2012 Seat Leon 5D instrument panel

86Opening and closing
Opening and closing
Central locking system
Description
The vehicle can be locked and unlocked via the central locking system.
There are several methods, depending on the vehicle equipment:
● key with remote control ⇒ page 91,
● lock on driver door (emergency opening ⇒ page 97) or
● interior central locking switch ⇒ page 93.
Unlocking one side of the vehicle only
When you lock the vehicle with the key, the doors and the rear lid are
locked. When you open the door, you can either unlock only the driver door,
or all the vehicle doors. To select the required option, use Easy Connect*
⇒ page 92.
Central locking (Auto Lock)
The Auto Lock function locks the doors and the rear lid when the vehicle ex-
ceeds a speed of about 15 km/h (10 mph).
The vehicle is unlocked again when the ignition key is removed. Alternative-
ly, the vehicle can also be unlocked via the central locking switch or by pull-
ing one of the inside door handles. The Auto Lock function can be switched
on and off on the sound system or on the Easy Connect* system
⇒ page 92.
In the event of an accident in which the airbags inflate, the doors will be au-
tomatically unlocked to facilitate access and assistance. Anti-theft security system (Safelock)
1)
The following message is displayed on the instrument panel to remind the
driver that when the vehicle is closed from the outside, the anti-theft securi-
ty system is switched on.  Do not forget the Safelock. Please see Instruction
Manual. The vehicle cannot be opened from inside. This makes it more diffi-
cult for unauthorised persons to break into the vehicle ⇒ .
The anti-theft security system can be switched off each time the vehicle is
locked:
● Turn the key a second time to the lock position, in the door lock, for the
next two seconds . If necessary, remove the protective cover on the driver
door handle ⇒ page 97. or
● Press 
on the remote control key for a second time
for the following 2
seconds.
The flashing frequency of the diode in the door sill immediately confirms
the process. Initially, the diode flashes in a fast sequence for a brief period,
then it stops for approximately 30 seconds and, lastly continues flashing
slowly.
Anti-theft alarm system*
If the anti-theft alarm system senses interference with the vehicle it triggers
an audible and visible alarm.
The anti-theft alarm system is automatically switched on when locking the
vehicle. It switches off when the vehicle is unlocked from a distance.
When the driver door is unlocked with the key, you should switch on the ig-
nition within 15 seconds. Otherwise the alarm will be triggered. On some
export versions, the alarm is triggered immediately when you open a door. 
1)
The availability of this function depends on the vehicle equipment.

98Opening and closing
A mechanical locking device (only visible when the door is open) is
provided on the front passenger door.
–Pull the cap out of the opening.
– Insert the key in the inside slot and turn it to the right as far as
it will go (if the door is on the right side) or to the left (if the
door is on the left side).
Once the door has been closed it can no longer be opened from the outside.
Pull the interior door handle once to unlock and open the door. 
Rear lid (luggage compartment)
Rear lid
The rear lid opening system operates electrically. It is activa-
ted by using the handle on the rear lid.
Fig. 54 Rear lid: opening
from the outside Opening the rear lid
–
Pull on the release lever and lift the rear lid ⇒ Fig. 54. The rear
lid will automatically open.
Closing the rear lid
– Hold the rear lid by one of the two handles on the interior lining
and close it, pushing slightly.
To lock/unlock, press the button 
or the button
1 on the remote control
key.
A warning appears on the instrument panel display if the rear lid is open or
not properly closed.* An audible warning is also given if the rear lid is
opened while the vehicle is moving faster than 6 km/h (4 mph).*
WARNING
● Always close the rear lid properly. Risk of accident or injury.
● The rear lid must not be opened when the reverse or rear fog lights
are lit. This may damage the tail lights
● Do not close the rear lid by pushing it down with your hand on the
rear window. The glass could smash. Risk of injury!
● Ensure the rear lid is locked after closing it. If not, it may open unex-
pectedly while driving.
● Never allow children to play in or around the vehicle. A locked vehicle
can be subjected to extremely high and low temperatures, depending on
the time of year, thus causing serious injuries/illness. It could even have
fatal consequences. Close and lock both the rear lid and all the other
doors when you are not using the vehicle.
● Closing the rear lid without observing and ensuring it is clear could
cause serious injury to you and to third parties. Make sure that no one is
in the path of the rear lid. 

107
Lights and visibility
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.
● Park the vehicle at a suitable distance away from the traffic ensuring
that the exhaust system is not in contact with inflammable material, for
example, dry grass, fuel, oil, etc.
● A faulty vehicle represents a risk of accident for the driver and for oth-
er road users. If necessary, switch on the hazard warning lamps and put
out the warning triangle to advise other drivers.
CAUTION
Failure to heed the control lamps and text messages when they appear may
result in faults in the vehicle. 
Turn signal and main beam lever*
Fig. 59 Turn signal and
main beam lever
Move the lever to the required position: Right turn signal. Right-hand parking light (ignition switched off)
⇒ page 109.
Left turn signal. Left-hand parking light (ignition switched off)
⇒ page 109.
Main beam switched on ⇒ 
. The control lamp
 will light up on the
instrument panel.
Flashing the headlights. The flashed beam comes on if the lever is
pressed. The control lamp  will light up.
Push the lever all the way down to turn off the corresponding function.
Convenience turn signals
For the convenience turn signals, move the lever as far as possible upwards
or downwards and release the lever. The turn signal will flash three times.
The convenience turn signals are activated and deactivated in the Easy Con-
nect system via the 
key and the Setup function button ⇒ page 79.
In vehicles that do not have the corresponding menu, this function can be
deactivated in a specialised workshop.
WARNING
Improper or lack of use of the turn signals, or forgetting to deactivate
them can confuse other road users. This could result in a serious acci-
dent.
● Always give warning when you are going to change lane, overtake or
when turning, activating the turn signal in good time.
● As soon as you have finished changing lane, overtaking or turning,
switch the turn signal off.
WARNING
Incorrect use of the headlights may cause accidents and serious injury,
as the main beam may distract or dazzle other drivers. 
1
2
3
4
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

108Lights and visibility
Note
● The turn signal only works when the ignition is switched on. The hazard
warning lights also work when the ignition is switched off.
● If a trailer turn signal malfunctions, the control lamp will stop flashing
(trailer turn signals) and the vehicle turn signal will flash at double speed.
● The main beam headlights can only be switched on if the dipped beam
headlights are already on. 
Turning lights on and off
Fig. 60 Dash panel:
Light switch
The legal requirements regarding the use of vehicle lights in each country
must be observed.
Turn the light switch to the required position ⇒ Fig. 60:
Symbolif the ignition is switched offwhen the ignition is on
Fog lights, dipped beam and
side lights off.Light off, or daytime driving light
on.

The “Coming home” and
“Leaving home” guide lights
may be switched on.Automatic control of dipped
beam and daytime driving light.
Symbolif the ignition is switched offwhen the ignition is on
Side light on.Side light on.

Dipped beam off; if necessa-
ry, the side light comes on for
a time.Dipped beam switched on.
Fog lights
The control lamps
 or  also show, on the light switch or instrument pan-
el, when the fog lights are on.
● Switching on the fog lights : pull the light switch to the first stop, from
positions ,  or .
● Switching on the rear fog light : pull the light switch completely from
position ,  or .
● To switch off the fog lights, press the light switch or turn it to position .
Audible warnings to advise the driver that the lights have not been
switched off
If the key is not in the ignition and the driver door is open, an audible warn-
ing signal is heard in the following cases: This is a reminder to turn off the
lights.
● When the parking light is on ⇒ page 107.
● When the light switch is in position  or .
WARNING
The side lights or daytime driving lights are not bright enough to illumi-
nate the road ahead and to ensure that other road users are able to see
you.
● Always use your dipped beam head lights if it is raining or if visibility
is poor.


109
Lights and visibility
Lights and visibility: functions
Parking light
When the parking light is switched on, (right or left turn signal), the front
side light and the rear light on the corresponding side of the vehicle stay lit.
The parking lights can only be activated with the ignition switched off and
the turn signal and main beam lever in the central position, before being
triggered.
Parking light on both sides
With the ignition switched off and the light switch in position , when lock-
ing the vehicle from the outside, the parking lights on both sides of the ve-
hicle light up. In doing so, only the side lights of both headlights light up,
and additionally the tail lights will do so partially.
Daytime driving light*
The daytime driving lights consist of individual lights, integrated in the front
headlights. With the daylight driving lights on, only these lights switch on
⇒ 
.
The daytime driving lights switch on every time the ignition is switched on,
if the switch is in positions  or , according to the level of exterior light-
ing.
When the light switch is in position , a light sensor automatically
switches dipped beam on and off (including the control and instrument
lighting) or the daytime driving lights depending on the level of exterior
lighting.
Automatic dipped beam control 
The automatic dipped beam control is merely intended as an aid and is not
able to recognise all driving situations. When the light switch is in position 
, the vehicle lights and the instru-
ment panel and switch lighting switch on and off automatically in the fol-
lowing situations ⇒ 
:
Automatic switching on:Automatic switching off:The photo sensor detects darkness,
for example, when driving through a
tunnel.When adequate lighting is detected.
The rain sensor detects rain and ac-
tivates the windscreen wipers.When the windscreen wipers have
been inactive for a few minutes.
Cornering lights* 1)
When turning slowly or on very tight bends, the cornering lights are activa-
ted automatically. The cornering lights may be integrated in the fog lights
and are switched on only at speeds of less than 40 km/h (25 mph).
When reverse gear is engaged, the cornering lights on both sides of the ve-
hicle switch on, in order to better illuminate the area for parking.
Motorway lights*
The motorway lights are available on vehicles equipped both with full-LED
lights and headlights that switch on automatically.
● They are activated when the light switch is in position .
● They are deactivated when the light switch is not in position .
When going above 110 km/h (75 mph) for more than 30 seconds, the dip-
ped beam raises slightly to increase the distance of visibility of the driver.
When reducing the speed of the car below 100 km/h (60 mph), the dipped
beam returns to its normal position. 
1)
This function is not available on vehicles equipped with full-LED headlights.
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

112Lights and visibility
Switching the main beam assist on and off
FunctionAction
Activate: 
– Switch the ignition on and turn the light switch to position
.
– From the base position, move the main beam and turn signal
lever forwards ⇒ page 107. When the warning lamp  is dis-
played on the instrument panel display, the main beam assist is
switched on.
Deacti- vate:
– Switch off the ignition.
– OR: Turn the light switch to a different position to 
⇒ page 108.
– OR: with main beam on, move the main beam and turn signal
lever backwards.
– OR: Move the main beam and turn signal lever forwards to
manually switch main beam on. The main beam assist will then
be deactivated.
Malfunctions
The following conditions may prevent the main beam headlight control from
turning off the headlights in time or from turning off altogether:
● In poorly lit towns with highly reflective signs.
● Other insufficiently lit road users (such as pedestrians or cyclists).
● On tight bends and steep slopes (bumps) and when oncoming vehicles
are partially obscured.
● When the drivers of other oncoming vehicles (such as a truck) can see
over a guard rail in the centre of the road.
● If the camera is damaged or the power supply is cut off.
● In fog, snow and heavy rain.
● With dust and sand turbulence.
● With loose gravel in the field of vision of the camera.
● When the field of vision of the camera is misted up, dirty or covered by
stickers, snow, ice...
WARNING
The convenience features of the main beam assist should not encourage
the taking of risks. The system is not a replacement for driver concentra-
tion.
● You are always in control of the main beam and adapting it to the
light, visibility and traffic conditions.
● It is possible that the main beam headlight control does not recog-
nise all driving situations and is limited under certain circumstances.
● When the field of vision of the camera is dirty, covered or damaged,
operation of the main beam control may be affected. This also applies
when changes are made to the vehicle lighting system, for example, if
additional headlights are installed.
CAUTION
To avoid affecting the operation of the system, take the following points in-
to consideration:
● Clean the field of vision of the camera regularly and make sure it is free
of snow and ice.
● Do not cover the field of vision of the camera.
● Check that the windscreen is not damaged in the area of the field of vi-
sion of the camera.
Note
Main beam and headlight flasher can be turned on and off manually at any
time with the turn signal and main beam lever ⇒ page 107. 
Adjusting the headlights
The light beam of the dipped beam lights is asymmetric: the side of the
road on which you are driving is lit more intensely. 

114Lights and visibility
Headlight range control, lighting of the instrument panel
and controls
Fig. 62 Next to the
steering wheel: Head-
light range control
Lighting of the instrument panel and controls*
Depending on the model, lighting of the instrument panel and controls can
be adjusted in the Easy Connect system, using the button 
and the func-
tion button SETUP ⇒ page 81.
Headlight range control
The headlight range control ⇒ Fig. 62 is modified according to the value of
the headlight beam and the vehicle load status. This offers the driver opti-
mum visibility and the headlights do not dazzle oncoming drivers ⇒ 
.
The headlights can only be adjusted when the dipped beam is switched on.
To reset, turn switch ⇒ Fig. 62:
ValueVehicle load status a)–Two front occupants, luggage compartment empty1All seats occupied, luggage compartment empty
ValueVehicle load statusa)
2All seats occupied, luggage compartment full With trailer
and minimum drawbar load
3Driver only, luggage compartment full With trailer and
maximum drawbar load
a)
If the vehicle load does not correspond to those shown in the table, it is possible to select
intermediary positions.
Dynamic headlight range control
The control is not mounted in vehicles with dynamic headlight range con-
trol. The headlight range is automatically adjusted according to the vehicle
load status when the headlights are switched on.
Instrument panel lighting
In vehicles with the daytime driving light, the instrument panel lighting
switches on in dark conditions (for example, when passing through a tun-
nel). This reminds the driver to manually switch on the dipped beam, so
that the vehicle rear lights also switch on ⇒ page 109.
WARNING
Heavy objects in the vehicle may mean that the headlights dazzle and
distract other drivers. This could result in a serious accident.
● Adjust the light beam to the vehicle load status so that it does not
blind other drivers.


145
Driving
Start-Stop System*
If the vehicle is stopped and the Start-Stop system* switches off the engine,
the ignition remains switched on.
Automatic gearbox: Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the ignition
is switched off and the selector lever is in position P.
Driver messages on the instrument panel display
Press the clutch This message appears on vehicles with a manual gearbox if the driver tries
to start the engine without having the clutch pedal pressed. The engine will
only start if you press the clutch pedal.
Press the brake
This message appears on vehicles with an automatic gearbox if the driver
tries to start the engine without having the brake pedal pressed.
Select N or P
This message appears if you try to start or stop the engine when the selec-
tor lever of the automatic gearbox is not in position P or N. The engine can
only start or stop in these positions.
Engage position P; the vehicle can move; doors can only close in position P. For safety reasons, this driver message appears and an audible warning
sounds if the selector lever of the automatic gearbox is not in position P af-
ter you switch off the ignition. Otherwise the vehicle could move.
Gear change: selector lever in the drive position! This driver message is displayed and a buzzer is sounded when the selector
lever is not in the position P when the driver door is opened. Put the selec-
tor lever in position P; otherwise the vehicle can roll away.
Ignition is switched onThis driver message is displayed and a buzzer is sounded when the driver
door is opened with the ignition switched on.
WARNING
● Never run the engine in confined spaces, as the exhaust gases are
poisonous.
● Never remove the key from the ignition if the vehicle is in motion.
Otherwise, the steering could suddenly lock, making it impossible to
steer the vehicle: risk of accident!
● Always take the key with you when you leave the vehicle. This is par-
ticularly important if there are children in the vehicle, as they might oth-
erwise be able to start the engine or use power-operated equipment (e.g.
the electric windows), which could cause injuries.
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 it with the car stationary. You should
drive off as soon as you start the engine. This will help avoid unnecessary
exhaust emissions.
Note
● If it is difficult to turn the ignition key to the position 1, turn the steer-
ing wheel to both sides to release the steering lock.
● When starting from cold, the engine may be a little noisy for the first few
seconds until oil pressure has built up in the hydraulic valve lifters. This is
quite normal, and no cause for concern.
● If the vehicle battery is disconnected and reconnected, the key must re-
main in the position 1
for around 5 seconds before starting up.
● 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). Next, the selector lever is locked. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications