Get Checking and refilling levels Guide for Seat Leon 4 Door Second Generation (2007-2011)

Checking and refilling levels202

Checking and refilling levels

Refuelling

The fuel cap cover opens automatically with the central

locking system. The tank holds approximately 55 litres.

Unscrewing the tank cap

–Lift the lid.

– Unscrew the cap, turning it anti-clockwise.

Closing the tank cap

– Screw the tank cap to the right, until the point of feeling a “click”.

– Close the drawer. Make sure you hear it click into place. The tank

cap is secured with an anti-loss attachment

The tank flap is at the rear of the vehicle on the right.

If the automatic filler nozzle is operated correctly, it will switch itself off as

soon as the tank is “full”. Never attempt to fill beyond this point, as this will

fill the expansion chamber. Fuel may leak out if ambient conditions are warm.

The correct fuel grade for your vehicle is given on a sticker on the inside of the

fuel tank flap. where further notes on fuel can be found.

Releasing the fuel tank flap by hand

If the central locking system fails, the fuel tank flap can be opened manually

as follows:

• Open the tailgate

• Remove the cover from the right side trim in the luggage compartment.

• Insert a hand and pull the locking device back

• Open the cap and take out the plug.

WARNING

• Fuel is highly inflammable and can cause serious burns and other inju-

ries.

− Never smoke or use any naked flame when filling the fuel tank of the

vehicle, or a spare fuel canister, with fuel. This is an explosion hazard.

− Follow legal requirements for the use of spare fuel canisters.

− For safety reasons we do not recommend carrying a spare fuel

canister in the vehicle. The canister could be damaged in an accident

and leak.

• If, in exceptional circumstances, you have to carry a spare fuel canister,

please observe the following points:

Fig. 135 Tank flap open

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Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

− Never fill the spare fuel canister inside the vehicle or on it. An elec-

trostatic charge could build up during filling, causing the fuel fumes to

ignite. This may be fatally explosive. Always place the canister on the

ground to fill it.

− Insert the fuel nozzle into the mouth of the canister as far as

possible.

− If the spare fuel canister is made of metal, the filling nozzle must be

in contact with the canister during filling. This helps prevent an electro-

static charge building up.

− Never spill fuel in the vehicle or in the luggage compartment. Fuel

vapours are explosive. Danger of death.

Caution

• Fuel spills should be removed from the paintwork immediately.

• Never run the tank completely dry. An irregular fuel supply could cause

misfiring. As a result, unburnt fuel could enter the catalytic converter and

cause damage.

For the sake of the environment

Do not try to put in more fuel after the automatic filler nozzle has switched off;

this may cause the fuel to overflow if it becomes warm.

Petrol

Petrol types

The recommended fuel types are listed on a sticker inside the

fuel tank flap.

Only unleaded petrol, corresponding to the standard DIN EN 228, may be

used for vehicles with catalytic converters (EN = “European Standard”).

Fuel types are differentiated by the octane rating, e.g: 91, 95, 98 RON (RON

= “Regulation Octane Number, unit for determining the knock resistance of

petrol”). You may use petrol with a higher octane number than the one recom-

mended for your engine. However, this has no advantage in terms of fuel

consumption and engine power.

The correct fuel type for your vehicle is given in the technical table for the

engine. Section “Technical Data”

Caution

• Petrol that follows EN 228 may be mixed with small quantities of ethanol.

However, the so-called “bioethanol fuels” available at commercial establish-

ments with reference E50 or E85, which contain a high percentage of ethanol,

may not be used, as they will damage the fuel system.

• Even one tankful of leaded fuel would permanently impair the efficiency

of the catalytic converter.

• 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

Just one full tank of leaded fuel would seriously impair the efficiency of the

catalytic converter.

WARNING (continued)

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Checking and refilling levels204

Petrol additives

Petrol additives improve the quality of the petrol.

The quality of the petrol influences running behaviour, performance and

service life of the engine. For this reason, you should use good quality petrol

containing additives. These additives will help to prevent corrosion, keep the

fuel system clean and prevent deposits from building up in the engine.

If good quality petrol with additives is not available or engine problems occur,

the required additives must be added during refuelling.

Diesel

Diesel*

Diesel fuel must correspond to DIN EN 590 (EN = “European standard”). It

must have a cetane number (CN) of at least 51. The cetane number indicates

the ignition quality of the diesel fuel.

Notes on filling with fuel ⇒ page 202.

Biodiesel*

The biodiesel fuel must comply with the DIN EN 14.214 (FAME) Standard.

• Biodiesel is a methylester obtained from rapeseed oil.

• DIN is the German abbreviation for “Deutsches Institut für Normung e.V.”,

the German standards institute.

• EN means European Norm.

• FAME is the English abbreviation for “Fatty Acid Methyl Ester”

Your Authorised Service Centre can also be consulted to know if the vehicle

has been prepared for biodiesel use.

Things to note about RME fuel (biodiesel)

• The performance of a vehicle using biodiesel maybe somewhat reduced.

• Fuel consumption of a vehicle using biodiesel may be slightly higher.

• RME fuel is resistant to the cold down to approx. -10°C.

• At temperatures below -10°C, we recommend using winter diesel fuel.

• Your vehicle is designed to be refuelled with up to a maximum of 7%

blended biodiesel in accordance with standard DIN 51628.

Caution

• RME fuel can damage the fuel system in vehicles which are not suitably

adjusted.

• If you decide to use biodiesel in your vehicle, please use only RME fuel

which is DIN E 14,214 compliant.

• If you use biodiesel that does not meet the required standard, the fuel

filter could become clogged.

Note

• In case of low exterior temperatures and a fuel biodiesel percentage of

higher than 50%, an increase in gas emission may occur during operation of

the independent heating.

• The fuel filter may become clogged when fuel is changed to biodiesel. For

this reason, we recommend you that, when having run 300 or 400 km after a

fuel change, the fuel filter change must also be done. Also note the instruc-

tions in the Inspection and Maintenance plan.

• If the vehicle is to remain parked for more than about two weeks, we

recommend filling the fuel tank with biodiesel and driving about 50 km in

order to avoid damage to the injection system.

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Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Winter driving

Diesel can thicken in winter.

Winter-grade diesel

When using “summer-grade diesel fuel”, difficulties may be experienced at

sub-zero temperatures because the fuel thickens due to wax separation.

Therefore, “winter-grade diesel fuel” is available in some countries during

the cold months. It can be used at temperatures as low as -22°C.

In countries with different climatic conditions the diesel fuel generally sold

has different temperature characteristics. Check with an Authorised Service

Centre or filling stations in the country concerned regarding the type of diesel

fuels available.

Filter pre-heater

Your vehicle is fitted with a fuel filter pre-heater, making it well equipped for

operation in winter. This ensures that the fuel system remains operational to

approx. -24°C, provided you use winter-grade diesel which is safe to -15°C.

However, if the fuel has waxed to such an extent that the engine will not start

at temperatures of under -24°C, simply place the vehicle in a warm place for

a while.

Caution

Do not mix fuel additives (“thinners”, or similar additives) with diesel fuel.

Working in the engine compartment

Safety instructions on working in the engine compartment

Any work carried out in the engine compartment or on the

engine must be carried out cautiously.

Before starting any work on the engine or in the engine compart-

ment:

1. Switch off the engine and remove the key from the ignition.

2. Apply the handbrake.

3. Move the gear stick to neutral or the selector lever to position P.

4. Wait for the engine to cool down.

5. Keep children away from the vehicle.

6. Raise the bonnet ⇒ page 207.

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 qualified workshop if you are uncertain.

All service fluids and consumables, e.g. coolant, engine oil, spark plugs and

batteries, are being constantly developed. SEAT provides a constant flow of

information to the Authorised Service Centres concerning modifications. For

this reason, we recommend you to have service fluids and consumables

replaced by an Authorised Service Centre. Please observe the relevant

instructions ⇒ page 200. The engine compartment of any motor vehicle is a

hazardous area ⇒ .

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Checking and refilling levels206

WARNING

All work on the engine or in the engine compartment, e.g. checking and

refilling fluids, involves the danger of injury and scalding as well as the risk

of accident or fire.

• 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.

• Switch off the engine and remove the key from the ignition.

• Apply the handbrake and move the gear stick to neutral or selector

lever to position P.

• Keep children away from the vehicle.

• Never touch hot engine parts. There is a risk of burns.

• 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 electrical system, particularly at the

points where the jump leads are attached ⇒ page 254. The battery could

explode.

• Never touch the radiator fan. It is temperature controlled and could

start automatically, even when the engine has been switched off and the

key removed from the ignition!

• Do not unscrew the cap on the expansion tank when the engine is hot.

If the coolant is hot, the cooling system will be pressurised!

• Protect face, hands and arms by covering the cap with a large, thick

cloth to protect against escaping coolant and steam.

• Always make sure you have not left any objects, such as cleaning cloths

and tools, in the engine compartment.

• If you have to work underneath the vehicle, you must use suitable

stands additionally to support the vehicle, there is a risk of accident!. A

hydraulic jack is insufficient for securing the vehicle and there is a risk of

injury.

• If any work has to be performed when the 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 points:

− Never touch the electrical wiring of the ignition system.

− 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-fitting

clothes.

− Always think carefully about pressing the accelerator if a gear is

engaged in either an automatic or manual gearbox. The vehicle could

move, even if the handbrake is applied. Danger of death.

• If work has to be carried out on the fuel system or on electrical compo-

nents, you must observe the following safety notes in addition to the above

warnings:

− Always disconnect the battery. The vehicle must be unlocked when

this is done, otherwise the alarm will be triggered.

− Do not smoke.

− Never work near naked flames.

− Always have a fire extinguisher on hand.

Caution

When changing or topping up service fluids, make absolutely certain that you

fill the fluids into the correct reservoirs. Failure to observe this point will result

in serious malfunctions and engine damage!

WARNING (continued)

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Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

For the sake of the environment

Service fluids leaks are harmful to the environment. 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 qualified

workshop.

Opening the bonnet

The bonnet is released from inside the vehicle.

Before opening the bonnet ensure that the windscreen wipers are in

rest position.

– To release the bonnet, pull the lever under the dashboard

⇒ fig. 136 in the direction indicated (arrow). The bonnet will be

released by a spring action ⇒ .

– Lift the bonnet using the release lever (arrow) and open the

bonnet.

– Release the bonnet stay and secure it in fixture designed for this

in the bonnet.

WARNING

Hot coolant can scald!

• Never open the bonnet if you see steam, smoke or coolant escaping

from the engine compartment.

Fig. 136 Detail of foot-

well area on driver's side:

lever for unlocking the

bonnet.

Fig. 137 Arrester hook

for bonnet.

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Checking and refilling levels208

• Wait until no more steam, smoke or coolant is emitted from the bonnet,

then carefully open the bonnet.

• When working in the engine compartment, always observe the safety

warnings ⇒ page 205.

Closing the bonnet

– Raise the bonnet slightly.

– Release the bonnet stay and replace it in its support.

– At a height of about 30 cm let it fall so it is locked.

If the bonnet does not close, do not press downwards. Open it once more and

let it fall as before.

WARNING

If the bonnet is not closed properly, it could open while you are driving and

completely obscure your view of the road. Risk of accident.

• After closing the bonnet, always check that it is properly secured. The

bonnet must be flush with the surrounding body panels.

• If you notice that the bonnet latch is not secured when the vehicle is

moving, stop the vehicle immediately and close the bonnet properly. Risk

of accident.

Engine oil

Engine oil specifications

The engine oil used must conform with exact specifications.

Specifications

The engine comes with a special, high quality, multi grade oil that can be

used in all seasons of the year except for those regions affected by extreme

cold.

As the use of high quality oil is essential for the correct operation of the

engine and its long useful life, when topping up or replacement is necessary

use only those oils that conform to the requirements of the VW standards.

If it is not possible to find oil conforming to the VW standards then oil

conforming to the ACEA or API standards with an appropriate viscosity at

atmospheric temperature should be used instead. The use of this type of oil

may have some repercussions on the performance of the engine for example,

long starting time, increased consumption and a higher emission level.

If a top up is required then different oils may be mixed as long as they all

conform to the VW standards.

The specifications (VW standards) set out in the following page should

appear on the container of the service oil; the container will display together

the different standards for petrol and diesel engines, the oil can be used for

both types of engines.

WARNING (continued)

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Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Oil properties

Viscosity

The viscosity class of the oil is selected according to the diagram.

When the ambient temperature falls outside the limits of the scale for a short

period, an oil change is not required.

Mono-grade oil

Single grade oils are generally not suitable for all year round use, due to

ranges of viscosity

21)

These oils are only useful in a climate that is constantly very cold or very

warm.

Engine oil additives

No type of additive should be mixed with the engine oil. The deterioration

caused by these additives is not covered by the warranty.

Note

Before a long trip, we recommend finding an engine oil that conforms to the

corresponding VW specifications and keeping it in the vehicle. This way, the

correct engine oil will always be available for a top-up if needed.

Checking the engine oil level

The engine oil dipstick indicates the level of the oil.

Engine type Specification

Petrol VW 501 01/ VW 502 00/ VW 504 00

Diesel VW 505 01/ VW 507 00/ VW 506 01

Diesel Engines with Particulate filter

(DPF)

Only use recommended oils, otherwise you may damage the engine.

VW 507 00

Fig. 138 Types of oil

according to temperature

21)

Viscosity: oil density

Fig. 139 Engine oil

dipstick.

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Checking and refilling levels210

Checking oil level

– Park the vehicle in a horizontal position.

– Briefly run the engine at idle speed until the service temperature

is reached then stop.

– Wait two minutes.

– Pull out the dipstick. Wipe the dipstick with a clean cloth and

insert it again, pushing it in as far as it will go.

– Then pull it out once more and check the oil level ⇒ page 209,

fig. 139. Top up with engine oil if necessary.

Oil level in area

– Do not add oil.

Oil level in area

–Oil can be topped up. The indicated oil level should be after zone

Oil level in area

–Oil must be topped up. The indicated oil level should be after in zone .

Depending on how you drive and the conditions in which the car is used, oil

consumption can be up to 0.5 l/1,000 km. Oil 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, preferably when filling the tank and before a

journey.

WARNING

Any work carried out in the engine compartment or on the engine must be

carried out cautiously.

• When working in the engine compartment, always observe the safety

warnings ⇒ page 205.

Caution

If the oil level is above the area do not start the engine. This could result

in damage to the engine and catalytic converter. Contact an Authorised

Service Centre.

Topping up engine oil 

Top up gradually with small quantities of oil.

Before opening the bonnet, read and observe the warnings ⇒ in

“Safety instructions on working in the engine compartment” on

page 205.

– Unscrew cap from oil filler opening ⇒ fig. 140.

– Top-up oil in small amounts, using the correct oil.

Fig. 140 In the engine

compartment: Engine oil

filler cap

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Checking and refilling levels 211

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

– To avoid over-filling with engine oil, you should top-up using

small quantities, wait a while and check the oil level before

adding any more oil.

– As soon as the oil level is in area , carefully close the cap.

The position of the oil filler opening is shown in the corresponding engine

compartment diagram ⇒ page 263.

Engine oil specification ⇒ page 208.

WARNING

Oil is highly inflammable! Ensure that no oil comes into contact with hot

engine components when topping up.

Caution

If the oil level is above the area do not start the engine. This could result

in damage to the engine and catalytic converter. Contact a qualified work-

shop.

For the sake of the environment

The oil level must never be above area . Otherwise oil can be drawn in

through the crankcase breather and escape into the atmosphere via the

exhaust system.

Changing engine oil

The engine oil must be changed at the intervals given in the

service schedule.

We recommend that you have the engine oil changed by an Authorised

Service Centre.

The oil change intervals are shown in the Maintenance Programme.

WARNING

Only change the oil yourself if you have the specialist knowledge required!

• Before opening the bonnet, read and observe the warnings

⇒ page 205, “Safety instructions on working in the engine compartment”.

• Wait for the engine to cool down. Hot oil may cause burn injuries.

• Wear eye protection to avoid injuries caused by splashes of oil.

• When removing the oil drain plug with your fingers, keep your arm hori-

zontal to help prevent oil from running down your arm.

• Wash your skin thoroughly if it comes into contact with engine oil.

• Engine oil is poisonous! Used oil must be stored in a safe place out of

the reach of children until it is disposed of.

Caution

No additives should be used with engine oil. This could result in engine

damage. Any damage caused by the use of such additives would not be

covered by the factory warranty.

For the sake of the environment

• Because of the disposal problems, the necessary special tools and

specialist knowledge required, we recommend that you have the engine oil

and filter changed by an Authorised Service Centre.

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Checking and refilling levels212

• Never pour oil down drains or into the ground.

• Use a suitable container when draining the used oil. It has to be large

enough to hold all the engine oil

Coolant

Coolant specifications

Coolant is a mixture of water and at least 40% coolant addi-

tive.

The cooling system must be filled with a mixture of water and at least 40 % of

our coolant additive G 12+ or an additive with the specification TT-VW 774 F

(it is dyed purple). This mixture gives the necessary frost protection down to

-25°C and protects the alloy parts of the cooling system against corrosion. It

also prevents scaling and raises the boiling point of the coolant.

The concentration of coolant must always be at least 40% - even if frost

protection is not required.

If greater frost protection is required in very cold climates, the proportion of

the antifreeze additive G 12+ can be increased. However, the percentage of

coolant additives should not exceed 60%, as this would reduce the frost

protection. It would also reduce the cooling effect. A mixture with 60%

coolant additive will give frost protection to approx. -40°C.

WARNING

• The coolant additive is toxic. There is a toxic risk. Always keep the

coolant additive in the original container which should be stored out of the

reach of children. The same applies to coolant which you have drained off.

• The coolant additive G 12+ must be added in sufficient quantities to

provide anti-freeze protection at the coldest ambient temperatures that

can be expected. At extremely cold ambient temperatures, the coolant

could freeze, causing the vehicle to breakdown. As the heater would also

not work in this situation, there is a risk of suffering exposure!

Caution

• Other additives may give considerably inferior corrosion protection. The

resulting corrosion in the cooling system can lead to a loss of coolant,

causing serious damage to the engine.

• The coolant additive G 12+ (purple) can be mixed with the additive G 12

(red) or G 11. Never mix G12 (red colour) with G 11.

WARNING (continued)

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Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Checking the coolant level and topping up 

The correct coolant level is important for fault-free func-

tioning of the engine cooling system.

Before opening the bonnet, read and observe the warnings ⇒ in

“Safety instructions on working in the engine compartment” on

page 205.

Opening the coolant expansion tank

– Switch off the engine and allow it to cool.

– To prevent scalding, cover the cap on the expansion tank with a

thick cloth and carefully unscrew the cap ⇒ .

Checking coolant level

– Look into the open coolant expansion tank and read off the

coolant level.

– If the level is underneath the “MIN” mark, top up with coolant.

Topping up coolant

–Only use new coolant.

– Do not fill above the “MAX” mark.

Closing the coolant expansion tank

–Screw the cap on again tightly.

The position of the coolant expansion reservoir is shown in the corresponding

engine compartment diagram ⇒ page 263.

Make sure that the coolant meets the required specifications ⇒ page 212.

Do not use a different type of additive if coolant additive G 12+ is not avail-

able. In this case use only water and bring the coolant concentration back up

to the correct level as soon as possible by putting in the specified additive

⇒ page 212.

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.

The coolant additive G 12+ (dyed purple) may be mixed with G 12 (dyed red)

and also with G 11.

WARNING

Any work carried out in the engine compartment or on the engine must be

carried out cautiously.

• When working in the engine compartment, always observe the safety

warnings ⇒ page 205.

Fig. 141 In the engine

compartment: Coolant

expansion tank cap

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Checking and refilling levels214

• When the engine is warm or hot, the cooling system is pressurised! Do

not unscrew the cap on the expansion tank when the engine is hot. This is

a burn injury risk.

Caution

• When mixed with other additives the colour of G 12 will change to brown.

If this occurs you should have the coolant changed immediately. Failure to do

so will result in engine damage!

• If a lot of coolant has been lost, wait for the engine to cool down before

putting in cold coolant. This avoids damaging the engine. Large coolant

losses are an indication 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.

Washer fluid and windscreen wiper blades

Topping up washer fluid 

The water for cleaning the windscreen should always be

mixed with washer fluid.

The windscreen washer and the headlight washing system are supplied with

fluid from the windscreen washer fluid container in the engine compartment.

The reservoir is located on the right-hand side of the engine compartment.

Plain water is not enough to clean the windscreen and headlights. We recom-

mend 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 dilution instructions on the packaging.

WARNING (continued)

Fig. 142 In the engine

compartment: Cap of

windscreen washer fluid

reservoir.

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Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

WARNING

Any work carried out in the engine compartment or on the engine must be

carried out cautiously.

• When working in the engine compartment, always observe the safety

warnings ⇒ page 205.

Caution

• Never put radiator anti-freeze or other additives into the windscreen

washer fluid.

• Always use approved windscreen cleansing 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.

Changing the front windscreen wiper blades

If the windscreen wiper blades are in perfect condition, you

will benefit from an improved visibility. Damaged wiper

blades should be replaced immediately.

Changing wiper blades can be done in both the rest and horizontal

positions. Ensure that the wiper blades are not frozen.

Changing the windscreen wiper blades

– Lift the wiper arm away from the windscreen.

– Press on the side tabs and release the blade moving it in the

direction of the arrow ⇒ fig. 143.

Fitting the wiper blade

– Insert the tab into the slot of the blade ⇒ fig. 143.

Fig. 143 Changing the

front wiper blades

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Checking and refilling levels216

– Move the blade towards the arm in the opposite direction of the

arrow ,until it clicks into position ⇒ fig. 143.

– Push the wiper arms back against the windscreen.

If the windscreen wipers smear, they should be replaced if they are damaged,

or cleaned if they are soiled.

If this does not produce the desired results, the setting angle of the wind-

screen wiper arms might be incorrect. They should be checked by a qualified

workshop and corrected if necessary.

WARNING

Do not drive unless you have good visibility through all windows!

• Clean the windscreen wiper blades and all windows regularly.

• The wiper blades should be changed once or twice a year.

Caution

• Damaged or dirty windscreen wipers could scratch the windscreen.

• Never use fuel, nail varnish remover, paint thinner or similar products to

clean the windows. This could damage the windscreen wiper blades.

• Never move the windscreen wiper or windscreen wiper arm manually. This

could cause damage.

• Do not pull the windscreen wipers forward unless they are in the service

position. Otherwise the bonnet could be damaged.

Note

• The wiper arms can be moved to the service position only when the

bonnet is properly closed.

Changing the rear wiper blade

A good rear wiper blade is essential for clear rear vision.

Damaged wiper blades should be replaced immediately.

Fig. 144 Remove rear

window wiper blade

Fig. 145 Mount rear

window wiper blade

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Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Removing the wiper blade

– Lift the wiper arm away from the glass ⇒ fig. 144.

– Slide the blade adapter in the direction of the arrow and remove

the blade ⇒ fig. 144.

Fitting the wiper blade

– With one hand, hold the top end of the wiper arm.

– Place the blade as shown in the ⇒ fig. 145 and slide the adapter

along until it fits into place.

Check the condition of the wiper blade regularly. Change as required.

If the windscreen wiper scrapes, it should be replaced if damaged, or cleaned

if soiled.

If this is not sufficient, refer to a qualified workshop.

WARNING

Do not drive unless you have good visibility through all windows!

• Clean the windscreen wiper blades and all windows regularly.

• The wiper blades should be changed once or twice a year.

Caution

• A damaged or dirty window wiper could scratch the rear window.

• Never use fuel, nail varnish remover, paint thinner or similar products to

clean the window.

• Never move the windscreen wiper by hand. This could cause damage.

Brake fluid

Checking the brake fluid level

The brake fluid is checked at the intervals given in the service

schedule.

– Read off the fluid level at the transparent brake fluid reservoir. It

should always be between the “MIN” and “MAX” marks.

The position of the brake fluid reservoir is shown in the corresponding engine

compartment diagram ⇒ page 263. The brake fluid reservoir has a black and

yellow cap.

The brake fluid level drops slightly when the vehicle is being used as the

brake pads are automatically adjusted as they wear.

Fig. 146 In the engine

compartment: Brake fluid

reservoir cover

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Checking and refilling levels218

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 instru-

ment panel will warn you if the brake fluid level is too low ⇒ page 73.

WARNING

Before opening the bonnet to check the brake fluid level, read and observe

the warnings ⇒ page 205.

Changing the brake fluid

The Maintenance Program indicates the brake fluid change

intervals.

We recommend that you have the brake fluid changed by an Authorised

Service Centre.

Before opening the bonnet, please read and follow the warnings ⇒ in

“Safety instructions on working in the engine compartment” on page 205 in

“Working in the engine compartment”.

Brake fluid absorbs moisture. In the course of time, it will absorb water from

the ambient air. If the water content in the brake fluid is too high, the brake

system could corrode. This also considerably reduces the boiling point of the

brake fluid. Heavy use of the brakes may then cause a vapour lock which

could impair the braking effect.

It is important that you use only brake fluid compliant with the US standard

FMVSS 116 DOT 4. We recommend the use of Genuine SEAT brake fluid.

WARNING

Brake fluid is poisonous. Old brake fluid impairs the braking effect.

• Before opening the bonnet to check the brake fluid level, read and

observe the warnings ⇒ page 205.

• Brake fluid should be stored in the closed original container in a safe

place out of reach of children. There is a toxic risk.

• Complete the brake fluid change according to the Maintenance

Program. Heavy use of the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the brake fluid

is left in the system for too long. This would seriously affect the efficiency

of the brakes and the safety of the vehicle. This may cause an accident.

Caution

Brake fluid could damage the paintwork. Wipe off any brake fluid from the

paintwork immediately.

For the sake of the environment

Brake fluid must be drained and disposed of in the proper manner observing

environmental regulations.

WARNING (continued)

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Checking and refilling levels 219

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Battery

Warnings on handling the battery

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:

• Wear eye protection. Protect your eyes, skin and clothing from acid and

particles containing lead.

• Battery acid is very corrosive and caustic. Wear protective gloves and

eye protection. Do not tilt the batteries. This could spill acid through the

vents. Rinse battery acid from eyes immediately for several minutes with

clear water. Then seek medical care immediately. Neutralize any acid

splashes on the skin or clothing with a soapy solution, and rinse off with

plenty of water. If acid is swallowed by mistake, consult a doctor immedi-

ately.

• Fires, sparks, naked lights and smoking are prohibited. When handling

cables and electrical equipment, avoid causing sparks and electrostatic

charge. Never short the battery terminals. High-energy sparks can cause

injury.

• A highly explosive mixture of gases is released when the battery is

under charge. The batteries should be charged in a well-ventilated room

only.

• Keep children away from acid and batteries.

• Before working on the electrical system, you must switch off the

engine, the ignition and all consumers. The negative cable on the battery

must be disconnected. When a light bulb is changed, you need only switch

off the light.

• Deactivate the anti-theft alarm by unlocking the vehicle before you

disconnect the battery! The alarm will otherwise be triggered.

• When disconnecting the battery from the vehicle electrical system,

disconnect first the negative cable and then the positive cable.

• Switch off all electrical consumers before reconnecting 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.

• Never charge a frozen battery, or one which has thawed. This could

result in explosions and chemical burns. Always replace a battery which

has frozen. A flat battery can freeze at temperatures around 0°

• Ensure that the vent hose is always connected to the battery.

• Never use a defective battery. This may be fatally explosive. Replace a

damaged battery immediately.

Caution

• Never disconnect the battery if the ignition is switched on or if the engine

is running. This could damage the electrical system or electronic compo-

nents.

• Do not expose the battery to direct sunlight over a long period of time, as

the intense ultraviolet radiation can damage the battery housing.



Wear eye protection



Battery acid is very corrosive and caustic. Wear protective

gloves and eye protection!



Fires, sparks, naked lights and smoking are prohibited!



A highly explosive mixture of gases is released when the bat-

tery is under charge.



Keep children away from acid and batteries!

WARNING (continued)

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Checking and refilling levels220

• If the vehicle is left standing in cold conditions for a long period, protect

the battery from frost. If it “freezes” it will be damaged.

Checking the electrolyte level

The electrolyte level should be checked regularly in high-

mileage vehicles, in hot countries and in older batteries.

– Open the bonnet and open the battery cover at the front ⇒ in

“Safety instructions on working in the engine compartment” on

page 205 ⇒ in “Warnings on handling the battery” on

page 219.

– Check the colour display in the "magic eye" on the top of the

battery.

– If there are air bubbles in the window, tap the window gently until

they disperse.

The position of the battery is shown in the corresponding engine compart-

ment diagram ⇒ page 263.

The round window (“magic eye”) on the top of the battery changes colour,

depending on the charge level and electrolyte level of the battery.

If the colour in the window is colourless or bright yellow, the electrolyte level

of the battery is too low. Have the battery checked by a qualified workshop.

The colours green and black are used by the workshops for diagnostic

purposes.

Charging and changing the vehicle battery

The battery is maintenance-free and is checked during the

inspection service. All work on the vehicle battery requires

specialist knowledge.

If you often drive short distances or if the vehicle is not driven for long

periods, the battery should be checked by a qualified workshop between the

scheduled services.

If the battery has discharged and you have problems starting the vehicle, the

battery might be damaged. If this happens, we recommend you have the

vehicle battery checked by an Authorised Service Centre where it will be re-

charged or replaced.

Charging the battery

The vehicle battery should be charged by a qualified workshop only, as

batteries using special technology have been installed and they must be

charged in a controlled environment.

Replacing a vehicle battery

The battery has been developed to suit the conditions of its location and has

special safety features.

Genuine SEAT batteries fulfil the maintenance, performance and safety spec-

ifications of your vehicle.

WARNING

• We recommend you use only maintenance-free or cycle free leak-proof

batteries which comply with the standards T 825 06 and VW 7 50 73. This

standard applies as of 2001.

• Before starting any work on the batteries, you must read and observe

the warnings ⇒ in “Warnings on handling the battery” on page 219.

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Checking and refilling levels 221

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

For the sake of the environment

Batteries contain toxic substances such as sulphuric acid and lead. They

must be disposed of appropriately and must not be disposed of with ordinary

household waste.

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Checking and refilling levels for Your Seat Leon 4 Door Second Generation (2007-2011)

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