Get Driving Guide for Seat Ibiza SUV Fourth Generation (2009-2017)

Driving

When the outside temperature is low, air re-

circulation mode improves heating perform-

ance by heating air from the interior instead

of cold air from the outside.

Switching the ignition or the glow plug

Driving

2

system on

Turn the ignition key to this position and re-

lease it. If the key cannot be turned or it is

Starting and stopping the

engine

1

difficult to turn from position

to position

When the outside temperature is high, air re-

circulation mode improves cooling perform-

ance by cooling air from the interior instead

of warm air from outside.

2

, move the steering wheel from one side to

the other; this will release it.

Ignition key positions

3

Starting

For safety reasons, the air recirculation

should not be switched on when the air dis-

tribution control is set to the windscreen set-

ting .

The engine is started when the key is in this

position. Electrical devices with high power

consumption are switched off temporarily at

the same time.

WARNING

Each time that the vehicle is restarted, the ig-

1

nition key must be turned to position . The

In air recirculation mode, no cold air from the

outside enters the vehicle interior. If the air

conditioner is switched off, the windows can

quickly mist over. Therefore, never leave the

air recirculation mode switched on for a long

time (risk of accident).

repetitive start prevention lock of the igni-

tion prevents possible damage to the starter

motor if the engine is already running.

Fig. 131 Ignition key positions.

WARNING

1

Ignition switched off, steering lock

●

The ignition key must NOT be removed from

In this position ››› Fig. 131, the ignition and

the engine are OFF and the steering may be

locked.

Note

the lock until the vehicle comes to a stand-

still. Otherwise, the steering could be imme-

diately blocked- Risk of accident!

When engaging reverse gear, the air recircu-

lation is connected automatically to prevent

the entrance of exhaust gases into the vehi-

cle upon travelling backwards. In this case



For the Steering lock to operate without the

ignition key, turn the steering wheel until it

locks with an audible sound. You should al-

ways lock the steering wheel when you leave

your vehicle. This will help prevent vehicle

●

Always remove the key from the ignition

when leaving the vehicle, even if only for a

short period. This is especially important if

children or disabled people are left alone in

the vehicle. They could accidentally start the

engine or work electrical equipment such as

the electric windows, resulting in an acci-

dent.

the symbol

played.

for air recirculation is not dis-

theft ›››

.

»

123

Operation

Starting petrol engines

●

Unsupervised use of the key could start the

dents. Carbon monoxide can cause loss of

consciousness and result in death.

engine or any electrical system, such as the

electric windows. This could result in serious

injury.

The engine can only be started using a genu-

ine SEAT key with its correct code.

●

Never leave the vehicle unattended if the

engine is running.

–

Move the gearbox lever to the neutral posi-

tion and depress the clutch pedal thor-

oughly and hold it in this position for the

starter to turn the engine on.

●

Never use “cold start sprays”, they could

CAUTION

explode or cause the engine to run at high

revs. Risk of injury.

The starter motor will only work when the en-

3

gine is stopped (ignition key position ).

CAUTION

–

Turn the ignition key to the starting posi-

tion ››› page 123.

●

When the engine is cold, you should avoid

Electronic immobiliser

high engine speeds, driving at full throttle

and over-loading the engine. Risk of engine

damage.

Let go of the ignition key as soon as the en-

gine starts; the starter motor must not run

on with the engine.

The electronic immobiliser prevents unau-

thorised persons from driving the vehicle.

●

The vehicle should not be pushed or towed

more than 50 metres to start the engine. Un-

burnt fuel could enter the catalytic converter

and damage it.

After starting a very hot engine, you may

need to slightly press down the accelerator.

Inside the key there is a chip that deactivates

the electronic immobiliser automatically

when the key is inserted into the ignition.

When starting a cold engine, it may be a little

noisy for the first few seconds until oil pres-

sure has built up in the hydraulic valve com-

pensators. This is quite normal, and no cause

for concern.

●

Before attempting to push-start or tow a ve-

The electronic immobiliser will be activated

again automatically as soon as you pull the

key out of the ignition lock.

hicle in order to start it, you should first try to

start it using the battery of another vehicle.

Please observe and follow the notes on the

››› page 188, Jump-starting.

The engine can only be started using a genu-

ine SEAT key with its correct code.

If the engine does not start immediately,

switch the starter off after 10 seconds and try

again after half a minute. If the engine still

does not start, the fuel pump fuse should be

checked ››› page 195, Fuses.

For the sake of the environment

Note

Do not warm-up the engine by running the

engine with the vehicle stationary. Start off

immediately, driving gently. This helps the

engine reach operating temperature faster

and reduces emissions.

A perfect operation of the vehicle is ensured

if genuine SEAT keys are used.

WARNING

●

Never start or run the engine in unventila-

ted or closed rooms. The exhaust gases con-

tain carbon monoxide, an odourless and col-

ourless poisonous gas. Risk of fatal acci-

124

Driving

Start the engine as soon as the glow plug

warning lamp goes out.

Starting diesel engines

For the sake of the environment

Do not warm-up the engine by running the

engine with the vehicle stationary. You

should drive off as soon as you start the en-

gine. This helps the engine reach operating

temperature faster and reduces emissions.

The engine can only be started using a genu-

ine SEAT key with its correct code.

Starting a diesel engine after the fuel tank

has been completely run dry

–

Move the gearbox lever to the neutral posi-

tion and depress the clutch pedal thor-

oughly and hold it in this position for the

starter to turn the engine on.

If the fuel tank has been completely run dry,

it may take longer than normal (up to one mi-

nute) to start a diesel engine after refuelling.

This is because the fuel system must elimi-

nate air first.

Switching off the engine

–

Turn the ignition key to position ››› Fig. 131

2

. The warning lamp  will light for en-

–

Stop the vehicle.

gine pre-heating.

WARNING

Turn the ignition key to position ››› Fig. 131

.

When the lamp turns off, turn the ignition

Observe the safety warnings ››› in Starting

petrol engines on page 124.

1

3

key to position

to start the engine. Do

not press the accelerator.

After switching the engine off, the radiator

fan may run on for up to 10 minutes. The fan

may also turn on again if coolant temperature

increases from accumulated heat in the en-

gine compartment or due to its prolonged ex-

posure to solar radiation.

Release the ignition key as soon as the en-

gine starts. The starter motor should not

turn at the same time.

CAUTION

●

When the engine is cold, you should avoid

high engine speeds, driving at full throttle

and over-loading the engine. Risk of engine

damage.

When starting a cold engine, it may be a little

noisy for the first few seconds until oil pres-

sure has built up in the hydraulic valve com-

pensators. This is quite normal, and no cause

for concern.

●

The vehicle should not be pushed or towed

WARNING

more than 50 metres to start the engine. Un-

burnt fuel could enter the catalytic converter

and damage it.

●

Never switch the engine off until the vehi-

cle is completely stationary.

If there are problems starting the engine, see

the ››› page 188.

●

The brake servo works only when the en-

●

Before attempting to push-start or tow a ve-

gine is running. With the engine switched off,

more strength is needed to brake. As normal

brake operation cannot be performed, risk of

accidents and serious injury may exist.

hicle in order to start it, you should first try to

start it using the battery of another vehicle.

Please observe and follow the notes on the

››› page 188, Jump-starting.

Glow plug system for the diesel engine

To avoid unnecessary discharging of the bat-

tery, do not use any other major electrical

equipment while the glow plugs are pre-heat-

ing.

●

The steering lock can be immediately

blocked once the key is removed from the ig-

nition. The vehicle cannot be steered. Risk of

accident.

»

125

Operation

●

CAUTION

WARNING

Non-standard or damaged front spoilers

could restrict the airflow to the brakes and

cause them to overheat. Before purchasing

accessories please observe the relevant in-

structions ››› page 155, Technical modifica-

tions.

When the engine has been running under a

heavy load for a long period, heat can accu-

mulate in the engine compartment and cause

engine damage. For this reason, idle the en-

gine for approximately 2 minutes before

switching it off.

Longer braking distances and faults in the

brake system increase the risk of accidents.

●

New brake pads must be run in and do not

have the correct friction during the first

200 km. This reduced braking capacity may

be compensated for by pressing on the brake

pedal a little harder, which also applies when

the brake pads have to be changed further

on.

●

If a brake system circuit fails, the braking

distance will be increased considerably. Con-

tact a specialised workshop immediately and

avoid unnecessary journeys.

Braking and parking

●

If brakes are wet or frozen, or if you are

driving on roads which have been salted,

braking power may be lower than normal.

Braking capacity and braking distance

Handbrake

●

On steep slopes, if brakes are excessively

The efficiency of the brakes depends directly

on the brake pad wear. This wear depends to

a great extent on the conditions under which

the vehicle is operated and the way the vehi-

cle is driven. If you often drive in town, drive

short distances or have a sporty driving style,

we recommend that you have the thickness

of your brake pads checked by technical serv-

ices more frequently than recommended in

the Maintenance Programme.

used, they will overheat. Before driving down

a long steep slope, it is advisable to reduce

speed and change down into a lower gear or

range (depending on the type of transmis-

sion). Thus, make use of engine braking and

relieve the brakes.

●

Never let the brakes “drag” by applying

light pressure. Continuous braking will cause

the brakes to overheat and the braking dis-

tance will increase. Apply and then release

the brakes alternately.

Fig. 132 Handbrake between the front seats.

If you drive with wet brakes, for example, af-

ter crossing areas of water, on days of heavy

rainfall or even after washing the car, the ef-

fect of the brakes is reduced as the brake

discs are wet or even frozen (in winter): in

this case, the brakes should be “dried” by

pressing the brake pedal several times.

●

Never let the vehicle run with the engine

switched off. The braking distance is in-

creased considerably when the brake servo is

not active.

The handbrake should be applied firmly to

prevent the vehicle from accidentally rolling

away. Always apply the handbrake when you

leave your vehicle and when you park.

●

If the brake fluid loses its viscosity and is

subjected to heavy use, vapour bubbles can

form in the brake system. This reduces the ef-

ficiency of the brakes.

126

Driving

●

Applying the handbrake

If the vehicle is parked facing uphill, turn

CAUTION

the front wheels so that they point away from

the kerb.

–

Pull the handbrake lever up firmly

Always apply the handbrake before you leave

the vehicle. Put it in 1st gear as well.

››› Fig. 132.

●

Secure the vehicle as usual by applying the

handbrake firmly and putting it in 1st gear.

Releasing the handbrake

–

Pull the lever up slightly and press the re-

lease knob in the direction of the arrow

››› Fig. 132 and guide the handbrake lever

Parking

WARNING

●

Take measures to reduce the risk of injury

when you leave your vehicle unattended.

The handbrake should always be firmly ap-

plied when the vehicle is parked.

down fully ›››

.

●

Never park where the hot exhaust system

could ignite inflammable materials, such as

dry grass, low bushes, spilt fuel etc.

Always note the following points when park-

ing the vehicle:

Always pull the handbrake all the way up, so

there is less risk of driving off with it still en-

gaged ›››

.

–

Use the brake pedal to stop the vehicle.

Apply the handbrake.

●

Never allow vehicle occupants to remain in

the vehicle when it is locked. They would be

unable to open the vehicle from the inside,

and could become trapped in the vehicle in

an emergency. In the event of an emergency,

locked doors will delay assistance to vehicle

occupants.

The handbrake warning lamp  lights up

when the handbrake is applied and the igni-

tion switched on. The warning lamp turns off

when the handbrake is released.

Put it in 1st gear.

Switch the engine off and remove the key

from the ignition. Turn the steering wheel

slightly to engage the steering lock.

WARNING

●

Never leave children alone in the vehicle.

●

Never use the handbrake to stop the vehi-

They could set the vehicle in motion, for ex-

ample, by releasing the handbrake or the

gearbox lever.

–

Always take you keys with you when you

leave the vehicle ›››

cle when it is in motion. The braking distance

is considerably longer, because braking is

only applied to the rear wheels. Risk of acci-

dent!

.

Additional notes on parking the vehicle on

gradients:

●

Depending on weather conditions, it may

become extremely hot or cold inside the vehi-

cle. This can be fatal.

●

If the handbrake is only partially released,

Turn the steering wheel so that the vehicle

rolls against the kerb if it started to roll.

this will cause the rear brakes to overheat,

which can impair the function of the brake

system and could lead to an accident. This al-

so causes premature wear on the rear brake

pads.

●

If the vehicle is parked facing downhill,

turn the front wheels so that they point to-

wards the kerb.

Hill driving assistant*

This function is only included in vehicles with

ESC.

»

127

Operation

The hill driving assistant helps the driver to

move off and upward on a hill when the vehi-

cle is stationary.

The reverse lights switch on when the reverse

gear is selected and the ignition is on.

conditions. Depress the brake pedal or use

the hand brake immediately.

●

If the engine stalls, depress the brake ped-

al or use the hand brake immediately.

WARNING

The system maintains brake pressure for ap-

proximately two seconds after the driver

takes his foot off the brake pedal to prevent

the vehicle from lurching backward when it is

started. During these 2 seconds, the driver

has enough time to release the clutch pedal

and accelerate without the vehicle moving

and without having to use the handbrake,

making start-up easier, more comfortable

and safer.

●

When the engine is running, the vehicle

●

When following a line of traffic uphill, if you

will start to move as soon as a gear is engag-

ed and the clutch released.

want to prevent the vehicle from rolling back

accidentally when starting off, hold the brake

pedal down for a few seconds before starting

off.

●

Never select the reverse gear when the ve-

hicle is in motion. Risk of accident.

Note

The Official Service or a specialist workshop

can tell you if your vehicle is equipped with

this system.

●

Do not rest your hand on the gear lever

while driving. The pressure of your hand

could cause premature wear on the selector

forks in the gearbox.

These are the basic operation conditions:

●

being on a ramp or hill/slope,

doors closed,

●

When changing gear, you should always

depress the clutch fully to avoid unnecessary

wear and damage.

Manual gearbox

vehicle completely stationary,

engine running and foot on the brake,

besides having a gear engaged or being in

●

Do not “slip” the clutch to hold the vehicle

Driving with a manual gearbox

on a hill. This causes premature wear and

damage to the clutch.

Read the additional information carefully

neutral for manual gear change and with the

selector lever at position S, D or R for an au-

tomatic gearbox.

●

Do not leave your foot on the clutch pedal;

›››

page 19



although the pressure may seem insignifi-

cant, it can cause the premature wear of the

clutch plate. Use the foot rest when you do

not need to change gear.

Certain versions of the model may include a

6-speed manual gearbox, and its diagram is

shown on the gearbox lever.

This system is also active when reversing up-

hill.

The reverse gear can only be engaged when

the car is stationary. When the engine is run-

ning and before engaging this gear, wait

about 6 seconds with the clutch pressed

down thoroughly in order to protect the gear-

box.

WARNING

●

If you do not start the vehicle immediately

after taking your foot off the brake pedal, the

vehicle may start to roll back under certain

128

Driving

Selector lever lock

–

Hold the brake pedal pressed down and at

the same time, hold the selector lever lock

on the left of the selector lever also press-

ed down.

Automatic gearbox*

Gearbox programmes

Read the additional information carefully

The warning lamp  on the instrument panel

lights up when the brake pedal should be ap-

plied. This is essential when the selector lev-

er is taken from the P or N positions.

›››

page 20



The automatic gearbox has got two gearbox

programmes.

Level lock only engages with the vehicle sta-

tionary at a speed of up to 5 km/h (3 mph).

At speeds of over 5 km/h (3 mph) the selec-

tor lever lock is automatically deactivated in

position N.

Selecting the normal programme

–

Put the selector lever into position D.

Fig. 133 Automatic gearbox

Selecting the sport programme

–

The selector lever lock is not engaged if the

selector lever is moved quickly through posi-

tion N (e.g. when shifting from R to D). This

makes it possible, for instance, to “rock” the

vehicle backwards and forwards if it is stuck

in snow or mud. The selector lever lock en-

gages automatically if the brake pedal is not

depressed and the lever is in position N for

more than about 1second.

Put the selector lever into position S.

If you select the normal programme, D, you

will drive in the economy mode, i.e. the pro-

gramme is designed to reduce fuel consump-

tion. The gearbox changes up into a higher

gear as soon as possible and down into a

lower gear as late as possible.

If you select the sport programme, S, you will

drive in a sporty mode, i.e. a programme in

which shifts into high gears are postponed in

order to use the full power of the engine.

Fig. 134 Automatic gearbox: instrument pan-

el display.

The selector lever lock in position P or N pre-

vents gears from being engaged inadvertent-

ly, which would cause the vehicle to move.

The selector lever lock is released as follows:

–

Switch the ignition on.

129

Operation

Stopping briefly

Starting the vehicle up hills

Driving a car with an automatic

gearbox

–

If stopping for a short time, keep the vehi-

cle stationary by pressing the foot brake

hard to prevent the vehicle moving back-

wards on a slope or “creeping” forwards,

e.g. at traffic lights. The selector lever does

not need to be put into the positions P or N

for this.

Apply the handbrake.

With a selected gear, accelerate slowly and

at the same time, release the handbrake.

The steeper the slope, the lower the needed

gear. This increases the braking effect of the

engine. For example, when driving down a

very steep slope in third gear. If the engine

brake effect is not enough, the vehicle will

speed up. The automatic gearbox automati-

cally changes up to prevent the engine over-

revving. Use the foot brake to reduce speed

and change into 3rd gear using Tiptronic*

–

Do not press the accelerator.

Parking

–

Press and hold the brake pedal until the ve-

hicle comes to a standstill ›››

.

Fig. 135 Automatic gearbox

›››

.

–

Apply the handbrake.

The gearbox changes gear ratios automatical-

ly as the vehicle moves.

Your vehicle has an automatic interlock

which prevents the selector lever from being

put into a position for driving forwards or in

reverse from positions P or N if the brake

pedal is not depressed.

By pressing the lock button down, move

the selector lever to P and release the lock

button.

Starting

–

Start the engine with the selector lever in

Driving up and down hills

position P or N.

The ignition key cannot be removed unless

the selector lever is in position P.

–

Press the selector lever from position “D”

to the right into the tiptronic selector gate.

Driving

–

Lightly press the selector lever back to

change down.

–

Press and hold the brake pedal.

Control lamp “Pressing brake pedal” 

Holding down the lock button (button on

the selector lever), select R or D.

When the warning lamp next to the selector

lever lights up, press the brake pedal. This is

necessary when the automatic gearbox selec-

tor lever is moved out of positions P or N. A

text message or instructions to perform nec-

essary operations may appear on the instru-

ment panel.

Holding the car on a hill

–

Release the lever and wait a little for the

gearbox to engage the gear (a slight move-

ment can be felt).

–

The brake must be always pressed down to

prevent the vehicle from “rolling back-

wards” ››› . Do not try to prevent the vehi-

cle from “rolling backwards” by increasing

the engine speed while a range of gears is

selected.

Release the brake and press the accelerator

›››

.

130

Driving

WARNING

CAUTION

If you stop the vehicle up hills, do not at-

●

As a driver, you should never leave your ve-

hicle if the engine is running and a gear range

is engaged. If you have to leave your vehicle

while the engine is running, you must apply

the parking brake and put the selector lever

in position P.

tempt to stop it from rolling back by depress-

ing the accelerator when a gear has been se-

lected. Otherwise, the automatic gearbox

may overheat causing damage. Pull the hand-

brake up or fully depress the brake pedal to

prevent the vehicle from rolling away.

●

If the engine is running and if D or R is en-

●

gaged, you will need to hold the car on the

foot brake. The car will creep forward as the

power transmission is not fully interrupted

even when the engine is idling.

If you allow the vehicle to roll when the en-

gine is not running, or with the selector lever

in position N, a lack of lubrication in the auto-

matic gearbox will damage it.

Fig. 137 Steering wheel with paddle levers

for automatic gearbox.

●

Never accelerate when moving the selector

lever or you may cause an accident.

The Tiptronic system allows the driver to se-

lect gears manually.

●

Never move the selector lever to R or P

when driving. Risk of accident!

Changing gear in tiptronic mode*

General information about driving in tiptronic

mode

●

Before driving down a long, steep slope, it

is advisable to reduce speed and change into

a lower gear.

Changing gear with the selector lever

●

If you stop the vehicle up hill, always hold

–

Press the selector lever from position D to

the right into the tiptronic selector gate.

the foot brake strongly depressed down to

stop it from rolling back.

–

Lightly press the selector lever forward

●

Never allow the brake to rub and do not use

+

››› Fig. 136

gear.

to change up to a higher

the brake pedal too often or for long periods.

Constant braking will cause the brakes to

overheat and will considerably reduce the

brake effect. This increases the braking dis-

tance and could cause the brake system to

fail.

–

Lightly press the selector lever backward

Fig. 136 Changing gear with Tiptronic.

-

››› Fig. 136

gear.

to change down to a lower

●

Never allow the car to roll down a gradient

Changing gear with the steering wheel

paddle levers*

with the gear in neutral N, or in selector lever

position D, even if the engine is not running.

+

–

Press the right paddle lever

towards the

steering wheel to change up ››› Fig. 137.

»

131

Operation

-

–

Tiptronic gear indicator

Press the left paddle lever

towards the

leave “tiptronic” mode if the paddle levers

are not moved for a certain time.

steering wheel to change down ››› Fig. 137.

If the automatic gearbox is shifted manually,

the selected gears are shown on the screen.

Using the paddle levers on the steering

wheel, you can access manual driving mode

regardless of the pre-selected driving mode.

Note

●

The gear paddle levers on the steering

P - parking lock

wheel can be operated with the selector lever

in any position and with the vehicle in mo-

tion.

When the selector lever is in this position,

the driven wheels are locked mechanically.

General information about driving in

tiptronic mode

Position P on the lever must only be selected

if the vehicle is stationary.

When accelerating, the automatic gearbox /

DSG automatic gearbox goes into a higher

gear a little before the engine reaches its

maximum permitted revolutions.

Selector lever positions

To move selector lever from position P, the

locking button on the selector lever handle

must be pressed and the brake pedal de-

pressed at the same time while the ignition is

switched on.

If a lower gear is selected, the automatic

gearbox / DSG automatic gearbox will only

change down when the engine cannot go

over its maximum permitted revolutions.

To put the selector lever in position P, simply

press the lock button down and, if necessary,

depress the brake pedal down.

If “tiptronic” is selected whilst the vehicle is

in motion and the automatic gearbox / DSG

automatic gearbox is in third gear and selec-

tor lever position D, “tiptronic” mode will

then also be in third gear.

R - Reverse gear

The reverse gear is engaged in this position.

Fig. 138 Automatic gearbox: instrument pan-

el display.

Reverse gear must be engaged only when the

vehicle is stationary and the engine is idling.

Changing gears in the normal or sport

programme using the steering wheel paddle

levers

Selector lever positions

To move the selector lever to position R,

press the lock button down and, at the same

time, press the brake pedal down, with the

ignition switched on.

The selected gear is displayed on the side of

the selector lever and on the instrument pan-

el display. The currently selected gear for the

automatic gearbox will also be shown on the

display.

If the paddle levers ››› Fig. 137 are used in

the normal or sport programme, the system

switches temporarily to “tiptronic” mode. To

exit “Tiptronic” mode again, press the right

With the selector lever in position R and the

ignition switched on the following occurs:

+

paddle lever towards the steering wheel

for approximately one second. You will also

●

Reverse lights light up.

132

Driving

●

The air conditioner automatically changes

the air recirculation mode.

press the brake pedal to change the selector

lever from position N to position D.

●

The brake servo does not work with the en-

gine off. You need more force to stop the vehi-

cle.

●

The wiper starts if the windscreen washer is

on.

S - Standard driving position (Sport

programme)

●

Power steering does not work when the en-

gine is not running. That is why it is much

more difficult to turn the steering wheel.

●

The parking distance warning system*

When the selector lever is in position S, it will

automatically change up into a higher gear

later, and change down into a low gear, if

compared with position D. This way, it is pos-

sible to take full advantage of the engine re-

serve power, depending on the engine de-

mand, driving style and speed. The braking

effect of the engine when driving downhill is

very limited. On the instrument panel display

the selected gear is shown as well as the se-

lector lever to position S.

switches on.

●

Never remove the key from the ignition if

the vehicle is in motion. The steering lock

could suddenly engage, and you would not be

able to steer the vehicle.

N - Neutral (idling)

If this position is selected, the gearbox is in

neutral. Power is not transmitted to the

wheels and the engine does not have a brak-

ing function.

CAUTION

If you allow the vehicle to move when the en-

gine is switched off or with the selector lever

in position “N”, take your foot off the acceler-

ator and wait until the engine starts idling

before returning to position “D”.

Never use the N position to drive down a long

hill. There is no engine braking and the

brakes are subjected to excessive stain.

To select gear range S, press the lock button

on the selector lever.

You could damage the automatic gearbox if

you drive down hills with the gearbox lever in

position N and the engine switched off.

WARNING

Kick-down feature

D - Drive (forward)

Observe the safety warnings ››› in Driving a

car with an automatic gearbox on page 131.

This feature allows maximum acceleration.

In this position the gearbox automatically

changes to a lower or higher gear, according

to the engine's requirements, the driving

style and speed. The braking effect of the en-

gine when driving downhill is very limited

when the selector is in this position. The in-

strument panel display shows the selected

gear as well as the selector lever in position

D.

●

If the vehicle moves with no control, an ac-

If you press the accelerator down thoroughly,

the gearbox automatically changes down, de-

pending on speed and engine speed, into a

lower gear to take full advantage of give the

vehicle maximum acceleration.

cident and serious injury may occur.

WARNING

Never switch the engine off until the vehicle

is stationary. You could lose control of your

vehicle. This could cause an accident and se-

rious injury.

The gearbox does not change gear until the

engine reaches the maximum determined en-

gine speed for the gear.

»

When travelling at speeds lower than 5 km/h

(3 mph) or when the vehicle is stationary,

●

The airbags and belt tensioners do not

work when the ignition is switched off.

133

Operation

–

it might be necessary to drive momentarily

with a high rpm ››› page 59.

Do not accelerate hard.

Avoid high engine revolutions.

Do not tow a trailer.

WARNING

You could lose control of the vehicle if you ac-

celerate on slippery road surfaces. Risk of se-

rious injury.

WARNING

The gear change indicator is only an auxiliary

function and in no case should be a substi-

tute for careful driving.

●

Be particularly careful when using the kick-

From 1000 to 1500 kilometres (600 to 900

miles)

down features on slippery road surfaces. With

a fast acceleration, the vehicle could lose

traction and skid.

●

–

Speeds can be gradually increased to the

maximum road speed or maximum permis-

sible engine speed (rpm).

The responsibility of choosing the correct

gear depending on the situation (e.g. over-

taking, driving up or down a slope or towing a

trailer) lies with the driver.

●

You should use the kick-down feature only

when traffic and weather conditions allow it

to be used safely.

During its first few hours of running, the in-

ternal friction in the engine is greater than

later on, when all the moving parts have bed-

ded in.

For the sake of the environment

Gear-change indicator

3 Valid for vehicles: with a manual gearbox

Selecting the correct gear can help to save

fuel.

For the sake of the environment

The recommended gear for saving fuel is in-

dicated on the dash screen of certain vehi-

cles during driving.

Note

If the engine is run in gently, its life will be in-

creased and its oil consumption reduced.

The recommended gear display is switched

off when the clutch pedal is pressed.

Display Meaning

Running in tyres and brake pads

The optimal gear is selected.



Run-in and economical driving

New tyres should be run-in carefully for the

first 500 km (300 miles). New brake pads

should be run-in carefully for the first

200 km.

Changing to a higher gear is recommended.



Running in a new engine

Changing to a lower gear is recommended.



The engine needs to be run in over the first

1,500 km.

During the first 200 km, you can compensate

for the reduced braking effect by applying

more pressure to the brake pedal. In case of

a sharp braking, the braking distance will be

longer with new brake pads than with brake

pads which have been run-in.

Information regarding the “cleanliness” of

the diesel particulate filter

Up to 1000 kilometres

The exhaust system manager detects that the

diesel particulate filter is nearly saturated

and contributes to self-cleaning by recom-

mending the optimal gear. For this purpose,

–

Do not drive at speeds of more than 2/3

the maximum speed.

134

Driving

●

Use of compatible plastics in the same part

Catalytic converter

WARNING

if its components are not easily separated.

●

At first, new tyres do not give maximum

To maintain the useful life of the catalytic

converter

●

Use of recycled materials and/or materials

originating from renewable sources.

grip, and require running-in. This may cause

an accident. Drive particularly carefully in the

first 500 km.

–

Use only unleaded petrol with petrol en-

gines, as lead damages the catalytic con-

verter.

●

Reduction of volatile components, includ-

ing odour, in plastic materials.

●

New brake pads must be “run in” and do

not have the correct friction properties during

the first 200 km. However, the reduced brak-

ing capacity may be compensated by press-

ing on the brake pedal a little harder.

●

Use of CFC-free coolants.

–

Do not let the fuel get too low in the tank.

Ban on heavy metals, with the exceptions

dictated by law (Annex II of ELV Directive

2000/53/EC): cadmium, lead, mercury, hexa-

valent chromium.

For engine oil changes, do not replenish

with too much engine oil ››› page 170, Top-

ping up engine oil .

Environmental friendliness

–

Never tow the vehicle to start it, use jump

leads if necessary ››› page 188.

Manufacturing methods

Environmental protection is a top priority in

the design, choice of materials and manufac-

ture of your new SEAT.

●

Reduction of the quantity of thinner in the

protective wax for cavities.

If you notice misfiring, uneven running or

loss of power when the vehicle is moving, re-

duce speed immediately and have the vehi-

cle inspected at the nearest specialised

workshop. In general, the exhaust warning

lamp will light up when any of the described

symptoms occur ››› page 57. If this happens,

unburnt fuel can enter the exhaust system

and escape into the environment. The cata-

lytic converter can also be damaged by over-

heating.

●

Use of plastic film as protection during ve-

hicle transport.

Constructive measures to encourage

recycling

●

Use of solvent-free adhesives.

●

Use of CFC-free coolants in cooling sys-

●

Joints and connections designed for easy

dismantling

tems.

●

Recycling and energy recovery from resi-

●

Modular construction to facilitate disman-

tling

dues (RDF).

●

Improvement in the quality of waste water.

●

Increased use of single-grade materials.

●

Use of systems for the recovery of residual

●

Plastic parts and elastomers are marked in

WARNING

heat (thermal recovery, enthalpy wheels,

etc.).

accordance with ISO 1043, ISO 11469 and

ISO 1629.

The catalytic converter reaches very high

temperatures! Risk of fire!

●

The use of water-soluble paints.

●

Never park where the catalytic converter

Choice of materials

could come into contact with dry grass or

flammable materials under the vehicle.

●

Use of recycled materials.

»

135

Operation

Diesel engine particulate filter*

●

Do not apply additional underseal or anti-

WARNING

corrosion coatings to the exhaust pipes, cata-

lytic converter or the heat shields on the ex-

haust system. These materials could catch

fire when the vehicle is being driven.

●

The diesel engine particulate filter may

reach extremely high temperatures; the vehi-

cle should be parked so that the exhaust pipe

does not come into contact with flammable

materials underneath the vehicle. Otherwise

there is a risk of fire.

CAUTION

Never run the fuel tank completely dry be-

cause the irregularity of the fuel supply may

cause ignition problems. This allows unburnt

fuel to enter the exhaust system, which could

cause overheating and damage the catalytic

converter.

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 by

the diesel producer in accordance with stand-

ard EN 590 is authorised and will not cause

damage to the engine or the fuel system.

Fig. 139 Vehicle data sticker on back cover of

the Maintenance Programme.

For the sake of the environment

Your vehicle is fitted with a DPF (Diesel partic-

ulate filter) if the vehicle data sticker (back

cover of the “Maintenance Programme)” lists

the PR code 7GG or 7MG ››› Fig. 139.

Even when the emission control system is

working perfectly, there may be a smell of

sulphur from the exhaust gas under some

conditions. This depends on the sulphur con-

tent of the fuel used. Quite often the problem

can be solved by changing to another brand

of fuel.

●

Using diesel fuel with a high sulphur con-

tent may significantly reduce the useful life of

the diesel particulate filter. Your Technical

Service will be able to tell you which coun-

tries have diesel with a high sulphur content.

The diesel engine particulate filter eliminates

most of the soot from the exhaust gas sys-

tem. Under normal driving conditions, the fil-

ter cleans itself. If this is not possible (for ex-

ample, multiple short trips) the filter will be

obstructed by soot and  the diesel engine

particulate filter warning lamp will light up.

This does not represent a fault, it is a warning

that indicates that the filter has not been

able to regenerate automatically and that you

must perform a cleaning cycle, as indicated

in ››› page 59.

Economical and environmentally

friendly driving

Fuel consumption, environmental pollution

and wear to the engine, brakes and tyres de-

pends in large part on your driving style. By

adopting an economical driving style and an-

ticipating the traffic situation ahead, you can

easily reduce fuel consumption by 10-15%.

136

Driving

Some tips on how to help you reduce pollu-

tion while saving money are listed below.

Manual gearbox: shift up from first to second

gear as soon as possible. We recommend

that, whenever possible, you change to a

higher gear upon reaching 2000 rpm. Follow

the “recommended gear” indication that ap-

pears on the instrument panel ››› page 64.

sume more than the required amount of fuel.

A well-serviced engine gives you the benefit

of improved fuel efficiency as well as maxi-

mum reliability and an enhanced resale val-

ue.

Active cylinder management (ACT^®

)

Depending on the equipment, the vehicle

may have active cylinder management

(ACT^®).

A badly serviced engine can consume up to

10% more fuel than necessary.

Avoid driving at high speed

The active cylinder management (ACT^®) may

automatically deactivate some of the engine

cylinders if the driving situation does not re-

quire too much power. When it is switched

off, no fuel is injected into these cylinders,

hence total fuel consumption may be re-

duced.

We advise you not to drive at the top speed

permitted by the vehicle. Fuel consumption,

exhaust emissions and noise levels all in-

crease very rapidly at higher speeds. Driving

at moderate speeds will help to save fuel.

Avoid short journeys

To reduce the consumption and emission of

polluting exhaust gases, the engine and the

exhaust gas filtration systems should reach

the optimum operating temperature.

With the engine cold, fuel consumption is

proportionally higher. The engine does not

warm up and fuel consumption does not nor-

malise until having driven approximately four

kilometres (2.5 miles). This is why we recom-

mend avoiding short trips whenever possi-

ble.

Avoid idling

It is worthwhile switching off the engine

when waiting in a traffic jam, at level cross-

ings or at traffic lights with a long red phase.

The fuel saved after only 30 - 40 seconds is

greater than the amount of fuel needed to re-

start the engine.

Drive anticipating the traffic situation

A vehicle uses most fuel when accelerating.

When you anticipate situations, you have to

brake less often and, thus, accelerate less. If

it is possible, let the vehicle roll with a gear

engaged, for example, if you see a red light

ahead. The braking effect achieved in this

way helps to reduce the wear of brakes and

tyres; emissions and fuel consumption are

reduced to zero (disconnection due to iner-

tia).

The engine takes a long time to warm up

when it is idling. Mechanical wear and pollu-

tant emissions are also especially high dur-

ing this initial warm-up phase. It is therefore

best to drive off immediately after starting

the engine. Avoid running the engine at high

speed.

Maintain the correct tyre pressures

Bear in mind that keeping the tyres at an ad-

equate pressure saves fuel. If the tyre pres-

sure is just one bar (14.5 psi/100 kPa) too

low, fuel consumption can increase by as

much as 5%. Due to the greater rolling resist-

ance, under-inflation also increases tyre wear

wear and impairs handling.

Change gear early to save energy

An effective way of saving fuel is to change

up quickly through the gears. Running the

engine at high rpm in the lower gears uses

an unnecessary amount of fuel.

Periodic maintenance

The tyre pressures should always be checked

when the tyres are cold.

Periodic maintenance work guarantees that,

before beginning a journey, you will not con-

»

137

Operation

Do not use winter tyres all year round as they

increase fuel consumption by up to 10%.

services may only be able to carry out limited

repairs.

●

It is recommended that you close the win-

dows when driving at more than 60 km/h

(37 mph)

SEAT importers and distributors will gladly

provide information about the technical prep-

aration that your vehicle requires and also

about necessary maintenance and repair

possibilities.

Avoid unnecessary weight

●

Do not drive with your foot resting on the

clutch pedal, as the pressure can make the

plate spin, more fuel will be used and it can

burn the clutch plate lining, causing a serious

fault.

Given that every kilo of extra weight will in-

crease the fuel consumption, it is advisable

to always check the luggage compartment to

make sure that no unnecessary loads are be-

ing transported.

●

Do not hold the car on a hill with the clutch,

Adhesive strips for headlights

use the foot brake or hand brake, using the

latter to start. The fuel consumption will be

lower and you will prevent the clutch plate

from being damaged.

A roof rack is often left in place for the sake

of convenience, even when it is no longer

needed. At a speed of 100 km/h (62 mph)

and 120 km/h (75 mph) your vehicle will use

about 12% more fuel as a result of the extra

wind resistance caused by the roof rack even

when it is not in use.

In countries where vehicles drive on the other

side of the road to your home country, the

asymmetric dipped beam may dazzle drivers

of oncoming vehicles.

●

On descents, use the engine brake, chang-

ing to the gear that is more suitable for the

slope. Fuel consumption will be “zero” and

the brakes will not suffer.

To prevent dazzling, you must apply stickers

to certain parts of the headlight lenses. Fur-

ther information is available at any Technical

Service.

Save electricity

In vehicles with adaptive headlights, the ro-

tation system must previously be disconnec-

ted. To do this, please go to a specialised

workshop.

The engine activates the alternator, which

produces electricity. With the need for elec-

tricity, fuel consumption also increases. Be-

cause of this, always turn off electrical devi-

ces when you do not need them. Examples of

devices that use a lot of electricity are: the

blower at high speeds, the rear window heat-

ing or the seat heaters*.

Driving abroad

To drive abroad, the following must be taken

into consideration:

●

For vehicles fitted with a catalytic converter

ensure that unleaded petrol is available for

the journey. See the chapter “Refuelling”. Au-

tomobile organisations will have information

about service station networks selling unlea-

ded fuel.

Note

●

If your vehicle has Start-Stop, it is not rec-

ommended that you switch this function off.

●

In some countries, it is possible that your

car model is not sold, and therefore some

spare parts are not available or the technical

138

Driving for Your Seat Ibiza SUV Fourth Generation (2009-2017)

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