This helps to reduce fatigue, especially on long jour-
neys. The indicator light
in the instrument panel lights up when the cruise
control system is operating.
WARNING
For safety reasons, the cruise control system should not be used in dense
traffic or poor road conditions (such as slippery surfaces, heavy rain, loose
grit or gravel), as this could cause an accident.
Caution
On vehicles with a manual gearbox: do not go into neutral if the device is
enabled without previously releasing the clutch, as the engine will increase
its revs and, under certain conditions, could break down.
Note
The cruise control cannot maintain a constant speed when travelling down
steep hills. The vehicle tends to accelerate under its own weight. Change
down to a lower gear in good time or use the foot brake to slow the vehicle.
ExeoST_EN.book Seite 178 Donnerstag, 3. September 2009 12:24 12
Driving181
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
Manual gearboxDriving a car with a manual gearboxEngaging the reverse gear
– The vehicle should be stationary with the engine idling. Press the
clutch down thoroughly.
– Place the gear lever into neutral and push the lever downwards.
– Slide the gear lever to the left, and then into the reverse position shown on the gear stick.The reverse gear can only be engaged when the vehicle is stationary. When
the engine is running and before engaging this gear, wait about 6 seconds
with the clutch pressed down thoroughly in order to protect the gearbox.
The reverse lights light up when the reverse gear is selected and the ignition
is on.
WARNING
•When the engine is running, the vehicle will start to move as soon as a
gear is engaged and the clutch released.•Never select the reverse gear when the vehicle is in motion. Risk of acci-
dent.Note
•Do not rest your hand on the gear lever while driving. The pressure of your
hand could cause premature wear on the selector forks in the gearbox.•When changing gear, you should always depress the clutch fully to avoid
unnecessary wear and damage.•Do not hold the car “on the clutch” up hills. This causes premature wear
and damage to the clutch.Automatic gearbox*Introduction
multitronic
®, tiptronic (7-speed gearbox)
Applies to vehicles with multitronic
® gearbox
The vehicle is equipped with an electronically controlled continuously vari-
able transmission (Multitronic
®). Unlike conventional automatics, the gear
ratios are not shifted in fixed steps but are continuously variable. This gives
smoother transmission and makes for better fuel economy.
The gearbox selects the gear ratio and shifts up or down automatically
according to the gear change programmes stored in the control unit
⇒ page 186.
Fig. 153 Detail of the
centre console: gear shift
pattern of a 6-speed
manual gearbox
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