2012 Seat Leon 5D ECO mode

194Trailer
Trailer
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 you wish to retrofit a towing bracket, consult ⇒ page 196.
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 Technical Service.
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 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 documentation or in ⇒ chap-
ter Technical 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 rear vision mirrors. If this is not the case, you should have addi-
tional exterior mirrors fitted. Both exterior mirrors should be mounted on
hinged extension brackets. Adjust the mirrors to give sufficient vision to the
rear.
WARNING
Never transport people in a trailer. This could result in fatal accidents. 

206Checking and refilling levels
Checking and refilling levels
Fuel
Types of petrol
The correct grade of petrol is listed inside the fuel tank flap.
The vehicle is equipped with a catalytic converter and must only be run on
unleaded petrol. The petrol must comply with European Standard EN 228 or
German standard DIN 51626-1 and must be unleaded. You can refuel with a
maximum ethanol proportion of 10 % (E10). The types of petrol are differen-
tiated by their octane rating (RON).
The following titles appear on the corresponding adhesive on the fuel tank
flap:
Super unleaded 95 octane or normal 91 octane unleaded petrol
We recommend you use super 95 octane petrol. If this is not available: nor-
mal 91 octane petrol, with a slight decrease in power.
Super unleaded petrol with a minimum of 95 octanes
You should use super petrol with a minimum of 95 octanes.
If super is not available, in an emergency you may refuel with normal 91 oc-
tane petrol. In this case only use moderate engine speeds and a light throt-
tle. Refuel with super as soon as possible.
Super unleaded 98 octane or super 95 octane unleaded petrol
We recommend you use super plus 98 octane petrol. If this is not available:
super 95 octane petrol, with a slight decrease in power.
If super is not available, in an emergency you may refuel with normal 91 oc-
tane petrol. In this case only use moderate engine speeds and a light throt-
tle. Refuel with super as soon as possible.
CAUTION
● Never refuel with fuels containing a large proportion of ethanol (for ex-
ample, E50, E85). This could damage the fuel system.
● Just filling one full tank of leaded fuel or fuel containing other metal ad-
ditives would seriously impair the efficiency of the catalytic converter.
● Only use fuel additives that have been approved by SEAT. Octane boost-
ing or anti-knock additives may contain metal additives that could seriously
damage the engine or the catalytic converter. These additives must not be
used.
● Do not refuel if the filler indicates that the fuel contains metal. LRP (lead
replacement petrol) fuels also contain high concentrations of metal addi-
tives. This could damage the engine!
● High engine speed and full throttle can damage the engine when using
petrol with an octane rating lower than the correct grade for the engine.
Note
● You may use petrol with a high octane number than the one recommen-
ded for your engine.
● In those countries where unleaded petrol is not available, you may refuel
with a fuel with a low lead content. 

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

223
Wheels and tyres
Wheels and tyres
Wheels
General notes
– When driving with new tyres, be especially careful during the
first 500 km (300 miles).
– If you have to drive over a kerb or similar obstacle, drive very
slowly and as near as possible at a right angle to the obstacle.
– Check from time to time if the tyres are damaged (punctures,
cuts, cracks or dents). Remove any foreign objects embedded in
the treads.
– Damaged wheels and tyres must be replaced immediately.
– Keep grease, oil and fuel off the tyres.
– Replace any missing valve caps as soon as possible.
– Mark the wheels before taking them off so that they rotate in
the same direction when put back.
– When removed, the wheels or tyres should be stored in a cool,
dry and preferably dark place.
New tyres
New tyres do not give maximum grip straight away and should therefore be
“run in” by driving carefully and at moderate speeds for about the first 500
km (300 miles). This will also increase the useful life of the tyres. The tread depth of new tyres may
vary, according to the type and make of
tyre and the tread pattern.
Concealed damage
Damage to tyres and rims is often not readily visible. If you notice unusual
vibration or the car pulling to one side, this may indicate that one of the
tyres is damaged. Reduce speed immediately if there is any reason to sus-
pect that damage may have occurred. Inspect the tyres for damage. If no ex-
ternal damage is visible, drive slowly and carefully to the nearest special-
ised workshop and have the car inspected.
Tyres with directional tread pattern
An arrow on the tyre sidewall indicates the direction of rotation on single
drive tyres. Always note the direction of rotation indicated when mounting
the wheel. This guarantees optimum grip and helps to avoid aquaplaning,
excessive noise and wear.
Retrofitting Accessories
If you wish to change or fit wheels, rims or wheel trims, we recommend that
you consult with a SEAT Official Service centre for advice regarding current
techniques. 
Useful life of tyres
Correct inflation pressures and sensible driving habits will
increase the useful life of your tyres.
– Check tyre pressure at least once a month, and also prior to any
long trip. 
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

Emergency locking and unlocking . . . . . . . . . . 96
EngineAssisted starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241
Preheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
Start-Stop system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Starting up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
Starting up (driver messages with the me-chanical contact) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
Switching off (engine) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
Engine compartment Closing the bonnet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
Opening the bonnet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
Safety notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209
Engine coolant G 12 plus-plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
G 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211 Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
Checking oil level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Engine oil dipstick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Inspection service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Longlife inspection service . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Oil properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Replace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Service intervals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Temperature display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Topping up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
Environment Ecological driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
Environmental friendliness . . . . . . . . . . . . 192 Environmental tip
Leaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
Environmental tips Filling the tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207, 208
Environment warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
ESC Electronic stability control . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
Mode Sport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184
Multi-collision brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184
ESC Sport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 184
Ethanol (fuel) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206
Exhaust tail pipe: Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
extending the rear lid locking time see rear lid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Exterior anti-dazzle rear vision mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Exterior lighting Changing a bulb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 252
Exterior mirrors Adjust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
heated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
F
Fastening rings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18, 133
Fault in the gearbox (warning lamp) . . . . . . . . 162
Fault memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
Faults Panoramic sliding sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Faults in the gearbox (warning lamps) . . . . . . 162 Faulty bulbs
Changing a bulb . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 252
Filling the tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207 Fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Opening the fuel tank cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
Floor mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Fog light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Fold the seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Fold the back seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Front airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Safety notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Front armrest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206 Consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 264
Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
Ethanol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206
Fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Fuel consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 264
Full-LED headlights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 252
Fuses Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249
Provision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250
G
Gear-change indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Gearbox DSG see Automatic gearbox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154
Gear recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
280 Index

1.
2.
3.
4.
5. 6. 7.
SEAT S.A. is permanently concerned about continuous development of its t\
ypes and models. For this reason we ask you to under -
stand, that at any given time, changes regarding shape, equipment and te\
chnique may take place on the car delivered. For this reason
no right at all may derive based on the data, drawings and descriptions \
in this current handbook.
All texts, illustrations and standards in this handbook are based on the\
status of information at the time of printing. Except for error
or omission, the information included in the current handbook is valid a\
s of the date of closing print.
Re-printing, copying or translating, whether total or partial is not all\
owed unless SEAT allows it in written form.
SEAT reserves all rights in accordance with the “Copyright” Act.
All rights on changes are reserved.
❀This paper has been manufactured using bleached non-chlorine cellulose.
© SEAT S.A. - Reprint: 15.06.12
SEAT recommends Castrol
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