Get Driving -> Start and driving Guide for Seat Leon 4 Door Third Generation (2012-2020)

Start and driving

ing preheating, the warning lamp  remains

Press the brake

Driving

lit.

This message appears on vehicles with an

automatic gearbox if the driver tries to start

the engine without having the brake pedal

pressed.

The preheating time depends on the coolant

and exterior temperatures. With the engine at

operating temperature, or at outside temper-

atures above +8°C, the warning lamp  will

light up for about one second. This means

that the engine starts immediately.

Start and driving

Starting and stopping the

engine

Select N or P

This message appears if you try to start or

stop the engine when the selector lever of the

automatic gearbox is not in position P or N.

The engine can only be started and stopped

in those positions.

If the engine does not immediately start up,

interrupt the starting process and try again

after 30 seconds. To start the engine again,

Switching the ignition on and start-

ing the engine with the key

1

return the key to position Fig. 251

.

›››

Engage position P; the vehicle can

move; doors can only close in posi-

tion P.

Start-Stop system*

If the vehicle is stopped and the Start-Stop

system* switches off the engine, the ignition

remains switched on.

For safety reasons, this driver message ap-

pears and an audible warning sounds if the

selector lever of the automatic gearbox is not

in position P after you switch off the ignition.

Move the selector lever to the P position, oth-

erwise the vehicle could roll away.

Automatic transmission: before leaving the

vehicle, make sure that the ignition is switch-

ed off and the selector lever is in position P.

Driver messages on the instrument panel

display

Fig. 251 Ignition key positions.

Gear change: selector lever in the

drive position!

Read the additional information carefully

^››› ^{page 32}

Press the clutch

This driver message is displayed when the

selector lever is not in the position P when the

driver door is opened. Additionally, a buzzing

sound is emitted. Put the selector lever in po-

sition P, otherwise the vehicle could roll away.

This message appears on vehicles with a

manual gearbox if the driver tries to start the

engine without having the clutch pedal

pressed. The engine will only start if you press

the clutch pedal.

Diesel engines can take a few seconds longer

than usual to start on cold days. Therefore

the clutch pedal (manual gearbox) or the

brake pedal (automatic gearbox) must re-

main pressed until the engine starts up. Dur-

»

235

Driving

Ignition is switched on

Engaging the steering wheel lock

valve lifters. This is quite normal, and no

cause for concern.

This driver message is displayed and a buz-

zer is sounded when the driver door is

opened with the ignition switched on.

In vehicles with automatic gearbox, the igni-

tion key can only be removed when the se-

lector lever is in position P¹⁾.

●

If the vehicle battery is disconnected and

reconnected, the key must remain in the

position

starting up.

1

for around 5 seconds before

–

Remove the key from the ignition in position

WARNING

1

Fig. 251

.

›››

●

Vehicles with automatic transmission

that are not equipped with an electronic

brake system and depending on the coun-

try, after switching off the ignition, you can

only remove the ignition key if the selector

lever is in position “P” (parking lock). Next,

the selector lever is locked.

●

Never run the engine in confined spaces,

–

Turn the steering wheel until you hear it en-

gage.

as the exhaust gases are poisonous.

Possible vehicle theft is prevented with the

steering lock engaged.

CAUTION

Avoid high engine speeds, full throttle and

extreme load conditions until the engine

has reached its normal operating tempera-

ture, otherwise this can damage the en-

gine.

WARNING

●

Natural gas engines (CNG) always start

●

Never switch the engine off until the vehi-

up with petrol, as a certain operating tem-

perature is required for running with gas.

Once the required operating temperature is

reached, the engine will automatically

switch to natural gas mode.

cle is stationary. The brake servo and pow-

er steering functions will not be completely

covered under warranty. More force may

also be needed to turn the steering wheel

or to brake. As you cannot steer and brake

in the normal manner, there is a greater risk

of accidents and serious injury.

For the sake of the environment

Do not warm up the engine by idling it. You

should drive off as soon as you start the en-

gine. This will help avoid unnecessary ex-

haust emissions.

Switching off the engine with the

key

●

Never remove the key from the ignition if

the vehicle is in motion. Otherwise, the

steering could suddenly lock, making it im-

possible to steer the vehicle: risk of acci-

dent!

Note

Switching off the engine

●

If it is difficult to turn the ignition key to

–

Stop the vehicle.

1

the position , move the steering wheel to

both sides to release the steering lock.

●

Always take the key with you when you

–

Turn the ignition key to position

leave the vehicle. This is particularly impor-

tant if there are children in the vehicle, as

they might otherwise be able to start the

engine or use power-operated equipment

●

When starting from cold, the engine may

Fig. 251 1 .

›››

be a little noisy for the first few seconds un-

til oil pressure has built up in the hydraulic

1)

Depending upon country.

236

Start and driving

Starter button*

Opening the driver's door when exiting the

vehicle activates the electronic lock on the

steering column if the ignition is disabled.

(e.g. the electric windows), which could

cause injuries.

CAUTION

Switching the ignition on/off manually

If the engine has been running under high

load for a long time, there is a risk of heat

building up in the engine compartment af-

ter it has been switched off; this could

cause engine damage. For this reason, you

should idle the engine for approximately 2

minutes before you switch it off.

Briefly push the starter button without touch-

ing the brake or clutch pedal

.

›››

For vehicles with both manual and automatic

transmission, the starter button text

START ENGINE STOP flashes like a heartbeat

when the system is preset for switching the

ignition on and off.

Fig. 252 In the lower part of the centre con-

Note

sole: start button.

Automatic ignition switch-off

●

After the engine is switched off the radia-

tor fan may run on for up to 10 minutes,

even if the ignition is switched off. It is also

possible that the fan turns itself on once

more if the coolant temperature increases

due to the heat accumulated in the engine

compartment or due to its prolonged expo-

sure to solar radiation.

If the driver leaves the vehicle, taking the ve-

hicle key with them but leaving the ignition on,

the ignition is switched off automatically after

a certain time. If at that time the dipped beam

is on, the parking lights will stay on for approx.

30 minutes. The side light can be turned off

by blocking the vehicle page 127 or man-

›››

●

If the vehicle is stopped and the Start-

ually page 143.

›››

Stop system* switches off the engine, the

ignition remains switched on. Make sure

that the ignition is switched off before leav-

ing the vehicle, otherwise the battery could

discharge.

Emergency starting function

Fig. 253 On the right of the steering column:

If no valid key is detected inside the vehicle,

an emergency start-up will be required. The

relevant message will appear in the dash

panel display. This may happen when, for ex-

ample, the battery of the vehicle key button is

very low or flat:

emergency start.

The vehicle engine can be started with a

starter button (Press & Drive). To do so, there

must be a valid key inside the vehicle in the

area of the front or rear seats.

●

Immediately after pushing the starter but-

»

ton, keep the vehicle key next to the right trim

237

Driving

●

of the steering column Fig. 253, as close

the driver door is opened.

›››

●

If the vehicle is stationary for a long time

as possible to the Kessy logo.

with the ignition on, the vehicle battery

might be discharged and it might not be

possible to start the engine.

After automatically turning off the ignition, if

the dipped beam  is on, the side light re-

mains on for approx. 30 minutes (if the bat-

tery has enough charge). If the driver locks

the vehicle or manually turns off the light, the

side light goes out.

●

The ignition connects and the engine starts

automatically.

●

In diesel vehicles, there may be a delay in

the engine starting if it requires preheating.

●

Emergency disconnection

If during the STOP phase you press the

If the engine does not switch off after briefly

pressing the starter button, an emergency

disconnect will be required:

START ENGINE STOP button, the ignition is

switched off and the button flashes.

WARNING

Any accidental movement of the vehicle

could result in serious injury.

●

If the indication is displayed on the in-

●

Press the starter button twice within 3 sec-

strument panel display “Start-Stop system

deactivated: Start the engine manually”,

the START ENGINE STOP button will blink.

onds or press it once for more than 1 sec-

ond

●

When switching on the ignition, do not

.

›››

press the brake or clutch pedal, otherwise

the engine could start immediately.

●

The engine turns off automatically.

Engine restart feature

Starting the engine

3 Applies to vehicles with start button

WARNING

If no valid key is detected inside the vehicle

after the engine stops, you will only have 5

seconds to restart it. A warning will display on

the dash panel screen.

If vehicle keys are used negligently or with-

out due care, this may cause accidents and

serious injury.

Starting the engine with the start-

Step

er button page 237.

›››

●

Never leave any key inside the vehicle

After this interval, it will not be possible to

start the engine without a valid key inside the

vehicle.

when exiting. Otherwise, a child or unau-

thorised person could lock the vehicle,

start the engine or connect the ignition

and, in this way, operate electronic equip-

ment (e.g. the windows).

Press and hold the brake pedal until step 5

is performed.

1.

In vehicles with a manual gearbox:

press and hold the clutch down until the

engine starts.

Automatic deactivation of the ignition on

vehicles with the Start-Stop system

Put the gearbox lever in neutral or the se-

2.

lector lever in position P or N.

The ignition is switched off automatically

when the vehicle is stopped and the auto-

matic engine shutdown is active, if:

Note

●

Before leaving the vehicle, always dis-

connect the ignition manually and, if ap-

propriate, take into account the instruc-

tions on the screen of the dash panel.

●

The driver's seat belt is not fastened,

●

the driver does not step on any pedal,

238

Start and driving

CAUTION

Stopping the engine

3 Applies to vehicles with start button

Starting the engine with the start-

er button page 237.

Step

›››

●

The starter motor or the engine may be

damaged if you try to start the engine while

driving or if you restart it immediately after

switching it off.

Briefly press the starter button Fig. 252

›››

Switch off the engine with the

Step

without pressing the accelerator. For the

engine to start there must be a valid key in

the vehicle.

starter button page 237.

›››

●

If the engine is cold, avoid high engine

speeds, pushing the engine too hard and

rapid acceleration.

3.

1.

Stop the vehicle completely

.

›››

After starting the engine, the light of the

START ENGINE STOP button changes to a

fixed light indicating that the engine has

started.

Press and hold the brake pedal until the

step 4 is performed.

2.

●

Do not start the engine by pushing the

vehicle or towing it. Unburnt fuel could en-

ter the catalytic converter and damage it.

If you are driving an automatic vehicle,

If the engine does not start, stop and wait

for approx. 1 minute before trying again. If

necessary, carry out an emergency start

3.

4.

place the selector lever in position P.

4.

5.

Connect the electronic parking brake

page 237.

›››

Note

page 242.

›››

●

Do not wait until the engine warms up

Disconnect the parking brake when you

Briefly press the start-up button

are about to start driving page 240.

with the vehicle stationary; if you have

good visibility through the windows, start

driving immediately. This helps the engine

reach operating temperature faster and re-

duces emissions.

›››

Fig. 252. The START ENGINE STOP button

›››

5.

6.

blinks again. If the engine fails to switch

off, perform an emergency disconnect

WARNING

page 238.

›››

Never leave the vehicle with the engine

running, especially if a gear or gear range

is engaged. The vehicle could then sudden-

ly move or something strange could hap-

pen that would cause damage, fire or seri-

ous injury.

If the vehicle is equipped with a manual

gearbox, put it into 1st or reverse.

●

Electrical components with a high power

consumption are switched off temporarily

when the engine starts.

