227
Checking and refilling levels
– Check the coolant level on coolant fluid expansion tank
⇒ fig. 168. 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.
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 oc-
casionally.
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. 168 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 225, 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 anti-
freeze 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 dam-
age.
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 in-
to a suitable container and dispose of it in the proper manner (observe envi-
ronmental regulations).
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications
230Checking and refilling levels
If the windscreen wipers smear , they should be replaced if they are dam-
aged, or cleaned if they are soiled.
If this does not produce the desired results, the setting angle of the wind-
screen wiper arms might be incorrect. They should be checked by a special-
ised workshop and corrected if necessary.
WARNING
Do not drive unless you have good visibility through all windows!
● The ignition must not be switched on while the front wiper arms are
in a raised position. The wipers would return to their park position and
damage the paintwork on the bonnet.
● To prevent smearing on the windscreen, the wiper blades should be
cleaned regularly using a window cleaner solution. If the wiper blades
are very dirty (e.g. insects etc.), they should be cleaned using a sponge
or cloth. Failure to do so could result in an accident.
● For safety reasons, the wiper blades should be changed once or twice
a year.
CAUTION
● Damaged or dirty windscreen wipers could scratch the windscreen.
● Never use fuel, nail varnish remover, paint thinner or similar products to
clean the windows. This could damage the windscreen wiper blades.
● Never move the windscreen wiper or windscreen wiper arm manually.
This could cause damage.
● Do not pull the windscreen wipers forward unless they are in the service
position. Otherwise the bonnet could be damaged. Brake fluid
Checking the brake fluid level
The brake fluid level can be checked visually.
Fig. 172 Engine com-
partment: markings on
brake fluid reservoir
The brake fluid level must be between the “Min” and “Max” ⇒ fig. 172
markings.
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
qualified workshop immediately and have the brake system inspected.
231
Checking and refilling levels
Topping up and changing the brake fluid
It is best to have the brake fluid changed by a professional. Brake fluid absorbs moisture. Therefore, in the course of time it will absorb
water from the air. If the water content in the brake fluid is too high, the
brake system could corrode. In addition, the boiling point of the brake fluid
will be considerably reduced. This could adversely affect the braking ability
in certain circumstances.
For this reason the brake fluid must be changed periodically.
Your vehicle's Service Plan will tell you when the brake fluid has to be re-
newed.
We recommend you have the brake fluid changed as part of a regular In-
spection Service at a workshop. They are familiar with the procedure and
have the necessary special tools and spare parts as well as the proper facili-
ties for disposing of the old fluid.
Use only approved brake fluid. Specialised workshops are informed about
the factory-approved brake fluid -DOT 4-. The brake fluid must be new.
WARNING
● Brake fluid must always be kept closed in its original container. Keep
out of the reach of children. Failure to comply could result in poisoning.
● If the brake fluid is left in the system for too long and the brakes are
subjected to heavy use, vapour bubbles may form in the brake system.
This would seriously affect the efficiency of the brakes and the safety of
the vehicle, leading to the risk of accident.
CAUTION
Please note that brake fluid will attack the paintwork on contact.
For the sake of the environment
The brake pads and fluid must be collected and disposed of according the
applicable regulations. The SEAT Technical Service network has the neces-
sary equipment and qualified personnel for collecting and disposing of this
waste material.
Vehicle battery General notes
All work on batteries requires specialist knowledge.
The battery is virtually maintenance-free and is checked in the Inspection
Services.
We recommend replacing the battery after 5 years.
Disconnecting the battery
If the battery is disconnected, some of the vehicle's functions will become
inoperative (e.g. electric windows). These functions will require resetting af-
ter the battery is reconnected. For this reason, the battery should only be
disconnected from the vehicle's electrical system when absolutely necessa-
ry.
Long periods of non-use
The battery will gradually lose its charge because certain electrical equip-
ment continues to draw current even when the ignition is off. If you park the
vehicle for long periods of time in winter you should take the battery out of
the vehicle and store it in a place protected from frost. This way it will not
freeze and become damaged. At warm outside temperatures it is sufficient
to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. Even when the battery is
not connected you should charge it from time to time.
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications
235
Wheels and tyres
Wheels and tyres
Wheels
General notes
Avoiding damage
– If you have to drive over a kerb or similar obstacle, drive very
slowly and at a right angle.
– Keep grease, oil and fuel off the tyres.
– Inspect the tyres regularly for damage (cuts, cracks or blisters,
etc.). Remove any foreign objects embedded in the treads.
Storing tyres
– When you remove the tyres, mark them in order to maintain the
same direction of rotation when they are installed again.
– When removed, the wheels and/or tyres should be stored in a
cool, dry and preferably dark location.
– Store tyres in a vertical position if they are not fitted on wheel
rims.
New tyres
New tyres have to be run in.
The tread depth of new tyres may vary, according to the type and make of
tyre and the tread pattern. Concealed damage
Damage to tyres and rims is often not readily visible. If you notice unusual
vibrations or the vehicle pulling to one side, this may indicate that one of
the tyres is damaged. The tyres should be checked immediately by an Au-
thorised Service Centre.
Tyres with directional tread pattern
An arrow on the tyre sidewall indicates the direction of rotation on tyres with
directional tread. Always observe the direction of rotation indicated when
fitting the wheel. This guarantees optimum grip and helps to avoid aqua-
planing, excessive noise and wear.
WARNING
● New tyres do not have maximum grip during the first 500 km. Drive
particularly carefully to avoid possible accidents.
● Never drive with damaged tyres. This may cause an accident.
● If you notice unusual vibrations or if the vehicle pulls to one side
when driving, stop the vehicle immediately and check the tyres for dam-
age.
Checking tyre pressure
The correct tyre pressure can be seen on the sticker on the
inside of the tank flap.
1. Read the required tyre inflation pressure from the sticker. The values refer to Summer tyres. For Winter tyres, you must add 0.2
bar to the values given on the sticker.
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications
240Wheels and tyres
Wheel balance
The wheels on new vehicles are balanced. However, various factors encoun-
tered in normal driving can cause them to become unbalanced, which re-
sults in steering vibration.
Unbalanced wheels should be rebalanced, as they otherwise cause exces-
sive wear on steering, suspension and tyres. A wheel must also be reba-
lanced when a new tyre is fitted.
Incorrect wheel alignment
Incorrect wheel alignment causes excessive tyre wear, impairing the safety
of the vehicle. If tyres show excessive wear, you should have the wheel
alignment checked by an Authorised Service Centre.
WARNING
There is a serious danger of accidents if a tyre bursts during driving!
● The tyres must be replaced at the latest when the tread wear indica-
tors are worn ⇒ page 239. Failure to do so could result in an accident.
Worn tyres do not grip well at high speeds on wet roads. There is also a
greater risk of aquaplaning.
● At continuously high speeds, a tyre with insufficient pressure flexes
more. This causes it to overheat. This can cause tread separation and tyre
blow-out. Risk of accident. Always observe the recommended tyre pres-
sures.
● If tyres show excessive wear, you should have the running gear
checked by an Authorised Service Centre.
● Keep chemicals such as oil, fuel and brake fluid away from tyres.
● Damaged wheels and tyres must be replaced immediately!
For the sake of the environment
Under-inflated tyres will increase fuel consumption. Run-flat tyres*
Run-flat tyres allow you to continue driving even with a
punctured tyre, in the majority of cases.
In vehicles that are factory-fitted with run-flat tyres 1)
the loss of tyre
pressure is indicated on the instrument panel.
Driving with run-flat tyres (emergency running)
– Leave the ESP/TCS (Electronic Stability Programme) switched
on, or switch on ⇒ page 68.
– Continue driving carefully and slowly (80 km/h maximum).
– Avoid sudden manoeuvres and sharp turns.
– Avoid driving over obstacles (for example kerbs) or potholes.
– Look out for the ESP/TCS intervening often, smoke coming from
the tyres or the smell of rubber, the vehicle vibrating or a clat-
tering noise. If any of these occur, stop the vehicle.
The run-flat tyres have a tag on the side of the tyre, with the description:
“DSST”, “Eufonia”, “RFT”, “ROF”, “RSC”, “SSR” or “ZP”.
The sides of this type of tyre are reinforced. When the tyres lose air they are
supported on the sides (emergency driving).
The loss of pressure in the tyre is shown on the instrument panel. You can
then drive a maximum of 80 km and if the circumstances are favourable (for
example, low load), even more.
The damaged tyre should be changed as soon as possible. The rim should
be checked in a specialist workshop to detect possible damage and replace
1)
Depending upon version and country.
254If and when
Repairing a tyre
Fig. 184 Repairing a tyre
Preparations
– If you have a flat tyre or puncture, park the vehicle as far away
from the flow of traffic as possible.
– Apply the handbrake firmly to prevent the vehicle from moving
accidentally on slopes.
– Engage first gear .
– Check whether a repair is possible using the Tyre Mobility Sys-
tem ⇒ page 252.
– Ensure that all passengers leave the vehicle and move away
from the danger area ⇒
.
– Take the tyre sealant can and the compressor out of the lug-
gage compartment. –
Stick the “max. 80 km/h” adhesive, which is included with the
tyre sealant can, onto the instrument panel where the driver will
see it.
Filling the tyre
– Shake the tyre sealant can well.
– Screw the enclosed filling hose onto the sealant can as far as it
will go. This will automatically pierce the foil sealing the can.
– Take the valve cap off the tyre valve and use the enclosed valve
insert tool to unscrew the valve insert ⇒ fig. 184.
– Place the valve insert onto a clean surface.
– Remove the sealing plug from the filling hose and insert the
hose into the tyre valve.
– Hold the tyre sealant can upside down and fill the complete
contents of the can into the tyre.
– Then disconnect the hose and screw the valve insert firmly back
into the tyre valve.
Inflating the tyre
– Screw the compressor filling hose onto the tyre valve and plug
the connector into the cigarette lighter.
– Pump the tyre up to 2.0 to 2.5 bar and monitor the pressure
shown on the pressure gauge.
– If the tyre pressure remains lower than the value specified
above drive the vehicle approx. 10 metres forwards or back-
wards, so that the sealant can spread evenly in the tyre. If the
255
If and when
pressure is still lower than the specification the tyre is too badly
damaged and cannot be repaired using the tyre sealant.
Final check
– After about 10 minutes, stop to check the tyre pressure.
– If tyre pressure is less than 1.3 bar, the tyre is too badly dam-
aged. Do not drive on! You should obtain professional assis-
tance.
WARNING
● If you have a puncture in heavy traffic, switch on the hazard warning
lights and place the warning triangle in a visible location. This is for your
own safety and also warns other road users.
● Make sure your passengers wait in a safe place (for instance behind
the roadside crash barrier).
● Please observe the manufacturer's safety notes on the compressor
and the instructions supplied with the tyre sealant can.
● If it is not possible to build up a tyre pressure of 2.0 bar within 6 mi-
nutes this means that the tyre is too badly damaged. Do not drive on!
● Seek professional assistance if the repair of a tyre puncture is not
possible with the sealing compound.
● If tyre pressure is less than 1.3 bar after driving about 10 minutes,
the tyre is too badly damaged. Do not drive on! Obtain technical assis-
tance.
CAUTION
Take special care if you have to repair a tyre on a slope.
Note
● Do not use the compressor for longer than 6 minutes. Otherwise, it
might overheat. When the compressor has cooled down, you can use it
again.
● If tyre sealant should leak out, leave it to dry and then pull it off like foil.
● After carrying out a tyre repair remember to buy a new tyre sealant can at
a qualified workshop. This will ensure that the Tyre Mobility System is oper-
ative again.
● Please observe legal requirements when doing so.
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications
290Technical specifications
Technical specifications
Engine specifications Checking fluid levels
From time to time, the levels of the different fluids in the ve-
hicle must be checked. Never fill with incorrect fluids, other-
wise serious damage to the engine may be caused.
Fig. 229 Diagram for the location of the various elements Vehicle battery
Engine oil filler cap
Brake fluid reservoir
Engine oil dipstick
1
234
Coolant expansion tank
Windscreen washer fluid container
Hydraulic fluid reservoir for power steering
The checking and refilling of service fluids are carried out on the compo-
nents mentioned above. These operations are described in the ⇒ page 221.
Overview
You will find further explanations, instructions and restrictions on the tech-
nical specifications as of ⇒ page 286.
Note
The layout of parts may vary depending on the engine.
567