Cockpit
58•The engine compartment is a dangerous area! Before you open the
bonnet to work on the engine or in the engine compartment, you must
switch the engine off and allow it to cool to reduce the risk of scalding or
other kind of injuries. Read and observe the relevant warnings
⇒ page 178.Note
•The appropriate warning lamp for a fault will light up in vehicles without
warning or information texts in the display.•In vehicles with warning or information texts on the screen, the appro-
priate warning lamp for a fault will light up and a warning or information text
will also appear on the screen.Engine management*
This warning lamp monitors the 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
once the engine is started.
If there is a fault 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.
Soot accumulation in the diesel engine particulate filter*
If the indicator lights
you may help the filter clear itself by driving in the
appropriate 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. In this way, the pollen build up in the filter is burned. When
cleaning is successful, the indicator turns off.
If the indicator
is not deactivated, bring the vehicle to a specialised work-
shop to repair the fault.
WARNING
•Always drive according to the road weather conditions, the terrain and
traffic. Driving recommendations should never lead to illegal manoeuvres
in surrounding traffic.
WARNING (continued)
Ibiza_EN.book Seite 58 Montag, 14. September 2009 6:19 18
Cockpit59
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
•The diesel engine particulate filter may reach extremely high tempera-
tures; it should not enter into contact with flammable materials under-
neath the vehicle. Failure to comply could result in fire.
Engine oil pressure
This warning lamp indicates that the engine oil pressure is
too low.If this warning symbol starts to flash, and is accompanied by three audible
warnings , switch off the engine and check the oil level. If the oil level is too
low, top up with oil.
If the symbol flashes although the oil level is correct, do not continue driving.
The engine must not even run at idle speed. Obtain technical assistance.Bulb defect*
The indicator lights up when a bulb is not functioning.The warning lamp
lights up when there is a fault in the indicator lights,
headlights, position light or fog lights.
Rear fog light*
This warning lam p lights up when the rear fog light is switched on
. Further
information ⇒page 87.
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
A warning lamp system monitors the ABS.
The warning lamp
should light up for a few seconds when the ignition is
switched on. It goes out again after the system has run through an automatic
test sequence.
There is a fault in the ABS if:
•The warning lamp
does not light up when the ignition is switched on.
•The warning lamp does not go out again after a few seconds.•The warning lamp lights up when the vehicle is moving.
The vehicle can still be braked in the normal way (except that the ABS control
function will not function). Please take the vehicle to a qualified workshop as
soon as possible. For further information on the ABS see the ⇒page 150.
If there is a fault in the ABS, the ESP* and the tyre pressure warning lamp will
also light up.
Brake system fault
If the ABS warning lamp
lights up together with the brake warning lamp
, this indicates not only a fault in the ABS function, but also a possible fault
in the brake system ⇒.
WARNING
•Before opening the bonnet, read and observe the warnings on
⇒ page 178, “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 190, “Brake fluid”. If the fluid level has
dropped below the “MIN” mark you must not drive on. Risk of accident.
Obtain technical assistance.
WARNING (continued)
Ibiza_EN.book Seite 59 Montag, 14. September 2009 6:19 18
Cockpit63
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
Ta i l g a t e o p e n *
The warning lamp
should switch off when the tailgate is fully closed.
Main beam headlights
This warning lamp lights up when the main beams are on.The warning lamp
is switched on once main beams are on or once the
headlight flasher is operating.
Further information ⇒ page 92.
Electro-hydraulic steering*
The level of steering assistance depends on the vehicle speed and on the
steering wheel turning speed.
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.
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.
Note
When towing the vehicle with the engine stopped or due to a fault in the
power steering, this will not operate. The vehicle can still be steered, but it
will require greater force to turn the steering wheel.
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.
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
If the warning light comes on, 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 overheating may be caused by a malfunction
of the radiator fan. Check the radiator fan fuse and have it replaced if neces-
sary ⇒page 207.
Ibiza_EN.book Seite 63 Montag, 14. September 2009 6:19 18
Cockpit
64If the warning lamp lights up again after driving on for a short distance, stop
the vehicle and switch the engine off . Contact an Authorised Service Centre
or a qualified workshop.
Coolant level too low
If the warning light comes on, stop the vehicle, switch off the engine and wait
for it to cool down First check the coolant level. If the level of the coolant is
below the “MIN” mark, top up with coolant liquid ⇒.
WARNING
•If your vehicle is immobilised for any technical reasons, move it to a
safe distance from traffic. Tur n the e ngin e off, turn t he hazard l ights on and
place the warning triangle.•Never open the bonnet if you can see or hear steam or coolant escaping
from the engine compartment. Risk of scalding. Wait until you can no
longer see or hear escaping steam or coolant.•The engine compartment is a danger ous area! Before carrying out any
work in the engine compartment, switch off the engine and allow it to cool
down. Always note the corresponding warnings ⇒page 178.
Alternator
This warning lamp signals a fault in the alternator.
The warning lamp
lights up when the ignition is switched on. It should go
out when the engine has started running.
If the warning lamp lights up while driving, the alternator is no longer
charging the battery. You should immediately drive to the nearest qualified
workshop. You should avoid using electrical equipment that is not absolutely necessary
because this will drain the battery.
If the indicator flashes the voltage is insufficient for normal vehicle
operation.
Turn signals
The warning lamp flashes when the indicators are in opera-
tion.Depending on which indicator is operating, 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 any of both indicators fails, the warning lamp will start flashing twice faster
than normal.
Further information on the indicators ⇒page 92.
Electronic immobiliser* “Safe”
This warning lamp flashes if an unauthorised key is used.Inside the key there is a chip that deactivates the electronic immobiliser auto-
matically when the key is inserted into the ignition. The immobiliser will be
activated again automatically as soon as you pull the key out of the ignition
lock.
The dash panel displays the following message
6): SAFE . The vehicle cannot
be started in this case.
6)Depending on the version of the model.
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Heating, Ventilation and Air conditioning121
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
– Turn the temperature control switch until the desired interior
temperature is reached.
– Turn the blower switch to any of the settings 1-4.
– Set the air distribution contro l to the air flow configuration
desired: (towards the windscreen), (towards the chest),
(towards the footwell) and (towards the windscreen and
footwell areas).Heating
Maximum heat output, which is needed to defrost the windows quickly, is
only available when the engine has reached its operating temperature.
Coolant system
When the air conditioning is switched on, the temperature and the air
humidity go down. This way, if the outside humidity is extreme, the air condi-
tioning prevents the misting of the windows and therefore, comfort is
improved.
If the air conditioning does not work, this may be due to the following
reasons:•The engine is stationary.•The fan blower is switched off.•The outside temperature is below +3°C.•The cooling system compressor has been temporarily switched off
because of an increased engine coolant temperature.•The air conditioning fuse is faulty.•Another fault in the vehicle. Have the air conditioning checked by a qual-
ified workshop.
Air recirculation
Air recirculation mode prevents fumes or unpleasant smells
from coming from the outside.When air recirculation mode is switched on (button ⇒ page 120, fig. 91
with warning lamp) strong odours in the outside air do not enter the vehicle
interior, for example when passing through a tunnel or in a traffic jam.
When the outside temperature is low, air recirculation mode improves
heating performance by heating air from the interior instead of cold air from
the outside.
When the outside temperature is high, air recirculation mode improves
cooling performance by cooling air from the interior instead of warm air from
outside.
For safety reasons, the air recirculation should not be switched on when the
air distribution control is being adjusted to the windscreen setting
.
WARNING
In air recirculation mode, no cold air from the outside enters the vehicle
interior. If the air conditioning system is switched off, the windows can
quickly mist over. Therefore, never leave the air recirculation mode
switched on for a long time (risk of accident).
Note
•When engaging reverse gear, the air recirculation is connected automati-
cally to prevent the entrance of exhaust fumes in the vehicle on travelling
backwards. 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 vehicle rapidly using less energy; its function
indicator will light.
AC
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Driving
130The immobiliser will be activated again automatically as soon as you pull the
key out of the ignition lock.
The engine can only be started using a genuine SEAT key with its correct code.
Note
A perfect operation of the vehicle is ensured if genuine SEAT keys are used.Starting and stopping the engineStarting petrol 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 ⇒page 129.
– Le t go o f t he ign itio n key as so o n as t he eng in e sta r ts; t he sta r te r motor must not run on with the engine.After starting a very hot engine, you may need to slightly press down the
accelerator.
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 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,
please check the fuel pump fuse
⇒page 207, “Fuses”.
WARNING
•Never start or run the engine in un ventilated 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 avoid high engine speeds, driving at
full throttle and over-loading the 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 in ⇒ page 219, “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.
Ibiza_EN.book Seite 130 Montag, 14. September 2009 6:19 18
Driving and the environment157
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
Foresight 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, take
advantage of your vehicle inertia, for instance when you see that the next
traffic light is red.Regular servicesBy 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 refuel ⇒page 182. 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.
Directly after a cold start, the engine uses about 50-70 litres of fuel per 100
km. This figure then drops to 20-30 litres per 100 km after about one kilo-
metre. The engine only reaches it s working temperature after about four kilo-
metres, when fuel consumption will return to a normal level. You should
therefore avoid short journeys.
The ambient temperature has a decisive influence.
The illustration shows the different rates of fuel consumption for the same
distance at both +20°C and -10°C. Your vehicle will use more fuel in winter
than in summer.
Fig. 110 Fuel consump-
tion in litres per 100 km at
two different ambient
temperatures
Ibiza_EN.book Seite 157 Montag, 14. September 2009 6:19 18
Checking and refilling levels177
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
Petrol additives
Petrol additives improve the quality of the petrol.The quality of the petrol influences running behaviour, performance and
service life of the engine. For this reason, you should use good quality petrol
containing additives. These additives will help to prevent corrosion, keep the
fuel system clean and prevent deposits from building up in the engine.
If good quality petrol with additives is not available or engine problems occur,
the required additives must be added during refuelling.DieselDiesel*Diesel fuel must correspond to DIN EN 590 (EN = “European standard”). It
must have a cetane number (CN) of at least 51. The cetane number indicates
the ignition quality of the diesel fuel.
Notes on filling with fuel ⇒page 175.Biodiesel*The biodiesel fuel must comply with the DIN EN 14.214 (FAME) Standard.•Biodiesel is a methyl ester obtained from rapeseed oil.•DIN is the German abbreviation for “ Deutsches Institut für Normung e.V.”,
the German standards institute.•EN means European N orm.•FAME is the English abbreviation for “ Fatty Acid Methyl Ester”. Your Authorised Service Centre can also be consulted to know if the vehicle
has been prepared for biodiesel use.
Things to note about RME fuel (biodiesel)
•The performance of a vehicle using biodiesel maybe somewhat reduced.•Fuel consumption of a vehicle using biodiesel may be slightly higher.•Biodiesel fuel is resistant to cold down to approx. -10°C.•At temperatures below -10°C, we recommend refuelling with special
winter diesel fuel.•Your vehicle is designed to be refuelled with up to a maximum of 7%
blended biodiesel in accordance with standard DIN 51628.Caution
•RME fuel can damage the fuel system in vehicles which are not suitably
adjusted.•If you decide to use biodiesel in your vehicle, please use only RME fuel
which is DIN E 14,214 compliant.•If you use biodiesel that does not meet the required standard, the fuel
filter could become clogged.Note
•In case of low exterior temperatures and a fuel biodiesel percentage of
higher than 50%, an increase in gas emission may occur during operation of
the independent heating.•The fuel filter may become clogged when fuel is changed to biodiesel. For
this reason, we recommend you that, when having run 300 or 400 km after a
fuel change, the fuel filter change must also be done. Also note the instruc-
tions in the Inspection and Maintenance plan.•If the vehicle is to remain parked for more than about two weeks, we
recommend filling the fuel tank with biodiesel and driving about 50 km in
order to avoid damage to the injection system.
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