2012 Seat Leon 5D ECO mode

170Driver assistance systems
Control lamps
flashes or
lights upPossible causeSolution

(yellow)Lane Assist active but
not available.The system can not accurately recog-
nise the lane. Please see page 170,
The Lane Assist system is not availa-
ble (the control lamp is lit up yellow).

(green)Lane Assist system ac-
tive and available._
Several warning and control lamps light up for a few seconds when the igni-
tion is switched on while the function is verified. They will switch off after a
few seconds.
WARNING
If the warning lamps and messages are ignored, the vehicle may stall in
traffic, or may cause accidents and severe injuries.
● Never ignore the warning lamps or text messages.
● Stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible.
Note
Failure to heed the control lamps and text messages when they appear may
result in faults in the vehicle. Operating mode
Fig. 99 In the wind-
screen: Field of vision of
the Lane Assist system
camera
Using the camera located in the windscreen, the Lane Assist system detects
the possible lines dividing the lanes. When the vehicle involuntarily ap-
proaches a dividing line it has detected, the system notifies the driver with
a corrective steering movement . The corrective steering movement can be
overruled at any moment.
No warning is produced with the turn signals activated, given that the Lane
Assist system understands that a lane change is required.
Steering wheel vibration
The following situations cause vibration in the steering wheel and require
the driver to take active control of driving:
● When the limits of the very nature of the system are reached.
● When the maximum rotational torque during the corrective steering
movement is not enough to keep the vehicle inside the lane.
● When no lane is detected during the corrective steering movement. 

171
Driver assistance systems
Switching the Lane Assist system on or off
● The Assistants menu ⇒ page 77 drops down in the instrument panel by
pressing the Assistants button on the turn signal lever or by operating the
menu in the multifunction steering wheel.
● OR: by pressing the OK
button on the steering wheel the
⇒ page 77
function is activated/deactivated.
● The Lane centring guide is activated/deactivated in the Easy Connect
system using the CAR
button and the button on the Setup function
⇒ page 79.
Self-deactivation: The Lane Assist system can be automatically deactivated
if there is a system malfunction. The control lamp disappears.
Hands-Off Function
● If the driver does not exert any physical action on the steering wheel for
about 10 to 12 sec. the function deactivates.
● Visual and audible warnings on the instrument panel.
● The function switches off 2 seconds after the warning.
The Lane Assist system is active but it is not available (the control lamp is
lit up yellow)
● When driving at speeds below 65 km/h (38 mph).
● When the Lane Assist system does not detect the dividing lines of the
road. For example, in the event warnings indicating road works, and snow,
dirt, moisture or reflections.
● When the radius of a curve is too small.
● When no road markings can be seen.
● When the distance to the next marking to too great.
● When the system does not detect any clear and active steering move-
ment during a long period of time.
● Temporarily, in the event of very dynamic driving styles.
● If a turn signal is activated.
● With the stability control system ESC in Sport mode.
Note
● Before starting a journey, verify that the field of vision of the camera is
not covered ⇒ Fig. 99.
● Always keep the field of vision of the camera clean. 
Switching off the Lane Assist system in the following
situations
Due to the limits of the Lane Assist system, switch it off in the following sit-
uations:
● When more attention is required of the driver
● When driving in a sporty style
● In unfavourable weather conditions
● On roads in poor condition
● In areas of road works
Note
The Lane Assist system deactivates when driving below 60 km/h (40 mph). 
SEAT Drive Modes* Introduction
SEAT Drive Mode enables the driver to choose between four profiles or
modes, normal, sport, eco and individual , that modify the behaviour of vari-
ous vehicle functions, providing different driving experiences. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

172Driver assistance systems
The profiles, normal, sport and eco are fixed. Individual can be configured
according to personal preferences. 
Description
Depending on the equipment fitted in the vehicle, SEAT Drive Mode can op-
erate on the following functions:
Engine
Depending on the profile selected, the engine responds more spontaneous-
ly or more in harmony with the movements of the accelerator. Additionally,
when eco mode is selected, the Start-stop function is automatically activa-
ted.
In vehicles with DQ transmission, the gear change points are modified to
position them in lower engine speed ranges ( eco) or higher (sport). Addi-
tionally, eco mode activates the Inertia function, enabling the consumption
to be further reduced.
In manual vehicles, eco mode causes the gear recommendation indications
that appear on the instrument panel to vary, facilitating more efficient driv-
ing.
Steering
Power steering becomes more robust in sport mode to enable a more sporty
driving style.
Air conditioning
In vehicles with Climatronic, this can operate in eco mode, especially re-
stricting fuel consumption.
Ambient lighting
The ambient lighting guides located in the interior front door panels of the
Leon FR change colour from white to red when sport mode is activated. Setting driving mode
You can select from Normal, Sport, Eco and Individual.
Fig. 100 Centre console:
MODE button
The required mode can be selected on the touch screen, in the menu that
opens when the MODE button is pressed.
An icon on the Easy Connect system display informs about the active mode.
The MODE button light remains lit up yellow when the active mode is differ- ent to normal.
Driving pro-
fileCharacteristics
NormalOffers a balanced driving experience, suitable for everyday
use.
SportProvides a complete dynamic performance in the vehicle, en-
abling the user a more sporty driving style. 

173
Driver assistance systems
Driving pro-
fileCharacteristics
EcoPlaces the vehicle in a particularly low state of consumption,
facilitating a fuel-saving driving style that is respectful to the
environment.
IndividualEnables some configurations to be modified by pressing the
Profile settings button. The functions that can be adjusted
depend on the equipment fitted in the vehicle.
WARNING
When operating SEAT Drive Mode, pay attention to all traffic. Doing oth-
erwise could cause an accident.
Note
● The vehicle will start in the mode that was selected at the moment it was
switched off.
● Changing modes can alter vehicle handling. The SEAT Drive Mode func-
tion does not allow configurations that compromise safety under any cir-
cumstances.
● Your speed and driving style must always be adjusted to visibility,
weather, and traffic conditions.
● The eco mode is not available when towing a trailer. Tiredness detection (break
recommendation)*
Introduction
The Tiredness detection informs the driver when their driving behaviour
shows signs of fatigue.
Additional information and warnings:
● Easy Connect system ⇒ page 79
● Accessories, change a part, repairs and adjustments (information stored
in the control units) ⇒ page 230
WARNING
Do not let the comfort afforded by the Tiredness detection system tempt
you into taking any risks when driving. Take regular breaks, sufficient in
length when making long journeys.
● The driver always assumes the responsibility of driving to their full
capacity.
● Never drive if you are tired.
● The system does not detect the tiredness of the driver in all circum-
stances. Consult the information in the section ⇒ page 174, System limi-
tations.
● In some situations the system may incorrectly interpret an intended
driving manoeuvre as driver tiredness.
● No warning is given in the event of the effect called microsleep!
● Please observe the indications on the instrument panel and act as is
necessary. 
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176Driver assistance systems
Several warning and control lamps light up for a few seconds when the igni-
tion is switched on while the function is verified. They will switch off after a
few seconds.
WARNING
When the tyres are inflated at different pressures or at a pressure that is
too low then a tyre may the damaged resulting in a loss of control of the
vehicle and a serious or fatal accident.
● If the warning lamp  lights up, stop immediately and check the
tyres.
● If the tyres are inflated at different pressures or if a tyre pressure is
too low, this will increase tyre wear, negatively affecting vehicle stability
and increasing braking distances.
● If tyres are inflated at different pressures or a tyre pressure is too low,
a tyre may be damaged and burst resulting in a loss of control of the ve-
hicle.
● The driver is responsible for ensuring that all of the vehicle tyres are
correctly inflated to the right pressure. The recommended tyre pressure
is indicated on the label ⇒ page 266.
● The tyre monitoring system can only operate correctly if all of the
tyres are inflated to the correct pressure when cold.
● Driving with tyres at the wrong pressure can cause them damage and
result in an accident. Ensure that the tyre pressures of all the tyres corre-
spond to the vehicle load.
● Before starting a journey, always inflate tyres to the correct pressure.
● Tyres with insufficient pressure are subjected to more flexing. Due to
this, the tyre could become excessively hot, causing tread separation
and also tyre blow-out.
● With an overloaded vehicle at high speed, the tyres can overheat and
burst resulting in a loss of vehicle control.
WARNING (Continued)
● Tyre pressures which are too high or too low reduce the useful life of
the tyre, affecting vehicle performance.
● If a tyre has not been punctured then it does not have to be changed
immediately; drive to the nearest specialised workshop at a moderate
speed and have the tyre checked and inflated to the correct pressure.
WARNING
If the warning lamps and messages are ignored, the vehicle may stall in
traffic, or may cause accidents and severe injuries.
● Never ignore the warning lamps or text messages.
● Stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible.
CAUTION
Failure to heed the control lamps and text messages when they appear may
result in faults in the vehicle.
Note
● If excessively low tyre pressure is detected with the ignition on, an audi-
ble warning will sound. In the event that there is a fault in the system, an
audible warning will sound.
● Driving on dirt tracks for a long period of time or driving in a sporty style
can temporarily deactivate the TPMS. The control lamp shows a fault, but
disappears when road conditions or the driving style change. 

184Intelligent technology
Multi-collision brake
In an accident, the multi-collision brake can help the driver by braking to
avoid the risk of skidding during the accident, which could lead to further
collisions.
The multi-collision brake works for front, side or rear accidents, when the
airbag control unit records its activation level and the accident takes place
at a speed of over 10 km/h (6 mph). The EI ESC automatically brakes the
vehicle, as long as the accident has not damaged the ESC, the brake hy-
draulics or the on-board network.
The following actions control automatic braking during the accident:
● When the driver presses the accelerator. The automatic braking does not
take place.
● When the braking pressure through pressing the brake pedal is greater
than the system’s braking pressure. The vehicle will brake manually.
● Multi-collision braking will not be available if ESC is malfunctioning.
WARNING
● Nor can the ESC, ABS, ASR, EDL, electronic self-locking differential or
selective torque control systems exceed the limits imposed by the laws
of physics. Always bear this in mind, especially on wet or slippery roads.
If you notice the systems cutting in, you should reduce your speed imme-
diately to suit the road and traffic conditions. Do not be encouraged to
take risks by the presence of more safety systems. If you do, an accident
may occur.
● Please remember that the accident risk always increases if you drive
fast, especially in corners or on a slippery road, or if you follow too close
behind the vehicle in front of you. The ESC, ABS, brake assist, EDL, elec-
tronic self-locking and selective torque control systems cannot prevent
accidents: risk of accidents!
● Accelerate with caution on slippery surfaces (for example, icy or
snow-covered). Despite the control systems, the driven wheels could
spin, affecting the stability of the vehicle: risk of accident!
Note
● The ABS and ASR will only operate correctly if the four wheels have iden-
tical tyres. Any differences in the rolling radius of the tyres can cause the
system to reduce engine power when this is not desired.
● The regulating processes of the systems can make noises when they in-
tervene.
● If the warning lamp  lights up, or  alternatively, there could be a
fault ⇒ page 69. 
Switching on/off the ESC and ASR
The ESC is switched on automatically when the engine is
started. The ESC cannot be deactivated. ESC in "Sport" mode
Sport mode is activated through the Easy Connect system ⇒ page 79 menu.
The ability of the ESC to stabilise the vehicle is limited; the traction control
system (ASR) becomes disabled ⇒ 
.
The control lamp  will light up. For vehicles with a driver information sys-
tem*, the driver will be shown the electronic stability control (ESC) option:
sport. Warning! Limited stability .
In the following exceptional circumstances enabling the ESC Sport mode to
improve the traction of the wheels is tenable:
● when rocking the vehicle backwards and forwards to free it.
● Driving in deep snow or on loose surfaces.
Disable ESC Sport mode
Through the Easy Connect system ⇒ page 79. The warning lamp  will
switch off. For vehicles with a driver information system*, the driver will be
shown the electronic stability control (ESC) option: on .

189
Intelligent technology
Information recorded in the control units
Your vehicle is fitted at the factory with a series of electronic control units
responsible for the engine and gearbox management. In addition, the con-
trol units supervise the correct performance of the exhaust gas system and
the airbag systems.
Therefore, while the vehicle is being driven, these electronic control units
are continuously analysing the vehicle data. In the event of faults or devia-
tions from the theoretical values, only this data is stored. Generally, the in-
strument panel warning lamps indicate whether there are any malfunctions.
This data can only be read and analysed using special equipment.
The storing of the data allows specialised workshops to detect and repair
faults. Stored data may include:
● Important data about the engine and gearbox
● Speed
● Direction of travel
● Braking force
● Seat belt check
The vehicle control units never record conversations held by passengers in
the vehicle.
If the control unit records an accident with airbag activation, the system
may automatically send a signal. This will depend on the network operator.
Normally, transmission is only possible in areas with sufficient coverage.
Event Data Recorder
The vehicle is not fitted with an event data recorder.
An event data recorder temporarily stores the vehicle information. There-
fore, in the event of accident, it is possible to obtain detailed information
about how the accident occurred. For example, in vehicles with airbag sys-
tems, data relating to speed of impact, seat belt status, seat positions and airbag activation times may be stored. The volume of data depends on the
manufacturer.
Event data recorders can only be mounted with authorisation from the vehi-
cle owner and, in some countries, they are governed by local legislation.
Reprogramming control units
On the whole, all the data required for the component management is stor-
ed in the control units. The programming of certain convenience functions,
such as the turn signal convenience mode, individual door opening and dis-
play indications can be modified using special equipment at the workshop.
If the convenience functions are reprogrammed, the Instruction Manual in-
formation and descriptions will not coincide with the modified functions.
Therefore, SEAT recommends that any changes are recorded in the “Other
workshop notes section” of the Service Plan.
You can find out about possible reprogramming at your SEAT Official Serv-
ice.
Event recorder
In the footwell on the driver side you will find the diagnostics connection
socket for reading the event recorder. The event recorder stores operating
data and data on the status of the electronic control units. The events re-
corder should only be read and deleted by a SEAT Official Service or special-
ised workshop.
WARNING
The diagnostics connection socket must not be used for private purpo-
ses. Improper use can cause malfunctions: risk of accident!

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191
Driving and the environment
Never drive until the tank is empty; an irregular supply of fuel can cause
faulty combustion. In these cases, unburned fuel reaches the exhaust sys-
tem, which can overheat and damage the catalytic converter.
Diesel particulate filter
Applies to vehicles with diesel engine: The diesel particulate filter can filter
out almost all soot particles contained in the exhaust gas. In normal driving
conditions the filter is self-cleaning. The Diesel particulate filter is cleaned
automatically without need for indication by the warning lamp . This may
be noticed because the engine idle speed increases and an odour may be
detected.
If automatic filter purification cannot be carried out (because only short
trips are taken, for example), soot will accumulate on the filter and the Die-
sel particulate filter warning lamp will  switch on.
Facilitate the automatic filter cleaning process by driving in the following
manner: Drive for approximately 15 minutes at a minimum speed of 60 km/
h (40 mph) in 4th or 5th gear (automatic gearbox: gear S). Maintain the en-
gine speed at approx. 2000 rpm. The rise in temperature causes the soot on
the filter to burn. On completion of the cleaning the warning lamp will
switch off. If the warning lamp does switch off, go immediately to a special-
ised workshop to rectify the problem.
WARNING
● Because of the high temperatures which can occur in the exhaust gas
control system (catalytic converter or diesel particulate filter), do not
park the vehicle where the exhaust can come into contact with flamma-
ble materials under the car (e.g. on grass or at the forest edge). Fire haz-
ard!
● Do not apply wax underneath the vehicle around the area of the ex-
haust system: Fire hazard!
 Economic and ecological driving
Fuel consumption, environmental pollution and wear to the engine, brakes
and tyres depends largely on driving style. Fuel consumption can be re-
duced by 10-15% with an economical driving style and proper anticipation
of traffic conditions. The following section gives you some tips on lessening
the impact on the environment and reducing your operating costs at the
same time.
Foresight when driving
Acceleration causes the vehicle to consume more fuel. If you think ahead
when driving, you will need to brake less and thus accelerate less. Wherever
possible, let the car roll slowly to a stop, with a
gear engaged (for instance
when you can see that the next traffic lights are red). This takes advantage
of the engine braking effect, reducing wear on the brakes and tyres. Emis-
sions and fuel consumption will drop to zero due to the overrun fuel cut-off.
Changing gear to save energy
An effective way of saving is to change in advance to a higher gear. Running
the engine at high rpm in the lower gears uses an unnecessary amount of
fuel.
Manual gearbox : shift up from first to second gear as soon as possible. In
any case, we recommend that you change to a higher gear upon reaching
2000 rpm or so. Choosing the right gear enables fuel savings. Select the
highest possible gear appropriate for the driving situation (the engine
should continue functioning with cyclical regularity).
Automatic gearbox : accelerate gradually and without reaching the “kick-
down” position.
Avoid driving at high speed
Avoid travelling at top speed, whenever possible. Fuel consumption, emis-
sion of harmful gases and noise pollution multiply disproportionately as
speed is increased. Driving at moderate speeds will help to save fuel. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications