2013 Seat Exeo ST tow

Trailer towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
Trailer towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
Removable towing bracket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Vehicle maintenance and cleaning . . . . . . . . . 218
General notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218
Care of the vehicle exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
Vehicle interior maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224
Accessories, replacement of parts and
modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Accessories and spare parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Technical modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Mobile phones and two-way radios . . . . . . . . . . . 231
Athermic windscreen* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231
Checking and refilling levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
Refuelling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 232
Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 233
Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234
Bonnet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235
Engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237
Cooling system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 240
Washer fluid and windscreen wiper blades . . . . 243
Brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246
Vehicle battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 247
Wheels and tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 251
Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 251
If and when . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 261
Tools, tyre repair kit and spare wheel . . . . . . . . . 261
Changing a wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 264
Tyre repair* (Tyre-Mobility-System) . . . . . . . . . . . 268
Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 272
Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274
Changing bulbs. Halogen headlights . . . . . . . . . 275
Changing bulbs. Bi-Xenon AFS headlights . . . . . 281
Changing tail light bulbs (on side panel) . . . . . . 285
Changing tail light bulbs (on rear lid) . . . . . . . . . 290
Side turn signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 293 Luggage compartment lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 294
Registration light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 294
Sun visor light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 295
Jump-starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 295
Towing and tow-starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 299
Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . 302
Description of specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 302
Important information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 302
Information on fuel consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . 303
Towing a trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 305
Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 305
Technical specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 306
Engine specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 306
Dimensions and capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 314
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 315
4Table of Contents

17
Safe driving
– Distribute the load evenly in the luggage compartment.
– Place heavy objects as far forward as possible in the luggage
compartment.
– Place the heavy objects first.
– Secure heavy objects to the fitted fastening rings ⇒ page 17.
WARNING
● Loose luggage and other objects in the luggage compartment could
cause serious injuries.
● Always stow objects in the luggage compartment and secure them on
the fastening rings.
● Use suitable straps to secure heavy objects.
● During sudden manoeuvres or accidents, loose objects can be thrown
forward, injuring vehicle occupants or passers-by. This increased risk of
injury will be further increased if a loose object is struck by an inflating
airbag. If this happens, objects can be transformed into “missiles”. Risk
of fatal injury.
● Please note that the centre of gravity may shift when transporting
heavy objects; this may affect vehicle handling and lead to an accident.
Therefore, it is essential to adjust your speed and driving style accord-
ingly, to avoid accidents.
● Never exceed the allowed axle weights or allowed maximum weight.
If the allowed axle load or the allowed total weight is exceeded, the driv-
ing characteristics of the vehicle may change, leading to accidents, inju-
ries and damage to the vehicle.
● Never leave your vehicle unattended, especially when the rear lid is
open. Children could climb into the luggage compartment, closing the
door behind them; they will be trapped and run the risk of death.
WARNING (Continued)
● Never allow children to play in or around the vehicle. Close and lock
all the doors and rear lid when you leave the vehicle. Before you lock the
vehicle, make sure that there are no adults or children in the vehicle.
● Never transport passengers in the luggage compartment. All vehicle
occupants must have their seat belt fastened ⇒ page 19.
Note
● Air circulation in the vehicle helps reduce fogging of the windows. Used
air escapes through ventilation slits in the side trim of the luggage compart-
ment. Ensure that the ventilation slits are never covered.
● Straps for securing the load to the fastening rings are commercially
available. 
Fastening rings
There can be four fastening rings in the luggage compart-
ment for fastening luggage and other objects.
– Always use suitable and undamaged straps to secure luggage
and other objects to the fastening rings ⇒ 
in Loading the lug-
gage compartment on page 17.
– Pull up the fastening rings to attach the straps.
During a collision or an accident, even small and light objects can build up
so much energy that they can cause very severe injuries. The amount of ki-
netic energy depends on the speed of the vehicle and the weight of the ob-
ject. The most significant factor, however, is the speed of the vehicle.
Example: An object weighing 4.5 kg is lying unsecured in the vehicle. Dur-
ing a frontal collision at a speed of 50 km/h (30 mph), this object generates
a force corresponding to 20 times its weight. That means that the effective 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

23
Seat belts
WARNING
● If the seat belts are worn incorrectly or not at all, the risk of severe
injuries increases. The optimal protection from seat belts can be ach-
ieved only if you use them properly.
● Fasten your seat belt before every trip - even when driving in town.
The other vehicle occupants must also wear the seat belts at all times,
otherwise they run the risk of being injured.
● The seat belt cannot offer its full protection if the seat belt is not
positioned correctly.
● Never allow two passengers (even children) to share the same seat
belt.
● Always keep both feet in the footwell in front of your seat as long as
the vehicle is in motion.
● Never unbuckle a seat belt while the vehicle is in motion. Risk of fatal
injury.
● The seat belt must never be twisted while it is being worn.
● The seat belt should never lie on hard or fragile objects (such as
glasses or pens, etc.) because this can cause injuries.
● Do not allow the seat belt to be damaged or jammed, or to rub on any
sharp edges.
● Never wear the seat belt under the arm or in any other incorrect posi-
tion.
● Loose, bulky clothing (such as an overcoat over a jacket) impairs the
proper fit and function of the seat belts, reducing their capacity to pro-
tect.
● The slot in the seat belt buckle must not be blocked with paper or
other objects, as this can prevent the latch plate from engaging securely.
● Never use seat belt clips, fastening rings or similar instruments to al-
ter the position of the belt webbing.WARNING (Continued)
● Frayed or torn seat belts or damage to the connections, belt retrac-
tors or parts of the buckle could cause severe injuries in the event of an
accident. Therefore, you must check the condition of all seat belts at reg-
ular intervals.
● Seat belts which have been worn in an accident and stretched must
be replaced by a specialised workshop. Renewal may be necessary even
if there is no apparent damage. The belt anchorage should also be
checked.
● Do not attempt to repair a damaged seat belt yourself. The seat belts
must not be removed or modified in any way.
● The belts must be kept clean, otherwise the retractors may not work
properly ⇒ page 228.

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69
Cockpit
Tyre pressure warning lamp* 
The tyre pressure should be corrected as soon as possible if
it is too low.
Fig. 46 Display: system
fault
Fig. 47 Display: warning
message The yellow warning
 lamp remains on if the system is faulty or if
the pressure is too low in at least one tyre. In the event of a system
fault, the letters TPMS are displayed in the centre of the instrument
panel ⇒ Fig. 46. If the tyre pressure drops rapidly, message A
⇒ Fig. 47 will be shown on the central display of the instrument
panel. If the pressure loss is more gradual, message B ⇒ Fig. 47
will be shown on the central display of the instrument panel. This
message does not show the tyre affected. Should any of these
warnings be displayed:
– Stop the vehicle.
– Check the tyres. Although the warning corresponds to just one
tyre, you should also check the others.
– Correct the tyre pressure ⇒ page 252.
For more detailed information on the tyre pressure monitoring system,
please refer to ⇒ page 251. 
Cruise speed (Cruise control)* 
The control lamp  on the instrument panel lights up when the cruise con-
trol system is operating. 
Trailer turn signals* 
This turn signal lamp flashes when the turn signals are op-
erating while towing a caravan or trailer. The turn signal control lamp  flashes when the turn signals are operated if
a trailer is correctly coupled to the vehicle. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

70Cockpit
Where a turn signal bulb does not work, either on the trailer or on the tow-
ing vehicle, the turn signal bulb will not flash. 
Anti-lock brake system (ABS) 
The warning lamp monitors the ABS and the integrated elec-
tronic differential lock (EDL).
The control lamp  lights up for a few seconds when the ignition is switch-
ed on and while the engine is being started. The lamp goes out again after
the system has run through an automatic test sequence.
There is a fault in the ABS if:
● The warning lamp does not light up when the ignition is switched on
● The control lamp does not go out again after a few seconds.
● The control lamp lights up when the vehicle is moving.
The vehicle can still brake in the normal way (except that the ABS control
function is out of action). Please take the vehicle to a specialised workshop
as soon as possible. For further information on the ABS, see ⇒ page 197.
If a malfunction should occur in the ABS, the ESC warning lamp will also
light up.
Entire brake system fault
If the ABS warning lamp  lights up together with the brake warning lamp
 ⇒  page 73 (with the handbrake released), this indicates not only a
fault in the ABS function, but probably also a malfunction in the main brake
system ⇒ 
.
The symbol  will light up on the instrument panel if there if a fault in the
brake system. Please refer to ⇒ page 80. Electronic differential lock (EDL) fault
The EDL works in conjunction with the ABS. The ABS control lamp will light
up  to indicate an EDL fault. Please take the vehicle to a specialised work-
shop as soon as possible. For further information on the EDL, see
⇒ page 198.
WARNING
● Before opening the bonnet and checking the brake fluid level, ob-
serve the warning information in ⇒ page 235, Work in the engine com-
partment.
● If the brake warning lamp  should light up together with the ABS
warning lamp , stop the vehicle immediately and check the brake fluid
level in the reservoir. If the fluid level has dropped below the "MIN" mark
you must not drive on, as there is a risk of accident. Obtain technical as-
sistance.
● If the brake fluid level is correct, the fault in the brake system may
have been caused by a fault in the ABS control function. As a result, the
rear wheels can lock relatively easily when braking. Under certain cir-
cumstances, the rear of the vehicle could suddenly sway from side to
side, with the subsequent danger of skidding. Drive carefully to the near-
est specialised workshop and have the fault repaired.

Seat belt warning lamp* 
The warning lamp acts as a reminder to the driver to fasten
the seat belt. After switching on the ignition, the warning lamp  will remain lit until the
driver and front passenger (if applicable) have fastened their seat belts.
When the vehicle has reached a certain speed, you will also hear a warning
signal and the warning light will flash.
For further information on the seat belts, see ⇒ page 24.

71
Cockpit
Turn signals and hazard warning lights  
Depending on which turn signal is operated, either the left  or right  turn
signal lamp flashes. Both turn signal lamps will flash when the hazard warn-
ing lights are switched on.
If a turn signal fails, the indicator lamp will start flashing twice as fast as
normal.
This does not apply when towing a trailer. Where a turn signal bulb does not
work, either on the trailer or on the towing vehicle, the turn signal bulb will
not flash. For further information on the turn signals, see ⇒ page 124.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)*  / 
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. This also includes the
brake assistance system (BAS), automatic cleaning of the brake discs and
the trailer stability programme (TSP).
The warning lamp  has the following functions:
● It flashes whilst driving when the ASR/ESC is activated.
● It will light up continuously if there is a fault in the ESC.
● As the ESC operates in conjunction with the ABS, it will also light up if a
fault should occur in the ABS. If the ESC control lamp
 lights up and stays on after the engine is started,
this may mean that the control system has temporarily switched off the ESC.
In this case the ESC can be reactivated by switching the ignition off and
then on again. If the control 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 is disconnected when pressing the  switch.
Traction control system (ASR)*  / 
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 is working if the vehicle is moving.
If the system is deactivated or if it has any fault, the warning lamp will re-
main lit. The warning lamp will also light up if a fault should occur in the
ABS because the ASR operates in conjunction with the ABS. For further in-
formation, see ⇒  page 196.
The  lamp provides information about the disconnection status of the
system:
● It stays lit when the ASR is disconnected when pressing the ASR OFF
switch.
By pressing it again, the ASR function is reactivated and the warning lamp
switched off. 
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83
Cockpit
Yellow symbols are used to indicate a Priority 2 fault (warning).
Yellow symbols are accompanied by one warning buzzer. The function indi-
cated should be checked as soon as possible. If several Priority 2 faults are
detected at the same time, the symbols are displayed one after the other for
about 2 seconds at a time. 
Brake light failure 
This warning light will appear on the upper part of the display if any of the
brake lights has failed. A text message in the central part of the display indi-
cates which brake light has failed (left or right). 
Fuel level low 
When this symbol  comes on for the first time, there are about 8 to 10 li-
tres of fuel left in the tank. You should fill up as soon as possible
⇒  page 232. 
Engine speed governing 
Max. engine speed XXXX rpm
There is a fault in the engine management. In addition, the warning lamp 
on the instrument panel will light up. The engine speed will be governed to
the speed displayed in the driver information system. Please ensure that
the engine speed does not exceed the speed shown (for example, when
changing down a gear).
Take the vehicle to a specialised workshop immediately to have the fault re-
paired. Checking the engine oil level

If the  symbol lights up, please check the engine oil level as soon as pos-
sible ⇒ page 239. Top up the oil at the next opportunity ⇒ page 240.
Engine oil sensor defective* 
If the  symbol lights up, take the vehicle to a specialised workshop and
have the oil level sensor checked. Until then it is advisable to check the oil
level every time you fill up with fuel ⇒ page 239. 
Diesel particulate filter obstructed 
If the symbol  lights up, you can contribute towards automatic filter
cleaning by driving in the right manner. To do this, drive about 15 minutes
in 4th or 5th gear (automatic gearbox: S gear range) at a speed of 60 km/h,
with the engine running at approximately 2,000 rpm. The increase in tem-
perature will burn off any soot in the filter. When cleaning is successful, the
symbol switches off.
If the symbol  does not turn off, or the three lamps turn on (particulate
filter , emission control system fault  and heaters ), take the vehicle
to a specialised workshop to repair the fault.
For further information on the diesel particulate filter, see ⇒ page 204.
WARNING
It is essential that you adjust your speed to suit the weather, road, ter-
rain and traffic conditions. The recommended driving speed must never
lead to the driver disregarding the traffic regulations.

Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical Specifications

110Opening and closing
Anti-theft alarm system*
Description
The system triggers an alarm if anyone attempts to break in-
to the vehicle.
The anti-theft alarm helps to prevent the vehicle being broken into or sto-
len. If the system senses interference with the vehicle, it triggers an audible
and visible alarm.
How is the system enabled?
The anti-theft alarm system is enabled automatically when the vehicle is
locked with the remote control or by turning the key in the driver door (if the
door is closed). The anti-theft alarm is enabled about 30 seconds after the
vehicle is locked.
How is the system disabled?
The anti-theft alarm is only disabled when the vehicle is unlocked using the
remote control. The vehicle will lock again automatically if none of the doors
is opened within 60 seconds after pressing the remote control button.
If the vehicle is unlocked by turning the key in the driver door, all the other
doors, the rear lid and the tank flap will remain locked.
If the vehicle has been unlocked with the key in the driver door, the key
must be inserted in the ignition lock and the ignition switched on within 15
seconds of opening the door in order to disable the alarm. The alarm will be
triggered if the ignition is not switched on within 15 seconds.
Opening and closing function in cars with alarm
When using the key only without remote control to lock and unlock:
in unlocking all the doors, they unlock simultaneously.
When using the key only without remote control to lock and unlock: – in unlocking all the doors, they unlock simultaneously.
When combining locking using the remote control key and unlocking using
the key but without the remote control: when unlocking, only the driver door will unlock.
When does the system trigger the alarm?
The following parts of the vehicle are monitored when the vehicle is locked:
● Engine compartment (bonnet)
● Luggage compartment
● Doors
● Tilt angle (tow-away protection)
● Ignition
● Radio (only with a factory-fitted SEAT radio)
● Interior ⇒ page 111
If any of these areas are entered, the alarm will be triggered.
How is the alarm disabled?
The alarm can be switched off by unlocking the vehicle using the remote
control, or by switching on the ignition with the key, thus “disabling” the
alarm system. The alarm will also switch off when it comes to the end of its
cycle.
Turn signals
The turn signals flash briefly when the vehicle is locked to confirm that the
doors, the engine bonnet and the rear lid are properly closed and locked.
If the turn signals do not flash, check the doors, the bonnet and the rear lid
to make sure they are properly closed. The turn signals will also flash briefly
if one of the doors or the rear lid or engine bonnet is closed after the alarm
system has been enabled. 
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