2011 Seat Exeo tow

Trailer towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Trailer towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
Removable towing bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
Vehicle maintenance and cleaning . . . . . . . . . 206
General notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206
Care of the vehicle exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
Vehicle interior maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Accessories, parts replacement and
modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Accessories and spare parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Technical modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Mobile phones and two-way radios . . . . . . . . . . . 216
Athermic windscreen* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216
Checking and refilling levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
Refuelling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218
Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
Bonnet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
Engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222
Cooling system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225
Washer fluid and windscreen wiper blades . . . . 228
Brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Vehicle battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231
Wheels and tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235
Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235
If and when . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245
Tools, tyre repair kit and spare wheel . . . . . . . . . 245
Changing a wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 247
Tyre repair* (Tyre-Mobility-System) . . . . . . . . . . . 252
Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 256
Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 258
Changing bulbs. Halogen headlights . . . . . . . . . 259
Changing bulbs. Bi-Xenon AFS headlights . . . . . 265
Changing tail light bulbs (on side panel) . . . . . . 269
Changing tail light bulbs (on tailgate) . . . . . . . . . 274
Side turn signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 277 Luggage compartment lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 278
Registration light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 279
Sun visor light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 280
Jump-starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 280
Towing and tow-starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 283
Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . 286
Description of specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 286
Important information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 286
Information on fuel consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . 288
Towing a trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 288
Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 289
Technical specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 290
Engine specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 290
Dimensions and capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 299
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 301
4Table of Contents

22Seat belts
WARNING
● If the seat belts are worn incorrectly or not at all, the risk of severe
injuries increases. The optimal protection from seat belts can be ach-
ieved only if you use them properly.
● Fasten your seat belt before every trip - even when driving in town.
The other passengers must also wear the seat belts at all times, other-
wise they run the risk of being injured.
● The seat belt cannot offer its full protection if the seat belt is not
positioned correctly.
● Never allow two passengers (even children) to share the same seat
belt.
● Keep both feet in the footwell in front of your seat as long as the vehi-
cle is in motion.
● Never unbuckle a seat belt while the vehicle is in motion. Risk of fatal
injury.
● The seat belt must never be twisted while it is being worn.
● The seat belt should never lie on hard or fragile objects (such as
glasses or pens, etc.) because this can cause injuries.
● Do not allow the seat belt to be damaged or jammed, or to rub on any
sharp edges.
● Never wear the seat belt under the arm or in any other incorrect posi-
tion.
● Loose, bulky clothing (such as an overcoat over a jacket) impairs the
proper fit and function of the belts, reducing their capacity to protect.
● The slot in the seat belt buckle must not be blocked with paper or
other objects, as this can prevent the latch plate from engaging securely.
● Never use seat belt clips, retaining rings or similar instruments to al-
ter the position of the belt webbing.WARNING (Continued)
● Frayed or torn seat belts or damage to the connections, belt retrac-
tors or parts of the buckle could cause severe injuries in the event of an
accident. Therefore, you must check the condition of all seat belts at reg-
ular intervals.
● Seat belts which have been worn in an accident and stretched must
be replaced by a specialised workshop. Renewal may be necessary even
if there is no apparent damage. The belt anchorage should also be
checked.
● Do not attempt to repair a damaged seat belt yourself. The seat belts
must not be removed or modified in any way.
● The belts must be kept clean, otherwise the retractors may not work
properly ⇒ page 214.


67
Cockpit
The yellow warning  lamp remains on if the system is faulty or if
the pressure is too low in at least one tyre. In the event of a system
fault, the letters TPMS are displayed in the centre of the instrument
panel ⇒ fig. 45. If the tyre pressure drops rapidly, message A
⇒ fig. 46 will be shown on the central display of the instrument
panel. If the pressure loss is more gradual, message B ⇒ fig. 46
will be shown on the central display of the instrument panel. This
message does not show the tyre affected. Should any of these
warnings be displayed:
– Stop the vehicle.
– Check the tyres. Although the warning corresponds to just one
tyre, you should also check the others.
– Correct the tyre pressure ⇒ page 236.
For more detailed information on the tyre pressure monitoring system,
please refer to ⇒ page 235. 
Cruise speed (Cruise control)* 
The indicator lamp  on the instrument panel lights up when the cruise
control system is operating. 
Trailer turn signals* 
This turn signal lamp flashes when the turn signals are op-
erating while towing a caravan or trailer. The turn signal lamp  flashes when the turn signals are operated if a trail-
er is correctly coupled to the vehicle. Where a turn signal bulb does not work, either on the trailer or on the tow-
ing vehicle, the turn signal bulb will not flash.

Anti-lock brake system (ABS) 
The warning lamp monitors the ABS and the integrated elec-
tronic differential lock (EDL).
The warning lamp  lights up for a few seconds when the ignition is switch-
ed on and while the engine is being started. The lamp 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 brake in the normal way (except that the ABS control
function is out of action). Please take the vehicle to a qualified workshop as
soon as possible. For further information on the ABS, see ⇒ page 185.
If a malfunction should occur in the ABS, the ESP warning lamp will also
light up.
Entire brake system fault
If the ABS warning lamp  lights up together with the brake warning lamp
 ⇒  page 70 (with the handbrake released), this indicates not only a
fault in the ABS function, but probably also a malfunction in the main brake
system ⇒ 
.
The symbol  will light up on the instrument panel if there if a fault in the
brake system. Please refer to ⇒ page 77. 
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

68Cockpit
Electronic differential lock (EDL) fault
The EDL works in conjunction with the ABS. The ABS indicator lamp will light
up  to indicate an EDL fault. Please take the vehicle to a qualified work-
shop as soon as possible. For further information on the EDL, see
⇒  page 186.
WARNING
● Before opening the bonnet and checking the brake fluid level, ob-
serve the warning information in ⇒ page 221, Work in the engine com-
partment.
● 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. If the fluid level has dropped below the "MIN" mark
you must not drive on, as there is a risk of accident. Obtain technical as-
sistance.
● If the brake fluid level is correct, the fault in the brake system may
have been caused by a fault in the ABS control function. As a result, the
rear wheels can lock relatively easily when braking. Under certain cir-
cumstances, the rear of the vehicle could suddenly sway from side to
side, with the subsequent danger of skidding. Drive carefully to the near-
est specialised workshop and have the fault repaired.

Seat belt warning lamp* 
The warning lamp acts as a reminder to the driver to fasten
the seat belt. After switching on the ignition, the warning lamp  will remain lit until the
driver and front passenger (if applicable) have fastened their seat belts.
When the vehicle has reached a certain speed, you will also hear a warning
signal and the warning light will flash.
For further information on the seat belts, see ⇒ page 23.Turn signals and hazard warning lights
 
Depending on which turn signal is operated, either the left  or right  turn
signal lamp flashes. Both turn signal lamps will flash when the hazard warn-
ing lights are switched on.
If a turn signal fails, the indicator lamp will start flashing twice as fast as
normal.
This does not apply when towing a trailer. Where a turn signal bulb does not
work, either on the trailer or on the towing vehicle, the turn signal bulb will
not flash. For further information on the turn signals, see ⇒ page 122.
Electronic Stability Programme 
This warning lamp monitors the Electronic Stability Pro-
gramme (ESP).
The warning lamp  has the following functions:
● It will start flashing to indicate that ESP is counteracting an unstable
driving condition.
● It lights up when the ignition is switched on for approx. 2 seconds while
the function is checked.
● The warning lamp will light up if there is a malfunction in the ESP.
● It will light up after the battery has been disconnected.
● The warning lamp will light up if the ESP is switched off.
● It will also come on if a fault should occur in the ABS because the ESP
operates in conjunction with the ABS.
If the ESP warning lamp lights up and stays on after the engine is started,
this may mean that the control system has temporarily switched off the ESP.
In this case the ESP can be reactivated by switching the ignition off and 

80Cockpit
Yellow symbols are accompanied by one warning buzzer. The function indi-
cated should be checked as soon as possible. If several Priority 2 faults are
detected at the same time, the symbols are displayed one after the other for
about 2 seconds at a time. 
Brake 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 li-
tres of fuel left in the tank. You should fill up as soon as possible
⇒  page 217. 
Engine speed governing 
Max. engine speed XXXX rpm
There is a fault in the engine management. In addition, the warning lamp 
on the instrument panel will light up. The engine speed will be governed to
the speed displayed in the driver information system. Please ensure that
the engine speed does not exceed the speed shown (for example, when
changing down a gear).
Take the vehicle to a qualified workshop immediately to have the fault re-
paired. Checking the engine oil level

If the  symbol lights up, please check the engine oil level as soon as pos-
sible ⇒ page 224. Top up the oil at the next opportunity ⇒ page 225.
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 224. 
Diesel particulate filter obstructed 
If the symbol  lights up, you can 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 temper-
ature will burn off any soot in the filter. When cleaning is successful, the
symbol switches off.
If the symbol  does not turn off, or the three lamps turn on (particulate
filter , emission control system fault  and heaters ), take the vehicle
to a qualified workshop to repair the fault.
For further information on the diesel particulate filter, see ⇒ page 193.
WARNING
It is essential that you adjust your speed to suit the weather, road, ter-
rain and traffic conditions. The recommended driving speed must never
lead to the driver disregarding the traffic regulations.


107
Unlocking and locking
in unlocking all the doors, they unlock simultaneously.
When combining locking using the remote control key and unlocking using
the key but without the remote control: when unlocking, only the driver door will unlock.
When does the system trigger the alarm?
The following parts of the vehicle are monitored when the vehicle is locked:
● Engine compartment (bonnet)
● Luggage compartment
● Doors
● Tilt angle (tow-away protection)
● Ignition
● Radio (only with a factory-fitted SEAT radio)
● Interior ⇒ page 107
If any of these areas are entered, the alarm will be triggered.
How is the alarm disabled?
The alarm can be switched off by unlocking the vehicle using the remote
control, or by switching on the ignition with the key, thus “disabling” the
alarm system. The alarm will also switch off when it comes to the end of its
cycle.
Turn signals
The turn signals flash briefly when the vehicle is locked to confirm that the
doors, the engine bonnet and the tailgate are properly closed and locked.
If the turn signals do not flash, check the doors, the bonnet and the tailgate
to make sure they are properly closed. The turn signals will also flash briefly
if one of the doors or the tailgate or engine bonnet is closed after the alarm
system has been enabled. –
– LED
When the vehicle is locked, the LED on the top of the driver door trim will
flash rapidly for about 30 seconds and then continue flashing slowly. This is
to indicate that the anti-theft alarm system (including the
interior monitor-
ing and tow-away protection ) is operative. If the LED lights up continuously
for about 30 seconds when the vehicle is locked instead of flashing, this
means the alarm system is not working properly.
Note
● To make sure that the alarm is fully operative when leaving the vehicle,
briefly check that all the doors and windows and the sunroof* are closed.
● The alarm is triggered immediately if one of the battery cables is discon-
nected while the alarm system is enabled. 
Interior monitoring* 
The interior monitoring triggers an alarm if it detects move-
ment inside the vehicle.
Fig. 78 Interior monitor-
ing switch 
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

108Unlocking and locking
You should disable the interior monitoring if there is a possibility
that the alarm could be triggered, e.g. by a pet or by an object
moving inside the vehicle ⇒ 
. The tow-away protection feature,
which is integrated into the alarm system, should be disabled if
the vehicle is being towed or transported (e.g. by rail or ship).
Deactivating the interior monitoring
– Open the door and pull out the switch A
(with the symbol
)
to one side of the storage compartment, in the driver door
⇒ fig. 78.
– Then lock the vehicle.
Deactivating the tow-away protection
– Open the door and pull out switch B
(with the symbol
) to
one side of the storage compartment, in the driver door
⇒ fig. 78.
– Then lock the vehicle.
The LED on switch 
will light up when the
interior monitoring is disabled.
The LED on the top of the driver door trim will also light up for about 3 sec-
onds. When the vehicle is locked, the LED on the top of the driver door trim
will flash rapidly for about 3 seconds. About 30 seconds later it starts flash-
ing slowly. The interior monitoring is automatically enabled again the next
time the vehicle is locked.
The LED on switch 
will light up when the
tow-away protection function is
disabled. The LED on the top of the driver door trim will also light up for
about 3 seconds. When the vehicle is locked, the LED on the top of the driv-
er door trim will flash rapidly for about 3 seconds. The tow-away protection
is automatically enabled again the next time the vehicle is locked.
WARNING
Do not leave anyone (especially children) in the vehicle if it is locked from
the outside and the anti-theft security system is enabled, as the doors
and windows cannot then be opened from the inside. Locked doors could
delay assistance in an emergency, potentially putting lives at risk.

Electric windows Controls
Fig. 79 Detail of the
driver door: Controls
Switches for front electric windows Switch ⇒ fig. 79 for the driver door window
Switch for the front passenger door window. 
A
B

117
Lights and visibility
● The warning symbol  will appear on the instrument panel if a malfunc-
tion occurs ⇒ page 81.
● Observe all relevant legal requirements when using the signalling and
lighting systems described here. 
Front fog lights 
The light switch can also be used to turn on the front fog
lights.
Switching on the front fog lights 
– Do  ⇒ fig. 84 not turn the light switch to the symbol .
– First turn the light switch to the position  or .
– Then pull the light switch out to the first stop 1
.
The front fog light symbol  next to the switch will light up when the front
fog lights are on. 
Rear fog light 
The light switch can also be used to turn on the rear fog
light.
– Do  ⇒ fig. 84 not turn the light switch to the symbol .
– First turn the light switch  ⇒ fig. 84 to the position  or .
– Then pull out the light switch to the second stop 2
to switch
on the rear fog light. The symbols
 and  next to the switch will light up when the rear fog light
is switched on.
If you are towing a trailer or caravan equipped with a rear fog light on a vehi-
cle with a factory-fitted towing bracket*, only the rear fog light on the trailer
or caravan will light up.
CAUTION
To avoid dazzling the traffic behind you, the rear fog light should only be
used in accordance with legal regulations. 
Coming home / leaving home function*
The coming home and leaving home functions are used to
light up the surroundings in the dark. The front fog lights,
the rear side lights and the number plate light switch on.
Fig. 86 Detailed view of
the dash panel: Coming
home and leaving home
functions 
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications