2012 Seat Altea Freetrack trailer

Trailer towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Instructions to follow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Ball coupling of towing bracket* . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Driving tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Fitting a towing bracket* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Vehicle maintenance and cleaning . . . . . . . . . 205
General notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205
Care of the vehicle exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206
Vehicle interior maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Accessories, parts replacement and
modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
Accessories and spare parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
Technical modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
Roof aerial* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Mobile phones and two-way radios . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Checking and refilling levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216
Refuelling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216
Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218
Working in the engine compartment . . . . . . . . . . 219
Engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222
Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226
Washer fluid and windscreen wiper blades . . . . 228
Brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231
Vehicle battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
Wheels and tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236
Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236
If and when . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245
Tools, tyre repair kit and spare wheel . . . . . . . . . 245
Wheel change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246
Tyre repair kit (Tyre Mobility System)* . . . . . . . . . 252
Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 255
Bulb change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 259
Jump-starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 268
Towing and tow-starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 271 Technical Specifications
. . . . . . . . . . . 274
Description of specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274
Important information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274
Information on fuel consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
Towing a trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
Technical specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 278
Checking fluid levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 278
Petrol engine 2.0 155 kW (211 PS) Front-wheel
drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 279
Petrol engine 2.0 155 kW (211 PS) All-wheel
drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 280
Diesel engine 1.6 TDI CR 77 kW (105 PS) DPF
with/without Start-Stop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281
Diesel engine 2.0 TDI CR 103 kW (140 PS) DPF
All-wheel drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 282
Diesel engine 2.0 TDI CR 125 kW (170 PS) DPF
All-wheel drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 283
Dimensions and capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 284
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 285
4Table of Contents

83
Cockpit
Alternator 
This warning lamp signals a fault in the alternator.
The warning lamp  lights up when the ignition is switched on. It should
go out when the engine has started running.
If the warning lamp  lights up while driving, the alternator is no longer
charging the battery. You should immediately drive to the nearest special-
ised workshop.
You should avoid using electrical equipment that is not absolutely necessa-
ry because this will drain the battery. 
Worn brake pads 
If the  symbol lights up, have the front brake pads (and, for safety rea-
sons, the rear pads as well) inspected by a specialised workshop. Tyre pressure 
The tyre pressure control system controls the tyre speed and
the frequency spectrum of each tyre.
Fig. 50 Centre console:
tyre monitor system but-
ton
The tyre warning lamp 1)
compares wheel revolutions and with this informa-
tion, the diameter of each wheel using the ESC (ESP) sensors. If the diame-
ter of a wheel changes, the tyre warning lamp  lights up. The wheel diam-
eter changes when:
● Tyre pressure is insufficient.
● The tyre structure is damaged.
● The vehicle is unbalanced because of a load.
● The wheels of one axle are under more pressure (for example, driving
with a trailer or on extreme slopes).
● The vehicle is fitted with snow chains. 
1)
Depending on the model version
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

84Cockpit
● The temporary spare wheel is fitted.
● The wheel on one axle is changed.
Tyre pressure adjustment
Following the modification to tyre pressure or after changing one or more
wheels, the button ⇒  fig. 50 must be kept pressed while the ignition is on
until an acoustic signal is heard and the warning lamp goes out.
If the wheels are under excessive load (for example, driving with a trailer or
heavy load), the tyre pressure must be increased to the recommended value
for a full load (see the sticker on the inside of the fuel flap). If the tyre moni-
tor system button is pressed down, the new tyre pressures are confirmed.
The tyre pressure warning lamp  lights up
If the tyre pressure of one or more wheels is much lower than the value set
by the driver, the tyre control warning lamp lights up ⇒ 
.
The tyre pressure warning lamp  flashes
If the tyre pressure warning lamp flashes, this indicates a fault. Go to the
nearest specialist workshop.
WARNING
● When the tyre pressure warning lamp lights up, reduce speed imme-
diately and avoid any sudden manoeuvre or braking. Stop when possible,
and check the tyre pressure and status.
● The driver is responsible for maintaining correct tyre pressures. For
this reason, tyre pressure must be regularly checked.
● Under certain circumstances (for example, when driving in a sports-
like manner, in winter conditions or on a dirt track) the tyre warning lamp
may light up or function incorrectly.
Note
If the battery is disconnected, the yellow warning lamp  lights up after
turning the ignition on. This should turn off after a brief journey. 
Bulb defect 
The warning lamp lights up when a bulb in the vehicle's ex-
terior lighting is defective.
The warning lamp  lights up when a bulb in the vehicle's exterior lighting
(e.g. left-hand main beam) is defective.
The instrument panel displays the following message 1)
: LEFT FULL BEAM
FAULTY. 
Brake system* 
This warning lamp lights up if the brake fluid level is too low
or if there is a fault in the system.
This warning lamp  lights up if
● the brake fluid level is too low ⇒ page 231.
The instrument panel displays the following message 1)
: STOP BRAKE FLUID
INSTRUCTION MANUAL.
● there is a fault in the brake system.
The instrument panel displays the following message 1)
: BRAKE SYSTEM
FAULT INSTRUCTION MANUAL. 
1)
Depending on the version of the model.

87
Cockpit
Electronic Stability Control ESC (ESP) *  / 
There are two control lamps for the electronic stability con-
trol. The  lamp provides information concerning the func-
tion and the  provides information on the disconnection
status
Both lamps come on together when the ignition is switched on and should
go out after approx. 2 seconds, which is how long the function check lasts.
This programme includes the ABS, EDL and ASR (TCS). This also includes
the brake assist system (BAS), automatic cleaning of the brake discs and
the trailer stability programme (TSP).
The warning lamp  has the following functions: ● It flashes when the ASR (TCS)/ESC (ESP) is activated when driving.
● It will light up continuously if there is a malfunction in the ESC (ESP).
● The ESC (ESP) lamp will also come on if a fault should occur in the ABS
because the ESC (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 ESC (ESP) can be reactivated by switching the ignition off
and then on again. If the warning lamp goes out, this means the system is
fully functional.
The  lamp provides information about the disconnection status of the
system:
● It stays lit when the ASR (TCS) is disconnected after pressing the 
switch. Differential lock fault (EDL)*EDL operates along with the ABS in vehicles equipped with
the Electronic Stability Control ESC* (ESP)
A malfunction in the EDL is indicated by the ABS warning lamp . Take the
vehicle to a specialised workshop as soon as possible. For further informa-
tion on the EDL see ⇒ page 190, Electronic differential lock (EDL)*. 
Traction control system ASR (TCS)*  / 
The traction control system prevents the driven wheels from
spinning when the vehicle is accelerating
There are two warning lamps for the traction control system:  and . Both
lamps come on together when the ignition is switched on and should go out
after approx. 2 seconds, which is how long the function check lasts.
The  lamp has the following function:
● It flashes when the ASR (TCS) is activated while driving.
If the system is deactivated or if it has any fault, the warning lamp will re-
main lit. The ASR (TCS) lamp will also come on if a fault should occur in the
ABS because the ASR (TCS) operates in conjunction with the ABS. For fur-
ther information, see ⇒  page 187, Brakes
The  lamp provides information about the disconnection status of the
system:
● It stays lit when the ASR (TCS) is disconnected after pressing the OFF
switch.
By pressing again, the ASR (TCS) function is reactivated and the warning
lamp switched off. 
Safety FirstOperating InstructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

114Lights and visibility
● If you are towing a trailer equipped with a rear fog light on a vehicle with
a factory-fitted towing bracket, the rear fog light on the vehicle will automat-
ically be switched off.
● The use of the lighting described here is subject to the relevant statutory
requirements.
● Depending on weather conditions (very cold or wet), the front and tail
lights and the turn signals may be temporarily misted. This has no influence
on the useful life of the lighting system. The lights will soon demist when
they are switched on. 
Automatic lighting*
Fig. 72 Automatic light-
ing
Activation
– Rotate the switch to the position “Auto”, this indication will
light up.
Deactivation
– Turn the light switch to 0. Automatic lighting
If automatic headlight control is switched on, dipped beam headlights are
automatically switched on by a photosensor if you drive into a tunnel, for
example.
The rain sensor switches on the dipped beam headlights when the wind-
screen wipers have been operating continuously for a few seconds and it
switches the lights off when the continuous or intermittent wipe is switched
off for some minutes
⇒ page 126.
When the automatic dipped light control is connected but the dipped lights
are off, the warning lamp  lights up on the light control ⇒ fig. 72. If the
automatic control switches on the dipped lights, the instrument and control
lighting is also switched on.
WARNING
● Even if the automatic headlight control is switched on, the dipped
headlights will not be switched on with fog. Therefore, the dipped beam
must be switched on manually.
Note
● For those vehicles with the automatic headlight system, when the key is
removed from the ignition, the acoustic signal will only sound if the light
control is in the position  or  if the vehicle is not fitted with the coming
home function.
● If the daylight driving automatic light function is switched on, the fog
lights or rear fog light cannot be switched on in addition.
● The use of the lighting described here is subject to the relevant statutory
requirements.
● Do not put stickers on the windscreen in front of the sensor. This may
cause disruptions or faults in the automatic lighting system.
● To avoid damage to the tail lights, the lights mounted on the tailgate go
off when the tailgate is opened (depending on the country). 

120Lights and visibility
Signalling a lane change
–Push the lever up 1
or down 2 to the point where you incur
resistance and then release it. The turn signal will flash several
times. The corresponding warning lamp will also flash.
Switching main beam on and off
– If the dipped lights are on, push the lever forward ⇒ fig. 76 3
to switch on the main beam.
– Push the lever towards the steering wheel ⇒ fig. 76 4
to switch
off the main beam.
Headlight flashers
– Pull the lever towards the steering wheel 4
to operate the
flasher.
Switching on parking lights
– Switch the ignition off and remove the key from the lock.
– Move the lever up or down to turn the right or left-hand parking
lights on, respectively.
WARNING
The main beam can dazzle other drivers. Risk of accident! Never use the
main beam headlights or the headlight flasher if they could dazzle other
drivers.
Note
● The turn signals only work when the ignition is switched on. The corre-
sponding warning lamp  or  flashes in the instrument panel. The warn-
ing lamp  flashes when the turn signals are operated, provided a trailer is
correctly attached and connected to the vehicle. If a turn signal bulb is de-
fective, the warning lamp flashes at double speed. If the trailer turn signal
bulbs are damaged, warning lamp  does not light up. Change the bulb.
● The main beam headlights can only be switched on if the dipped beam
headlights are already on. The warning lamp  then comes on in the instru-
ment panel.
● The headlight flasher comes on for as long as you pull the lever – even if
no other lights are switched on. The warning lamp  then comes on in the
instrument panel.
● When the parking lights are switched on, the headlight and the tail light
on the corresponding side of the vehicle light up. The parking lights will on-
ly work if the key is removed from the ignition. If the lights are switched on,
an acoustic signal will be emitted while the driver door is open.
● If the turn signal lever is left on after the key has been taken out of the
ignition lock, an acoustic signal sounds when the driver door is opened.
This is a reminder to switch off the turn signal, unless of course you wish to
leave the parking light on. 

168Driving
● 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 ASR (TCS).
WARNING
● Do not forget that the Electronic Stability Control ESC (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 ESC (ESP)
tempt you into taking any risks when driving.
● Please refer to the corresponding warning notes on ESC (ESP)
⇒ page 187, Intelligent technology.
 Ignition lock
Position of the ignition key
Fig. 137 Ignition key po-
sitions
Ignition switched off, steering lock 0
In this position
⇒ fig. 137 the ignition and the engine are OFF and the steer-
ing may get locked.
For the Steering lock to operate without the ignition key, turn the steering
wheel until it locks with an audible sound. You should always lock the steer-
ing wheel when you leave your vehicle. This will help prevent vehicle theft
⇒ 
.
Switching the ignition or the glow plug system on 1
Turn the ignition key to this position and release it. If the ignition key can-
not be turned or it is difficult to turn from position 0 to position 1, move
the steering wheel from one side to the other until it is released. 

172Driving
–The instrument panel screen displays information about the sta-
tus of the Start-Stop function ⇒ fig. 139.
Start-Stop function conditions
● The driver seat belt must be buckled.
● The engine hood must be closed.
● The engine must be at operating temperature.
● The steering wheel must be straight.
● The vehicle must be on flat ground.
● The vehicle must not be in reverse.
● A trailer must not be connected.
● The temperature of the passenger compartment must be within the com-
fort limits (button AC
11 ⇒ fig. 133 should be selected).
● The windscreen de-mist function must be off.
● If not, it requires an increase in airflow 10
⇒ fig. 133 for more than three
presses.
● The temperature must not be set to HI or LO.
● The driver door must be closed.
● The diesel particulate filter must not be in regeneration mode, for diesel
engines.
● The battery charge must not be low for the next start.
● The battery temperature must be between -1 °C and 55 °C.
● The parking assistant (Park Assist*) must not be activated.
Start-Stop function interruption
In the following situations, the Start-Stop function will be interrupted and
the engine will automatically start:
● The vehicle starts moving.
● The brake pedal is pressed several times in a row.
● The battery has been discharged excessively.
● The Start-Stop System is manually deactivated. ●
The windscreen de-mist function is turned on.
● The temperature of the passenger compartment exceeds the comfort
limits (button AC
11 ⇒ fig. 133 should be selected).
● If in an increase in airflow 10 ⇒ fig. 133 is required for more than three
presses.
● Temperature setting HI or LO is selected.
● The engine coolant temperature is insufficient.
● The alternator is faulty, for example the V-belt has ruptured.
● If any of the conditions described in the previous section are not fulfil-
led.
WARNING
Never allow the vehicle to move with the engine off for any reason. You
could lose control of your vehicle. This could cause an accident and seri-
ous injury.
● The brake servo does not work with the engine off. You need more
force to stop the vehicle.
● Power steering does not work when the engine is not running. That is
why it is much more difficult to turn the steering wheel.
● Disconnect the Start-Stop system when driving through water (ford-
ing streams, etc.).
Note
● For vehicles with the Start-Stop function and a manual gearbox, when
the engine is started, the clutch must be pressed.
● When the conditions for the Start-Stop function are not fulfilled, the in-
strument panel displays the Start-Stop indicator dimmed.
● If the steering wheel is turned more than 270°, it will not be possible to
start the vehicle again. To start the vehicle, straighten the steering wheel so
that it is turned less than 270°. 