2011 Seat Exeo ST stop start

157
Seats and storage compartments
WARNING
● Heavy appliances or connectors (for example, adapters) which hang
down directly from the Europlug socket may damage the socket with the
resultant risk of injury.
● Ensure that appliances connected to the socket are secure to prevent
them from being thrown around the vehicle in the event of sharp braking
or an accident. This could result in severe injury or loss of life ⇒ page 16,
Storing objects.
● Never spill liquid over the socket – there is a risk of death. If any
moisture enters the socket, ensure that it is thoroughly dry before using.
● Improper use of the sockets or electrical accessories can lead to seri-
ous injuries or cause a fire, with the resultant risk of injury.
● Children must never be left alone in the vehicle with the engine run-
ning. They could cause an accident.
● Appliances connected to the socket do not behave in the same way as
when they are connected to the mains power supply. They may overheat
during use and cause injury.
● When using adapters and extension leads, the childproof safety de-
vice on the 230 volt socket is disconnected and the socket is live. Risk of
injury!.
● Never insert objects which conduct electricity, such as a needle, in
the pins of the 230 volt socket. There is a risk of death.
● Always switch off electrical appliances connected to the socket if the
inverter goes off as a result of overheating. Failure to comply could result
in injuries.
CAUTION
● The instructions for handling appliances connected to the socket must
be observed.
● If the power consumption of the appliances connected exceeds 150
watts, the socket inverter will overheat. If the temperature exceeds a certain
value, the inverter will switch off. It may also switch off if the outside tem- perature is very high, even if the power consumption is normal. The inverter
will switch on again automatically after it has cooled down. Appliances con-
nected to the socket, and which have been left switched on, will automati-
cally come back on
⇒ 
.
● Do not connect neon lamps to the socket. For technical reasons, these
could break down.
● Do not connect 115 volt appliances to the 230 volt power socket, as
they could be damaged. If you have any queries, please check the manufac-
turer's label for details of the power supply accepted by the appliance.
● With some adapters, for example for laptops, their built-in overload dis-
connection system prevents the equipment from switching on in the event
of an excessive start-up current. In this case, disconnect the adapter from
the power supply and try to reconnect after ten seconds.
Note
● Non-insulated equipment may cause interference to the radio or vehicle
electronics.
● The Europlug socket has a built-in childproof device and only carries live
current when the Europlug is correctly plugged in.
● Some appliances may not operate correctly in the absence of adequate
power (watts).
● In some countries this socket is 115 volts. Therefore the socket should
have a different inverter installed at the factory. You can obtain retrofit kits
from your Authorised Technical Service. Do not connect 115 Volt appliances
to the 230 Volt socket.
● The use of electrical equipment in the vicinity of the aerial in the rear
window may cause interference to the reception of stations broadcasting in
AM. 
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

167
Air conditioning
Switching the temperature display from °C to °F and vice
versa
The temperature display can be switched from °C (degrees
Celsius) to °F (degrees Fahrenheit) and vice versa. – Press and hold the 
button for air recirculation mode and
briefly press the plus button of the left-hand temperature selec-
tor ⇒  fig. 141. 
Switching the air conditioner on/off
Switching the air conditioner off: models with an OFF button
– Press the OFF
button. The air conditioner is switched off and
the supply of air from outside the vehicle is cut off.
Switching the air conditioner off: models with a 
button
– Keep pressing the -
button for the blower until the display seg-
ment is empty. The air conditioner is switched off and the sup-
ply of air from outside the vehicle is cut off.
Switching the air conditioner on: models with an OFF
button
– Press the OFF
button again, or
– Press the AUTO
button or
– Press one of the air distribution buttons 
,  or .
Switching the air conditioner on: models with a 
button
– Press the +
button for the blower, or –
Press the AUTO
button or
– Press one of the air distribution buttons 
,  or .
The air conditioner also starts to operate if one of the blower or temperature
selector buttons is pressed. 
Blower speed -
+
The automatically selected blower speed can be reduced or
increased manually.
– Press the -
and + buttons in the centre of the control panel
⇒ fig. 141 to set the blower to the desired speed (and regulate
the volume of air delivery).
The air conditioner system automatically regulates the blower speed accord-
ing to the interior temperature. However, you can also adjust the air delivery
manually. The current blower setting is illustrated by a bar in the middle dis-
play (above the buttons). 
Automatic change of passenger temperature
In order to automatically set the passenger temperature like the driver tem-
perature, press the AUTO button on the driver side for 2 seconds approxi-
mately. In order to automatically set the driver temperature like the passen-
ger temperature, press the AUTO
button on the passenger side for 2 sec-
onds approximately. 
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

169
Air conditioning
Air directed to windows 
This setting directs all the air to outlets 1 and 2. Unlike in setting , the
volume of air delivery remains the same.
Air to the driver/front passenger 
All the air comes from outlets 3 and 4 in the dash panel and from the rear of
the centre console.
Air to the footwells 
Most of the air emerges from outlets 5 and the outlets under the front seats.
Some of the air will also be issued from outlets 3 and 4.
Note
In all of the above air distribution settings, a small amount of air will still
come from the other outlets. 
Economical use of the air conditioner
Economical use of the air conditioner will help save fuel.
Engine power is reduced and fuel consumption increases when the
air conditioner is in cooling mode. To ensure that the system is on-
ly switched on when it is really necessary, please note the follow-
ing points:
– Select ECON mode if you wish to save fuel.
– Select ECON mode if you decide to open the windows or sun-
roof* while driving.
– If the vehicle has heated up after standing in the sun, open the
windows and doors for a short time to cool the vehicle.
For the sake of the environment
By saving fuel you also reduce the amount of pollutants emitted from your
vehicle. 
Key settings
When the ignition is switched on, the air conditioner set-
tings assigned to the key are selected automatically.
The air conditioner settings selected are automatically stored and assigned
to the key in use. When the vehicle is started, the air conditioner automati-
cally selects the settings assigned to the key. Hence, every driver automati-
cally obtains his/her preferred settings without having to select them man-
ually.
Note
Should another driver use the key and enter other settings, the previous
settings will be deleted. 
Solar-powered blower/sunroof*
If the vehicle is parked in sufficiently strong sunlight, the
blower will operate in solar-powered mode when the igni-
tion is switched off.
After the ignition is switched off, the blower is supplied with electrical pow-
er from the sunroof. Please ensure that outlets 3 and 4 are open ⇒ fig. 143
to ensure the best possible ventilation.
The blower only works when the sunroof is closed or tilted open at the rear. 
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

172Driving
The Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) contains the electronic differential
lock (EDL) and the traction control system (TCS). The ESP function works to-
gether with the ABS. If a fault in the ABS occurs, both warning lamps light
up, but if the ESP fails, only the ESP warning lamp lights up.
The ESP is started automatically when the engine is started.
The ESP switch deactivates both TCS and ESP functions. The ESP, in spite of
being deactivated, will always self-connect when necessary if brakes are be-
ing used.
The TCS can be deactivated when in cases where wheel sliding is desirable.
For example:
● When driving with snow chains.
● When driving in deep snow or on loose surfaces.
● When the vehicle is stuck, to rock it backwards and forwards.
Next, the button should be pressed to reactivate the TCS.
When does the lamp light up or flash 
●
On switching the ignition on, it lights up for about two seconds to carry
out a function control.
● The warning lamp will start flashing when the vehicle is moving if the
ESP or the TCS is activated.
● It will light up continuously if there is a malfunction in the ESP.
WARNING
● The Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) cannot defy the laws of
physics. This should be kept in mind, particularly on slippery and wet
roads and when towing a trailer.
● Always adapt your driving style to suit the condition of the roads and
the traffic situation. Do not let the extra safety afforded by ESP tempt you
into taking any risks when driving, as this can cause accidents.
● Please refer to the corresponding warning notes on ESP in
⇒ page 190, Intelligent technology.

Ignition lock Ignition key positions
The ignition key is used to start and stop the engine.
Fig. 147 Ignition key po-
sitions 

173
Driving
Position 1
The ignition key is inserted in this position. To
engage the steering wheel
lock, take out the key and turn the wheel until you hear the pin engage. You
should always engage the steering lock when you leave the vehicle. This
will help to deter thefts ⇒ 
.
Switching on the ignition/pre-heating glow plugs 2
If the key is difficult to turn in the lock, move the steering wheel (to take the
load off the steering lock mechanism) until the key turns freely. In the case
of vehicles with a diesel engine, the key is turned to this position to preheat
the glow plugs.
Starting the engine 3
The engine is started in this position. Electrical components with a high
power consumption are switched off temporarily.
After the engine has started, the ignition key returns to position 2
by itself.
The ignition key has to be turned back to position 1
before re-starting the
engine. The starter inhibitor in the ignition lock prevents the starter motor
from engaging when the engine is running, as this could cause damage.
Switching off the ignition 1
Turn the ignition key to this position.
WARNING
● Never remove the ignition key until the vehicle is stationary! Other-
wise the steering lock could engage suddenly, which could cause an acci-
dent.
● Always take the key with you when leaving the vehicle, even if you
only intend to be gone for a short time. This is particularly important if
there are children in the vehicle, as they might otherwise be able to start
the engine or use power-operated equipment (e.g. the electric windows),
which could cause injuries.
Note
● If the battery has been disconnected and then reconnected, it will be
necessary to leave the key in position 2
for about 5 seconds before start-
ing the engine.
● Vehicles with automatic gearbox: After switching off the ignition, you
can only remove the ignition key if the selector lever is in position “P” (park-
ing lock). The selector lever is locked after the ignition key has been re-
moved. 
Starting and stopping the engine Starting the engine
The engine can only be started with an original SEAT key.
Fig. 148 Ignition key po-
sitions 
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

174Driving
Vehicles with a petrol engine:
–Use the foot brake.
– Manual gearbox: Push the clutch pedal all the way down.
– Move the gear lever into neutral (automatic gearbox: selector
lever to P or N) ⇒ 
.
– Turn the ignition key to position 3
without pressing the accel-
erator.
– Release the ignition key as soon as the engine starts (the start-
er motor must not be allowed to run on with the engine).
Vehicles with a diesel engine:
– Use the foot brake.
– Manual gearbox: Push the clutch pedal all the way down. Other-
wise, the engine will not start.
– Move the gear lever into neutral (automatic gearbox: selector
lever to P or N) ⇒ 
.
– Turn the ignition key to position 2
. The pre-heating indicator
light  comes on while the glow plugs are preheating.
– When the indicator light
 goes out, turn the ignition key to
position 3
. Do not press the accelerator.
– Having completed the previous action the key can be released
immediately, it will return to position 2
and the engine will
have started.
When starting a very cold engine, it may be a little noisy for the first few sec-
onds until oil pressure has built up in the hydraulic valve compensators.
This is quite normal, and no cause for concern. If the engine fails to start straight away, stop after 10 seconds and try again
after about half a minute.
Glow plug system*
To assist starting at low temperatures,
diesel engines are equipped with a
glow plug preheating system. The preheating time depends on the coolant
temperature and the outside temperature. Start the engine as soon as the
glow plug indicator light  goes out.
When the engine is warm or at outside temperatures above +8 °C, the glow
plug indicator light will only come on for about one second. This means that
the engine can be started immediately.
If the engine will not start...
● ⇒ page 286
● ⇒ page 289
● ⇒ page 222, Refuelling
WARNING
Never run the engine in confined spaces, as the exhaust gases are poi-
sonous.
CAUTION
Avoid high engine speeds, full throttle and extreme load conditions until
the engine has reached its normal operating temperature, otherwise this
can damage the engine.
For the sake of the environment
Do not warm up the engine by running the engine with the vehicle station-
ary. Start immediately. This will help avoid unnecessary exhaust emissions. 

175
Driving
Stopping the engine
– Turn the ignition key to position 1 ⇒ fig. 148.
WARNING
● Never switch the engine off until the vehicle is stationary.
● The brake servo and the power steering system work only when the
engine is running. You need more strength to steer and brake the vehicle
when the engine is switched off. Given that you will be unable to steer
and brake as usual, this could lead to a risk of accidents and injuries.
CAUTION
If the engine has been running under high load for a long time, there is a
risk of heat building up in the engine compartment after the engine has
been switched off; this could cause engine damage. Therefore, you should
let the engine idle for approximately 2 minutes before you switch it off.
Note
After the engine is switched off the radiator fan may run on for up to 10 mi-
nutes, even if the ignition is switched off. It may also start running again af-
ter some time if the coolant temperature rises due to a build-up of heat un-
der the bonnet, or if the engine is already warm and the engine compart-
ment is heated up further by direct sunlight. Handbrake
Handbrake
The handbrake should be applied firmly to prevent the vehi-
cle from accidentally rolling away.
Fig. 149 Detailed view of
the centre console: Hand-
brake on
Applying the handbrake
– Pull the handbrake lever up all the way.
Releasing the handbrake
– Pull the lever up slightly and at the same time press in the re-
lease button ⇒ fig. 149 -arrow-.
– Keep the release button pressed and push the lever all the way
down ⇒ 
.
If you drive by mistake with the handbrake still applied, you will hear a
warning buzzer and the display will show the message: 
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

177
Driving
SEAT Parking System*
SEAT Parking System is an acoustic parking aid.
Sensors are located in the rear bumper. When the sensors detect an obsta-
cle, you are alerted by acoustic signals. The measuring range of the sensors
starts at approximately:
RearSide0.60 mCentre1.60 m
The acoustic signals sound with increasing frequency as you approach the
obstacle. When the vehicle is less than 0.30 m away from the obstacle, the
warning tone will sound continuously. Do not drive on!
The volume of the warning beeps will be gradually reduced after about 4
seconds if the vehicle remains at a constant distance from a detected obsta-
cle (it does not affect the permanent acoustic signal).
The parking aid is switched on automatically when reverse gear is engaged.
You will hear a brief confirmation tone.
WARNING
● The parking aid is not a replacement for driver awareness. The driver
is personally responsible for safe parking and other manoeuvres.
● The sensors have blind spots in which obstacles are not registered.
Always look out for small children and animals because the system will
not always detect them. Always pay attention when reversing to avoid ac-
cidents.
● Always keep a close eye on the area around the vehicle and make full
use of the rear view mirrors.
CAUTION
Please note that low obstacles detected by the system may no longer be
registered by the sensors as the vehicle moves closer, so the system will not
give any further warning. Certain kinds of obstacles (such as wire fences,
chains, thin painted posts or trailer draw bars, etc) may not always be de-
tected by the system, so take care not to damage the vehicle in such cases.
Note
● Please refer to the notes on towing ⇒ page 178. 
SEAT Parking System Plus*
SEAT Parking System Plus is an acoustic parking aid.
Sensors are located in the front and rear bumpers. When the sensors detect
an obstacle, you are alerted by acoustic signals. The measuring range of the
sensors starts at approximately:
FrontSide0.90 mCentre1.20 m
RearSide0.60 mCentre1.60 m
The acoustic signals sound with increasing frequency as you approach the
obstacle. When the vehicle is less than 0.30 m from the obstacle the warn-
ing tone will sound continuously. Stop moving immediately!
The volume of the warning beeps will be gradually reduced after about 4
seconds if the vehicle remains at a constant distance from a detected obsta-
cle (it does not affect the permanent acoustic signal). 
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications