Get Safety First Guide for Seat Leon 4 Door Second Generation (2007-2011)

Safe driving 7

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Safety First

Safe driving

Brief introduction

Dear SEAT Driver

Safety first!

This chapter contains important information, tips, suggestions and

warnings that you should read and consider for both your own safety

and for your passengers safety.

WARNING

• This manual contains important information concerning the driver's

and passengers' handling of the vehicle. The other booklets in the on

board manual also contain further information that you should be aware of

for your own safety and for the safety of your passengers.

• Ensure that the onboard documentation is kept in the vehicle at all

times. This is especially important when lending or selling the vehicle to

another person.

Safety equipment

The safety equipment is a part of the occupant protection

system and can reduce the risk of injury in the event of acci-

dent.

Never “put” your safety and the safety of your passengers in danger. In the

event of an accident, the safety equipment may reduce the risk of injury. The

following list includes most of the safety equipment in your SEAT:

• three-point seat belts,

• belt tension limiters for the front and rear side seats,

• belt tension devices for the front seats,

• belt height adjustment for the front seats,

• front airbags,

• side airbags in the front seat backrests,

• side airbags in the rear seat backrests*,

• curtain airbags,

• crash-active front head restraints*,

• “ISOFIX” anchor points for child seats in the rear side seats with the

“ISOFIX” system,

• height-adjustable head restraints,

• head restraints with in-use position and non-use position,

• adjustable steering column.

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Safe driving8

The safety equipment mentioned above works together to provide you and

your passengers with the best possible protection in the event of accidents.

But this safety equipment cannot neither help you nor your passengers if you

or they are sitting in an incorrect position or do not properly adjust or use this

equipment.

Therefore, information is provided about why this equipment is so important,

how it protects you, what you have to consider when using it and how you and

your passengers can achieve the greatest possible benefit from the safety

equipment fitted. This manual includes important warnings that you and your

passengers should note in order to reduce the risk of injury.

Safety is everyone's business!

Before starting every trip

The driver bears the responsibility for his passengers and the

operational worthiness of the vehicle.

For your own safety and the safety of your passengers, always note

the following points before every trip:

– Ensure that the vehicle's lights and turn signals operate flaw-

lessly.

– Check tyre pressure.

– Ensure that all windows provide a clear and good view of the

surroundings.

– Securely restrain all parcels ⇒ page 16.

– Make sure that no objects can interfere with the pedals.

– Adjust front seat, head restraint and mirrors properly acoording

to your size.

– Ensure that the passengers in the rear seats always have the

head restraints in the in-use position ⇒ page 14.

– Instruct passengers to adjust the head restraints according to

their height.

– Protect children with appropriate child seats and properly

applied seat belts ⇒ page 45.

– Assume the correct sitting position. Instruct your passengers

also to assume a proper sitting position ⇒ page 10.

– Fasten your safety belt securely. Instruct your passengers also to

fasten their seat belts properly ⇒ page 19.

What affects driving safety?

Driving safety is largely determined by your driving style and

the personal behaviour of all occupants.

As a driver, you are responsible for yourself and your passengers.

When your concentration or driving safety is affected by any circum-

stance, you endanger yourself as well as others on the road ⇒ ,

for this reason:

– Do not allow yourself to be distracted from the traffic around you,

e.g. by passengers or telephone conversations.

– Never drive when your driving ability is impaired (e.g. by medica-

tion, alcohol, drugs).

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Safe driving 9

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

– Observe traffic laws and speed limits.

– Always reduce your speed as appropriate for road, traffic and

weather conditions.

– When travelling long distances, take breaks regularly - at least

every two hours.

– If possible, avoid driving when you are tired or are in tension.

WARNING

When driving safety is impaired during a trip, the risk of injury and acci-

dents increases.

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Safe driving10

Proper sitting position for occupants

Proper sitting position for driver

The proper sitting position for the driver is important for a

safe and relaxed driving.

For your own safety and to reduce the risk of injury in the event of an

accident, we recommend the following adjustments for the driver:

– Adjust the steering wheel so that there is a distance of at least

25 cm between the steering wheel and the centre of your chest

⇒ fig. 1.

– Move the driver's seat forwards or backwards so that you are able

to press the accelerator, brake and clutch pedals to the floor with

your knees still slightly angled ⇒ .

– Ensure that you can reach the highest point of the steering

wheel.

– Adjust the head restraint so that its upper edge is at the same

level as the top of your head, or as close as possible to the same

level as the top of your head ⇒ fig. 2.

– Move the backrest to an upright position so that your back rests

completely against it.

Fig. 1 The proper

distance between driver

and steering wheel

Fig. 2 Proper head

restraint position for

driver

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Safe driving 11

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

– Fasten your safety belt securely ⇒ page 19.

– Keep both feet in the foot well so that you have the vehicle under

control at all times.

Adjustment of the driver's seat ⇒ page 127.

WARNING

• An incorrect sitting position of the driver can lead to severe injuries.

• Adjust the driver's seat so that there is at least 25 cm distance between

the centre of the chest and the centre of the steering wheel ⇒ page 10,

fig. 1. If you are sitting nearer than 25 cm, the airbag system cannot protect

you properly.

• If your physical constitution prevents you from maintaining the

minimum distance of 25 cm, contact a qualified workshop. The workshop

will help you decide if special specific modifications are necessary.

• When driving, always hold the steering wheel with both hands on the

outside of the ring at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions. This reduces the

risk of injury when the driver airbag is triggered.

• Never hold the steering wheel at the 12 o'clock position, or in any other

manner (e.g. in the centre of the steering wheel). In such cases, if the

airbag is triggered, you may sustain injuries to the arms, hands and head.

• To reduce the risk of injury to the driver during sudden braking manoeu-

vres or an accident, never drive with the backrest tilted far back! The airbag

system and seat belts can only provide optimal protection when the back-

rest is in an upright position and the driver is wearing his or her seat belt

properly. The further the backrests are tilted to the rear, the greater the risk

of injury due to incorrect positioning of the belt web or to the incorrect

sitting position!

• Adjust the head restraint properly to achieve optimal protection.

Proper sitting position for front passenger

The front passenger must sit at least 25 cm away from the

dash panel so that the airbag can provide the greatest

possible protection in the event that it is triggered.

For your own safety and to reduce the risk of injury in the event of an

accident, we recommend the following adjustments for the front

passenger:

– Move the front passenger seat back as far as possible ⇒ .

– Move the backrest to an upright position so that your back rests

completely against it.

– Adjust the head restraint so that its upper edge is at the same

level as the top of your head, or as close as possible to the same

level as the top of your head ⇒ page 13.

– Keep both feet in the footwell in front of the front passenger seat.

– Fasten your safety belt securely ⇒ page 19.

It is possible to deactivate the passenger airbag in exceptional circum-

stances ⇒ page 24.

For detailed information on how to adjust the front passenger's seat, see

⇒ page 130.

WARNING

• An incorrect sitting position of the front passenger can lead to severe

injuries.

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Safe driving12

• Adjust the front passenger seat so that there is at least 25 cm between

your breastbone and the dash panel. If you are sitting nearer than 25 cm,

the airbag system cannot protect you properly.

• If your physical constitution prevents you from maintaining the

minimum distance of 25 cm, contact a qualified workshop. The workshop

will help you decide if special specific modifications are necessary.

• Always keep your feet in the footwell when the vehicle is moving; never

rest them on the instrument panel, out the window or on the seat. An incor-

rect sitting position exposes you to an increased risk of injury in case of a

sudden braking or an accident. If the airbag is triggered, you could sustain

severe injuries due to an incorrect sitting position.

• To reduce the risk of injury to the front passenger in events such sudden

braking manoeuvres or an accident, never travel with the backrest tilted far

back! The airbag system and seat belts can only provide optimal protection

when the backrest is in an upright position and the front passenger is

wearing his or her seat belt properly. The further the backrests are tilted to

the rear, the greater the risk of injury due to incorrect positioning of the

belt web or to the incorrect sitting position!

• Adjust the head restraint properly in order to achieve maximum

protection.

Correct sitting position for passengers in the rear seats

Passengers in the rear seats must sit up straight, keep their

feet in the foot well s and wear their seat belts properly.

To reduce the risk of injury in the event of a sudden braking

manoeuvre or an accident, passengers on the rear bench seat must

consider the following:

– Adjust the headrest to the correct position ⇒ page 14.

– Keep both feet in the foot well in front of the rear seat.

– Fasten your safety belt securely ⇒ page 19.

– Use an appropriate child restraint system when you take children

in the vehicle ⇒ page 45.

WARNING

• If the passengers on the rear seat are not sitting properly, they could

sustain severe injuries.

• Adjust the head restraint properly in order to achieve maximum protec-

tion.

• Seat belts can only provide optimal protection when backrests are in an

upright position and the passengers are wearing their seat belts properly.

If passengers on the rear seat are not sitting in an upright position, the risk

of injury due to incorrect positioning of the belt web increases.

WARNING (continued)

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Safe driving 13

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Correct adjustment of front seat head restraints

Properly adjusted head restraints are an important part of

passengers protection and can reduce the risk of injuries in

most accident situations.

Adjust the head restraint properly in order to achieve maximum

protection.

– Adjust the head restraint so that its upper edge is at the same

level as the top of your head, or as close as possible to the same

level as the top of your head and, at the very least, at eye level

⇒ fig. 3 and ⇒ fig. 4.

Adjusting the head restraints ⇒ page 127.

WARNING

• Travelling with the head restraints removed or improperly adjusted

increases the risk of severe injuries.

• Incorrectly adjusted head restraints could result in death in the event of

a collision or accident.

• Incorrectly adjusted head restraints also increase the risk of injury

during sudden or unexpected driving or braking manoeuvres.

• The head restraints must always be adjusted according to the

passenger's height.

Headrests in use*

Vehicle occupants are pressed into their seats during a rear end collision. The

resulting body pressure on the backrest activates the crash-active head

restraint* on the front seat, which moves rapidly forwards and upwards at the

same time. This movement reduces the distance between the occupant's

head and the head rest, thus reducing the risk of head injuries such as brain

trauma.

Fig. 3 Properly adjusted

head restraint viewed

from the front

Fig. 4 Properly adjusted

head restraint viewed

from the side

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Safe driving14

WARNING

Travelling with the head restraints removed or improperly adjusted

increases the risk of severe injuries.

• Incorrectly adjusted head restraints could result in death in the event of

a collision or accident.

• Incorrectly adjusted head restraints also increase the risk of injury

during sudden or unexpected driving or braking manoeuvres.

• The head restraints must always be adjusted according to the

passenger's height.

Note

The crash-active head restraints* could also be triggered if a vehicle occupant

applies a high level of pressure on the backrest (e.g. by “falling” back into the

seat when entering the vehicle) or if pressure is applied to a front seat head

restraint from the rear. This accidental activation is, however, not dangerous

as the crash-active head restraints will return to the original position immedi-

ately and are thus once again ready.

Correct adjustment of rear seat head restraints

Properly adjusted head restraints are an important part of the

occupant protection and can reduce the risk of injuries in

most accident situations

Rear outer seat head restraints

– The rear outer seat head restraints have 4 positions.

–Three positions for use ⇒ fig. 5. In these positions, the head

restraints are used normally, protecting passengers along with

the rear seat belts.

– And one position for non-use.

– To fit the head restraints in position for use, pull on the edges

with both hands in the direction of the arrow.

Fig. 5 Head restraints in

correct position

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Safe driving 15

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Centre rear head restraint

– The centre head restraint only has two positions, in-use (head

restraint up) and non-use (head restraint down).

WARNING

• Under no circumstances should the rear passengers travel while the

head restraints are in the non-use position.

• Do not swap the centre rear head restraint with either of the outer seat

rear head restraints.

• Injury risk in case of an accident!

Caution

Note the instructions on the adjustment of the head restraints ⇒ page 128.

Examples of incorrect sitting positions

An incorrect sitting position can lead to severe injuries to

occupants.

Seat belts can provide optimal protection only when the belt webs

are properly positioned. Incorrect sitting positions substantially

reduce the protective function of seat belts and increase the risk of

injury due to incorrect belt web position. As the driver, you are

responsible for all vehicle occupants, especially children.

– Never permit anyone to assume an incorrect sitting position in

the vehicle while travelling ⇒ .

The following list contains examples of sitting positions that could be

dangerous for all occupants. The list is not complete, but we would like to

make you aware of this issue.

Therefore, whenever the vehicle is in motion:

• Never stand in the vehicle,

• never stand on the seats,

• never kneel on the seats,

• never tilt your backrest far to the rear,

• never lean against the dash panel,

• never lie on the rear bench,

• never sit on the front edge of a seat,

• never sit sideways,

• never lean out of a window,

• never put your feet out of a window,

• never put your feet on the dash panel,

• never put your feet on the surface of a seat,

• never travel in a foot well,

• never travel on a seat without wearing the seat belt,

• never carry any person in the luggage compartment.

WARNING

• Every incorrect sitting position increases the risk of severe injuries.

• Sitting in an incorrect position exposes the occupants to severe injuries

if airbags trigger, by striking a passenger who has assumed an incorrect

sitting position.

• Before the vehicle moves, assume the proper sitting position and main-

tain it throughout the trip. Before every trip, instruct your passengers to

assume the proper sitting position and to maintain it during the trip

⇒ page 10, “Proper sitting position for occupants”.

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Safe driving16

Pedal area

Pedals

The operation of all pedals must never be impaired by objects

or floor mats.

– Ensure that you can always press the accelerator, brake and

clutch pedals unimpaired to the floor.

– Ensure that the pedals can return unimpaired to their initial posi-

tions.

Use only floor mats which leave the pedal area free and can be securely

fastened on the foot well.

If a brake circuit fails, the brake pedal must be pressed down thoroughly in

order to stop the vehicle.

Wear suitable shoes

Always wear shoes which support your feet properly and give you a good

feeling for the pedals.

WARNING

• Restricting pedal operation can lead to critical situations while driving.

• Never place objects on the driver footwell. An object could move into

the pedal area and impair pedal operation. In the event of a sudden driving

or braking manoeuvre, you will not be able to operate the brake, clutch or

accelerator pedal. Risk of accident!

Floor mats on the driver side

Only floor mats may be used which can be securely fastened

in the foot well and do not impair operation of the pedals.

– Ensure that the floor mats are securely fastened during the trip

and do not obstruct the pedals ⇒ .

Only use floor mats which leave the pedals clear and which are secured to

prevent them from slipping. You can obtain suitable floor mats from a quali-

fied dealership.

WARNING

• If the pedals are obstructed, an accident may occur. Risk of serious inju-

ries.

• Ensure that the floor mats are always securely attached.

• Never lay or fit floor mats or other floor coverings over the original floor

mats. This would reduce the pedal area and could obstruct the pedals. Risk

of accident.

Stowing luggage

Loading the boot

All luggage and other loose objects must be safely secured in

the luggage compartment.

Unsecured objects which shift back and forth could impair the

driving safety or driving characteristics of the vehicle by shifting the

centre of gravity.

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Safe driving 17

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

– Distribute the load evenly in the luggage compartment.

– Lay and stow heavy luggage as far forward as possible in the

luggage compartment.

– Stow heavy luggage as low as possible in the luggage compart-

ment.

– Secure heavy objects to the fitted fastening rings ⇒ page 17.

WARNING

• Loose luggage and other objects in the boot could cause serious inju-

ries.

• Always stow objects in the luggage compartment and secure them on

the fastening rings.

• Use suitable specialist straps to secure heavy objects.

• During sudden manoeuvres or accidents, loose objects can be thrown

forward, injuring vehicle occupants or passers-by. This increased risk of

injury will be further increased if a loose object is struck by an inflating

airbag. If this happens, objects can be transformed into “missiles”. Risk of

fatal injury.

• Please note that the centre of gravity may shift when transporting

heavy objects; this may affect the vehicle's handling and lead to an acci-

dent. Therefore, it is essential to adjust your speed and driving style

accordingly, to avoid accidents.

• Never exceed the allowed axle loads or allowed maximum weight. If the

allowed axle load or the allowed total weight is exceeded, the driving char-

acteristics of the vehicle may change, leading to accidents, injuries and

damage to the vehicle.

• Never leave your vehicle unattended, especially when the tailgate is

open. Children could climb into the luggage compartment closing the door

behind them; they will remain trapped without help and there is a mortal

risk.

• Never allow children to play in or around the vehicle. Close and lock

both the tailgate and all the doors when you leave the vehicle. Before you

lock the vehicle, make sure that there are no adults or children in the

vehicle.

• Never transport passengers in the luggage compartment. Every

passenger must be properly belted in ⇒ page 19.

Note

• Air circulation in the vehicle helps reduce fogging of the windows. Used

air escapes through ventilation slits in the side trim of the luggage compart-

ment. Ensure that the ventilation slits are never covered.

• Straps for securing the load to the fastening rings are commercially

available.

Fastening rings*

There can be four fastening rings in the boot for fastening

luggage and other objects.

– Always use suitable and undamaged straps to secure luggage

and other objects to the fastening rings ⇒ in “Loading the

boot” on page 16.

– Pull up the fastening rings to attach the straps.

During a collision or an accident, even small and light objects can build up so

much energy that they can cause very severe injuries. The amount of “kinetic

WARNING (continued)

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Safe driving18

energy” depends on the speed of the vehicle and the weight of the object.

The most significant factor, however, is the speed of the vehicle.

Example: An object weighing 4.5 kg is lying unsecured in the vehicle. During

a frontal collision at a speed of 50 km/h, this object generates a force corre-

sponding to 20 times its weight. That means that the effective weight of the

object increases to about 90 kg. You can imagine the severity of the injuries

which might be sustained if this “projectile” strikes an occupant as it flies

through the passenger compartment. This increased risk of injury will be

further increased if a loose object is struck by an inflating airbag.

WARNING

• If pieces of baggage or other objects are secured to the fastening rings

with inappropriate or damaged retaining cords, injuries could result in the

event of braking manoeuvres or accidents.

• To prevent pieces of luggage or other objects from flying forward,

always use appropriate retaining cords which are secured to the fastening

rings.

• Never secure a child seat on the fastening rings.

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Seat belts 19

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Seat belts

Brief Introduction

Before driving: remember your seat belt!

Wearing a seat belt properly can save your life!

In this chapter you will learn the importance of wearing seat belts,

how they work and how to properly fasten, adjust and wear them.

– Read and consider all the information as well as the warnings in

this chapter.

WARNING

• If seat belts are worn incorrectly or not at all, the risk of severe injuries

increases.

• Properly worn seat belts can reduce severe injuries in case of sudden

braking manoeuvres or accidents. For safety reasons, you and your passen-

gers must always wear the seat belts properly while the vehicle is moving.

• Pregnant women or people with physical disabilities must also use seat

belts. Like all other passengers, these people can also sustain severe inju-

ries if they are not wearing their seat belts properly.

Number of seats

Your vehicle has five seats, two on the front part and three on the rear part.

Each seat is equipped with a three-point seat belt.

WARNING

• More people than available seats must never be transported in your

vehicle.

• Every passenger in the vehicle must properly fasten and wear the seat

belt belonging to his or her seat. Children must be protected with an appro-

priate child restraint system.

Seat belt warning lamp* 

The warning lamp acts as a reminder to the driver to fasten

the seat belt.

Before starting the vehicle:

– Fasten your safety belt securely.

– Instruct your passengers to fasten their seat belts properly before

driving off.

– Protect children by using a child seat according to the child's

height and weight.

After the ignition has been switched on, the warning lamp  on the instru-

ment panel lights up

if the driver has not fastened his/her seat belt, and a

warning signal* is heard if the vehicle is driven at more than 30 km/h for 90

seconds.

Depending on the model version

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Seat belts20

The warning lamp*  is switched off if the driver seat belt is fastened while

the ignition is switched on.

Why wear seat belts?

Physical principles of frontal collisions

In the event of a frontal collision, a large amount of kinetic

energy must be absorbed.

It is easy to explain how the laws of physics work in the case of a head-on

collision: When a vehicle starts moving ⇒ fig. 6 there is a certain amount of

energy known as “kinetic energy”, both in the vehicle and in the occupants.

The amount of “kinetic energy” depends on the speed of the vehicle and the

weight of the vehicle and its passengers. The higher the speed and the

greater the weight, the more energy there is to be “released” in an accident.

The most significant factor, however, is the speed of the vehicle. If the speed

doubles from 25 km/h to 50 km/h, for example, the kinetic energy is multi-

plied by four.

Because the passengers in our example are not restrained by seat belts, the

entire amount of kinetic energy has to be absorbed at the point of impact

⇒ fig. 7.

Even at speeds of 30 km/h to 50 km/h, the forces acting on bodies in a colli-

sion can easily exceed one tonne (1000 kg). At greater speed these forces are

even higher.

Passengers not wearing seat belts are not “attached” to the vehicle. In a

frontal collision, they will move forward at the same speed their vehicle was

Fig. 6 Vehicle about to hit

a wall: the occupants are

not wearing seat belts

Fig. 7 The vehicle hits

the wall: the occupants

are not wearing seat belts

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Seat belts 21

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

travelling just before the impact. This example applies not only to frontal acci-

dents, but to all accidents and collisions.

The danger of not using the seat belt

The general belief that the passengers can protect them-

selves with their hands in a minor collision is false.

Even at low speeds the forces acting on the body in a collision are so great

that it is not possible to brace oneself with one's hands. In a frontal collision,

unbelted passengers are thrown forward and will make violent contact with

the steering wheel, dashboard, windscreen or whatever else is in the way

⇒ fig. 8.

The airbag system is not a substitute for the seat belts. When triggered,

airbags provide only additional protection. All passengers (including the

driver) must wear seat belts properly during the trip. This will reduce the risk

of severe injuries in the event of an accident – regardless of whether an

airbag is fitted for the seat or not.

Note that airbags can be triggered only once. To achieve the best possible

protection, the seat belt must always be worn properly so that you will be

protected in accidents in which no airbag is deployed.

It is also important for the rear passengers to wear seat belts properly, as they

could otherwise be thrown forward violently in an accident. Rear passengers

who do not use seat belts endanger not only themselves but also the front

occupants ⇒ fig. 9.

Fig. 8 A driver not

wearing a seat belt is

thrown forward violently.

Fig. 9 The unbelted rear

passenger is thrown

forward violently, hitting

the driver wearing a seat

belt.

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Seat belts22

Seat belts protection

Passengers not wearing seat belts risk severe injuries in the

event of an accident.

Properly worn seat belts hold the vehicle occupants in the correct sitting posi-

tions and substantially reduce the kinetic energy in the event of an accident.

Seat belts also help to prevent uncontrolled movements that could lead to

severe injuries. In addition, properly worn seat belts reduce the danger of

being thrown from the car.

Passengers wearing their seat belts correctly benefit greatly from the ability

of the belts to absorb kinetic energy. The front part of your vehicle and other

passive safety features (such as the airbag system) are also designed to

absorb the kinetic energy released in a collision. Taken together, all these

features reduce the releasing kinetic energy and consequently, the risk of

injury.

Our examples describe frontal collisions. Of course, properly worn seat belts

substantially reduce the risk of injury in all other types of accidents. This is

why it is so important to fasten seat belts before every trip, even when "just

driving around the corner".

Ensure that your passengers wear their seat belts as well. Accident statistics

have shown properly that wearing seat belts is an effective mean of substan-

tially reducing the risk of injury and improving the chances of survival in a

serious accident. Furthermore, properly worn seat belts improve the protec-

tion provided by airbags in the event of an accident. For this reason, wearing

a seat belt is required by law in most countries.

Although your vehicle is equipped with airbags, the seat belts must be

fastened and worn. The front airbags, for example, are only triggered in some

frontal accidents. The front airbags will not be triggered during minor frontal

collisions, minor side collisions, rear collisions, rolls or accidents in which the

airbag trigger threshold value in the control unit is not exceeded.

Therefore, you should always wear your seat belt and ensure that your

passengers have fastened their seat belts properly before you drive off!

Safety instructions on using seat belts

If seat belts are used correctly, they can reduce the risk of

injury in an accident.

– Always wear the seat belt as described in this booklet.

– Ensure that the seat belts can be fastened at all times and are not

damaged.

WARNING

• If the seat belts are worn incorrectly or not at all, the risk of severe inju-

ries increases. The optimal protection from seat belts can be achieved only

if you use them properly.

Fig. 10 Driver wearing

the seat belt properly: is

secured by the belt in

sharp braking

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Seat belts 23

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

• Fasten your seat belt before every trip - even when driving in town. The

other passengers must also wear the seat belt, otherwise they may be

danger of injury!

• The seat belt cannot offer its full protection if the belt web is not posi-

tioned correctly.

• Never allow two passengers (even children) to share the same seat belt.

• Keep both feet in the foot-well in front of your seat as long as the

vehicle is in motion.

• Never unbuckle a seat belt while the vehicle is in motion. Risk of fatal

injury.

• The belt webbing must never be twisted while it is being worn.

• The belt webbing should never lie on hard or fragile objects (such as

glasses or pens, etc.) because this can cause injuries.

• Do not allow the seat belt to be damaged or jammed, or to rub on any

sharp edges.

• Never wear the seat belt under the arm or in any other incorrect posi-

tion.

• Loose, bulky clothing (such as an overcoat over a jacket) impairs the

proper fit and function of the belts, reducing their capacity to protect.

• The slot in the seat belt buckle must not be blocked with paper or other

objects, as this can prevent the latch plate from engaging securely.

• Never use seat belt clips, retaining rings or similar instruments to alter

the position of the belt webbing.

• Frayed or torn seat belts or damage to the connections, belt retractors

or parts of the buckle could cause severe injuries in the event of an acci-

dent. Therefore, you must check the condition of all seat belts at regular

intervals.

• Seat belts which have been worn in an accident and stretched must be

replaced by a qualified workshop. Renewal may be necessary even if there

is no apparent damage. The belt anchorage should also be checked.

• Do not attempt to repair a damaged seat belt yourself. The seat belts

must not be removed or modified in any way.

• The belts must be kept clean, otherwise the retractors may not work

properly ⇒ page 199.

Seat belts

Seat belt adjustment

The seat belts for the front and rear occupants are locked into

position by a latch.

The seat belt cannot offer its full protection if the belt web is not

positioned correctly.

WARNING (continued) WARNING (continued)

Fig. 11 Belt buckle and

latch plate of seat belt

leon_ingles Seite 23 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Seat belts24

– Adjust the seat and head restraint correctly.

– To fasten the belt, take hold of the latch plate and pull it slowly

across your chest and lap.

– Insert the latch plate into the buckle for the appropriate seat and

push it down until it is securely locked with an audible click

⇒ page 23, fig. 11.

– Pull the belt to ensure that the latch plate is securely engaged in

the buckle.

The seat belts are equipped with an automatic retractor on the shoulder

strap. Full freedom of movement is permitted when the shoulder belt is pulled

slowly. However, during sudden braking, during travel in mountains or bends

and during acceleration, the automatic retractor on the shoulder belt is

locked.

The automatic belt retractors on the front seats are fitted with belt tension

devices ⇒ page 27.

WARNING

• An incorrectly worn seat belt web can cause severe injuries in the event

of an accident.

• The seat belts offer best protection only when the backrests are in an

upright position and the seat belts have been fastened properly.

• Never put the latch plate in the buckle of another seat. If you do this, the

seat belt will not protect you properly and the risk of injury is increased.

• If an occupant is incorrectly belted in, the belt cannot protect him or her

properly. An incorrectly positioned belt web can cause extremely severe

injuries.

• Always engage the retractor lock when you are securing a child seat in

group 0, 0+ or 1 ⇒ page 45.

Seat belt position

Seat belts offer their maximum protection only when they are

properly positioned.

Fig. 12 Correct belt web

and head restraint posi-

tions, viewed from front

Fig. 13 Correct belt web

and head restraint posi-

tions, viewed from side

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Seat belts 25

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

The following features are available to adjust the seat belt in the shoulder

region:

• belt height adjustment for the front seats.

• front seat height adjustment*.

WARNING

• An incorrectly worn seat belt web can cause severe injuries in the event

of an accident.

• The shoulder part of the seat belt must lie on the centre of the shoulder,

never across the neck. The seat belt must lie flat and snugly on the torso

⇒ page 24, fig. 12.

• The lap part of the seat belt must lie across the pelvis, never across the

stomach. The seat belt must lie flat and snugly on the pelvis ⇒ page 24,

fig. 13. Pull the belt tight if necessary to take up any slack.

• Read and observe the warnings ⇒ page 22.

Pregnant women must also fasten their seat belts properly

The best protection for the unborn child is for the mother to

wear the seat belt properly at all times during the pregnancy.

The seat belt provides maximum protection only when the belt web

is properly positioned ⇒ page 24.

– Adjust the front seat and head restraint correctly ⇒ page 10.

– Holding the latch plate, pull the belt evenly across your chest and

as low as possible over the pelvis ⇒ fig. 14.

– Insert the latch plate into the buckle for the corresponding seat

and push it down until it is securely locked with an audible click

⇒ .

– Pull the belt to ensure that the latch plate is securely engaged in

the buckle.

Fig. 14 Positioning seat

belts during pregnancy

leon_ingles Seite 25 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Seat belts26

WARNING

• An incorrectly worn seat belt web can cause severe injuries in the event

of an accident.

• For pregnant women, the lap part of the seat belt must lie as low as

possible over the pelvis, never across the stomach, and always lie flat so

that no pressure is exerted on the abdomen.

• Read and observe the warnings ⇒ page 22.

Seat belt release

The seat belt must not be unfastened until the vehicle has

come to a standstill.

– Press the red button on the belt buckle ⇒ fig. 15. The latch plate

is released and springs out ⇒ .

– Guide the belt back by hand so that it rolls up easily and the trim

is not damaged.

WARNING

Never unbuckle a seat belt while the vehicle is in motion. If you do, you

increase the risk of sustaining severe or fatal injuries.

Adjusting the seat belt height

Seat belt height adjusters can be used to adjust the position

of the seat belt at the shoulder.

The seat belt adjuster for the front seats can be used to adjust the

proper belt position at the shoulder.

Fig. 15 Removing latch

plate from buckle

Fig. 16 Location of the

belt height adjuster

leon_ingles Seite 26 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Seat belts 27

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

– Press the upper part of the shoulder belt guide and hold it in this

position ⇒ page 26, fig. 16.

– Move the shoulder belt guide up or down until you have adjusted

the seat belt ⇒ page 24.

– After adjusting, pull the shoulder belt sharply to check that the

catch on the shoulder belt guide is engaged securely.

Incorrectly fastened seat belts

Incorrectly worn seat belts can cause severe injuries.

Seat belts can provide optimal protection only if the belt web is

properly worn. The seat belts must be fastened exactly in the order

described in this chapter. An incorrect sitting position impairs

substantially the protection a seat belt offers and can lead to severe

or fatal injuries. The risk of severe or fatal injuries is especially

increased when a deploying airbag strikes an occupant who has

assumed an incorrect sitting position. As driver, you are responsible

for all vehicle occupants, especially children. Therefore:

– Never permit anyone to assume an incorrect sitting position in

the vehicle while travelling ⇒ .

WARNING

• An incorrectly worn seat belt increases the risk of severe injuries.

• Before every trip, instruct your passengers to adjust their seat belts

properly and to wear them during the trip.

• Read and always observe information and warnings concerning the use

of seat belts ⇒ page 22.

Belt tension devices

Function of the belt tension device

During a frontal collision, the seat belts on the front seats are

retracted automatically.

The seat belts for the front occupants are equipped with belt tension devices.

Sensors will only trigger the belt tension devices during severe head-on,

lateral and rear collisions, and only if the seat belt is actually being worn. This

retracts and tightens the seat belts, reducing the forward motion of the occu-

pants.

The belt tension device can be triggered only once.

The belt tension devices will not be triggered in the event of a light frontal,

side or rear collision, if the vehicle overturns or in situations where no large

forces act on the front, side or rear of the vehicle.

Note

• If the belt tension devices are triggered, a fine dust is produced. This is

normal and it is not an indication of fire in the vehicle.

• The relevant safety requirements must be observed when the vehicle or

components of the system are scrapped. A qualified workshop is familiar with

these regulations and will be pleased to pass on the information to you.

Service and disposal of belt tension devices

The belt tension devices are components of the seat belts that are installed

in the seats of your vehicle. If you work on the belt tension devices or remove

and install parts of the system when performing other repair work, the seat

leon_ingles Seite 27 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Seat belts28

belt may be damaged. The consequence may be that, in the event of an acci-

dent, the belt tension devices function incorrectly or not at all.

So that the effectiveness of the belt tension device is not reduced and that

removed parts do not cause any injuries or environmental pollution, regula-

tions, which are known to the qualified workshops, must be observed.

WARNING

• If repairs are not carried out by a professional, or if the belt tension

devices are used incorrectly, the risk of severe or fatal injuries increases.

The belt tension devices may fail to trigger or may trigger in the wrong

circumstances.

• Never attempt to repair, adjust, remove or install parts of the belt

tension devices or seat belts.

• The belt tension device and seat belt including its automatic retractor

cannot be repaired.

• Any work on the belt tension devices and seat belts, including the

removal and refitting of system parts in conjunction with other repair work,

must be performed by a qualified workshop only.

• The belt tension devices will only provide protection for one accident

and must be changed it they have been activated.

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Airbag system 29

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Airbag system

Brief introduction

Why wear a seat belt and assume the correct sitting

position?

For the inflating airbags to achieve the best protection, the

seat belt must always be worn properly and the correct sitting

position must be assumed.

For your own safety and the safety of the passengers, please ensure

the following before driving:

– Always wear the seat belt properly ⇒ page 19.

– Adjust the driver's seat and the steering wheel correctly

⇒ page 10.

– Adjust the front passenger seat correctly ⇒ page 11.

– Adjust the head restraint correctly ⇒ page 13.

– Use the correct child restraint system to protect children in your

vehicle ⇒ page 45.

The airbag is deployed at high speed in fractions of a second. If you have an

incorrect seating position at the time the airbag is deployed, it could cause

you critical injuries. Therefore, it is essential that all passengers in the vehicle

assume a correct sitting position while travelling.

A sharp braking before an accident may cause a passenger not wearing a seat

belt to be thrown forward into the area of the deploying airbag. In this case,

the inflating airbag may inflict critical or fatal injuries on the occupant. This

also applies to children.

Always maintain the greatest possible distance between yourself and the

front airbag. This way, the front airbags can completely deploy when trig-

gered, providing their maximum protection.

The most important factors that will trigger an airbag are: the type of acci-

dent, the angle of collision and the speed of the vehicle.

Whether the airbags are triggered depends primarily on the vehicle deceler-

ation rate resulting from the collision and detected by the control unit. If the

vehicle deceleration occurring during the collision and measured by the

control unit remains below the specified reference values, the front, side

and/or curtain airbag will not be triggered. Take into account that the visible

damage in a vehicle involved in an accident, for whatever reason, is not an

indication as to why the airbags had been triggered.

WARNING

• Wearing the seat belt incorrectly or assuming an incorrect sitting posi-

tion can lead to critical or fatal injuries.

• All occupants, including children, who are not properly belted can

sustain critical or fatal injuries if the airbag is triggered. You should always

transport all children up to 12 years of age on the rear seat. Never transport

children in the vehicle if they are not restrained or the restraint system is

not appropriate for their age, size or weight.

• If you are not wearing a seat belt, if you lean forward or to the side while

travelling or assume an incorrect sitting position, there is a substantially

increased risk of injury. This increased risk of injury will be further

increased if you are struck by an inflating airbag.

• To reduce the risk of injury from an inflating airbag, always wear the

seat belt properly ⇒ page 19.

leon_ingles Seite 29 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Airbag system30

• Always properly adjust the front seats.

The danger of fitting a child seat on the front passenger seat

Rear-facing child seats must never be used on the front

passenger seat when the front passenger airbag is enabled.

An enabled front airbag on the front passenger side is potentially a major

danger to a child. The front passenger seat is life threatening to a child if

he/she is transported in a rear-facing child seat. You should always transport

all children up to 12 years of age on the rear seat.

If a rear-facing child seat is secured to the front passenger seat, an inflating

airbag can strike it with such great force that critical or fatal injuries may

result.

Therefore we strongly recommend you to transport children on the rear seats.

That is the safest place for children in the vehicle. Alternatively, the front

passenger airbag can be disabled with a key-operated switch ⇒ page 43.

When transporting children, use a child seat appropriate to the age and size

of each child ⇒ page 45.

For those vehicles that do not include a key lock switch to turn the airbag off,

an Authorised Service Centre must be consulted.

WARNING

• If a child seat is secured to the front passenger seat, the risk to the child

of sustaining critical or fatal injuries in the event of an accident increases.

• Never secure a rear-facing child seat to the front passenger seat if the

front passenger airbag is enabled. The child can suffer critical or fatal inju-

ries when the front passenger airbag is triggered.

• An inflating front passenger airbag can strike the rear-facing child seat

and hurl it with great force against the door, the roof or the backrest.

• For those vehicles that do not include a key lock switch to turn the

airbag off, an Authorised Service Centre must be consulted.

• If, under special circumstances, it is necessary to transport a child in a

rear-facing child seat on the front passenger seat, it is absolutely essential

that you observe the following safety measures:

− Disable the front passenger airbag ⇒ page 43, “Deactivating

airbags*”.

− The child seat must be approved by the child seat manufacturer for

use on a front passenger seat with front or side airbag.

− Follow the installation instructions given by the child seat manufac-

turer and observe the safety instructions ⇒ page 45, “Child safety”.

− Before properly installing the child seat, push the front passenger

seat completely backwards so that the greatest possible distance to

the front passenger airbag is ensured.

− Ensure that no objects prevent the front passenger seat from being

pushed completely back.

− The backrest of the front passenger seat must be in an upright

position.

Warning lamp for airbag and belt tension device system 

This warning lamp monitors the airbag and belt tension

device system.

The warning lamp monitors all airbags and belt tension devices in the

vehicle, including control units and wiring connections.

WARNING (continued) WARNING (continued)

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Airbag system 31

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Monitoring of airbag and belt tension device system

Both the airbag and belt tension device systems operation is constantly

monitored electronically. Each time the ignition is switched on, the warning

lamp  lights for several seconds and the display in the instrument panel*

shows AIRBAG / TENSIONER.

The system must be checked when the warning lamp  :

• does not light up when the ignition is switched on,

• after the ignition is switched on, it turns off after 4 seconds,

• it turns off and then lights up again after the ignition is switched on,

• lights up or flashes while the car is moving.

In the event of a malfunction, the warning lamp remains on continuously. In

addition, depending on the malfunction, a fault message appears in the

display of the combi-instrument for approx. 10 seconds and a short acoustic

signal is given. In this event, you should have a qualified workshop check the

system immediately.

If any of the airbags are de-activated by the Authorised Service Centre, the

indicator lights for several seconds more after the verification and will turn off

if there is no fault.

WARNING

• If there is a malfunction, the airbag and belt tension device system

cannot properly perform its protective function.

• If a malfunction occured, have the system checked immediately by a

qualified workshop. Otherwise, in the event of an accident, the airbag

system and belt tension devices may not be triggered, or may not be trig-

gered correctly.

Repairs, maintenance and disposal of the airbags

The parts of the airbag system are installed in various places in your vehicle.

If you work on the airbag system or remove and fit parts of the system when

performing other repair work, parts of the airbag system may be damaged.

The consequence may be that, in the event of an accident, the airbag inflates

incorrectly or does not inflate at all.

The relevant safety requirements must be observed when the vehicle or

components of the airbag are scrapped. The specialist workshops and the

Vehicle disposal centres are familiar with these requirements.

WARNING

• If repairs are not carried out by a professional, or if the airbags are used

incorrectly, the risk of severe or fatal injuries is increased. The airbags may

fail to inflate, or could inflate in the wrong circumstances.

• Do not cover or stick anything on the steering wheel hub or the soft

plastic surface of the airbag unit on the passenger side of the dashboard,

and do not obstruct or modify them in any way.

• It is important not to attach any objects such as cup holders or tele-

phone mountings to the surfaces covering the airbag units.

• To clean the steering wheel or dash panel, you may use only a dry or a

water-moistened cloth. Never clean the dash panel and the airbag module

surface with cleansers containing solvents. Solvents cause the surface to

become porous. If the airbag triggered, disintegrating plastic parts could

cause substantial injuries.

• Never attempt to repair, adjust, remove or install parts of the airbag

system.

• Any work on the airbag system or removal and installation of the airbag

components for other repairs (such as repairs to the steering wheel) should

be performed only by a qualified workshop. Qualified workshops have the

necessary tools, repair information and qualified personnel.

leon_ingles Seite 31 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Airbag system32

• We strongly recommend you to go to a qualified workshop for all work

on the airbag system.

• Never attempt to alter the front bumper or the body.

• The airbags provide protection for just one accident; replace them once

they have deployed.

WARNING (continued)

leon_ingles Seite 32 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Airbag system 33

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Front airbags

Description of front airbags

The airbag system is not a substitute for the seat belts.

The front airbag for the driver is located in the steering wheel ⇒ fig. 17 and

the airbag for the front passenger is located in the instrument panel

⇒ fig. 18. Airbags are identified by the word “AIRBAG”.

In conjunction with the seat belts, the front airbag system gives the front

occupants additional protection for the head and chest in the event of a

severe frontal collision ⇒ page 36, “Safety notes on the frontal airbag

system”.

In addition to their normal function of restraining the occupants, the seat

belts also hold the driver and front passenger in a position where the airbags

can provide maximum protection in a frontal collision.

The airbag system is not a substitute for seat belts, but it is an integral part

of the vehicle's overall passive safety system. Please bear in mind that the

airbag system can only work effectively when the occupants are wearing their

seat belts correctly and have adjusted the head restraints properly. Therefore,

it is most important to wear the seat belts at all times, not only because this

is required by law in most countries, but also for your safety ⇒ page 19,

“Brief Introduction”.

The main parts of the front airbag system are:

• an electronic control and monitoring system (control unit),

• the two front airbags (airbag with gas generator) for the driver and front

passenger,

• a warning lamp  in the dash panel insert ⇒ page 30.

The airbag system operation is monitored electronically. The airbag warning

lamp will light up for a few seconds every time the ignition is switched on

(self-diagnosis).

There is a fault in the system if the warning lamp 

• does not light up when the ignition is switched on ⇒ page 30,

• after the ignition is switched on, it turns off after 4 seconds,

• it turns off and then lights up again after the ignition is switched on,

• lights up or flashes while the car is moving.

Fig. 17 Driver airbag

located in steering wheel

Fig. 18 Front passenger

airbag located in dash

panel

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Airbag system34

The front airbag system will not be triggered if:

• the ignition is switched off,

• there is a minor frontal collision,

• there is a side collision,

• there is a rear-end collision,

• the vehicle turns over.

WARNING

• The seat belts and airbags can only provide maximum protection if the

occupants are seated correctly ⇒ page 10, “Proper sitting position for

occupants”.

• If a fault has occured in the airbag system, have the system checked

immediately by a qualified workshop. Otherwise, during a frontal collision

the system may fail to trigger, or not trigger correctly.

Operation of frontal airbags

Inflated airbags reduce the risk of head or chest injury.

The airbag system is designed so that the airbags for the driver and front

passenger are triggered in a severe frontal collision.

In certain types of accident the front, curtain and side airbags may be trig-

gered together.

When the system is triggered, the airbags fill with a propellant gas and

deploy in front of the driver and front passenger ⇒ fig. 19. The fully deployed

airbags cushion the forward movement of the front occupants and help to

reduce the risk of injury to the head and the upper part of the body.

The special design of the airbag allows the controlled escape of the propel-

lant gas when an occupant puts pressure on the bag. Thus, the head and

chest are surrounded and protected by the airbag. After the collision, the

airbag deflates sufficiently for the front occupants to see forward.

In order to provide the desired extra protection in an accident, the airbags

have to deploy extremely rapidly (within thousandth of a second). A fine dust

Fig. 19 Inflated front

airbags

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Airbag system 35

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

may develop when the airbag deploys. This is normal and it is not an indica-

tion of fire in the vehicle.

Airbag covers when the frontal airbags are triggered

The airbag covers fold out of the steering wheel and dash panel when the

driver and front passenger airbags deploy ⇒ fig. 20. The airbag covers

remain connected to the steering wheel or the dash panel.

Fig. 20 Airbag covers reacting when the front airbags

are triggered

leon_ingles Seite 35 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Airbag system36

Safety notes on the frontal airbag system

If you use airbags correctly, they can considerably reduce the

risk of injury in many kinds of accident.

WARNING

• It is important for the driver and front passenger to keep a distance of

at least 25 cm from the steering wheel or dash panel. If the minimum

distance is not observed then the airbags do not correctly protect the

vehicle occupants; risk of fatal injuries! In addition, the front seats and

head restraints must always be positioned correctly for the height of the

occupant.

• If you are not wearing a seat belt, if you lean forward or to the side while

travelling or assume an incorrect sitting position, there is a substantially

increased risk of injury. This increased risk of injury will be further

increased if you are struck by an inflating airbag.

• Never let a child travel on the front seat without an appropriate restraint

system. If the airbag is triggered in an accident, children can sustain

serious or fatal injuries from the airbag as it inflates ⇒ page 45, “Child

safety”.

• The deployment space between the front passengers and the airbags

must not in any case be occupied by other passenger, pets and objects.

• The airbags provide protection for just one accident; replace them once

they have deployed.

• It is also important not to attach any objects such as cup holders or

telephone mountings to the surfaces covering the airbag units.

• Do not attempt to modify components of the airbag system in any

way.

Side airbags*

Description of side airbags

The airbag system is not a substitute for the seat belts.

The side airbags are located in the backrest cushions of the driver seat

⇒ fig. 21 and the front passenger seat as well as in the rear seats. The loca-

tions are identified by the text “AIRBAG” in the upper region of the backrests.

Together with the seat belts, the side airbag system gives the front seat occu-

pants additional protection for the upper body in the event of a severe side

collision ⇒ page 39, “Safety notes on the operation of the side airbag

system”.

In a side collision, the side airbags reduce the risk of injury to passengers on

the front seats to the areas of the body facing the impact. In addition to their

normal function of protecting the occupants in a collision, the seat belts also

hold the passengers on the front seats and the outer rear seats in a position

where the side airbags can provide maximum protection.

Fig. 21 Side airbag in

driver seat

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Airbag system 37

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

The airbag system is not a substitute for seat belts, but it is an integral part

of the vehicle's overall passive safety system. Please bear in mind that the

airbag system can only work effectively when the occupants are wearing their

seat belts. Therefore, it is most important to wear the seat belts at all times,

not only because this is required by law in most countries, but also for your

safety ⇒ page 19, “Brief Introduction”.

The side airbag system will not be triggered if:

• the ignition is switched off,

• there is a minor side collision,

• there is a frontal collision,

• there is a rear-end collision,

• the vehicle turns over.

The main parts of the airbag system are:

• an electronic control and monitoring system (control unit),

• the side airbags in the sides of the backrests of the front and rear seats,

• a warning lamp  in the dash panel insert ⇒ page 30.

The airbag system operation is monitored electronically. The airbag warning

lamp will light up for approx. 4 seconds every time the ignition is switched on

(self-diagnosis).

WARNING

• In a side-on collision, the side airbags will not work, if the sensors do

not correctly measure the pressure increase on the interior of the doors,

due to air escaping through the areas with holes or openings in the door

panel.

• Never drive the vehicle if the interior panels have been removed.

• Never drive if the interior door panels have been removed or if the

panels have not been correctly fitted.

• Never drive the vehicle if the loudspeakers in the door panels have

been removed, unless the holes left by the loudspeakers have been

correctly closed.

• Always check that the openings are closed or covered if loudspeakers

or other equipment are fitted in the interior door panels.

• Any work carried out to the doors should be made in a qualified author-

ised workshop.

• The seat belts and airbags can only provide maximum protection if the

occupants are seated correctly ⇒ page 10, “Proper sitting position for

occupants”.

• If a fault has occured in the airbag system, have the system checked

immediately by a qualified workshop. Otherwise, during a side collision,

the system may fail to trigger, or not trigger correctly.

WARNING (continued)

leon_ingles Seite 37 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Airbag system38

Function of side airbags

Inflated airbags can reduce the risk of head or chest injury in

many side impact collisions.

In some side collisions the side airbag is triggered on the impact side of the

vehicle ⇒ page 38, fig. 22.

In certain types of accident the front, curtain and side airbags may be trig-

gered together.

When the system is triggered, the airbag is filled with propellant gas.

In order to provide the desired extra protection in an accident, the airbags

have to deploy extremely rapidly (within thousandth of a second). A fine dust

may develop when the airbag deploys. This is normal and it is not an indica-

tion of fire in the vehicle.

The fully deployed airbags cushion the movement of the occupants of the

front seats and the outer rear seats and help to reduce the risk of injury to the

upper body.

The special design of the airbag allows the controlled escape of the propel-

lant gas when an occupant puts pressure on the bag. Thus, the head and

chest are surrounded and protected by the airbag.

Fig. 22 Illustration of

principle: inflated side

airbags on left side of

vehicle

leon_ingles Seite 38 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Airbag system 39

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Safety notes on the operation of the side airbag system

If airbags are used correctly, they can considerably reduce the

risk of injury in side impact collisions.

WARNING

• If you do not wear a seat belt, if you lean forward, or are not seated

correctly while the vehicle is in motion, you are at a greater risk of injury if

the side airbag system is triggered in an accident.

• In order for the side airbags to provide their maximum protection, the

prescribed sitting position must always be maintained with seat belts

fastened while travelling.

• Occupants of the outer seats must never carry any objects or pets in the

deployment space between them and the airbags, or allow children or

other passengers to travel in this position. It is also important not to attach

any accessories (such as cup holders) to the doors. This would impair the

protection offered by the side airbags.

• The built-in coat hooks should be used only for lightweight clothing. Do

not leave any heavy or sharp-edged objects in the pockets.

• Great forces, such as hard blows or kicks, must not be exerted upon the

backrest bolster because the system may be damaged. In this case, the

side airbags would not be triggered.

• Under no circumstances should protective covers be fitted over the

driver seat or front passenger seat unless the covers have been expressly

approved for use in your vehicle. Because the airbag is triggered from the

side of the backrest, the use of non-approved seat covers would obstruct

the side airbag, seriously reducing the airbag's effectiveness ⇒ page 200,

“Accessories, parts replacement and modifications”.

• Any damage to the original seat upholstery or around the seams of the

side airbag units must be repaired immediately by a qualified workshop.

• The airbags provide protection for just one accident; replace them once

they have deployed.

• When children assume an incorrect sitting position, they expose them-

selves to an increased risk of injury in the event of an accident. This is

particularly the case if the child is travelling on the front passenger seat

and the airbag system is triggered in an accident; this could have critical

consequences including serious injury or death ⇒ page 45, “Child safety”.

• Any work on the side airbag system or removal and installation of the

airbag components for other repairs (such as removal of the front seat)

should only be performed by a qualified workshop. Otherwise, faults may

occur during the airbag system operation.

• Do not attempt to modify components of the airbag system in any way.

• The side and head airbags are managed through sensors located in the

interior of the front doors. To ensure the correct functioning of the side and

head airbags neither the doors nor the door panels should be modified in

any way (e.g. fitting loudspeakers). If the front door is damaged, the airbag

system may not work correctly. All work carried out on the front door must

be made in a qualified workshop.

WARNING (continued)

leon_ingles Seite 39 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Airbag system40

Curtain airbags

Description of curtain airbags

The airbag system is not a substitute for the seat belts.

The curtain airbags are located on both sides in the interior above the doors

⇒ fig. 23 and are identified with the text “AIRBAG”.

In conjunction with the seat belts, the curtain airbag system gives the occu-

pants additional protection for the head and upper body in the event of a

severe side collision ⇒ page 41, “Safety notes on the operation of the

curtain airbag system”.

The airbag system is not a substitute for seat belts, but it is an integral part

of the vehicle's overall passive safety system. Please bear in mind that the

airbag system can only work effectively when the occupants are wearing their

seat belts correctly and have adjusted the head restraints properly. Therefore,

it is most important to wear the seat belts at all times, not only because this

is required by law in most countries, but also for your safety ⇒ page 19,

“Brief Introduction”.

The main parts of the curtain airbag system are:

• an electronic control and monitoring system (control unit),

• the curtain airbags (airbags with gas generator) for the driver, front

passenger and passengers on the rear seats,

• a warning lamp  in the dash panel insert ⇒ page 30.

The airbag system operation is monitored electronically.

The curtain airbag system will not be triggered

• the ignition is switched off,

Fig. 23 Location of left curtain airbag

leon_ingles Seite 40 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Airbag system 41

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

• there is a frontal collision,

• there is a rear-end collision,

• if the vehicle rolls,

• during a minor side collision,

WARNING

If a fault has occured in the airbag system, have the system checked imme-

diately by a qualified workshop. Otherwise there is a danger that during a

collision, the system may fail to trigger, or not trigger correctly.

Function of curtain airbags

Fully inflated airbags reduce the risk of head or chest injury in

a side collision.

During some side collisions the curtain airbag is triggered on the impact side

of the vehicle ⇒ fig. 24.

In certain types of accident the front, side and curtain airbags may be trig-

gered together.

When the system is triggered, the airbag is filled with propellant gas. In the

process, the curtain bag covers the side windows and door pillars.

In order to provide the desired extra protection in an accident, the airbags

have to deploy extremely rapidly (within thousandth of a second). A fine dust

may develop when the airbag deploys. This is normal and it is not an indica-

tion of fire in the vehicle.

The fully deployed airbags cushion the movement of the front occupants and

help to reduce the risk of injury to the upper body.

The special design of the airbag allows the controlled escape of the propel-

lant gas when an occupant puts pressure on the bag. Thus, the head and

chest are surrounded and protected by the airbag.

Safety notes on the operation of the curtain airbag system

If you use airbags correctly, they can considerably reduce the

risk of injury in many kinds of accident.

WARNING

• In order for the side airbags to provide their maximum protection, the

prescribed sitting position must always be maintained with seat belts

fastened while travelling.

• For safety reasons, the head air bag must be disconnected in those

vehicles fitted with a passenger compartment separation screen. See an

Authorised Service Centre to make this adjustment.

Fig. 24 Deployed curtain

airbags

leon_ingles Seite 41 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Airbag system42

• There must be no other persons, animals or objects between the occu-

pants of the outer seats and the deployment space of the curtain airbags

so that the curtain airbag can deploy without restriction and provide the

greatest possible protection. Therefore, sun blinds which have not been

expressly approved for use in your vehicle may not be attached to the side

windows ⇒ page 200, “Accessories, parts replacement and modifica-

tions”.

• The built-in coat hooks should be used only for lightweight clothing. Do

not leave any heavy or sharp-edged objects in the pockets. Please, do not

hang the clothes on coat hangers.

• The airbags provide protection for just one accident; replace them once

they have deployed.

• Any work on the curtain airbag system or removal and installation of

the airbag components for other repairs (such as removal of the roof lining)

should only be performed by a qualified workshop. Otherwise, faults may

occur during the airbag system operation.

• Do not attempt to modify components of the airbag system in any way.

• The side and head airbags are managed through sensors located in the

interior of the front doors. To ensure the correct functioning of the side and

head airbags neither the doors nor the door panels should be modified in

any way (e.g. fitting loudspeakers). If the front door is damaged, the airbag

system may not work correctly. All work carried out on the front door must

be made in a qualified workshop.

WARNING (continued)

leon_ingles Seite 42 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Airbag system 43

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Deactivating airbags*

Disabling front passenger airbag

If you fit a rear-facing child seat to the front passenger seat,

the front passenger airbag must be de-activated.

When the passenger airbag is deactivated, this means that only the

frontal airbag is deactivated. All the other airbags in the vehicle

remain functional.

Disabling front passenger airbag

– Switch the ignition on.

– Turn the ignition switch in the key operated switch in the glove

box to the position OFF ⇒ fig. 25.

– Check that the warning lamp “OFF” on the instrument panel

⇒ fig. 26 remains lit when the ignition is switched on ⇒ .

Enabling front passenger airbag

– Switch the ignition on.

– Turn the ignition switch in the key-operated switch in the glove

box to the position ON ⇒ fig. 25.

Fig. 25 In the glovebox:

key for enabling and disa-

bling front passenger

airbag

Fig. 26 Warning lamp for

deactivated passenger

airbag in centre console

leon_ingles Seite 43 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Airbag system44

– Check that the warning lamp on the instrument panel does

⇒ page 43, fig. 26 not light up when the ignition is switched on

⇒ .

WARNING

• The driver is responsible for the proper position of the key-operated

switch.

• You should deactivate the front passenger airbag only if you have to use

a rear-facing child seat in exceptional cases. ⇒ page 45, “Child safety”.

• For those vehicles that do not include a key lock switch to turn the

airbag off, an Authorised Service Centre must be consulted.

• Never install a child seat facing backwards (or rear-facing) on the front

passenger seat unless the front passenger airbag has been disabled. This

represents a risk of fatal injuries to the child! However, if it is necessary in

exceptional circumstances to transport a child in a rear-facing child seat on

the front passenger seat, you must always disable the front passenger

airbag.

• As soon as the child seat is no longer needed on the front passenger

seat, enable the front passenger airbag again.

• Only deactivate the passenger airbag when the ignition is off, other-

wise a fault may occur in the airbag system, this will create a danger that

in case of an accident, the airbag does not deploy properly or does not

deploy at all.

• When the passenger airbag is deactivated, if the warning lamp AIRBAG

OFF is not continuously lit up when the front passenger airbag is disabled,

there may be a fault in the airbag system:

− Have the airbag system inspected immediately by a qualified work-

shop.

− Do not use a child seat on the front passenger seat! The front

passenger airbag could be triggered despite the fact that there is a fault

in the system and, as a result, a child could sustain serious or fatal inju-

ries.

− It is predictable whether the front passenger airbag will deploy

during an accident! Warn all your passengers of this.

• When using the ignition key to activate / deactivate the passenger front

airbag, only the passenger front airbag will be activated / deactivated. The

side airbag and head airbag on the passenger side will remain active.

WARNING (continued)

leon_ingles Seite 44 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Child safety 45

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Child safety

Brief introduction

Introduction

Statistics show that children are generally safer on the rear

seat than on the front passenger seat.

We recommend that children under 12 years of age are transported on the

rear seats. Children travelling on the rear seat must use a child restraint

system or the seat belts provided, depending on their age, height and

weight. For safety reasons, the child restraint system should be installed in

the centre of the rear seat or behind the front passenger's seat.

The physical laws involved and the forces acting in a collision apply also to

children ⇒ page 20, “Why wear seat belts?”.

But unlike adults, children do not have muscle and bone structures fully

developed. This means that children are subject to a greater risk of injury.

To reduce this risk, children must always use special child restraint systems

when travelling in the vehicle.

We recommend the use of child safety products from the SEAT Genuine Acces-

sories Program including systems for all ages made by “Peke”

These systems have been especially designed and approved, complying with

the ECE-R44. regulation.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions and observe any statutory require-

ments when installing and using child seats. Always read and observe

⇒ page 46.

We recommend you to include together with the on-board documentation,

the manufacturer's Child Seat instructions manual.

Not for all countries

leon_ingles Seite 45 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Child safety46

Safety notes on using child seats

Proper use of child seats substantially reduces the risk of

injury in an accident!

As the driver, you are responsible for any children you transport in

your vehicle.

– Protect your children by properly using appropriate child seats

⇒ page 47.

– Always ensure that the belt webbing is properly positioned

according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the

child seat.

– When travelling, do not allow children to distract you from traffic.

– Take breaks regularly during long trips. Take a break at least

every two hours.

WARNING

• Never install a child seat facing backwards (or rear-facing) on the front

passenger seat unless the front passenger airbag has been disabled. This

could lead to a risk of potentially fatal injuries to the child! However, if it is

necessary, in exceptional cases, to transport a child in the front passenger

seat, the front passenger airbag must always be disabled ⇒ page 43,

“Deactivating airbags*”. If the passenger seat has a height adjustment

option, move it to the highest position.

• For those vehicles that do not include a key lock switch to turn the

airbag off, an Authorised Service Centre must be consulted.

• All passengers, especially children, must assume the proper sitting

position and be properly belted in while travelling.

• Never hold children or babies on your lap, this can result in potentially

fatal injuries to the child!

• Never allow a child to be transported in a vehicle without being properly

secured, or to stand up or kneel on a seat while travelling. In an accident,

the child could be flung through the vehicle, causing possibly fatal injuries

to themselves and to the other passengers.

• If children assume an improper sitting position when the car is moving,

they expose themselves to greater risk of injury in the event of sudden

braking manoeuvre or in an accident. This is particularly important if the

child is travelling on the front passenger seat and the airbag system is trig-

gered in an accident; as this could cause serious injury or even death.

• A suitable child seat can protect your child!

• Never leave an unsupervised child alone on a child seat or in the

vehicle.

• Depending on weather conditions, it may become extremely hot or cold

inside the vehicle. This can be fatal.

• Children who are less than 1.5 metres tall must not wear a normal seat

belt without a child restraint system, as this could cause injuries to the

abdominal and neck areas during a sudden braking manoeuvre or in an

accident.

• Do not allow the belt webbing to become twisted or jammed, or to rub

on any sharp edges.

• Incorrectly worn seat belts can cause injuries even in a minor collision

or in sudden braking manoeuvres.

• The seat belt provides maximum protection only when the belt web is

properly positioned ⇒ page 23, “Seat belts”.

• Only one child may occupy a child seat ⇒ page 47, “Child seats”.

WARNING (continued)

leon_ingles Seite 46 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Child safety 47

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

Child seats

Categorisation of child seats into groups

Use only child seats that are officially approved and suitable

for the child.

Child seats are subject to the regulation ECE-R 44. ECE-R. It means that:

Economic Commission for Europe Regulation

The child seats are grouped into 5 categories:

Group 0: Children up to 10 kg

Group 0+: Children up to 13 kg

Group 1: from 9 to 18 kg

Group 2: from 15 to 25 kg

Group 3: from 22 to 36 kg

Child seats that have been tested and approved under the ECE R 44 standard

bear the test mark on the seat (the letter E in a circle with the test number

below it).

Group 0 and 0+ child seats

A suitable child seat and a correctly adjusted seat belt can

help you to protect your child.

Group 0: For babies from about 9 months old and 10 kg in weight the most

suitable seats are those appearing in the illustration ⇒ fig. 27.

Group 0+: For babies from about 18 months old and 13 kg in weight the most

suitable seats are those appearing in the illustration.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions and observe any statutory require-

ments when installing and using child seats.

We recommend you to include together with the on-board documentation,

the manufacturer's Child Seat instructions manual.

WARNING

Read and always observe information and warnings concerning the use of

child seats ⇒ page 46.

Fig. 27 A group 0 rear-

facing child seat fitted on

the rear seat.

leon_ingles Seite 47 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Child safety48

Group 1 child seats

A suitable child seat and a correctly adjusted seat belt can

help you to protect your child.

Child seats using the “ISOFIX” system or seats in which the child faces the

rear of the car are most appropriate for babies and small children weighing

between 9 and 18 kg.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions and observe any statutory require-

ments when installing and using child seats.

We recommend you to include together with the on-board documentation,

the manufacturer's Child Seat instructions manual.

WARNING

Read and always observe information and warnings concerning the use of

child seats ⇒ page 46.

Group 2 and 3 child seats

A suitable child seat and a correctly adjusted seat belt can

help you to protect your child.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions and observe any statutory require-

ments when installing and using child seats.

We recommend you to include together with the on-board documentation,

the manufacturer's Child Seat instructions manual.

Group 2 child seats

Children under 7 years of age weighing between 15 and 25 kg are best

protected by group 2 child seats together with properly adjusted seat belts.

Group 3 child seats

Children over 7 years of age weighing between 22 and 36 kg but less than 1.5

metres tall are best protected by seat cushions with head restraints together

with properly worn seat belts ⇒ fig. 29.

Fig. 28 A category 1

forward-facing child seat

fitted on the rear seat.

Fig. 29 Forward-facing

child seat installed on rear

seat.

leon_ingles Seite 48 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Child safety 49

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

WARNING

• The shoulder part of the seat belt must lie approximately on the centre

of the shoulder, never across the neck or the arm. The seat belt must lie

close to the upper part of the body. The lap belt part must lie across the

pelvis, not across the stomach, and always fit closely. Pull the belt tight if

necessary to take up any slack ⇒ page 23, “Seat belts”.

• Read and always observe information and warnings concerning the use

of child seats ⇒ page 46.

Securing child seats

Ways to secure a child seat

A child seat can be secured differently on the rear seat and on

the front passenger seat.

You can secure a child seat to the rear seat or front passenger seat in the

following ways:

• Child seats in groups 0 to 3 can be secured with a seat belt.

• Child seats for groups 0, 0+ and 1 with the “ISOFIX” system can be

secured, without fastening seat belts, with the “ISOFIX” securing rings

⇒ page 50.

U: Suitable for universal approved restraining systems for use in this age

category (universal retention systems are those fitted using the adult

seat belt).

*: Move the passenger seat as far to rear as possible, as high as possible

and always deactivate the airbag.

L: Suitable for retention systems using the “ISOFIX” anchors.

WARNING

• When travelling, children must be secured in the vehicle with a

restraint system suitable for age, weight and size.

• Never install a child seat facing backwards (or rear-facing) on the front

passenger seat unless the front passenger airbag has been disabled. This

could lead to a risk of potentially fatal injuries to the child! However, if it is

necessary, in exceptional cases, to transport a child in the front passenger

seat, the front passenger airbag must always be disabled ⇒ page 43,

“Deactivating airbags*” and move the seat to its highest position, in case

it has this adjustment.

• Read and always observe information and warnings concerning the use

of child seats ⇒ page 46.

Category Weight

Seat locations

Front passen-

ger

Rear outer Rear centre

Group 0 <10 kg U* U/L U

Group 0+ <13 kg U* U/L U

Group 1 9-18 kg U* U/L U

Group 2 / 3 15-36 kg U* U U

leon_ingles Seite 49 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Child safety50

Securing child seat with the “ISOFIX” system

The child seat with “ISOFIX” system can be secured quickly,

easily and safely on the rear outer seats using the system

When removing or fitting the child seat, please be sure to follow the

manufacturer's instructions.

– Move the seat as far to rear as it will go.

– Press the child seat onto the “ISOFIX” retaining rings until the

child seat can be heard to engage securely.

– Pull on both sides of the child seat to ensure that it is secure.

Two “ISOFIX” retaining rings are fitted on each rear seat. In some vehicles, the

rings are secured to the seat frame and, in others, they are secured to the rear

floor. The access to “ISOFIX” rings is between the rear back rest and the seat.

Child seats with “ISOFIX” mountings are available in your Authorised Service

Centres.

WARNING

• The retaining rings are designed only to be used with “ISOFIX” child

seats.

• Never secure child seats without the “ISOFIX” system, retaining belts

or objects to the fastening rings – this can result in potentially fatal injuries

to the child.

• Ensure that the child seat is secured correctly to the “ISOFIX”

anchors.

Fig. 30 ISOFIX securing

rings

leon_ingles Seite 50 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Safety First Operating instructions Practical tips Technical Data

leon_ingles Seite 51 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Fig. 31 Instrument panel

leon_ingles Seite 52 Montag, 26. Januar 2009 4:29 16

Safety First for Your Seat Leon 4 Door Second Generation (2007-2011)

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