2012 Seat Leon 5D ignition

219
Checking and refilling levels
Charging the battery
Terminals for charging the battery are fitted in the engine
compartment.
– Note the warnings ⇒ 
in Important safety warnings for han-
dling a vehicle battery on page 218 and ⇒ .
– Switch off all electrical equipment. Remove the ignition key.
– Raise the bonnet ⇒ page 210.
– Open the battery cover.
– Connect the charger clamps as described to the positive pole of
the battery (+) and, exclusively to an earth on the bodywork
(–).
– Only use a charger which is compatible for use with 12 V nomi-
nal voltage batteries. The charge must not exceed a voltage of
15 V.
– Now connect the battery charger to the power socket and switch
on.
– After charging the battery: switch off the battery charger and
disconnect the power socket cable.
– Finally disconnect the charger cables from the battery.
– Replace the battery cover correctly.
– Close the bonnet ⇒ page 210.
Important: Before you charge the battery make sure you read the manufac-
turer's instructions for using the battery charger.
WARNING
Never charge a battery that has frozen: replace battery! Failure to do so
may lead to an explosion.
Note
Use only the terminals in the engine compartment to charge the battery. 
Replacing the battery
The new battery should have the same specifications (am-
perage, load and voltage) as the used battery.
Your vehicle is equipped with an intelligent power management system to
control the distribution of electrical energy ⇒ page 187. The power manage-
ment function ensures that the battery is charged much more efficiently
than on vehicles without a power management system. To maintain this
function after replacing the battery, we recommend that the replacement
battery used is of the same make and type as the original fitted battery. To
make proper use of the power management function after the battery has
been changed, have the battery coded to the power management mode at a
specialised workshop.
CAUTION
● Some vehicles, for example those with the Start-Stop system* are fitted
with a special battery (AGM-type or EFB-type battery). If any other type of
battery is fitted, the Start-Stop function may be considerably reduced and
the vehicle may not stop on repeated occasions.
● Make sure that the vent hose is always attached to the original opening
on the side of the battery. Gases or battery acid can otherwise escape and
possibly cause damage.
● The battery holder and clamps must always be correctly secured. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

242Emergencies
How to jump start: description
Fig. 126 Diagram of con-
nections for vehicles
without Start Stop sys-
tem
Fig. 127 Diagram of con-
nections for vehicles
with Start Stop system
Jump lead terminal connections
1. Switch off the ignition of both vehicles ⇒ 
.
2. For vehicles without Start-Stop system :–
Connect one end of the red jump lead to the positive +
termi-
nal of the vehicle with the flat battery A ⇒ Fig. 126.
– Connect the other end of the red jump lead to the positive ter-
minal +
in the vehicle providing assistance B.
– Connect one end of the black jump lead to the negative terminal
–
of the vehicle providing assistance B ⇒ Fig. 126.
– Connect the other end of the black jump lead X
to a solid met-
al component bolted to the engine block or to the engine block
itself of the vehicle with the flat battery. However, connect it to
a point as far as possible from the battery A
.
3. For vehicles with Start-Stop system :
– Connect one end of the red jump lead to the positive +
termi-
nal of the vehicle with the flat battery A ⇒ Fig. 127.
– Connect the other end of the red jump lead to the positive ter-
minal +
in the vehicle providing assistance B.
– Connect one end of the black jump lead X
to a suitable ground
terminal, a solid piece of metal in the engine block, or to the en-
gine block ⇒ Fig. 127.
– Connect the other end of the black jump lead X
to a solid met-
al component bolted to the engine block or to the engine block
itself of the vehicle with the flat battery. However, connect it to
a point as far as possible from the battery A
.
4. Position the leads in such a way that they cannot come into contact with any moving parts in the engine compartment. 

244Emergencies
Towing and tow-starting the vehicle
General information
Points to observe when tow-starting or towing away If you use a tow rope:
Notes for the driver of the towing vehicle
– The tow rope must be taut before you drive off.
– Release the clutch very carefully when starting the vehicle
(manual gearbox), or accelerate gently (automatic gearbox).
Notes for the driver of the towed vehicle
– The ignition should be switched on so that the turn signals,
horn, windscreen wipers and washers can be used. Please en-
sure that the steering wheel is unlocked when you switch on the
ignition, and that it moves freely.
– Put the gearbox lever in neutral (manual gearbox) or move the
selector lever to position N (automatic gearbox).
– The brake servo only works when the engine is running. Consid-
erably more effort is required on the brake pedal when the en-
gine is switched off.
– Remember that the brake servo only works when the ignition is
switched on and the vehicle is moving 1)
. Otherwise, considera-
bly more strength than usual will be required when steering. –
Ensure that the tow rope remains taut at all times.
Tow rope or tow bar
It is easier and safer to tow a vehicle with a tow bar. You should only use a
tow rope if you do not have a tow bar.
A tow rope should be slightly elastic to avoid damage to both vehicles. It is
advisable to use a tow rope made of synthetic fibre or similarly elastic mate-
rial.
Only attach the tow rope or the tow bar to the towing rings ⇒ page 245.
Driving style
Towing requires some experience, especially when using a tow rope. Both
drivers should be familiar with the technique required for towing. Inexper-
ienced drivers should not attempt to tow.
Do not pull too hard with the towing vehicle and take care to avoid jerking
the tow rope. When towing on an unpaved road, there is always a risk of
overloading and damaging the anchorage points.
WARNING
If the vehicle has no electrical power, the brake lights, turn signals and
all other lights will no longer function. Do not have the vehicle towed
away. Failure to do so could result in an accident.
CAUTION
If there is no oil in the gearbox or no lubricant in the automatic transmission
the car may only be towed with the driven wheels lifted clear of the road, or
transported on a special car transporter or trailer. 
1)
Important: the battery must be correctly charged.

247
Emergencies
Tow-starting
As a general rule, tow-starting is not recommended.
– Engage 2nd or 3rd gear before moving off.
– Press the clutch and hold the pedal down.
– Switch the ignition on.
– Once both vehicles are moving, release the clutch.
– As soon as the engine starts: press the clutch and put the gear
lever in neutral.
If the engine will not start, it is best to try starting it using the battery of an-
other vehicle ⇒ page 241 before attempting to tow start. You should only try
to tow-start the engine if jump starting is not successful. Tow-starting is an
attempt to start the engine via the movement of the wheels.
When tow-starting a vehicle with a petrol engine, do not tow it more than a
short distance, otherwise sunburnt fuel can enter the catalytic converter and
cause damage.
WARNING
The risk of accidents is high when tow-starting, as the towed vehicle can
easily be driven into the towing vehicle.
CAUTION
Do not tow vehicles for more than 50 m. Risk of damage to the catalytic con-
verter. Towing vehicles with a manual gearbox
Towing is relatively straightforward.
Please observe the relevant instructions ⇒ page 244.
The vehicle can be towed using a tow bar or tow rope in the normal way,
with all four wheels on the road; it can also be towed with either the front or
rear wheels lifted off the road. The maximum towing speed is 50 km/h (30
mph). 
Towing a vehicle equipped with automatic gearbox
Certain restrictions must be observed when towing your ve-
hicle. Please observe the relevant instructions ⇒ page 244.
The vehicle can be towed with a tow bar or tow rope in the normal way, with
all four wheels on the ground. When doing so, please note the following
points:
● Make sure the selector lever is in the N position.
● The vehicle must not be towed faster than 50 km/h (30 mph).
● The vehicle must not be towed further than 50 km (30 miles). Reason:
when the engine is not running, the gearbox oil pump does not work and
the gearbox is not adequately lubricated for higher speeds or longer distan-
ces.
If the vehicle has to be towed with a breakdown truck, it must only be sus-
pended at the front wheels. Reason: the drive shafts are located on the front
wheels. If the car is towed with the rear wheels lifted off the road (I.e. travel-
ling backwards), the drive shafts also turn backwards. The planetary gears
in the automatic gearbox then turn at such high speeds that the gearbox
will be severely damaged in a short time. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

249
Fuses and bulbs
Fuses and bulbs Electrical fuses
Changing fuses
A blown fuse can be identified by the blown metal strip.
Fig. 131 Steering col-
umn area: cover
Fig. 132 Engine com-
partment, left-hand side:
fuse cover
Fuses in the steering column area
– Switch off the ignition and component concerned.
– Look in the tables below for the right fuse for the component
⇒ page 250.
– Remove the cover ⇒ Fig. 131.
– Remove the plastic clips from the fuse cover.
– Use the plastic clip to pull out the fuse and replace the blown
fuse with a fuse of the same rating.
Fuses in engine compartment
– Switch off the ignition and component concerned.
– Look in the tables below for the right fuse for the component
⇒ page 251. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

253
Fuses and bulbs
LED rear lightTypeReverse lightsP21W LLThe remaining functions work with LEDs
WARNING
● Take particular care when working on components in the engine com-
partment if the engine is warm. Risk of burns.
● Bulbs are highly sensitive to pressure. The glass can break when you
touch the bulb, causing injury.
● When changing bulbs, please take care not to injure yourself on sharp
edges, in particular on the headlight housing.
CAUTION
● Remove the ignition key before working on the electric system. Other-
wise, a short circuit could occur.
● Switch off the lights or parking lights before you change a bulb.
● Take good care to avoid damaging any components.
For the sake of the environment
Please ask your specialist retailer how to dispose of used bulbs in the prop-
er manner.
Note
● Please check at regular intervals that all lighting (especially the exterior
lighting) on your vehicle is functioning properly. This is not only in the inter-
est of your own safety, but also that of all other road users.
● Before changing a bulb, make sure you have the correct new bulb.
● Do not touch the glass part of the bulb with your bare hands, use a cloth
or paper towel instead. Otherwise, the fingerprints left on the glass will va-
porise as a result of the heat generated by the bulb, they will be deposited
on the reflector and will impair its surface. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

264Technical specifications
Vehicle identification data
Fig. 151 Vehicle data
sticker (luggage compart-
ment)
Chassis number in the Easy Connect
– Select: Function button CAR
> control button
(Car)* Systems >
Service & Control > Chassis number .
Chassis number
The chassis number is located in the Easy Connect, on the vehicle data
sticker and under the windscreen, on the driver side. Additionally, the chas-
sis number is located in the engine compartment, on the right-hand side.
The number is engraved on the top side rail, and is partially covered.
Type plate
The type plate is located on the right side door pillar. Vehicles for certain
export countries do not have a type plate. Vehicle data sticker
The vehicle data sticker is under the carpet trim in the luggage compart-
ment, in the spare wheel well. A sticker with the vehicle data is attached to
the inside cover of the Maintenance Programme.
The following information is provided on the vehicle data sticker:
⇒ Fig. 151
Production control number
Vehicle identification number (chassis number)
Model code number
Model designation/engine power output
Engine and gearbox code letters
Paintwork number/interior trim code
Optional equipment codes
Consumption values
CO 2 emissions values
At the end of the data sticker, in points 8
and 9, you can see the con-
sumption and emission information.
Identifying letters
The identifying letters of the engine can be viewed on the instrument panel.
Important: The engine must be off and the ignition on.
● Hold down the 0.0/SET

4 ⇒ Fig. 36 button for more than 15 seconds.
Information on consumption and emissions Urban consumption (l/100 km)
Urban CO 2 emissions (g/km)
Extra-urban consumption (l/100 km)
Extra-urban CO 2 emissions (g/km)
Combined consumption (l/100 km)
Combined CO 2 emissions (g/km)

1
23456789
A
B
C

Index
A
ABSsee Anti-lock brake system . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Acoustic parking aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
Acoustic warnings Headlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Additional electrical appliances (efficiency pro- gramme) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Adjusting the head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
Adjusting the head restraint Front head restraint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Airbag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Airbag covers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Airbag system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Control lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Curtain airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Differences between front passenger frontairbag systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Front airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Knee airbag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
side airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Air pressure (tyres) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 223
Alarm system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Alcantara: cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
Ambient lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Anti-dazzle rear vision mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123 Anti-dazzle rear vision mirrors
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Anti-freeze protection Windscreen washer system . . . . . . . . . . . . 220
Anti-lock brake system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
Anti-theft alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86, 93 see also Anti-theft alarm system . . . . . . . . . 86
Anti-theft alarm system Interior monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Tow-away protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Anti-theft security system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86, 97
Anti-theft wheel bolts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237
Antifreeze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Aspects to take into account before starting the vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
ASR see Traction control system . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
Assistance systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164 Cruise control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164
Parking aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
Assisted starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241
Assist systems Tyre monitoring indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177
Audible warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Auto Lock (central locking) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Automatic car washes see Washing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198
Automatic dipped beam control . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Automatic gearbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Backup programme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 162
Downhill speed control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158
Driving tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Kick-down feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
Launch Control Programme . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
Manual release of selector lever . . . . . . . . 163
Safety interlock for ignition key . . . . . . . . . 144
Selector lever lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155
Selector lever positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Steering wheel with gearshift paddles . . . 159
tiptronic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154, 159
B
Balanced (wheels) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 223
Ball coupling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217 Assisted starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241
Charge Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
Charging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
Disconnecting/Connecting . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
Winter conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217
Before starting the vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Biodiesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
Bioethanol see Ethanol (fuel) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206
277
Index