2011 Seat Ibiza ST towing

162Driving
Activation
The system is activated by engagement of the reverse gear. A brief acoustic
signal confirms the activation and correct function of the system.
Reverse gear
The distance warning will begin as soon as an obstacle is detected by the
system. The frequency of the bleeps emitted by the system will increase rap-
idly as the vehicle approaches the obstacle.
Within a short distance of about 30cm, a continuous signal sounds (stop
signal). The driver should not reverse any further.
Models with a factory-fitted towing bracket: When the vehicle is less than
0.35 m away from the obstacle the warning tone will sound continuously.
The driver should then not reverse any further.
The warning tone decreases by 30% after 3 seconds from the start of the
system.
Provided that it is not in continuous mode, the tone on the parking aid sys-
tem stops when it detects a wall parallel to the vehicle.
Trailer towing
For vehicles factory-fitted with a towing bar, the parking aid system will not
be activated by the engagement of the reverse gear when pulling a trailer,
as the trailer's electric connector will be plugged into the vehicle.
Possible faults
If a continuous beep sounds for some seconds when the reverse gear is en-
gaged, this indicates that there is a fault in the parking aid system.
If the fault continues until the ignition is turned off, the acoustic signal
warning of the fault will not be emitted every time the system is reactivated
(by engaging the reverse gear). Thus, the system ready indication will not
sound either. Have the fault repaired by an Authorised Service Centre as
soon as possible. If there is no ready signal or no acoustic warning signal, then the parking
aid loudspeaker is faulty and may not warn of obstacles.
To ensure that the system works properly, the sensors must be kept clean
and free of ice and snow.
WARNING
● The sensors have blind spots in which obstacles may not be detected.
● Always look out for small children and animals because the system
will not always detect them. Always pay attention when reversing to
avoid accidents.
● The parking aid is not a replacement for driver awareness. The driver
must take full responsibility for parking and other manoeuvres.
CAUTION
● Please note that low obstacles detected by the system may no longer be
registered by the sensors as the car moves closer, so the system will not
give any further warning. Certain kinds of obstacles (such as wire fences,
chains, thin posts or trailer draw bars, high kerbs or painted railings etc)
may not always be detected by the system, so there is a risk of damaging
the vehicle in such cases.
● In some cases, obstacles with uniform edges and bumps may not be de-
tected immediately by the system due to their geometry. Take special care
of this type of obstacle (corners, rectangular objects, etc.), as they can
cause damage to the vehicle.
● Be especially careful when manoeuvring into a corner between two per-
pendicular walls. Carefully watch the approach of the wall to the side of the
vehicle (using the mirrors).
● The parking aid system does not replace use of the mirrors for manoeu-
vres. 

169
Intelligent technology
TCS helps the vehicle to start moving, accelerate and climb a gradient in
slippery conditions where this may otherwise be difficult or even impossi-
ble.
The TCS is switched on automatically when the engine is started. If necessa-
ry, it may be turned on or off by briefly pushing the ESP button on the centre
console.
When the TCS is off, the warning lamp  is lit. The TCS should normally be
left on. Only in exceptional circumstances, when the slipping of the wheels
is required, can they be disconnected using the ESP button, for example.
● With compact temporary spare wheel.
● When using the snow chains.
● When driving in deep snow or on loose surfaces
● When the vehicle is bogged-down, to free it by rocking.
The TCS should be switched on again as soon as possible.
WARNING
● It must be remembered that TCS 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 TCS tempt you
into taking any risks when driving, this can cause accidents.
CAUTION
● In order to ensure that TCS function correctly, all four wheels must be fit-
ted with the same tyres. Any differences in the rolling radius of the tyres can
cause the system to reduce engine power when this is not desired.
● Modifications to the vehicle (e.g. to the engine, the brake system, run-
ning gear or any components affecting the wheels and tyres) could affect
the efficiency of the ABS and TCS. XDS*
Driveshaft differential
When taking a bend, the driveshaft differential mechanism allows the outer
wheel to turn at a higher speed than the inner wheel. In this way, the wheel
that is turning faster (outer wheel) receives less drive torque than the inner
wheel. This may mean that in certain situations the torque delivered to the
inner wheel is too high, causing the wheels to spin. On the other hand, the
outer wheel is receiving a lower drive torque than it could transmit. This
causes an overall loss of lateral grip on the front axle, resulting in under-
steer or “lengthening” of the trajectory.
By using the ESP sensors and signals, the XDS system is able to detect and
correct this effect.
Through the ESP, the XDS brakes the inner wheel, thereby counteracting the
excess drive torque in this wheel. This means that the driver's desired tra-
jectory is much more precise,
The XDS system operates in combination with the ESP and is always active,
even when the traction control, TCS, is disconnected.

Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)* General notes
The Electronic Stability Programme increases the vehicle's
stability on the road.
The Electronic Stability Programme helps reduce the danger of skidding.
The Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) consists of ABS, EDL and TCS.
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

170Intelligent technology
Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)*
ESP reduces the danger of skidding by braking the wheels individually.
The system uses the steering wheel angle and road speed to calculate the
changes of direction desired by the driver, and constantly compares them
with the actual behaviour of the vehicle. If the desired course is not being
maintained (for instance, if the vehicle is starting to skid), then the ESP
compensates automatically by braking the appropriate wheel.
The forces acting on the braked wheel bring the vehicle back to a stable
condition. If the vehicle tends to oversteer, the system will act on the front
wheel on the outside of the turn.
WARNING
● It must be remembered that 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.
CAUTION
● In order to ensure that ESP functions correctly, all four wheels must be
fitted with the same tyres. Any differences in the rolling radius of the tyres
can cause the system to reduce engine power when this is not desired.
● Modifications to the vehicle (e.g. to the engine, the brake system, run-
ning gear or any components affecting the wheels and tyres) could affect
the efficiency of the ABS, EDL, ESP and TCS. Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
The anti-lock brake system prevents the wheels locking during braking
⇒ page 168.

Electronic differential lock (EDL)*
The electronic differential lock helps prevent the loss of trac-
tion caused if one of the driven wheels starts spinning.
EDL helps the vehicle to start moving, accelerate and climb a gradient in
slippery conditions where this may otherwise be difficult or even impossi-
ble.
The system will control the revolutions of the drive wheels using the ABS
sensors (in case of an EDL fault the warning lamp for ABS lights up)
⇒ page 69.
At speeds of up to approximately 80 km/h, it is able to balance out differen-
ces in the speed of the driven wheels of approximately 100 rpm caused by a
slippery road surface on one side of the vehicle. It does this by braking the
wheel which has lost traction and distributing more driving force to the oth-
er driven wheel via the differential.
To prevent the disc brake of the braking wheel from overheating, the EDL
cuts out automatically if subjected to excessive loads. The vehicle will con-
tinue to function normally without EDL. For this reason, the driver is not in-
formed that the EDL has been switched off.
The EDL will switch on again automatically when the brake has cooled
down. 

178Driving and the environment
Trailer towing
What do you need to bear in mind when towing a trailer?
Your vehicle may be used to tow a trailer when fitted with the correct equip-
ment.
If the car is supplied with a factory-fitted towing bracket it will already have
the necessary technical modifications and meet the statutory requirements
for towing a trailer. If you wish to retrofit a towing bracket, consult
⇒ page 191.
Connectors
Your vehicle is fitted with a 12-pin connector for the electrical connection
between the trailer and the vehicle.
If the trailer has a 7-pin plug you will need to use an adapter cable. This is
available in any SEAT dealer.
Trailer weight / drawbar load
Never exceed the authorised trailer weight. If you do not load the trailer up
to the maximum permitted trailer weight, you can then climb correspond-
ingly steeper slopes.
The maximum trailer weights listed are only applicable for altitudes up to
1000 m above sea level. With increasing altitude the engine power and
therefore the vehicle's climbing ability are impaired because of the reduced
air density. The maximum trailer weight has to be reduced accordingly. The
weight of the vehicle and trailer combination must be reduced by 10% for
every further 1000 m (or part thereof). The gross combination weight is the
actual weight of the laden vehicle plus the actual weight of the laden trailer.
When possible, operate the trailer with the maximum permitted drawbar
load on the ball joint of the towing bracket, but do not exceed the specified
limit. The figures for
trailer weights and drawbar loads that are given on the data
plate of the towing bracket are for certification purposes only. The correct
figures for your specific model, which may be lower than these figures for
the towing bracket, are given in the vehicle documents or in ⇒ chapter Tech-
nical Data.
Distributing the load
Distribute loads in the trailer so that heavy objects are as near to the axle as
possible. Loads carried in the trailer must be secured to prevent them mov-
ing.
Tyre pressure
Set tyre pressure to the maximum permissible pressure shown on the stick-
er on the inside of the fuel tank flap. Set the tyre pressure of the trailer tyres
in accordance with the trailer manufacturer's recommendations.
Exterior mirrors
Check whether you can see enough of the road behind the trailer with the
standard mirrors. If this is not the case, you should have additional mirrors
fitted. Both exterior mirrors should be mounted on hinged extension brack-
ets. Adjust the mirrors to give sufficient vision to the rear.
WARNING
Never transport people in a trailer. This could result in fatal accidents.
Note
● Towing a trailer places additional demands on the vehicle. We recom-
mend additional services between the normal inspection intervals if the ve-
hicle is used frequently for towing a trailer.
● Find out whether special regulations apply to towing a trailer in your
country. 

179
Driving and the environment
Ball coupling of towing bracket*
The ball coupling is provided with instructions on fitting and removing the
ball coupling of the towing bracket.
WARNING
The towing bracket ball coupling must be stored securely in the luggage
compartment to prevent them being flung through the vehicle and caus-
ing injury.
Note
● By law, the ball coupling must be removed if a trailer is not being towed
and it obscures the number plate. 
Driving tips
Driving with a trailer always requires extra care. Weight distribution
The weight distribution of a loaded trailer with an unladen vehicle is very
unfavourable. However, if this cannot be avoided, drive extra slowly to allow
for the unbalanced weight distribution.
Speed
The stability of the vehicle and trailer is reduced with increasing speed. For
this reason, it is advisable not to drive at the maximum permissible speed
in an unfavourable road, weather or wind conditions. This applies especially
when driving downhill.
You should always reduce speed immediately if the trailer shows the slight-
est sign of snaking. Never try to stop the “snaking” by increasing speed. Always brake in due course. If the trailer has an
overrun brake, apply the
brakes gently at first and then, firmly. This will prevent the jerking that can
be caused by the trailer wheels locking. Select a low gear in due course be-
fore going down a steep downhill. This enables you to use the engine brak-
ing to slow down the vehicle.
Reheating
At very high temperatures and during prolonged slopes, driving in a low
gear and high engine speed, always monitor the coolant temperature gauge
⇒ page 53.
Electronic Stability Programme*
The ESP* system helps to stabilise the trailer in case of skidding or rocking. 
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

191
Accessories, parts replacement and modifications
Note
Please observe the operating instructions of your mobile telephone / two-
way radio. 
Fitting a towing bracket*
It is possible to fit a towing bracket to the rear of the vehicle.
Fig. 126 Attachment points for towing bracket If a towing bracket is to be fitted after the vehicle is purchased, this must be
completed according to the instructions of the towing bracket manufacturer.
The attachment points for the towing bracket A
are on the lower part of the
vehicle. The distance between the centre of the ball coupling and the ground should
never be lower than the indicated value, even with a fully loaded vehicle
and including the maximum drawbar load.
Elevation values for securing the towing bracket:
65 mm (minimum)
from 350 mm to 420 mm (fully loaded vehicle)
959 mm
379 mm
386 mm
Fitting a towing bracket
● Driving with a trailer involves an extra effort for the vehicle. Therefore,
before fitting a towing bracket, please contact an Authorised Service Centre
to check whether your cooling system needs modification.
● The legal requirements in your country must be observed (e.g. the fitting
of a separate warning lamp).
● Certain vehicle components, e.g. the rear bumper, must be removed and
reinstalled. The towing bracket securing bolts must be tightened using a
torque wrench, and a power socket must be connected to the vehicle's elec-
trical system. This requires specialised knowledge and tools.
● Figures in the illustration show the elevation value and the attachment
points which must be considered if you are retrofitting a towing bracket.
WARNING
The towing brackets should be fitted at a specialised workshop.
● If the towing bracket is incorrectly installed, there is serious danger
of accident.
● For your own safety, please observe the instructions provided by the
manufacturer of the towing bracket. 
BCDEF
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

192Accessories, parts replacement and modifications
CAUTION
● If the power socket is incorrectly installed, this could cause damage to
the vehicle's electrical system.
Note
● SEAT recommends that the towing brackets be fitted at a specialised
workshop. In certain versions this may entail fitting a heat insulating plate,
which is why it is recommended that you go to a SEAT Dealer. In the event
that the plate is not installed correctly, SEAT is exempt from any liability.
● Due to the specific design of the exhaust, the fitting of a conventional
towing bracket is not recommended for some sportier versions. Please con-
sult your Technical Service. 

221
If and when
If and when
Vehicle tools, spare wheel
Vehicle Tools
The vehicle onboard tools are located under the floor panel
in the luggage compartment.
– Lift floor panel
– Take the on-board tools out of the vehicle.
The tool kit includes:
● Jack*
● Hook to remove integral* trim and screw caps.
● Box spanner for wheel bolts*
● Towing ring*
● Adapter for the anti-theft wheel bolts*
Some of the items listed are only provided in certain model versions, 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.
● Use the jack only on a firm, level ground.
WARNING (Continued)
● Never start the engine when the vehicle is on the jack. Risk of acci-
dent.
● If work is to be carried out underneath the vehicle, this must be se-
cured by suitable means. Otherwise, there is a risk of injury.

Spare wheel (emergency wheel)*
The spare wheel (emergency wheel) must only be used for
the minimum necessary time. The temporary spare wheel is stored under the floor panel in the luggage
compartment and is attached by a thumbnut.
How to use the temporary spare wheel
If you ever have a punctured tyre or loss of pressure, the emergency wheel
is only intended for temporary use until you reach a workshop. Change it for
a duty wheel as soon as possible.
Please note the following restrictions when using the temporary spare
wheel. This spare wheel has been specially designed for your vehicle, thus,
it cannot be changed with the spare wheel from another vehicle.
No other type of tyre (normal summer or winter tyre) may be fitted on the
compact temporary spare wheel rim.
Snow chains
For technical reasons, snow chains must not be used on the compact tem-
porary spare wheel. 
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications