2010 Seat Exeo ST check engine

Checking and refilling levels
232Engine oil additives
No type of additive should be mixed with the engine oil. The deterioration
caused by these additives is not covered by the warranty.
Note
Before a long trip, we recommend finding an engine oil that conforms to the
corresponding VW specifications and keeping it in the vehicle. This way, the
correct engine oil will always be available for a top-up if needed.Checking the oil level
Checking oil level
– Park the vehicle in a horizontal position.
– Briefly run the engine at idle speed until the service temperature
is reached and stop.
– Wait two minutes.
– Pull out the dipstick. Wipe the dipstick with a clean cloth and insert it again, pushing it in as far as it will go.
– Then pull it out once more and check the oil level ⇒page 232,
fig. 177 . If the oil level is too low, add more engine oil
⇒ page 233.
Oil level in area
–Do not top up oil.
Oil level in area
–Oil can be topped up. After topping up the oil level should be in
area .
Oil level in area
–Oil must be topped up. After topping up the oil level should be in
area .Depending on how you drive and the conditions in which the vehicle is used,
oil consumption can be up to 0.5 l/1000 km. Oil consumption is likely to be
higher for the first 5000 km. Therefore, the engine oil level must be checked
at regular intervals, preferably when filling the tank and before a journey.
Oils for LongLife service intervals *
Engine type
Specification
Petrol
VW 504 00
Diesel
VW 507 00
Fig. 177 Markings on oil
dipstick
AaAb
Aa
Ac
Aa
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Checking and refilling levels233
Safety First
Operating Instructions
Practical Tips
Technical Specifications
Topping up the engine oil
E
–Unscrew cap
E
from oil filler opening ⇒page 301, fig. 248 .
– Carefully put in the specified grade of oil ⇒page 231, adding
0.5 litres at a time.
– After two minutes, check the oil level once again ⇒page 232.
– Where necessary, add more engine oil.
– Replace the oil filler cap carefully and push the dipstick all the way in.
WARNING
•When refilling with oil, make sure no oil falls onto hot engine parts.
Failure to comply could result in fire.•Wash your skin thoroughly if it comes into contact with engine oil.
Caution
•The oil level must never be above area . This could damage the cata-
lytic converter or the engine. Contact a qualified workshop to drain the engine
oil if necessary.•No additives should be used with engine oil. Any damage caused by the
use of such additives would not be covered by the factory warranty.For the sake of the environment
•Oil must not be disposed of in the drain or on the ground.•Always observe legal requirements when disposing of empty oil
canisters.Cooling systemCoolant fluid
The purpose of the coolant fluid is to carry heat away from the
engine. The correct amount of antifreeze is decisive in
preventing the cooling system from freezing in winter.The vehicle's engine cooling system is filled for life at the factory, so no
coolant needs to be changed. The coolant fluid consists of a mixture of water
and antifreeze G12++. This is a glycol-based antifreeze with anti-corrosion
additives.
Coolant fluid additive
The amount of antifreeze required depends on the temperatures to be
expected in the winter season. If the antifreeze concentration is too low the
coolant can freeze, resulting in failure of the cooling system and heater.
Fig. 178 In the engine
compartment: Engine oil
filler cap
Aa
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Checking and refilling levels
234The cooling system is filled at the factory with the correct amount of anti-
freeze for the country concerned.
In most cases, the mixture consists of 60% water and 40% antifreeze . This
mixture gives the required antifreeze protection at temperatures down to
-25 °C and particularly protects the metal parts of the cooling system against
corrosion. It also prevents scaling and significantly raises the boiling point of
the coolant fluid.
Countries with warm climate
The coolant fluid concentration must not be reduced by adding plain water,
even in the summer or in warm climates. The concentration of the antifreeze
must always be at least 40%.
Countries with cold climate
If greater freeze protection is required in very cold climates, the proportion of
G12++ antifreeze can be increased. A concentration of 60% offers antifreeze
protection of temperatures down to approx. -40 °C. However, the concentra-
tion of antifreeze must not exceed 60% , as the antifreeze protection would
then drop and the performance of the coolant system would suffer.
Vehicles for countries with cold climates (e.g. Sweden, Norway and Finland)
have factory-filled antifreeze protection for temperatures down to -35 °C. In
these countries, the concentration of antifreeze should always be at least
50%.
Caution
•It is advisable to have the cooling system checked before the winter
season to make sure that the antifreeze concentration is adequate for the
conditions to be expected. This applies particularly if you intend to take the
vehicle into a colder climate zone. If necessary, have the antifreeze concen-
tration increased to 50 - 60% as required.•Use only G12++ antifreeze, an additive meeting the “TL-VW 774G” spec-
ification. Other antifreezes may give considerably inferior corrosion protec- tion. The damage caused by the use of these antifreezes may lead to a loss of
coolant fluid, causing serious damage to the engine.
•G12++ antifreeze can be mixed only with antifreeze additives G11, G12
and G12+.Checking the coolant level
The coolant level can be checked visually.– Switch the ignition off.
– Check the coolant level on coolant fluid expansion tank ⇒fig. 179 . When the engine is cold, it should be between the
“min” and “max” marks. When the engine is hot, it may be
slightly above the “max” mark.Its location is shown in the corresponding general overview of the engine
compartment.
Fig. 179 Engine compart-
ment: Coolant fluid
deposit
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Checking and refilling levels235
Safety First
Operating Instructions
Practical Tips
Technical Specifications
The coolant level should be checked with the engine switched off.
The coolant level is monitored by a warning lamp on the instrument panel
display
⇒page 78. However, we recommend that it should be checked occa-
sionally.
Coolant fluid loss
Any loss of coolant fluid normally indicates a leak in the cooling system. In
this case the cooling system should be inspected by a qualified workshop
without delay. It is not sufficient merely to top up the coolant fluid.
If there are no leaks in the system, a loss of coolant fluid can only occur if the
coolant boils and is forced out of the system as a result of overheating.
Caution
Radiator sealants must not be added to the coolant fluid. Such additives
could seriously impair the function of the cooling system.Topping up the coolant fluid
Be careful when topping up with coolant fluid.– Switch the engine off.
– Wait for the engine to cool down.
– Cover the cap on the expansion tank ⇒fig. 179 with a cloth, and
carefully unscrew the cap anti-clockwise ⇒.
– Add coolant fluid.
– Screw on the cap tightly.
Make sure that the coolant fluid meets the required specifications
⇒page 233, “Coolant fluid”. Do not use a different type of antifreeze if
G12++ antifreeze is not available. In this case, use only water and bring the
antifreeze concentration back up to the correct level as soon as possible.
Always top up with new coolant fluid.
Do not fill above the “max” mark. Excess coolant fluid is forced out of the
system through the valve in the filler cap when the engine gets hot.
If a lot of coolant fluid has been lost, wait for the engine to cool down before
putting in cold coolant. Failure to do so could result in serious engine
damage.
WARNING
•The cooling system is under pressure. Do not unscrew the cap on the
expansion tank when the engine is hot. Failure to comply could result in
burns.•The antifreeze and coolant fluid can be a health hazard. Therefore, the
antifreeze should be stored in the original container in a safe place out of
reach of children. Failure to comply could result in poisoning.For the sake of the environment
Drained off coolant should not be used again. Drain off the used coolant into
a suitable container and dispose of it in the proper manner (observe environ-
mental regulations).
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Checking and refilling levels
236Radiator fan
The radiator fan can start running spontaneously.The auxiliary fan can continue to run for as long as 10 minutes after stopping
the engine, even after the ignition is switched off. It may also start running
suddenly ⇒ after some while if•Stored heat raises the coolant temperature, or•The hot engine compartment is additionally heated up by the sun.WARNING
When working in the engine compartment be aware that the radiator fan
may start running suddenly, leading to the risk of injury.
Washer fluid and windscreen wiper bladesWindscreen washer system
Plain water is not sufficient for the windscreen washer
system.The container for the windscreen washer contains the cleaning fluid for the
windscreen and the headlight washer system*. The container is located in the
engine compartment (front left). The fi ller cap is marked with the symbol
W
⇒ fig. 180.
The capacity of the container is listed in ⇒page 301.
Plain water on its own is not enough to clean the glass properly. It is therefore
advisable to add a suitable washer fluid additive (with wax solvent) to the
water. A washer fluid with freeze-resistant additive should be used in winter.
Fig. 180 In the engine
compartment: Cap of
windscreen washer fluid
reservoir.
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Checking and refilling levels
240
Removing the wiper blade
– Lift the wiper arm away from the glass ⇒page 239, fig. 183
– Slide the blade adapter in the direction of the arrow and remove the blade ⇒page 239, fig. 183 .
Fitting the wiper blade
– With one hand, hold the top end of the wiper arm.
– Place the blade as shown in the ⇒page 239, fig. 184 and slide
the adapter along until it engages.Check the condition of the wiper blade regularly. Change as required.
If the windscreen wiper scrapes , it should be replaced if damaged, or
cleaned if soiled.
If this is not sufficient, refer to a qualified workshop.
WARNING
Do not drive unless you have good visibility through all windows!•Clean the windscreen wiper blades and all windows regularly.•The wiper blades should be changed once or twice a year.Caution
•A damaged or dirty window wiper could scratch the rear window.•Never use fuel, nail varnish remover, paint thinner or similar products to
clean the window.•Never move the windscreen wiper by hand. This could cause damage.
Brake fluidChecking the brake fluid level
The brake fluid level can be checked visually.The brake fluid level must be between the “Min” and “Max” ⇒ fig. 185 mark-
ings.
The fluid level may drop slightly after a period of time due to the automatic
compensation for brake pad wear. This is quite normal.
However, if the level goes down noticeably in a short time, or drops below the
“Min” mark, there may be a leak in the brake system. If the fluid level in the
reservoir is too low, this will be indicated by the brake warning lamp
⇒ page 70 and ⇒ page 77. If this should happen, take the vehicle to a qual-
ified workshop immediately and have the brake system inspected.
Fig. 185 Engine compart-
ment: markings on brake
fluid reservoir
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Checking and refilling levels
242Winter operation
The battery is drained more in cold weather, which means that the starting
power is reduced. For this reason, have the battery checked and charged if
necessary before the start of winter.
Replacing the battery
A replacement battery must have the same capacity, voltage and current
rating. It must also have the same di mensions as the original, factory-fitted
battery and have sealed caps. The SEAT batteries which have been specially
developed fulfil the maintenance, performance and safety specifications for
your vehicle.
We recommend you use maintenance-free batteries.
WARNING
•All work on batteries requires specialist knowledge. If work is required
on the bat te r y, t his s hould be pe r form ed by a Te chnical Ser vice or qual ified
workshop. Danger of caustic burns and explosion!•The battery must not be opened. Never try to change the battery's
liquid level. Explosive gas is released from the battery that could cause an
explosion.Caution
•The battery holder and clamps must always be correctly secured.•Before starting any work on the battery, always observe the warnings
listed under ⇒.For the sake of the environment
¡ Batteries contain toxic substances including sulphuric acid and lead.
Therefore, they must be disposed of in line with environmental regulations
and must not be disposed of with ordinary household waste. Make sure
disconnected batteries cannot tip over. Sulphuric acid could be spilt!
Important safety warnings for handling a vehicle batteryThe battery is located at the back of the engine compartment ⇒page 301.
WARNING
Always be aware of the danger of injury and chemical burns as well as the
risk of accident or fire when working on the battery and the electrical
system:•Wear eye protection. Protect your eyes, skin and clothing from acid and
particles containing lead.•Battery acid is very corrosive and caustic. Wear protective gloves and
eye protection. Do not tilt the batteries. This could spill acid through the
vents. Rinse battery acid from eyes immediately for several minutes with
clear water. Then seek medical care immediately. Neutralise any acid
splashes on the skin or clothing with a soapy solution, and rinse off with
plenty of water. If acid is swallowed by mistake, consult a doctor immedi-
ately.•Fires, sparks, open flames and smoking are prohibited. When handling
cables and electrical equipment, av oid causing sparks and electrostatic
charge. Never short the battery terminals. High-energy sparks can cause
injury.
Wear eye protection

Battery acid is very corrosive and caustic. Wear protective
gloves and eye protection!
Ž
Fires, sparks, open flames and smoking are prohibited!
Ÿ
A highly explosive mixture of gases is released when the battery
is under charge.

Keep children away from acid and batteries!
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Checking and refilling levels243
Safety First
Operating Instructions
Practical Tips
Technical Specifications
•A highly explosive mixture of gases is released when the battery is
under charge. The batteries should be charged in a well-ventilated room
only.•Keep children away from acid and batteries.•Before working on the electrical system, you must switch off the
engine, the ignition and all consumers. The negative cable on the battery
must be disconnected. When a light bulb is changed, you need only switch
off the light.•Deactivate the anti-theft alarm by unlocking the vehicle before you
disconnect the battery! The alarm will otherwise be triggered.•When disconnecting the battery from the vehicle electrical system,
disconnect first the negative cable and then the positive cable.•Switch off all electrical consumers before reconnecting the battery.
Reconnect first the positive cable and then the negative cable. Never
reverse the polarity of the connections. This could cause an electrical fire.•Never charge a frozen battery, or one which has thawed. This could
result in explosions and chemical burns. Always replace a battery which
has frozen. A flat battery can freeze at temperatures around 0 °C.•Ensure that the vent hose is always connected to the battery.•Never use a defective battery. This could cause an explosion. Replace a
damaged battery immediately.Caution
•Never disconnect the battery if the ignition is switched on or if the engine
is running. This could damage the electrical system or electronic compo-
nents.•Do not expose the battery to direct sunlight over a long period of time, as
the intense ultraviolet radiation can damage the battery housing.•If the vehicle is left standing in cold conditions for a long period, protect
the battery from frost. If it freezes it will be damaged.
Charging the battery
A fully-charged battery is important for reliable starting.–Note the warnings ⇒ in “Important safety warnings for
handling a vehicle battery” on page 242 and ⇒.
– Switch off the ignition and all electrical equipment.
– Only if fast-charging: both battery cables must be disconnected (first the negative cable, then the positive cable).
– Connect the charger cables to the battery terminals, noting the colour code (red = positive; black or brown = negative).
– Now connect the battery charger to the power socket and switch on.
– After charging the battery: switch off the battery charger and disconnect the power point cable.
– Finally disconnect the charger cables from the battery.
– If necessary, reconnect both battery cables to the battery (first the positive cable, then the negative cable).When charging with a low current (for instance with a small battery charger)
the battery does not normally have to be disconnected. However, both
battery cables must be disconnected before fast-charging the battery with a
high current. However, always follow the instructions given by the manufac-
turer of the battery charger.
The fast-charging procedure for a battery is dangerous ⇒ in “Important
safety warnings for handling a vehicle battery” on page 242, as it requires a
special charger and the corresponding level of knowledge. We therefore
recommend that this work should only be performed by a qualified workshop.
WARNING (continued)
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