2013 Seat Leon SC oil pressure

70Instruments and warning/control lamps
SymbolMeaning ⇒ See

Lit up on instrument panel display: a)
 Do not continue driving!
Engine coolant level too low, coolant tempera-
ture too high
Flashing on the instrument panel display: a)
Fault in the engine coolant system.
⇒ page 257

On the instrument panel display: a)
 Do not continue driving!
Engine oil pressure too low.⇒ page 253

Lit up or flashing:
 Do not continue driving!
Fault in the steering.⇒ page 225
Driver or passenger has not fastened seat belt.⇒ page 20
Use the foot brake!
On the instrument panel display: a)
Fault in the battery.⇒ page 260
a) Colour presentation on instrument panel with colour display. Yellow symbols
SymbolMeaning ⇒ See
Central warning lamp: additional information
on the instrument panel display–
Front brake pads worn.
⇒ page 222
lights: Fault in the ESC, or disconnection
caused by the system.
flashes: ESC or ASR activated.
ASR manually deactivated.
ABS faulty or does not work.
Rear fog light switched on.⇒ page 109

On the instrument panel display:
a)
Driving light totally or partially faulty.⇒ page 293
On the instrument panel display: a)
Fault in the cornering light system.⇒ page 109
Lights up or flashes: Fault in the emission con-
trol system.
⇒ page 230lights: pre-ignition of diesel engine.flashes: Fault in engine management.
Fault in engine management.
On the instrument panel display: a)
Diesel particulate filter blocked.
Lights up or flashes: Fault in the steering sys-
tem.⇒ page 162
Tyre pressure too low, or fault in the tyre pres-
sure monitoring system.⇒ page 214 

165
Driving
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. Switching off the engine with the key
Switching off the engine
–
Stop the vehicle.
– Turn the ignition key to position 1
⇒ Fig. 118.
Engaging the steering wheel lock
Important: selector lever (automatic gearbox*) must be in position
P.
– Remove the key from the ignition in position 1
⇒ Fig. 118
⇒ .
– Turn the steering wheel until you hear it engage.
Possible vehicle theft is prevented with the steering lock engaged.
WARNING
● Never switch the engine off until the vehicle is stationary. The brake
servo and power steering functions will not be completely covered under
warranty. More force may also be needed to turn the steering wheel or to
brake. As you cannot steer and brake in the normal manner, there is a
greater risk of accidents and serious injury.
● Never remove the key from the ignition if the vehicle is in motion.
Otherwise, the steering could lock making it impossible to steer the vehi-
cle.
● Always take the ignition key with you whenever you leave the vehicle,
even temporarily. This is particularly important if there are children in
the vehicle, as they might otherwise be able to start the engine or use
power-operated equipment (e.g. the electric windows), which could
cause injuries. 
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225
Intelligent technology
Corrosion
There may be a tendency for corrosion to form on the discs and dirt to build
up on the brake pads if the vehicle is used infrequently or the brakes are
not used very often.
If the brakes are not used frequently, or if rust has formed on the disks, it is
advisable to clean off the pads and disks by braking firmly a few times at a
moderately high speed ⇒ 
.
Fault in the brake system
If the brake pedal travel should ever increase suddenly, this may mean that
one of the two brake circuits has failed. Drive immediately to the nearest
specialised workshop and have the fault repaired. Drive there slowly and re-
member that you will have to apply more pressure on the brake pedal and
allow for longer stopping distances.
Low brake fluid level
Malfunctions can occur in the brake system if the brake fluid level is too
low. The brake fluid level is monitored electronically.
Brake servo
The brake servo increases the pressure you apply to the brake pedal. It
works only when the engine is running.
WARNING
● Apply the brakes heavily to clean the brake system only in a suitable
traffic situation. Do not put other road users in danger: risk of causing an
accident.
● Ensure the vehicle does not move while in neutral, when the engine is
stopped. Failure to do so could result in an accident.
CAUTION
● Never let the brakes “drag” by leaving your foot on the pedal when it is
not necessary to brake. This overheats the brakes, resulting in longer stop-
ping distances and greater wear.
● Before driving down a long, steep gradient, it is advisable to reduce
speed and select a lower gear. This makes use of engine braking and re-
lieves the brakes. If you still have to use the brakes, it is better to brake
firmly at intervals than to apply the brakes continuously.
Note
● If the brake servo is out of action due to a malfunction, or if the car has
to be towed, you will have to press the brake pedal considerably harder to
make up for the lack of servo assistance.
● If you wish to equip the vehicle with accessories such as a front spoiler
or wheel covers, it is important that the flow of air to the front wheels is not
obstructed, otherwise the brakes can overheat. 
Electro-mechanical steering
Electro-mechanical power steering assists the driver when
steering.
Electro-mechanical power steering adapts electronically to the speed of the
car, torque and turning angle.
If the power steering should fail at any time or the engine is switched off (for
instance when being towed), the car can still be steered. However, more ef-
fort than normal will be required to turn the steering wheel.
Driver warning lamps and messages
 (in red) Faulty steering! To park the vehicle

Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

238Care and cleaning
Care and cleaning
General information
Regular care helps to maintain the value of the vehicle.
Regular and careful care helps to maintain the value of the vehicle. This may
also be one of the requirements for upholding any warranty claims in the
event of corrosion or paint defects.
SEAT Official Services and specialist retailers carry stocks of suitable car
care materials. Please follow the instructions for use on the packaging.
WARNING
● Cleaning products and other materials used for car care can be dam-
aging to your health if misused.
● Always keep care products in a safe place, out of the reach of chil-
dren. Failure to comply could result in poisoning.
For the sake of the environment
● If possible, use environmentally friendly products.
● The remains of car care products should not be disposed of with ordina-
ry household waste. Care of vehicle exterior
Washing the vehicle
The longer substances such as insects, bird droppings, resinous tree sap,
road dirt, industrial deposits, tar, soot or road salt and other aggressive ma-
terials remain on the vehicle, the more damage they do to the paintwork.
High temperatures (for instance due to strong sunlight) further intensify the
corrosive effect.
After the period when salt is put on the roads it is important to have the un-
derside of the vehicle washed thoroughly.
Automatic car washes
Before going through a car wash, be sure to take the usual precautions such
as closing the windows and roof. If the vehicle has special accessories such
as spoilers or a roof carrier or two-way radio aerial, etc., it is advisable to
consult the car wash operator.
It is best to use a car wash without revolving bristles if possible.
Washing the vehicle with a high pressure cleaner
When washing the vehicle with a high-pressure cleaner, always follow the
operating instructions for the equipment. This applies particularly to the op-
erating pressure and the spraying distance. Do not hold the nozzle too
close to soft materials such as rubber hoses or seals. The same applies to
the parking aid sensors*, which are located in the rear bumper.
Do not use a nozzle that sprays the water out in a direct stream or one that
has a rotating jet for forcing off dirt. 

239
Care and cleaning
Washing the car by hand
When washing the car by hand, use plenty of water to soften the dirt first,
and rinse off as well as possible.
Then clean the vehicle with a soft sponge, glove or brush using only slight
pressure. You should start on the roof and work down. Special car shampoo
should only be used for very persistent dirt.
Rinse the sponge or glove thoroughly and often.
Wheels, sills and similar should be cleaned last. Use a second sponge for
this.
WARNING
● The vehicle should only be washed with the ignition switched off.
Failure to do so could result in an accident.
● Do not clean the underside of chassis, the inside of wheel arches or
wheel trims without protecting your hands and arms. You may cut your-
self on sharp-edged metal parts. Otherwise, there is a risk of sustaining
cuts.
● When washing the car during the winter season: water and ice in the
brake system can reduce braking effectiveness: risk of accident!
CAUTION
● Do not wash the vehicle in direct sunlight – otherwise the paint can be
damaged.
● Do not use sponges, abrasive household sponges or similar to clean in-
sect remains. This could damage the surface.
● Clean off stubborn dirt (insects, etc.) from the headlights at regular in-
tervals, for instance when filling the fuel tank. The headlights should only
be washed with water, do not wipe them with a dry cloth or sponge. It is
best to use soapy water. ●
Never wash tyres with a jet that sprays the water out in a direct stream.
This could damage the tyres even if the spray is kept at a distance and only
used for a very short time.
● Before washing the vehicle in an automatic car wash, please make sure
to retract the exterior mirrors to prevent them from being damaged. Electri-
cally retractable exterior mirrors must not be folded in or out by hand. Al-
ways use the electrical power control.
CAUTION
● If you wash the vehicle in an automatic car wash, proceed as follows to
lock and prevent the windscreen wiper blades from being pushed up to-
wards the top of the windscreen:
–the bonnet must be closed
– switch the ignition on and off
– press the windscreen wiper lever downwards briefly towards the front
(windscreen wiper function). The windscreen wiper blades will be
locked.
For the sake of the environment
The car should only be washed in special wash bays. This prevents oily wa-
ter from getting into the public drains. In some places, washing vehicles
anywhere else may be prohibited. 
Sensors and camera lenses
● Use a small brush to remove snow and a de-icer spray to remove ice.
● Clean the sensors with a solvent-free product and a soft, dry cloth.
● Moisten the camera lens using a standard alcohol-based glass cleaning
agent and clean the lens with a dry cloth. The area in front of the active
Lane Assist* lens area is normally cleaned with the windscreen washer. 
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259
Checking and refilling levels
– Top up the coolant only if there is still coolant in the expansion
tank, otherwise you could damage the engine. If there is no
coolant in the expansion tank, do not continue driving. You
should obtain professional assistance ⇒ 
.
– If there is still some coolant in the expansion tank, top up to the
upper mark.
– Top up with coolant to the upper mark until the level becomes
stable.
– Screw the cap back on correctly.
Any loss of coolant fluid normally indicates a leak in the cooling system.
Take the vehicle straight to a specialised workshop to have the cooling sys-
tem examined. If there are no leaks in the engine cooling system, a loss of
coolant can only occur if the coolant boils and is forced out of the system as
a result of overheating.
WARNING
● The cooling system is under pressure. Do not unscrew the cap on the
coolant expansion tank when the engine is hot: risk of burns!
● The antifreeze and coolant fluid can be a health hazard. Therefore,
the antifreeze should be stored in the original container in a safe place
out of reach of children. Failure to comply could result in poisoning.
● If working inside the engine compartment, remember that, even when
the ignition is switched off, the radiator fan may start up automatically,
and therefore there is a risk of injury.
CAUTION
Do not top up the expansion tank with coolant fluid if it is empty! Air could
enter the cooling system. In this case, stop driving. Seek specialist assis-
tance. Otherwise, there is a risk of engine damage. Brake fluid
Fig. 157 Engine com-
partment: brake fluid res-
ervoir, lid
Checking the brake fluid level
The brake fluid level must be between the MIN and MAX markings.
However, if the brake fluid level goes down noticeably in a short time, or
drops below the MIN mark, there may be a leak in the brake system. Seek
specialist assistance. A warning light on the instrument panel display moni-
tors the brake fluid level ⇒ page 69.
In right-hand drive vehicles the brake fluid reservoir is on the other side of
the engine compartment.
Changing brake fluid
The regular intervals at which the brake fluid should be replaced are listed
in the Service Plan. We recommend you have the brake fluid replaced at a
SEAT Official Service, during an Inspection Service. 
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265
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. 
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275
Emergencies
Tyre repair kit
What to do first
– Please observe the important safety notes ⇒ page 274.
– Apply the handbrake.
– Manual gearbox: Select first gear.
– Automatic gearbox: Move the selector lever to P.
– Check whether a repair is possible using the tyre repair kit
⇒ page 275. 
Using the tyre repair kit
Fig. 163 Tyre: irrepara-
ble damage The tyre repair kit is designed to repair your tyre provisionally only. The dam-
aged tyre should be replaced as soon as possible
⇒ 
.
If the tyre has been damaged by a nail, for example, remove the nail from
the tyre.
The tyre repair kit can be used at outside temperatures of up to -20 °C
(-4 °F).
The tyre repair kit must NOT be used:
● on cuts and punctures larger than 4 mm 1
⇒ Fig. 163
● If the wheel rim has been damaged 2
●
if you have been driving with very low pressure or a completely flat tyre
3.
If necessary, request assistance from specialised personnel.
WARNING
● Remember that the tyre repair kit cannot always be used, and that it
only serves to provide a provisional repair.
● Do not allow the sealing product to come into contact with your eyes,
skin or clothing.
● If you do come into contact with the sealing product immediately
rinse the eyes or skin affected with clean water.
● Do not inhale vapours.
● If any of the sealing product is accidentally ingested, immediately
rinse the mouth thoroughly and drink lots of water. Do not induce vomit-
ing. Seek medical advice immediately.
● Change clothing immediately if it becomes soiled with the sealing
product.
● If any allergic reactions should occur get medical help immediately.
● Keep the sealing product away from children. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications