Get Checking and refilling levels Guide for Seat Ibiza SUV Fourth Generation (2009-2017)

Checking and refilling levels

CAUTION

bing, fittings, retractor mechanism or buckle

of any of the belts is damaged, the belt must

be replaced by a specialised workshop.

Checking and refilling levels

Fuel

●

Do not use solvents, wax polish, shoe

cream, spot removers or similar products on

leather.

●

Do not attempt to repair a damaged seat

belt yourself. The seat belts must not be re-

moved or modified in any way.

●

To avoid damage, stubborn stains should

be removed by a specialised workshop.

Refuelling

Read the additional information carefully

CAUTION

›››

page 23



After cleaning, allow seat belts to dry com-

pletely before rolling them up. Otherwise, the

belt retractors could become damaged.

Seat belt cleaning

The tank flap is released manually and is lo-

cated at the rear of the vehicle on the right.

The tank holds approximately 45 litres.

A dirty belt may not work properly. Check all

seat belts regularly and keep them clean.

Opening the fuel tank cap

Seat belts cleaning

–

Lift the lid.

–

Pull the dirty seat belt right out and unroll

it.

Hold the cap firmly with one hand, then in-

sert the key into the lock and rotate 180° to

the left.

–

Clean dirty seat belts with a gentle soap

solution.

–

Unscrew the cap, turning it anticlockwise.

–

Allow it to dry.

Do not roll the seat belt up until it is dry.

Closing the fuel tank cap

–

Screw the tank cap to the right until it

“clicks”.

If large stains form on the belts, the automat-

ic belt retractor will not work correctly.

Turn the key in the lock, without releasing

the cap, clockwise through 180°.

WARNING

●

Do not use chemical cleaning agents on the

Remove the key and close the flap until it

clicks into place. The tank cap is secured

with an anti-loss attachment

seat belts, as this can impair the strength of

the webbing. Ensure that seat belts do not

come into contact with corrosive fluids.

●

Check the condition of the seat belts at reg-

ular intervals. If you notice that the belt web-

If the automatic filler nozzle is operated cor-

rectly, it will switch itself off as soon as the

»

163

Advice

tank is “full”. Never attempt to fill beyond

this point, as this will fill the expansion

chamber. Fuel may leak out if ambient condi-

tions are warm.

–

If the spare fuel canister is made of met-

al, the filling nozzle must be in contact

with the canister during filling. This

helps prevent an electrostatic charge

building up.

Petrol

Petrol types

The correct petrol types are listed on a sticker

inside the fuel tank flap.

The correct fuel grade for your vehicle is giv-

en on a sticker on the inside of the fuel tank

flap.

Never spill fuel in the vehicle or in the

luggage compartment. Fuel vapours are

explosive. Danger of death.

Only unleaded petrol conforming to standard

DIN EN 228 may be used for vehicles with

catalytic converters (EN = “European Stand-

ard”).

WARNING

CAUTION

●

Fuel is highly flammable and can cause se-

●

rious burns and other injuries.

Fuel spills should be removed from the

Types of petrol differ from each other accord-

ing to the octane rating, for example: 91, 95,

98 RON (RON = “Research Octane Number”,

unit for determining the knock resistance of

petrol). You may use petrol with a higher oc-

tane number than the one recommended for

your engine. However, this has no advantage

in terms of fuel consumption and engine

power.

paintwork immediately.

–

Never smoke or come into contact with

sparks when filling the fuel tank of the

vehicle or a spare fuel canister with fuel.

This is an explosion hazard.

●

Never run the tank completely dry. Irregular

fuel supply can cause misfiring. As a result,

unburnt fuel could enter the catalytic convert-

er and cause damage.

–

Follow legal requirements for the use of

spare fuel canisters.

●

When filling the fuel tank after having run it

completely dry on a vehicle with a diesel en-

gine the ignition must be switched on for at

least 30 seconds before starting the engine.

Subsequently, when you start the engine it

may take longer than normal to start firing

(up to one minute). This is due to the fact that

the fuel system has to purge itself of air be-

fore starting.

For safety reasons we do not recommend

carrying a spare fuel canister in the vehi-

cle. The canister could be damaged in an

accident and leak.

CAUTION

●

If, in exceptional circumstances, you have

to carry a spare fuel canister, please observe

the following:

●

Even one tankful of leaded fuel would per-

manently impair the efficiency of the catalyt-

ic converter.

–

Never fill the spare fuel canister inside

the vehicle or on it. An electrostatic

charge could build up during filling, caus-

ing the fuel fumes to ignite. This could

cause an explosion. Always place the

canister on the ground to fill it.

●

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.

For the sake of the environment

Do not try to put in more fuel after the auto-

matic filler nozzle has switched off; this may

cause the fuel to overflow if it becomes warm.

–

Insert the fuel nozzle into the mouth of

the canister as far as possible.

164

Checking and refilling levels

ers, where information on how to use them

can also be obtained.

For the sake of the environment

with standard EN 590 or DIN 51628 is author-

ised and will not cause damage to the engine

or the fuel system.

Just one full tank of leaded fuel would seri-

ously impair the efficiency of the catalytic

converter.

CAUTION

●

The diesel engine has been designed to be

used exclusively with diesel fuel conforming

to standard EN 590. Never refuel or use pet-

rol, kerosene, fuel oil or any other type of

fuel. If you accidentally fill up the vehicle

with the wrong type of fuel, do not start the

engine. Seek assistance from specialised per-

sonnel. The composition of these fuels may

severely damage the fuel system and the en-

gine.

Do not refuel if the filler indicates that the

fuel contains metal. LRP (lead replacement

petrol) fuels contain high concentrations of

metal additives. Using them may damage the

engine!

Petrol additives

The quality of the fuel influences the behav-

iour, power and service life of the engine.

This is why the petrol you use should carry

suitable additives already included by the

petrol industry, free of metals. These addi-

tives will help to prevent corrosion, keep the

fuel system clean and prevent deposits from

building up in the engine.

Diesel

Diesel*

Winter operation

Winter-grade diesel

Diesel fuel must conform to DIN EN 590 (EN =

“European Standard”). It must have a cetane

number (CN) of at least 51. The cetane num-

ber indicates the ignition quality of the diesel

fuel.

If good-quality petrol with metal-free addi-

tives is not available or engine problems

arise, the necessary additives must be added

when refuelling.

When using “summer-grade diesel fuel”, dif-

ficulties may be experienced at temperatures

below 0 °C (+32 °F) because the fuel thickens

due to wax separation. For this reason, “win-

ter-grade diesel fuel” is available in some

countries during the cold months. It can be

used at temperatures as low as -22 °C (-8 ºF).

Notes on refuelling ››› page 163.

Not all petrol additives have been shown to

be effective. The use of unsuitable petrol ad-

ditives may cause significant damage to the

engine and the catalytic converter. Metal ad-

ditives should never be used. Metal additives

may also be contained in petrol additives for

improving anti-detonation ratings or octane

ratings.

Biodiesel*

In countries with different climatic conditions

the diesel fuel generally sold has different

temperature characteristics. Check with the

Technical Services or filling stations in the

country concerned regarding the type of die-

sel fuels available.

CAUTION

●

Your vehicle is not designed to use biodie-

sel fuel. Never, under any circumstances re-

fuel with biodiesel. The use of biodiesel fuel

could damage the engine and the fuel sys-

tem. The addition of biodiesel to diesel fuel

by the diesel manufacturer in accordance

SEAT recommends “genuine Volkswagen

Group fuel additives for petrol engines”.

These additives can be bought at SEAT deal-

»

165

Advice

Filter pre-heater

4. Wait for the engine to cool down.

5. Keep children away from the vehicle.

6. Raise the bonnet ››› page 167.

●

Switch off the engine and remove the key

from the ignition.

Your vehicle is fitted with a fuel filter glow

plug system, making it well equipped for op-

eration in winter. This ensures that the fuel

system remains operational to approx. -24 °C

(-11 ºF), provided you use winter-grade die-

sel which is safe to -15 °C (+5 °F).

●

Apply the handbrake and move the gear

lever to neutral or selector lever to position P.

●

Keep children away from the vehicle.

Never touch hot engine parts. There is a

You should not do any work in the engine

compartment unless you know exactly how to

carry out the jobs and have the correct tools!

Have the work carried out by a specialised

workshop if you are uncertain.

●

risk of burns.

However, if the fuel has waxed to such an ex-

tent that the engine will not start at tempera-

tures of under -24 °C (-11 °F), simply place

the vehicle in a warm place for a while.

●

Never spill liquids on a hot engine or on a

hot exhaust gas system. This is a fire hazard.

●

Avoid causing short-circuits in the electri-

All service fluids and consumables, e.g. cool-

ant, engine oil, spark plugs and batteries,

are under constant development. SEAT pro-

vides a constant flow of information to Tech-

nical Services concerning modifications. For

this reason, we recommend you have service

fluids and consumables replaced by a Techni-

cal Service. Please observe the relevant in-

structions ››› page 155. The engine compart-

cal system, particularly at the points where

the jump leads are attached ››› page 188. The

battery could explode.

CAUTION

●

Never touch the radiator fan. It is tempera-

Do not mix fuel additives, the so-called “thin-

ners”, or similar additives with diesel fuel.

ture controlled and could start automatically,

even when the engine has been switched off

and the key removed from the ignition!

●

Never cover the engine with additional in-

Working in the engine

compartment

sulating materials such as a blanket. Risk of

fire!

ment of the vehicle is a hazardous area ›››

.

WARNING

●

Do not unscrew the cap on the coolant ex-

pansion tank when the engine is hot. If the

coolant is hot, the cooling system will be

pressurised!

All work on the engine or in the engine com-

partment, e.g. checking and refilling fluids,

involves the danger of injury and burns, acci-

dents and even fire.

Safety instructions on working in the

engine compartment

●

Protect face, hands and arms by covering

Before starting any work on the engine or in

the engine compartment:

the cap with a large, thick cloth to protect

against escaping coolant and steam.

●

Never open the bonnet if you see steam,

smoke or coolant escaping from the engine

compartment. Otherwise, there is a risk of

sustaining burns. Wait until no more steam or

coolant is emitted, then allow the engine to

cool before carefully opening the bonnet.

1. Switch off the engine and remove the key

from the ignition.

●

Always make sure you have not left any ob-

jects, such as cleaning cloths or tools, in the

engine compartment.

2. Apply the handbrake.

●

If you have to work underneath the vehicle,

you must use suitable stands additionally to

3. Move the gear lever to neutral or the selec-

tor lever to position P.

166

Checking and refilling levels

●

support the vehicle, there is a risk of acci-

dent!. A hydraulic jack is insufficient for se-

curing the vehicle and there is a risk of injury.

CAUTION

Wait until no more steam, smoke or coolant

is emitted from the bonnet, then carefully

open the bonnet.

When topping up service fluids, make sure

not to mistake them. Using the wrong fluids

could cause serious malfunctions and engine

damage!

●

If any work has to be performed when the

When working in the engine compartment,

engine is started or with the engine running,

there is an additional, potentially fatal, safety

risk from the rotating parts, such as the drive

belts, alternator, radiator fan, etc., and from

the high-voltage ignition system. You should

also observe the following:

always observe the safety warnings

››› page 166.

For the sake of the environment

Service fluids leaks are harmful to the envi-

ronment. For this reason you should make

regular checks on the ground underneath

your vehicle. If you find spots of oil or other

fluids, have your vehicle inspected in a speci-

alised workshop.

Closing the bonnet

–

Never touch the electrical wiring of the

ignition system.

–

Slightly lift the bonnet.

Release the bonnet stay and replace it in its

support.

–

Ensure that jewellery, loose clothing and

long hair do not get trapped in rotating

engine parts. Danger of death. Before

starting any work remove jewellery, tie

back and cover hair, and wear tight-fit-

ting clothes.

–

At a height of approximately 30 cm let it fall

so it locks.

Opening the bonnet

If the bonnet does not close, do not press

downwards. Open it again and let it fall as

mentioned above.

Read the additional information carefully

–

Never accelerate with a gear engaged

without taking the necessary precau-

tions. The vehicle could move, even if the

handbrake is applied. Danger of death.

›››

page 10



The bonnet is released from inside the vehi-

cle.

WARNING

●

If work has to be carried out on the fuel

If the bonnet is not closed properly, it could

open while you are driving and completely

obscure your view of the road. Risk of acci-

dent.

Before opening the bonnet ensure that the

windscreen wipers are in rest position.

system or on electrical components, you

must observe the following safety notes in

addition to the above warnings:

WARNING

–

Always disconnect the battery from the

on-board network. The vehicle must be

unlocked when this is done, otherwise

the alarm will be triggered.

●

After closing the bonnet, always check that

Hot coolant can scald!

it is properly secured. The bonnet must be

flush with the surrounding body panels.

●

Never open the bonnet if you see steam,

smoke or coolant escaping from the engine

compartment.

●

If you notice that the bonnet latch is not se-

–

Do not smoke.

cured when the vehicle is moving, stop the

vehicle immediately and close the bonnet

properly. Risk of accident.

Never work near naked flames.

Always have a fire extinguisher on hand.

167

Advice

Checking fluid levels

Fig. 151 Diagram for the location of the various elements.

2

3

4

5

6

Engine oil level dipstick

Engine oil filler cap

Note

The layout of parts may vary depending on

the engine.

Brake fluid reservoir

Vehicle battery

Windscreen washer reservoir

Engine oil

The checking and refilling of service fluids

are carried out on the components men-

tioned above. These operations are descri-

bed in the ››› page 166.

General notes

Fig. 152 For vehicles with the battery in the

luggage compartment.

The engine comes with a special, multi-grade

oil that can be used all year round.

Overview

Because the use of high-quality oil is essen-

tial for the correct operation of the engine

and its long useful life, when topping up or

changing oil, use only those oils that comply

with VW standards.

From time to time, the levels of the different

fluids in the vehicle must be checked. Never

fill with incorrect fluids, otherwise serious

damage to the engine may be caused.

You will find further explanations, instruc-

tions and restrictions on the technical speci-

fications as of ››› page 208.

1

Coolant expansion tank

168

Checking and refilling levels

The specifications (VW standards) set out in

the following page should appear on the con-

tainer of the service oil; when the container

displays the specific standards for petrol and

diesel engines together, it means that the oil

can be used for both types of engines.

Because this oil is essential for extending the

service intervals, it must only be used ob-

serving the following indications:

Vehicles with diesel particulate filter*

The Maintenance Programme states whether

your vehicle is fitted with a diesel particulate

filter.

●

Avoid mixing it with oil for fixed service in-

tervals.

Only VW 507 00 engine oil, with reduced ash

formation, may be used in diesel engines

equipped with particulate filter. Using other

types of oil will cause a higher soot concen-

tration and reduce the life of the DPF. There-

fore:

●

Only in exceptional circumstances, if the

We recommend that the oil change indicated

in the Maintenance Programme, be per-

formed by a technical service or specialised

workshop.

engine oil level is too low ››› page 170 and

LongLife oil is not available, it is permitted to

top up (once) with oil for fixed service inter-

vals ››› page 169 (up to a maximum of 0.5 li-

tres).

The correct oil specifications for your engine

are listed in the ››› page 169, Oil properties.

●

Avoid mixing this oil with other engine oils.

Only in exceptional circumstances, if the

Fixed service intervals*

engine oil level is too low ››› page 170 and

you cannot obtain the oil specified for your

vehicle, you can use a small quantity of oil

(once) conforming to the VW 506 00,

VW 506 01, VW 505 00, VW 505 01 or

ACEA B3/ACEA B4 specification. (up to 0.5 l).

Service intervals

If your vehicle does not have the “LongLife

service interval” or it has been disabled (by

request), you may use oils for fixed service

intervals, which also appear in ››› page 169,

Oil properties. In this case, your vehicle must

be serviced after a fixed interval of 1

year/15,000 km (10,000 miles)(whatever

comes first) ››› Booklet Maintenance Pro-

gramme.

Service intervals can be flexible (LongLife

service) or fixed (dependent on time/dis-

tance travelled).

If the PR code that appears on the back of the

Maintenance Programme booklet is PR QI6,

this means that your vehicle has the LongLife

service program. If it lists the codes QI1, QI2,

QI3, QI4 or QI7, the interval service is de-

pendent on the time/distance travelled.

Oil properties

●

In exceptional circumstances, if the engine

Engine type

Specification

oil level is too low ››› page 170 and you can-

not obtain the oil specified for your vehicle,

you can add a small quantity of oil conform-

ing to the specification ACEA A2 or ACEA A3

(petrol engines) or ACEA B3 or ACEA B4 (die-

sel engines) (up to 0.5 l).

Petrol without flexible serv-

ice interval

VW 502 00/VW 504 00

Flexible service intervals (LongLife service

intervals*)

Special oils and processes have been devel-

oped which, depending on the characteris-

tics and individual driving profiles, enable

the extension of the oil change service (Long-

Life service intervals).

Petrol with flexible service

interval (LongLife)

VW 504 00

Diesel. Engines without Par- VW 505 01/VW 506

ticulate filter (DPF) 01/VW 507 00

»

169

Advice

consumption is likely to be higher for the first

5,000 km. For this reason the engine oil level

must be checked at regular intervals, prefera-

bly when filling the tank and before a jour-

ney.

Checking the engine oil level

Engine type

Specification

Diesel. Particulate Filter En-

gines (DPF).

With or without flexible

service interval (with and

without LongLife)^a)

VW 507 00

WARNING

a)

Only use recommended oils, otherwise you may damage the

Any work carried out in the engine compart-

ment or on the engine must be carried out

cautiously.

engine.

Engine oil additives

●

When working in the engine compartment,

No type of additive should be mixed with the

engine oil. The deterioration caused by these

additives is not covered by the warranty.

always observe the safety warnings

››› page 166.

Fig. 153 Engine oil dipstick.

Read the additional information carefully

CAUTION

Note

›››

page 24



A

If the oil level is above the area

do not

Before a long trip, we recommend finding an

engine oil that conforms to the correspond-

ing VW specifications and recommend keep-

ing it in the vehicle. This way, the correct en-

gine oil will always be available for a top-up if

needed.

start the engine. This could result in damage

to the engine and catalytic converter. Contact

a Technical Service.

Checking oil level

–

Park the vehicle in a horizontal position.

Briefly run the engine at idle speed until

the operating temperature is reached and

then stop.

Topping up engine oil 

–

Wait for about two minutes.

Read the additional information carefully

›››

page 24



Pull out the dipstick. Wipe the dipstick with

a clean cloth and insert it again, pushing it

in as far as it will go.

Before opening the bonnet, read and observe

the warnings ››› in Safety instructions on

working in the engine compartment on

page 166.

–

Then pull it out again and check the oil lev-

el. Top up with engine oil if necessary.

The position of the oil filler opening is shown

in the corresponding engine compartment il-

lustration ››› page 168.

Depending on how you drive and the condi-

tions in which the vehicle is used, oil con-

sumption can be up to 0.5 l/1000 km. Oil

170

Checking and refilling levels

Engine oil specification ››› page 169.

●

WARNING

Never pour oil down drains or into the

ground.

Only change the engine oil yourself if you

have the specialist knowledge required!

WARNING

●

Use a suitable container when draining the

Oil is highly inflammable! Ensure that no oil

comes into contact with hot engine compo-

nents when topping up.

used oil. It must be large enough to hold all

the engine oil.

●

Before opening the bonnet, read and ob-

serve the warnings››› page 166, Safety in-

structions on working in the engine compart-

ment.

CAUTION

If the oil level is above the area

●

Wait for the engine to cool down. Hot oil

may cause burn injuries.

Cooling system

A

do not

start the engine. This could result in damage

to the engine and catalytic converter. Contact

a specialised workshop.

●

Wear eye protection to avoid injuries, such

as acid burns, caused by splashes of oil.

Engine coolant specifications

●

When removing the oil drain plug with your

The engine cooling system is supplied from

the factory with a specially treated mixture of

water and, at least, 40 % of the additive G 13

(TL-VW 774 J). The engine coolant additive is

recognisable by its purple colour. This mix-

ture of water and additive gives the necessa-

ry frost protection down to -25°C (-13 F) and

protects the light alloy parts of the cooling

system against corrosion. It also prevents

scaling and considerably raises the boiling

point of the coolant.

fingers, keep your arm horizontal to help pre-

vent oil from running down your arm.

For the sake of the environment

A

●

Wash your skin thoroughly if it comes into

The oil level must never be above area

.

contact with engine oil.

Otherwise oil can be drawn in through the

crankcase breather and escape into the at-

mosphere via the exhaust system.

●

Engine oil is poisonous! Used oil must be

stored in a safe place out of the reach of chil-

dren.

CAUTION

Changing engine oil

No additives should be used with engine oil.

This could result in engine damage. Any dam-

age caused by the use of such additives

Read the additional information carefully

To protect the engine cooling system, the

percentage of additive must always be at

least 40 %, even in warm climates where an-

ti-freeze protection is not required.

›››

page 24



would not be covered by the factory warranty.

The engine oil must be changed at the inter-

vals given in the service schedule.

For the sake of the environment

If greater frost protection is required in very

cold climates, the proportion of additive can

be increased. However, the percentage of ad-

ditive should not exceed 60%, as this would

reduce the frost protection and, in turn, de-

crease the cooling capacity.

We recommend that you have the engine oil

changed by a Technical Service.

●

Because of disposal problems and the spe-

cial tools and specialist knowledge required,

we recommend that you have the engine oil

and filter changed by a Technical Service.

The oil change intervals are shown in the

Maintenance Programme.

»

171

Advice

–

When the coolant is topped up, use a mixture

of distilled water and, at least, 40 % of the G

13 or G 12 plus-plus (TL-VW 774 G) additive

(both are purple) to obtain an optimum anti-

corrosion protection ››› . The mixture of G

13 with G 12 plus (TL-VW 774 F), G 12 (red) or

G 11 (green-blue) engine coolants will signifi-

cantly reduce the anticorrosion protection

If the level is below the “MIN” mark, top up

with coolant.

an inadequate coolant. The coolant must be

changed as soon as possible if this is the

case! This could result in serious faults and

engine damage.

Topping up coolant

–

Only use new coolant liquid.

For the sake of the environment

Do not fill above the “MAX” mark.

Coolants and additives can contaminate the

environment. If any fluids are spilled, they

should be collected and correctly disposed

of, with respect to the environment.

Closing the coolant expansion tank

and should, therefore be avoided ›››

.

–

Screw the cap on again tightly.

WARNING

The position of the coolant expansion reser-

voir is shown in the corresponding engine

compartment illustration ››› page 168.

If there is not enough anti-freeze in the cool-

ant system, the engine may fail leading to se-

rious damage.

Checking the coolant level and

topping up 

●

Please make sure that the percentage of

Ensure the coolant conforms to the required

specifications. Do not use a different type of

additive if additive G 12++ is not available. In

this case use only water and bring the cool-

ant concentration back up to the correct level

as soon as possible by putting in the speci-

fied additive.

additive is correct with respect to the lowest

expected ambient temperature in the zone in

which the vehicle is to be used.

Read the additional information carefully

›››

page 24



●

When the outside temperature is very low,

Before opening the bonnet, read and observe

the warnings ››› in Safety instructions on

working in the engine compartment on

page 166.

the coolant could freeze and the vehicle

would be immobilised. In this case, the heat-

ing would not work either and inadequately

dressed passengers could die of cold.

Always top up with new coolant.

Do not fill above the “MAX” mark. Otherwise

the excess coolant will be forced out of the

cooling system when the engine is hot.

Opening the coolant expansion tank

CAUTION

–

Switch off the engine and allow it to cool.

The original additives should never be mixed

with coolants which are not approved by

SEAT. Otherwise, you run the risk of causing

severe damage to the engine and the engine

cooling system.

To prevent scalding, cover the cap on the

coolant expansion tank with a thick cloth

The additive G 12++ can be mixed with the G

12+ in any proportion.

and carefully unscrew the cap ›››

.

WARNING

Checking coolant level

●

If the fluid in the expansion tank is not pur-

ple but is, for example, brown, this indicates

that the G 13 additive has been mixed with

Any work carried out in the engine compart-

ment or on the engine must be carried out

cautiously.

–

Look into the open coolant expansion tank

and read off the coolant level.

172

Checking and refilling levels

ment illustration ››› page 168. The brake fluid

id is too high, the brake system could cor-

rode. This also considerably reduces the boil-

ing point of the brake fluid. Heavy use of the

brakes may then cause a vapour lock which

could impair the braking effect.

●

When working in the engine compartment,

reservoir has a black and yellow cap.

always observe the safety warnings

››› page 166.

The brake fluid level drops slightly when the

vehicle is being used as the brake pads are

automatically adjusted as they wear.

●

When the engine is warm or hot, the cool-

ing system is pressurised! Do not unscrew

the cap on the coolant expansion tank when

the engine is hot. This is a burn injury risk.

Be sure to always use the correct brake fluid.

Only use brake fluid that expressly meets the

VW 501 14 standard.

However, if the level goes down noticeably in

a short time, or drops below the “MIN” mark,

there may be a leak in the brake system. A

display on the instrument panel will warn you

if the brake fluid level is too low ››› page 57.

CAUTION

You can buy VW 501 14 standard brake fluid

in a SEAT dealership or a SEAT Official Serv-

ice. If none is available, use only high-quality

brake fluid that meets DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4

standards, or USA Standards FMVSS 116 DOT

4.

●

If you notice a change in the colour of the

liquid because it has been in use for a long

time, it is recommended to change it, as it

will have lost some of its properties and

could cause damage to the engine.

WARNING

Before opening the bonnet to check the brake

fluid level, read and observe the warnings

››› page 166.

●

If a lot of coolant fluid has been lost, wait

Using any other kind of brake fluid or one

that is not of a high quality may affect opera-

tion of the brake system and reduce its effec-

tiveness. Never use a brake fluid if the con-

tainer does not state that it complies with VW

501 14, DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 standards, or

USA standards FMVSS 116 DOT 4.

for the engine to cool. This avoids damaging

the engine. Large coolant losses are an indi-

cation of leaks in the cooling system. See a

specialised workshop immediately and have

the cooling system checked. Otherwise, there

is a risk of engine damage.

Changing the brake fluid

The Maintenance Programme indicates brake

fluid change intervals.

We recommend that you have the brake fluid

changed by a Technical Service.

WARNING

Brake fluid

Brake fluid is poisonous. Old brake fluid im-

pairs the braking effect.

Before opening the bonnet, please read and

follow the warnings ››› in Safety instruc-

tions on working in the engine compartment

on page 166 in section “Safety notes for

working in the engine compartment”.

Checking the brake fluid level

●

Before opening the bonnet to check the

brake fluid level, read and observe the warn-

ings››› page 166.

Read the additional information carefully

›››

page 25



●

Brake fluid should be stored in the closed

In the course of time, brake fluid becomes

hygroscopic and absorbs water from the am-

bient air. If the water content in the brake flu-

original container in a safe place out of reach

of children. There is a toxic risk.

The position of the brake fluid reservoir is

shown in the corresponding engine compart-

»

173

Advice

prox. 2 litres; in vehicles with headlight

washers* it holds approx. 4.5 litres.

●

Perform the brake fluid change according to

Vehicle battery

the Maintenance Programme. Heavy use of

the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the

brake fluid is left in the brake system for too

long. This would seriously affect the effec-

tiveness of the brakes and the safety of the

vehicle. This may cause an accident.

The tank is in the engine compartment.

Warnings on handling the battery

Plain water is not enough to clean the wind-

screen and headlights. We recommend that

you always add a product to the windscreen

washer fluid. Approved windscreen cleaning

products exist on the market with high deter-

gent and anti-freeze properties, these may be

added all-year-round. Please follow the dilu-

tion instructions on the packaging.

Wear eye protection



Battery acid is extremely corrosive. Wear protec-

tive gloves and eye protection!



CAUTION

Fires, sparks, open flames and smoking are pro-

hibited!



Brake fluid damages the vehicle paintwork.

Wipe off any brake fluid from the paintwork

immediately.

A highly explosive mixture of gases is released

when the battery is under charge.



WARNING

Keep children away from acid and batteries!



For the sake of the environment

Any work carried out in the engine compart-

ment or on the engine must be carried out

cautiously.

The brake pads and brake fluid must be col-

lected and disposed of according the applica-

ble regulations. The SEAT Technical Service

network has the necessary equipment and

qualified personnel for collecting and dispos-

ing of this waste material.

WARNING

Always be aware of the danger of injury and

chemical burns as well as the risk of accident

or fire when working on the battery and the

electrical system:

●

When working in the engine compartment,

always observe the safety warnings

››› page 166.

●

Wear eye protection. Protect your eyes,

CAUTION

skin and clothing from acid and particles con-

taining lead.

●

Never put radiator anti-freeze or other addi-

tives into the windscreen washer fluid.

Windscreen washer reservoir

●

Battery acid is extremely corrosive. Wear

●

Always use approved windscreen cleansing

protective gloves and eye protection. Do not

tilt the batteries. This could spill acid through

the vents. Rinse battery acid from eyes imme-

diately for several minutes with clear water.

Then seek medical care immediately. Neutral-

ise any acid splashes on the skin or clothing

with a soapy solution, and rinse off with plen-

ty of water. If acid is swallowed by mistake,

consult a doctor immediately.

Topping up washer fluid

products diluted as per instructions. If you

use other washer fluids or soap solutions,

the tiny holes in the fan-shaped nozzles

could become blocked.

Read the additional information carefully

›››

page 25



The windscreen washer and the headlight

washers are supplied with fluid from the

windscreen washer fluid container in the en-

gine compartment. The container holds ap-

174

Checking and refilling levels

the battery on page 174. For vehicles with

the battery under the spare wheel, open

the rear lid and lift the floor covering. The

battery is located next to the spare wheel.

●

Fires, sparks, open flames and smoking are

Ensure that the vent hose is always connec-

prohibited. When handling cables and electri-

cal equipment, avoid causing sparks and

electrostatic charge. Never short the battery

terminals. High-energy sparks can cause in-

jury.

ted to the battery.

●

Never use a defective battery. This could

cause an explosion. Replace a damaged bat-

tery immediately.

–

Check the colour display in the "magic eye"

on the top of the battery.

●

For vehicles with the battery in the luggage

●

A highly explosive mixture of gases is re-

compartment: Check that the battery gas

ventilation hose is securely attached.

If there are air bubbles in the window, tap

the window gently until they disperse.

leased when the battery is under charge. The

batteries should be charged in a well-ventila-

ted room only.

The position of the battery is shown in the

corresponding engine compartment diagram

››› page 168. The location of the battery in

the luggage compartment can be seen in

››› Fig. 152.

CAUTION

●

Keep children away from acid and batteries.

●

Never disconnect the battery if the ignition

●

Before working on the electrical system,

is switched on or if the engine is running.

This could damage the electrical system or

electronic components.

you must switch off the engine, the ignition

and all electrical devices. The negative cable

on the battery must be disconnected. When a

light bulb is changed, you need only switch

off the light.

●

Do not expose the battery to direct sunlight

The “magic eye” indicator, located on the top

of the battery changes colour, depending on

the charge state and electrolyte level of the

battery.

over a long period of time, as the intense ul-

traviolet radiation can damage the battery

housing.

●

Deactivate the anti-theft alarm by unlock-

ing the vehicle before you disconnect the bat-

tery! The alarm will otherwise be triggered.

●

If the vehicle is left standing in cold condi-

There are two different colours:

tions for a long period, protect the battery

from “freezing”. If it freezes it will be dam-

aged.

●

When disconnecting the battery from the

vehicle on-board network, disconnect first

the negative cable and then the positive ca-

ble.

●

Black: correct charge status.

Transparent/clear yellow: the battery must

be replaced. Contact a specialised workshop.

●

Switch off all electrical devices before re-

connecting the battery. Reconnect first the

positive cable and then the negative cable.

Never reverse the polarity of the connections.

This could cause an electrical fire.

Checking the electrolyte level

Charging and changing the vehicle

battery

The electrolyte level should be checked regu-

larly in high-mileage vehicles, in hot coun-

tries and in older batteries.

●

Never charge a frozen battery, or one which

The battery is maintenance-free and is

checked during the inspection service. All

work on the vehicle battery requires special-

ist knowledge.

has thawed. This could result in explosions

and chemical burns. Always replace a battery

which has frozen. A flat battery can also

freeze at temperatures close to 0 °C (+32 °F).

–

Open the bonnet and open the battery cov-

er at the front ››› in Safety instructions

on working in the engine compartment on

page 166 ››› in Warnings on handling

»

175

Advice

If you often drive short distances or if the ve-

hicle is not driven for long periods, the bat-

tery should be checked by a specialised

workshop between the scheduled services.

●

Before starting any work on the batteries,

Wheels

you must read and observe the warnings

››› in Warnings on handling the battery on

page 174.

Wheels and tyres

If the battery has discharged and you have

problems starting the vehicle, the battery

might be damaged. If this happens, we rec-

ommend you have the vehicle battery

checked by a Technical Service where it will

be re-charged or replaced.

General notes

Avoiding damage

For the sake of the environment

Batteries contain toxic substances such as

sulphuric acid and lead. They must be dis-

posed of appropriately and must not be dis-

posed of with ordinary household waste.

–

If you have to drive over a kerb or similar

obstacle, drive very slowly and at a right

angle.

Charging the battery

–

Keep grease, oil and fuel off the tyres.

The vehicle battery should be charged by a

specialised workshop only, as batteries us-

ing special technology have been installed

and they must be charged in a controlled en-

vironment.

Inspect the tyres regularly for damage

(cuts, cracks or blisters, etc.). Remove any

foreign objects embedded in the treads.

Storing tyres

–

When you remove the tyres, mark them in

order to maintain the same direction of ro-

tation when they are installed again.

Replacing a vehicle battery

The battery has been developed to suit the

conditions of its location and has special

safety features.

When removed, the wheels and/or tyres

should be stored in a cool, dry and prefera-

bly dark location.

Genuine SEAT batteries meet the mainte-

nance, performance and safety specifications

of your vehicle.

Store tyres in a vertical position, if they are

not fitted on wheel rims.

WARNING

New tyres

●

We recommend you use only maintenance-

New tyres must be run in ››› page 134.

free or cycle free leak-proof batteries which

comply with standards T 825 06 and

VW 7 50 73. This standard applies as of

2001.

The tread depth of new tyres may vary, ac-

cording to the type and make of tyre and the

tread pattern.

176

Checking and refilling levels for Your Seat Ibiza SUV Fourth Generation (2009-2017)

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