2011 Seat Exeo engine

226Checking and refilling levels
The 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 boil-
ing 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 antifreeze G12++ can be increased. A concentration of 60% offers anti-
freeze protection of temperatures down to approx. - 40 °C. However, the
concentration of antifreeze must not exceed 60%, as the antifreeze protec-
tion would then drop and the performance of the coolant system would suf-
fer.
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 sea-
son to make sure that the antifreeze concentration is adequate for the con-
ditions to be expected. This applies particularly if you intend to take the ve-
hicle into a colder climate zone. If necessary, have the antifreeze concentra-
tion increased to 50 - 60% as required.
● Use only G12++ antifreeze, an additive meeting the “TL-VW 774G” speci-
fication. 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 only be mixed with antifreeze additives G11, G12
and G12+. 
Checking the coolant level
The coolant level can be checked visually.
Fig. 168 Engine com-
partment: Coolant fluid
deposit
– Switch the ignition off. 

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

228Checking and refilling levels
Radiator fan
The radiator fan can start running spontaneously.
The auxiliary fan can continue to run for as long as 10 minutes after stop-
ping the engine, even after the ignition is switched off. It may also start run-
ning 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 blades
Windscreen washer system
Plain water is not sufficient for the windscreen washer sys-
tem.
Fig. 169 In the engine
compartment: Cap of
windscreen washer fluid
reservoir.
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 filler cap is marked with the symbol
 ⇒ fig. 169.
The capacity of the container is listed in ⇒ page 290.
Plain water on its own is not enough to clean the glass properly. It is there-
fore 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. 

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. 

232Checking and refilling levels
Winter 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 rat-
ing. It must also have the same dimensions 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 re-
quired on the battery, this should be performed by a Technical Service or
qualified workshop. Danger of caustic burns and explosion!
● The battery must not be opened. Never try to change the battery's liq-
uid 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 dis-
connected batteries cannot tip over. Sulphuric acid could be spilt! Important safety warnings for handling a vehicle battery
The battery is located at the back of the engine compartment
⇒ page 290.
Wear eye protection
Battery acid is very corrosive and caustic. Wear protective
gloves and eye protection!
Fires, sparks, open flames and smoking are prohibited!
A highly explosive mixture of gases is released when the bat-
tery is under charge.
Keep children away from acid and batteries!
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 han-
dling cables and electrical equipment, avoid causing sparks and electro-
static charge. Never short the battery terminals. High-energy sparks can
cause injury. 

237
Wheels and tyres
Significant tyre pressure loss
The tyre symbol  is displayed and indicates that the tyre pressure
of at least one tyre is insufficient.
– Stop the vehicle.
– Switch the engine off.
– Check the tyre(s).
– Change the wheel if necessary. 
Tyre pressure monitoring (RKA+)*
The tyre pressure monitor display on the instrument panel
indicates if the pressure is too low.
Fig. 173 Detailed view of
the centre console: But-
ton for the tyre pressure
monitoring system The tyre pressure monitoring system makes use of the ABS sensors to com-
pare the rolling circumference and the frequency characteristics of the
wheels. If the rolling circumference or frequency characteristic changes on
one or more wheels, the tyre pressure warning lamp  will light up. The
fault will also be indicated by a warning buzzer. The position of the affected
tyre will also be shown (if only one tyre is affected) on the centre display of
the instrument panel.
The rolling circumference and frequency characteristics can change if:
●
the tyre pressure is too low.
● the tyre has suffered structural damage.
● the wheels or the inflation pressures have been changed without initial-
ising the system (see Adjusting the tyre pressure settings).
● there is a greater load on the wheels of one axle (e.g. if you are carrying
more passengers or luggage).
● the road surface under the left wheels is different to the road surface un-
der the right wheels for a long period.
● when driving with snow chains.
Adjusting the tyre pressure settings (initialising the tyre pressure
monitoring system)
After any incident regarding the wheels of your vehicle, (e.g. after modifying
the tyre pressure ⇒ page 239 or after changing or swapping around wheels
⇒ page 180) with the vehicle at a standstill and the engine running - press
the button ⇒ fig. 173. The yellow warning lamp  will light up. Hold the
button down for 2 seconds until the warning lamp goes out and an acoustic
warning is given. You can now release the button.
If the wheels are subjected to extreme stress (e.g. heavy load), the tyre
pressure must be increased to the recommended value for the maximum
load (see the adhesive label on the inside of the fuel tank flap) and then
initialise the system. 
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

245
If and when
If and when
Tools, tyre repair kit and spare wheel Tools
The tools and jack are stored under the floor panel in the
luggage compartment.
Fig. 176 Toolbox and
jack
The tools A
and jack B ⇒ fig. 176 are stored under the floor pan-
el in the luggage compartment.
– Lift the floor panel using the plastic handle.
– Hook the handle C
onto the luggage compartment weather
strip.
– Release the toolbox by pulling up the handle on the box. –
Take out the tools or jack.
– Replace the floor panel before closing the tailgate.
The tool kit includes:
● A hook for removing wheel covers* or hub caps
● Box spanner for wheel bolts
● Towing eye
● An adapter for the anti-theft wheel bolts*
Before replacing the jack in the storage bin, wind down the arm of the jack
as far as it will go.
Some of the tools listed are only provided in certain models or are optional
extras.
WARNING
● The factory-supplied jack is only designed for changing wheels on
this model. On no account attempt to use it for lifting heavier vehicles or
other loads. Risk of injury.
● Never start the engine when the vehicle is raised. Failure to do so
could result in an accident.
● If work is to be carried out underneath the vehicle, this must be se-
cured by suitable stands. Otherwise, there is a risk of injury.

Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

257
If and when
Fuse assignment
This list shows the fuses which can be replaced relatively
easily by the owner.
No.ConsumerAmps1Air conditioner102Footwell lamps53Heated washer jets54Radiator fan55Parking aid, automatic gearbox106Air conditioner (air purity sensor), pressure sensor5
7Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), brake light
switch, clutch pedal switch, steering angle sensor10
8Telephone59Vacant 10Adaptive headlights right5
11Airbag and disconnection of the front passenger air-
bag5
12Diagnostic socket1013Steering column unit1014Brake lights1015Instrument panel1016Vacant 17Tyre pressure control, rain/light sensor1018Adaptive headlights left519Vacant 20Vacant 21Vacant 22Driver door / front passenger door1523Rear doors15
No.ConsumerAmps24Central electrics unit for convenience equipment2025Heater blower3026Rear window heater3027Power socket for trailer (control unit)3028Fuel pump, auxiliary pump for diesel2029Vacant 30Sliding/tilting sunroof20
31Diagnosis connection, automatic anti-dazzle interior
mirror, reverse light, automatic gearbox15
32Towing socket1533Lighter2034Lambda probe heater1035Luggage compartment power socket*2036Wiper system30
37Pump for windscreen washer and headlight washer
system30
38Luggage compartment illumination, alarm1539Radio, Amplifier2040Horn2541230 volt socket3042Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)2543Engine management1544Seat heating35
Some of the electrical items listed in the table are only fitted on certain
models or are optional extras.
The electric windows and electric seat adjusters are protected by circuit
breakers. These reset automatically after a few seconds when the overload
(caused for example by frozen windows) has been corrected. 
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications