2013 Seat Leon 5D ignition

260Checking and refilling levels
WARNING
● Brake fluid should be stored in the closed original container in a safe
place out of reach of children. Risk of poisoning!
● If the brake fluid is left in the system for too long and the brakes are
subjected to heavy use, vapour bubbles may form in the brake system.
This would seriously affect the efficiency of the brakes and the safety of
the vehicle. This may cause an accident.
CAUTION
Brake fluid should not come into contact with the vehicle paintwork, as it is
abrasive. 
Battery General information
The battery is located in the engine compartment and is almost mainte-
nance-free. It is checked as part of the Inspection Service. Nevertheless,
check the terminals are clean and have the correct tightening torque, espe-
cially in summer and winter.
Disconnecting the battery
The battery should only be disconnected in exceptional cases. When the
battery is disconnected, some of the vehicle's functions are “lost” ( ⇒ table
on page 260). These functions will require resetting after the battery is re-
connected.
Deactivate the anti-theft alarm* before you disconnect the battery Other-
wise the alarm will be triggered.
effectReprogrammingOne-touch function of the electric
windows⇒ page 104, One-touch opening and
closing*
Remote control keyIf the vehicle does not respond to the
key, they should be synchronised
⇒ page 91
Digital clock⇒ page 63
ESC warning lampAfter driving for a few metres, the
warning lamp goes out again.
If the vehicle is not used for long periods
The vehicle has a system for monitoring the current consumption when the
engine is left unused for long periods of time ⇒ page 226. Some functions,
such as the interior lights, or the remote door opening, may be temporarily
disabled to prevent the battery from running flat. These functions will come
back on as soon as the ignition is switched on and the engine started.
Winter conditions
During the winter, the starting power may be reduced, and if necessary, the
battery should be charged ⇒ 
in Important safety warnings for handling a
vehicle battery on page 261 
Important safety warnings for handling a vehicle battery
All work on batteries requires specialist knowledge. Please refer to a SEAT
Official Service or a workshop specialising in batteries: risk of burns or ex-
ploding battery!
The battery must not be opened. Never try to change the fluid level of the
battery. Explosive gas is released from the battery that could cause an ex-
plosion. 

261
Checking and refilling levels
Wear eye protection.
Battery acid is very corrosive and caustic. Wear protective gloves
and eye protection. In the event of electrolyte splashes, rinse off
with plenty of water.
Fires, sparks, open flames and smoking are prohibited.
The battery should only be charged in a well-ventilated zone. Risk
of explosion!
Keep children away from acid and batteries!
WARNING
● When repairing or working on the electrical system, proceed as fol-
lows:
● 1. Remove the key from the ignition. The negative cable on the bat-
tery must be disconnected.
● 2. When the repair is finished, reconnect the negative pole of the bat-
tery.
● Switch off all electrical consumers before reconnecting the battery.
Reconnect first the positive cable and then the negative cable. Never re-
verse the polarity of the connections. This could cause an electrical fire.
● Ensure that the vent hose is always connected to the battery.
● Never use damaged batteries. This could cause an explosion! Replace
a damaged battery immediately.
CAUTION
● Never disconnect the battery if the ignition is switched on or if the en-
gine is running. This could damage the electrical system or electronic com-
ponents. 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 261 and ⇒ .
– Switch off all electrical equipment. Remove the ignition key.
– Raise the bonnet ⇒ page 252.
– 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 253.
Important: Before you charge the battery make sure you read the manufac-
turer's instructions for using the battery charger. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

284Emergencies
Note
● The vehicles must not touch each other, otherwise electricity could flow
as soon as the positive terminals are connected.
● The discharged battery must be properly connected to the on-board net-
work. 
How to jump start: description
Fig. 172 Diagram of con-
nections for vehicles
without Start Stop sys-
tem
Fig. 173 Diagram of con-
nections for vehicles
with Start Stop system
Jump lead terminal connections
1. Switch off the ignition of both vehicles ⇒ 
.
2. Connect one end of the red jump lead to the positive +
termi-
nal of the vehicle with the flat battery A ⇒ Fig. 172.
3. Connect the other end of the red jump lead to the positive ter-
minal +
in the vehicle providing assistance B.
4. For vehicles without Start-Stop system: Connect one end of the
black jump lead to the negative terminal –
of the vehicle pro-
viding assistance B ⇒ Fig. 172.
– For vehicles with Start-Stop system: 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 engine block ⇒ Fig. 173.
5. 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
.

286Emergencies
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,
windscreen wipers and washers can be used. Please ensure
that the steering wheel is unlocked when you switch on the ig-
nition, 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 power steering only works when the ignition
is switched on and the vehicle is moving 1)
. Otherwise, consider-
ably 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 287.
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.

289
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 283 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 unburned 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 286.
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 286.
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

291
Fuses and bulbs
Fuses and bulbs Fuses
Introduction
Due to the constant update of vehicles, fuse assignments depending on
equipment and the use of the same fuse for various electrical components,
at the time of printing this manual it is not possible to provide an up-to-date
summary of the electrical components fuse positions. For detailed informa-
tion about the fuse positions, please consult a Technical Service.
In general, a fuse can be assigned to various electrical components. Like-
wise, an electrical component can be protected by several fuses.
Only replace fuses when the cause of the problem has been solved. If a
newly inserted fuse blows after a short time, you must have the electrical
system checked by a specialised workshop as soon as possible.
Additional information and warnings:
● Working in the engine compartment ⇒ page 251
WARNING
The high voltages in the electrical system can give serious electrical
shocks, causing burns and even death!
● Never touch the electrical wiring of the ignition system.
● Take care not to cause short circuits in the electrical system.
WARNING
Using unsuitable fuses, repairing fuses or bridging a current circuit with-
out fuses can cause a fire and serious injury.
● Never use a fuse with a higher value. Only replace fuses with a fuse of
the same amperage (same colour and markings) and size.
● Never repair a fuse.
● Never replace a fuse by a metal strip, staple or similar.
CAUTION
● To avoid damage to the vehicles electric system, before replacing a fuse
turn off the ignition, the lights and all electrical elements and remove the
keys from the ignition.
● If you replace a fuse with higher-rating fuse, you could cause damage to
another part of the electrical system.
● Protect the fuse boxes when open to avoid the entry of dust or humidity.
Dirt and humidity inside fuse boxes can cause damage to the electrical sys-
tem.
Note
● One single consumer could have more than one fuse.
● Several consumers could run over one single fuse. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

293
Fuses and bulbs
Note
In the vehicle, there are more fuses than those indicated in this chapter.
These should only be changed by a specialised workshop. 
Replacing a blown fuse
Fig. 179 Image of a
blown fuse
Preparation
● Switch off the ignition, lights and all electrical equipment.
● Open the corresponding fuse box ⇒ page 292.
Identifying a blown fuse
A fuse is blown if its metal strip is ruptured ⇒ Fig. 179.
Point a lamp at the fuse. This will make it easier to see if the fuse is blown. To replace a fuse
●
Remove the fuse.
● Replace the blown fuse by one with an identical amperage rating (same
colour and markings) and identical size ⇒ 
.
● Replace the cover again or close the fuse box lid.
CAUTION
If you replace a fuse with higher-rating fuse, you could cause damage to an-
other part of the electrical system. 
Bulbs
Changing a bulb
Changing bulbs requires a certain degree of practical skill. If you choose to change engine compartment lamps yourself, remember
that it is a dangerous area ⇒ 
in Working on components in the engine
compartment on page 251.
Always use identical bulbs with the same designation. The name can be
found on the base of the bulb holder.
Depending on how equipped the vehicle is, there are different sets of head-
lights and tail lights:
● Halogen headlights
● Full-LED main headlights*
● Rear bulb light
● LED rear light* 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

294Fuses and bulbs
Full-LED headlight system*
Full-LED headlights handle all light functions (daylight, side light, turn sig-
nal, dipped beam and route light) with light emitting diodes (LEDs) as a
light source.
Full-LED headlights are designed to last the lifetime of the car and light
bulbs cannot be replaced. In case of headlight failure, go to an authorised
workshop to have it replaced.
Bulbs (12 V)
Halogen headlightsTypeDaytime driving light/side lightP21W SLLDipped beam headlightsH7 LLMain beam headlightsH7 LLTurn signalPY21W LL
Full-LED main headlightsTypeNo bulbs may be replaced. All functions are
with LEDs
Front fog lightTypeFog/cornering lights*H8
Rear bulb lightTypeBrake lights/tail lightsP21W LLSide lights2x W5W LLTurn signalPY21W LLRear fog lightH21WReverse lightsP21W LL
LED rear lightTypeTurn signalPY21W LLRear fog lightH21W
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. 