WARNING

●

When starting with a cold engine, noise

levels may briefly increase. This is quite

normal, and no cause for concern.

Never switch off the engine while the vehi-

cle is moving. This could cause loss of con-

trol of the vehicle, accidents and serious in-

jury.

WARNING

●

When the outside temperature is below

Cold start sprays could explode or cause a

sudden increase in the engine speed.

+5°C (+41°F), if the engine is diesel, some

smoke may appear under the vehicle when

the fuel-operated auxiliary heater is on.

●

The airbags and belt tensioners do not

work when the ignition is switched off.

●

Never use sprays to cold start the engine.

●

The brake servo does not work with the

engine off. Therefore, you need to press the

break pedal harder to brake the vehicle.

»

239

Driving

●

For vehicles with a convenience key there is

the “My Beat” function. This feature provides

an additional indication of the vehicle ignition

system.

When the engine cannot be stated again

●

Power steering does not work when the

with the Start-Stop system, page 265, and

›››

engine is not running. You need more

strength to steer when the engine is switch-

ed off.

needs to be started manually, the

START ENGINE STOP button flashes to indicate

this fact.

●

If the ignition is switched off, the steering

When accessing the vehicle, e.g. by opening

the doors with the remote control, the

START ENGINE STOP button flashes, calling at-

tention to the relevant starter system button.

column could be locked, making it impossi-

ble to control the vehicle.

Braking and parking

CAUTION

Upon switching the ignition on/off, the light of

the START ENGINE STOP button flashes. With

the engine switched off, after a few seconds,

the STOP ENGINE START button stops flashing

and goes out.

If the engine is made to work hard for a long

time, it may overheat after being switched

off. To prevent damage to the engine be-

fore switching it off, leave it idle for approx.

2 minutes in neutral.

Brakes

New brake pads

For the first 400 km (250 miles), new brake

pads have not yet reached their maximum

braking capacity, and need to be “run in” first.

However, you can compensate for the slightly

reduced braking effect by applying more

pressure on the brake pedal. Avoid overload-

ing the brakes while running them in.

With the engine running, the

START ENGINE STOP button light stays on, indi-

cating that the engine is running. The time

that lapses between the moment the user

starts the engine with the START ENGINE STOP

button and the lighting changes from flashing

to fixed will depend on specific engine size

characteristics. Upon switching the ignition

off with the START ENGINE STOP button, it starts

flashing again.

Note

After switching off the engine, the cooling

fan may continue to operate in the engine

compartment for a few more minutes, even

with the ignition off. The radiator fan is au-

tomatically switched off.

Wear

The rate of wear on the brake pads depends

a great deal on how you drive and the condi-

tions in which the vehicle is operated. This is a

particular problem in urban traffic and short

stretches, or with very sporty driving.

“My Beat” Function

In vehicles with the Start-Stop system, the

“My Beat” function also offers additional in-

formation:

Depending on the speed, the braking force

and the environmental conditions (for exam-

ple, the temperature, air humidity, etc.) noises

may be produced on braking.

●

When the engine stops during the Stop

phase, the light of the START ENGINE STOP but-

ton stays on, since, even though the engine is

off, the Start-Stop system is active.

Fig. 254 Related video

240

Start and driving

Wet roads or road salt

Fault in the brake system

can form in the brake system. This reduces

the efficiency of the brakes.

In certain situations (for example, on driving

through flooded areas, in severe downpours

or after washing the vehicle) the braking ac-

tion could be delayed if the discs and pads

are damp, or frozen in winter. In this case the

brakes should be “dried” by pressing the

brake pedal several times.

If the brake pedal travel should ever increase

suddenly, this may mean that one of the two

brake circuits has failed. Drive immediately to

the nearest specialised workshop and have

the fault repaired. Drive there slowly and re-

member that you will have to apply more

pressure on the brake pedal and allow for

longer stopping distances.

CAUTION

●

Never let the brakes “drag” by leaving

your foot on the pedal when it is not neces-

sary to brake. This overheats the brakes, re-

sulting in longer stopping distances and

greater wear.

At high speed and with the windscreen wipers

activated, the brake pads will briefly touch

the brake discs. This takes place, although

unnoticeable to the driver, at regular intervals

to improve the response time of the brakes

when they are wet.

●

Before driving down a long, steep gradi-

Low brake fluid level

ent, it is advisable to reduce speed and se-

lect a lower gear. This makes use of engine

braking and relieves the brakes. If you still

have to use the brakes, it is better to brake

firmly at intervals than to apply the brakes

continuously.

Malfunctions can occur in the brake system if

the brake fluid level is too low. The brake fluid

level is monitored electronically.

The effectiveness of the brakes can also be

temporarily reduced if the vehicle is driven for

some distance without using the brakes when

there is a lot of salt on the road in winter. The

layer of salt that accumulates on the discs

and pads can be removed by gently apply-

ing the brakes a few times.

Brake servo

The brake servo increases the pressure you

apply to the brake pedal. It works only when

the engine is running.

Note

●

If the brake servo is out of action, for ex-

ample when the car is being towed, you will

have to press the brake pedal considerably

harder than normal to make up for the lack

of servo assistance.

WARNING

●

Apply the brakes heavily to clean the

Corrosion

brake system only in a suitable traffic situa-

tion. Do not put other road users in danger:

there is risk of causing an accident.

●

If you wish to equip the vehicle with ac-

There may be a tendency for corrosion to

form on the discs and dirt to build up on the

brake pads if the vehicle is used infrequently

or the brakes are not used very often.

cessories such as a front spoiler or wheel

covers, it is important that the flow of air to

the front wheels is not obstructed, other-

wise the brakes can overheat.

●

Ensure the vehicle does not move while in

neutral, when the engine is stopped. Failure

to follow this instruction could result in an

accident.

If the brakes are not used frequently, or if rust

has formed on the disks, it is advisable to

clean off the pads and disks by braking firmly

●

If the brake fluid loses its viscosity and is

subjected to heavy use, vapour bubbles

a few times at a moderately high speed

.

›››

241

Driving

Releasing the electronic parking brake

Control lamps

Electronic parking brake*

●

Switch the ignition on.

It lights up red



●

Press the button  Fig. 255. At the same

›››

time step hard on the brake pedal or, if the

engine is running, press the accelerator pedal

slightly.

Brake fluid level too low page 328 or fault in the

›››

brake system.

 Do not carry on driving!

●

The control light of the Fig. 255 button

›››

It lights up red

(arrow) and the red  control light of the dis-

play in the dash panel go out.



Electronic parking brake page 242; OR handbrake

›››

engaged page 243.

›››

Automatic release of the electronic park-

ing brake on starting the engine

The warning lamp turns off when the parking brake is

disengaged.

Fig. 255 Centre console, lower part: electron-

ic parking brake button.

The electronic parking brake is automatically

switched off when starting if, after the driver's

door is closed and the driver's seat belt fas-

tened, any of the following situations take

place:

It lights up yellow



The electronic parking brake replaces the

handbrake.

Front brake pads worn.

WARNING

Activating the electronic parking brake

●

In vehicles with automatic transmission: a

●

If the brake warning lamp does not go out

The electronic parking brake can be activa-

ted whenever the vehicle is at a standstill,

even when the ignition is switched off. Acti-

vate it whenever you leave or park the vehi-

cle.

gear range is engaged or the vehicle is

switched to another one and the accelerator

pedal is lightly pressed.

or if it lights up when driving, the brake fluid

level in the reservoir is too low so there is a

risk of an accident page 328, Brake fluid.

›››

Stop the vehicle and do not drive on. Ob-

tain technical assistance.

●

In vehicles with manual transmission: the

clutch pedal is pressed fully before starting

off and the accelerator is pedal lightly press-

ed.

●

Pull and hold the  Fig. 255 button.

●

›››

If the brake warning lamp lights up  to-

gether with the ABS lamp  this could be

due to an ABS fault. This could cause the

rear wheels to lock quickly when you brake.

This could cause the rear to break away.

Risk of skidding. Stop the vehicle and seek

technical assistance.

●

The parking brake is activated when the

control light of the Fig. 255 button (arrow)

●

›››

To facilitate certain manoeuvres there are

and the red  control light of the display in

exceptions that allow the automatic parking

brake to be released without the driver's seat

belt being fastened.

the dash panel are on.

●

Release the button.

The parking brake can be prevented from be-

ing automatically released by continuously

242

Start and driving

WARNING

The improper use of the electronic parking

brake can cause accidents and serious in-

jury.

pulling up the  Fig. 255 switch when

›››

●

The system performs automatic and au-

starting off.

dible tests sporadically in the parked vehi-

cle if some time elapses without the elec-

tronic parking brake being used.

The electronic parking brake is not discon-

nected until the  button is released. This

can facilitate starting off when a heavy load

●

Never use the electronic parking brake to

is towed page 301.

›››

stop the vehicle, unless it is an emergency.

The braking distance may be considerably

longer. Always use the foot brake.

Using the handbrake

Automatic activation of the electronic

parking brake when exiting the vehicle in-

correctly

●

Never accelerate from the engine when a

gear range or a gear is engaged and the

engine is running. The vehicle could move,

even if the electronic parking brake is acti-

vated.

In vehicles with automatic transmission, the

electronic parking brake is activated auto-

matically when exiting the vehicle incorrectly

if:

CAUTION

●

The selector lever is in the D/S or R position

To prevent the vehicle from unintentionally

moving when parking it, first apply the

electronic parking brake and then remove

your foot from the brake pedal.

or in the Tiptronic selector gate.

●

AND: the vehicle is stationary.

AND: the driver door is open.

Fig. 256 Handbrake between the front seats.

●

The handbrake should be applied firmly to

prevent the vehicle from accidentally rolling

away.

Emergency braking function

Note

Only use the emergency brake function if you

are unable to stop the vehicle with the foot

●

In vehicles with a manual gearbox, re-

leasing the clutch and accelerating at the

same time automatically disconnects the

electronic parking brake.

Always apply the handbrake when you leave

your vehicle and when you park.

brake

.

›››

●

Pull and hold the  Fig. 255 button in

›››

●

If the vehicle battery is flat, it will not be

Applying the handbrake

this position to forcefully stop the vehicle. At

the same time, an acoustic warning can be

heard.

possible to disconnect the electronic park-

ing brake. Use the jump-start

^››› ^{page 59.}

–

Pull the handbrake lever up firmly

»

Fig. 256.

›››

●

To stop the braking process, release the

●

When the electronic parking brake is ap-

plied or released, noises may be heard.

button or press the accelerator.

243

Driving

Releasing the handbrake

Parking

WARNING

–

Pull the lever up slightly and press the re-

●

Take measures to reduce the risk of injury

when you leave your vehicle unattended.

The handbrake should always be firmly ap-

plied when the vehicle is parked.

lease knob in the direction of the arrow

Fig. 256 and guide the handbrake lever

›››

●

Never park where the hot exhaust system

could ignite inflammable materials, such as

dry grass, low bushes, spilt fuel etc.

down fully

.

›››

Always note the following points when park-

ing the vehicle:

Always pull the handbrake all the way up, so

●

Never allow vehicle occupants to remain

–

Use the brake pedal to stop the vehicle.

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

in the vehicle when it is locked. They would

be unable to open the vehicle from the in-

side, and could become trapped in the ve-

hicle in an emergency. In the event of an

emergency, locked doors will delay assis-

tance to vehicle occupants.

gaged

.

›››

–

Apply the handbrake.

If you drive faster than 6 km/h (4 mph) with

the handbrake on, the following message*

will appear on the instrument panel: HAND-

BRAKE ON.You will also hear an audible

warning.

–

Put it in 1st gear.

–

Switch the engine off and remove the key

from the ignition. Turn the steering wheel

slightly to engage the steering lock.

●

Never leave children alone in the vehicle.

They could set the vehicle in motion, for ex-

ample, by releasing the handbrake or the

gearbox lever.

–

Never leave a vehicle key in the vehicle.

WARNING

Never use the handbrake to stop the vehi-

cle when it is in motion. The braking dis-

tance is considerably longer, because

braking is only applied to the rear wheels.

Risk of accident!

Additional notes on parking the vehicle on

gradients:

●

Depending on weather conditions, it may

become extremely hot or cold inside the

vehicle. This can be fatal.

Turn the steering wheel so that the vehicle

rolls against the kerb if it started to roll.

●

If the vehicle is parked facing downhill, turn

●

If the handbrake is only partially re-

the front wheels so that they point towards

the kerb.

leased, this will cause the rear brakes to

overheat, which can impair the function of

the brake system and could lead to an ac-

cident. This also causes premature wear on

the rear brake pads.

●

If the vehicle is parked facing uphill, turn

the front wheels so that they point away from

the kerb.

●

Secure the vehicle as usual by applying the

CAUTION

handbrake firmly and putting it in 1st gear.

Always apply the handbrake before you

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

244

Start and driving

pedal quickly in an emergency. You must

keep pressing the brake pedal until the dan-

ger has passed.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

Braking and stability sys-

tems

The ESC helps to improve safety. It reduces

the tendency to skid and improves the stabili-

ty and roadholding of the vehicle. The ESC

detects critical handling situations, such as

vehicle understeer or oversteer, or wheelspin

on the driving wheels. It stabilises the vehicle

by braking individual wheels or by reducing

the engine torque. The warning lamp will

flash on the instrument panel when the ESC is

intervening .

Traction control system (ASR)

Control lamps

In the event of wheelspin, the traction control

system reduces the engine torque to match

the amount of grip available. This helps the

car to start moving, accelerate or climb a

gradient.

It lights up



Fault in the ESC or disconnection caused by the sys-

tem.

As the ESC operates in conjunction with the ABS, the

ESC light will also come on if a fault should occur in

the ABS.

Electronic differential lock (EDL)

ESC includes the Anti-lock brake system

(ABS), the brake assist system, the traction

control system (ASR), electronic differential

lock (EDL), electronic self-locking*, selective

torque control* and tractor-trailer sway miti-

gation*. ESC also helps stabilise the vehicle

by changing the torque.

When the EDL detects wheelspin, it brakes

the spinning wheel and directs the power to

the other driven wheel. This function is active

up to approximately 100 km/h (62 mph).

Flashes



ESC or ASR activated.

To prevent the disc brake of the braked wheel

from overheating, the EDL cuts out automati-

cally if subjected to excessive loads. The ve-

hicle can still be driven. The EDL will switch on

again automatically when the brake has

cooled down.

It lights up



ASR manually deactivated.

Or: ESC in Sport mode page 247.

Anti-lock brake system (ABS)

›››

ABS prevents the wheels from locking up un-

der braking until the vehicle has reached a

virtual standstill. You can continue to steer the

vehicle even when the brakes are on full.

Keep your foot on the brake pedal and do not

pump the brakes. You will feel the brake pedal

pulsate while the ABS is working.

It lights up



Tractor-trailer sway mitigation*

ABS faulty or does not work.

If the vehicle is pulling a trailer, it will control

the following: tractor-trailers tend to sway.

When the swaying of the trailer is felt by the

vehicle and detected by the ESC, it will auto-

matically brake the towing vehicle within the

limits of the system and mitigate the sway.

Tractor-trailer sway mitigation is not available

in all countries.

The control lamps light up together when the

ignition is switched on and should turn off af-

ter approximately 2 seconds. This is the time

taken for the function check.

Brake assist system

The brake assist system can reduce the re-

quired braking distance. The braking force is

automatically boosted if you press the brake

»

245

Driving

Electronic torque management (XDS)

The multi-collision brake works for front, side

or rear accidents, when the airbag control

unit records its activation level and the acci-

dent takes place at a speed of over 10 km/h

(6 mph). The ESC automatically brakes the

vehicle, as long as the accident has not dam-

aged the ESC, the brake hydraulics or the on-

board network

●

Please remember that the accident risk

always increases if you drive fast, espe-

cially in corners or on a slippery road, or if

you follow too close behind the vehicle in

front of you. The ESC, ABS, brake assist,

EDL, electronic self-locking and selective

torque control systems cannot prevent ac-

cidents: risk of accidents!

When taking a curve, the driveshaft differen-

tial mechanism allows the outer wheel to turn

at a higher speed than the inner wheel. In this

way, the wheel that is turning faster (outer

wheel) receives less drive torque than the in-

ner wheel. This may mean that in certain sit-

uations the torque delivered to the inner

wheel is too high, causing the wheels to spin.

On the other hand, the outer wheel is receiv-

ing a lower drive torque than it could transmit.

This causes an overall loss of lateral grip on

the front axle, resulting in understeer or

“lengthening” of the trajectory.

●

Accelerate with caution on slippery sur-

The following actions control automatic brak-

ing during the accident:

faces (for example, icy or snow-covered).

Despite the control systems, the driven

wheels could spin, affecting the stability of

the vehicle: risk of accident!

●

When the driver presses the accelerator,

the automatic braking does not take place.

●

When the braking pressure through press-

Note

ing the brake pedal is greater than the sys-

tem’s braking pressure the vehicle will brake

automatically.

The XDS system can detect and correct this

effect via the sensors and signals of the ESC.

●

The ABS and ASR will only operate cor-

rectly if the four wheels have identical

tyres. Any differences in the rolling radius

of the tyres can cause the system to re-

duce engine power when this is not desired.

Via the ESC, the XDS will brake the inside

wheel and counter the excess driving torque

of that wheel. This means that the driver's de-

sired trajectory is much more precise.

●

Multi-collision braking will not be available

if ESC is malfunctioning.

●

The regulating processes of the systems

WARNING

can make noises when they intervene.

The XDS system works in combination with

the ESC and is always active, even when ASR

traction control is disconnected, or the ESC in

Sport mode or disconnected.

●

The ESC, ABS, ASR, EDL, electronic self-

locking differential or selective torque con-

trol systems cannot exceed the limits im-

posed by the laws of physics. Always bear

this in mind, especially on wet or slippery

roads. If you notice the systems cutting in,

you should reduce your speed immediately

to suit the road and traffic conditions. Do

not be encouraged to take risks by the

presence of more safety systems. If you do,

an accident may occur.

Multi-collision Brake

In an accident, the multi-collision brake can

help the driver by braking to avoid the risk of

skidding during the accident, which could

lead to further collisions.

246

Start and driving

ESC in “Sport” mode

Sport mode can be connected via the Easy

Connect

Activate ASR

Switching on/off the ESC and ASR

The Easy Connect system menu

^››› ^{page 35 is used to switch on the ASR.}

The traction control system will be enabled.

^››› ^{page 35 system menu. In}

front-wheel drive vehicles, the interventions

by the ESC and the ASR are limited. In four-

wheel drive vehicles, the interventions by the

ESC are limited and the ASR is switched off

The control lamp  switches off. For vehicles

with a driver information system* the driver

will be informed that ASR is enabled.

completely

.

›››

The control lamp  lights up. For vehicles with

a driver information system*, the driver will be

shown the electronic stability control

(ESC) option: sport. Warning! Limited

stability.

Disconnection of the ESC

In some versions of the model, besides the

traction control system (ASR), the electronic

stability programme (ESC) can also be

switched off.

Fig. 257 Centre console: Button for switching

on/off the ESC and ASR

Disable ESC “Sport” mode

●

Press the  button Fig. 257 for approxi-

›››

The ESC is switched on automatically when

the engine is started, and only works when

the engine is running and includes the ABS,

EDS and ASR systems.

mately 1 second to switch to ESC Sport

mode.

Through the Easy Connect system menu

^››› ^{page 35. The warning lamp  will}

switch off. For vehicles with a driver informa-

tion system*, the driver will be shown the

electronic stability control (ESC) op-

tion: on.

●

Press the button  Fig. 257 for approxi-

›››

mately 3 seconds to switch off the Electronic

Stability programme (ESC), including the ASR

function. The  control lamp lights up and the

ESC OFFmessage is displayed permanently

on the instrument panel display.

The ASR and ESC function should only be

switched off in situations in which traction is

insufficient, among others:

●

Disable ASR

When driving in deep snow or on surfaces

that are not very firm.

●

The ASR and ESC function are reconnected

The Easy Connect system menu is used to

by pressing the button  Fig. 257.

●

›››

To “free” the vehicle if it gets stuck.

switch off the ASR

^››› ^{page 35. The trac-}

tion control system will be disabled.

OR activate or deactivate the ESC Sport or

Then switch the ASR and ESC function back

on.

ESC function in the Easy Connect system us-

ing the  /  button and the Vehicle >

SETTINGS > ESC Systembutton. The lamp

 and the ESC OFFmessage on the instru-

ment panel go out.

The control lamp  lights up. For vehicles with

a driver information system* the driver will be

informed that ASR is disabled.

Depending on finishes and versions, it is pos-

sible either to disconnect only the ASR or else

activate ESC Sport mode.

»

247

Driving

takes his foot off the brake pedal to prevent

the vehicle from lurching backward when it is

started. During these 2 seconds, the driver

has enough time to release the clutch pedal

and accelerate without the vehicle moving

and without having to use the handbrake,

making start-up easier, more comfortable

and safer.

WARNING

back accidentally when starting off, hold

the brake pedal down for a few seconds

before starting off.

You should switch on the ESC Sport mode

only if the traffic conditions and your driv-

ing ability allow you to do so safely: risk of

skidding!

Note

●

With ESC in Sport mode, the stabilising

The Official Service or a specialist work-

shop can tell you if your vehicle is equip-

ped with this system.

function will be limited to allow for a sporti-

er drive. The driving wheels could spin and

the vehicle could “skid”.

These are the basic operation conditions:

●

If the ESC is deactivated, the vehicle sta-

●

being on a ramp or hill/slope,

driver door closed,

bilisation function is not available.

●

Manual gearbox

●

vehicle completely stationary,

engine running and foot on the brake,

besides having a gear engaged or being in

Note

Changing gear

●

If the ASR is disconnected or the ESC’s

Sport mode is selected, cruise control* will

be switched off.

●

Read the additional information carefully

^››› ^{page 40}

neutral for manual gear change and with the

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

tomatic gearbox.

●

In ESC OFFmode, the ESC will be tempo-

In some countries the clutch pedal must be

fully pressed down for the engine to start.

rarily reactivated to assist the driver during

braking and will then switch back to pas-

sive mode when the brake pedal is re-

leased (depending on the model version).

This system is also active when reversing up-

hill.

Selecting reverse gear

●

Engage reverse gear only when the vehicle

WARNING

If you do not start the vehicle immediate-

is stopped.

●

Hill driving assistant

ly after taking your foot off the brake pedal,

the vehicle may start to roll back under

certain conditions. Depress the brake ped-

al or use the hand brake immediately.

Changing down gears

3 Valid for vehicles without the Auto Hold func-

tion

While driving, changing down a gear must al-

ways be done gradually, i.e. to the gear di-

rectly below and when the engine speed is

The hill driving assistant helps the driver to

move off and upward on a hill when the vehi-

cle is stationary.

●

If the engine stalls, depress the brake

not too high

. Changing down while by-

›››

pedal or use the hand brake immediately.

passing one or various gears at high speeds

or at high engine speeds can damage the

●

When following a line of traffic uphill, if

The system maintains brake pressure for ap-

proximately two seconds after the driver

you want to prevent the vehicle from rolling

248

Start and driving

clutch and the gearbox, even if the clutch

Control lamps

hand is transmitted to the gearbox selector

forks.

pedal remains depressed

.

›››

●

It lights up green

Always ensure that the vehicle is com-



WARNING

pletely stopped before engaging the re-

verse gear.

The brake pedal is not engaged.

When the engine is running, the vehicle will

start to move as soon as a gear is engaged

and the clutch released. This is also the

case with the electronic parking brake

switched on.

To select a range of gears, press the brake pedal.

●

Always press the clutch to the floor when

changing gears.

●

Flashes green



Never hold the vehicle “on the clutch” on

The interlock button on the selector lever is not

pressed.

hills with the engine on.

●

Never engage reverse gear when the ve-

hicle is moving.

Movement of the vehicle is prevented. Engage the se-

lector lever lock.

Automatic gearbox/DSG au-

tomatic gearbox*

WARNING

If the gear is changed down inappropriate-

ly by selecting a gear that is too low, you

may lose control of the vehicle, causing an

accident and serious injuries.

Selector lever positions

Introduction

Read the additional information carefully

^››› ^{page 41}

Your vehicle is equipped with an electronical-

ly controlled manual gearbox. Torque be-

tween the engine and the gearbox is trans-

mitted via two independent clutches. They

replace the torque converter found on con-

ventional automatic gearboxes and allow for

smooth, uninterrupted acceleration of the ve-

hicle.

The selector lever position engaged is high-

lighted on the display in the instrument clus-

ter. With the selector lever in the manual

gearbox positions G, D, E and S, the engaged

gear is also indicated on the display.

CAUTION

When travelling at high speeds or at high

engine speeds, selecting a gear that is too

low can cause considerable damage to the

clutch and the gearbox. This can also oc-

cur if the clutch pedal is pressed and held

and it does not engage.

P – Parking lock

When the selector lever is in this position, the

driven wheels are locked mechanically. The

parking lock must be engaged only when the

The tiptronic system allows the driver to

change gears manually if desired

CAUTION

To prevent damage and avoid premature

wear, please observe the following:

page 252, Engaging gears with the tip-

›››

vehicle is stationary

.

›››

tronic mode*.

The interlock button (the button on the selec-

tor lever handle) must be pressed in and si-

multaneously the brake pedal must be

●

Do not rest your hand on the gear lever

while driving. The pressure applied by your

»

249

Driving

depressed before moving the selector lever

either in or out of position P.

Sport mode (S) must be selected for a sporty

driving style. This setting makes use of the en-

gine's maximum power output. When accel-

erating the gear shifts will be noticeable.

hicle could otherwise start moving immedi-

ately (in some cases even if the parking

brake is engaged) resulting in the risk of an

accident.

R – Reverse gear

●

While you are selecting a gear and the

Reverse gear must be engaged only when

Press the brake pedal to move the selector

lever from N to D/S when the vehicle is sta-

tionary or at speeds below 3 km/h (2 mph)

vehicle is stopped with the engine running,

do not accelerate. Failure to follow this in-

struction could result in an accident.

the vehicle is stationary and the engine is

idling

.

›››

.

›››

To move the selector lever to position R, the

interlock button must be pressed in and at the

same time the brake pedal must be de-

pressed. The reverse lights come on when the

selector lever is in the R position with the igni-

tion on.

●

As a driver you should never leave your

Under certain circumstances (e.g. when driv-

ing in mountains) it can be advantageous to

switch temporarily to tiptronic mode

vehicle if the engine is running and a gear is

engaged. If you have to leave your vehicle

while the engine is running, you must apply

the handbrake and engage the parking

lock (P).

page 252, in order to manually select

›››

gear ratios to suit the driving conditions.

●

To avoid accidents, apply the handbrake

WARNING

Take care not to accidentally press the

accelerator pedal when the vehicle is stop-

ped. The vehicle could otherwise start

moving immediately (in some cases even if

the parking brake is engaged) resulting in

the risk of an accident.

N – Neutral (idling)

and put the selector lever in position P be-

fore opening the bonnet and working on the

vehicle with the engine running. Please al-

ways observe the important safety warn-

●

With the selector lever in this position, the

gear is in neutral.

ings page 322, Working in the engine

›››

D/S – Permanent drive (forward) position

compartment.

The selector lever in the D/S position enables

the gears to be controlled in normal mode

(D) or Sport (S) mode. To select Sport mode

(S), move the selector lever backwards. Mov-

ing the lever again will select normal mode

(D). The selected driving mode is shown on

the instrument panel display.

●

Never move the selector lever to R or P

when driving. Failure to follow this instruc-

tion could result in an accident.

Note

●

If the selector lever is moved accidental-

ly to N when driving, release the accelera-

tor and let the engine speed drop to idling

before selecting gear range D or S again.

●

With selector lever in any position (ex-

cept P) the vehicle must always be held

with the foot brake when the engine is run-

ning. This is because an automatic gearbox

still transmits power even at idling speed,

and the vehicle tends to “creep”. The ac-

celerator pedal must on no account be

pressed inadvertently when a gear is en-

gaged with the vehicle stationary. The ve-

●

Should the power supply to the selector

In normal mode (D), the gearbox automati-

cally selects the best gear ratio. This de-

pends on the engine load, the road speed

and the dynamic gear control programme

(DCP).

lever be interrupted in position P, the selec-

tor lever will be locked. If this should hap-

pen the manual release can be used

^››› ^{page 41.}

250

Start and driving

When stationary, apply footbrake

while selecting a gear.

P. While the key is not in the ignition, the se-

lector lever is locked in position P.

Selector lever lock

Level lock only engages with the vehicle sta-

tionary and at speeds of up to 5 km/h

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

lever lock is automatically deactivated in po-

sition N.

Note

●

If the selector lever lock does not en-

gage, there is a fault. The transmission is in-

terrupted to prevent the vehicle from acci-

dentally moving. Follow the procedure be-

low in order for the selector lever lock to

engage again:

The selector lever lock is not engaged if the

selector lever is moved quickly through posi-

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

makes it possible, for instance, to rock the ve-

hicle “backwards and forwards” if it is stuck.

The selector lever lock engages automatical-

ly if the brake pedal is not depressed and the

lever is in position N for more than about two

seconds.

–

With a 6-speed gearbox: press the

brake pedal and release it again.

Fig. 258 Selector lever lock.

–

With a 7-speed gearbox: press the

brake pedal. Move the selector lever to

position P or N and subsequently en-

gage a gear.

The selector lever lock prevents gears from

being engaged inadvertently, so that the ve-

hicle is not set in motion unintentionally.

●

Despite a gear being engaged, the vehi-

cle does not move forwards or back. Pro-

ceed to the next mode:

The selector lever lock is released as follows:

Interlock button

–

Switch the ignition on.

The interlock button on the selector lever

handle prevents the driver from inadvertently

engaging certain gears. Press the button in to

disengage the selector lever lock. The selec-

tor lever positions in which the interlock but-

ton has to be pressed are shown in the illus-

–

When the vehicle does not move in the

required direction, the system may not

have the gear range correctly engag-

ed. Press the brake pedal and engage

the gear range again.

–

Press the brake pedal and at the same time

press in the interlock button.

Automatic selector lever lock

–

If the vehicle still does not move in the

With the ignition switched on, the selector

lever is locked in the positions P and N. The

brake pedal must be pressed to release the

lever while pressing the release button if the

selector lever is in the position P. As a remind-

er for the driver, with the lever in positions P or

N the following message will be shown on the

display:

tration, highlighted in colour Fig. 258.

›››

required direction, there is a system

malfunction. Seek specialist assistance

and have the system checked.

Safety interlock for ignition key

If the vehicle does not have electronic brak-

ing, and depending on the country, once the

ignition has been turned off, the key may be

removed only if the gear selector is in position

251

Driving

–

Changing gear manually with the selector

lever

With the selector lever in position D/S, if no

paddle is operated during a short period of

time, the gearbox control system switches

back to automatic mode. To switch to per-

manent manual gear change using the

gearshift paddles, move the selector lever

from position D/S to the right.

Engaging gears with the tiptronic

mode*

It is possible to change to tiptronic mode,

both when the vehicle is stopped and while

driving.

–

To switch to tiptronic mode, move the selec-

tor lever from position D/S to the right. As

soon as the change is made the selector

level will be shown in the position Mon the

instrument panel display (for example M4

means that the fourth gear is engaged).

When accelerating, the gearbox automati-

cally shifts up into the next gear shortly be-

fore the maximum engine speed is reached.

If you select a lower gear, the automatic

gearbox will not shift down until there is no

risk of over-revving the engine.

–

+

Move the selector lever forwards

lect a higher gear Fig. 259.

to se-

›››

Fig. 259 Centre console: changing gear with

tiptronic

When the kick-down feature is used, the

gearbox shifts down to a lower gear, depend-

ing on road speed and engine speed.

–

Move the selector lever backwards

to

select a lower gear.

To exit the Triptonic mode, move the selec-

tor lever to the left.

Driving tips

Changing gear manually with the gear-

shift paddles*

The gearbox changes gear ratios automati-

cally as the vehicle moves.

The gearshift paddles can be used when the

selector lever is in the position D/S or M.

The engine can only start with the selector

lever in position P or N. At low temperatures,

below -10°C (+14°F), the engine can only

start with the selector lever in position P.

–

+

Press the gearshift paddle

to select a

higher gear Fig. 260.

›››

Fig. 260 Steering wheel: automatic gearbox

–

Press the gearshift paddle

lower gear.

to select a

levers

Starting the vehicle

The tiptronic gives the driver the option to

change gears manually.

To exit the Triptonic mode, pull the right-

hand lever towards the steering wheel for

approximately 1 second or move the selec-

tor lever to the left.

–

Press and hold the brake pedal.

–

Press and hold the interlock button (the

button on the selector lever handle), move

252

Start and driving

the selector lever to the desired position, for

Moving off uphill in vehicles without Hill

start assistant*

●

Never allow the brake to rub and do not

instance D page 249, and release the

›››

use the brake pedal too often or for long

periods. Constant braking causes over-

heating in the brakes. This could signifi-

cantly reduce braking power, increase

braking distance or even result in the total

failure of the brake system.

interlock button.

–

Apply the handbrake.

–

Wait for the gearbox to engage the gear (a

slight movement can be felt).

–

Once you have engaged a gear press the

accelerator carefully and disengage the

handbrake.

Release the brake and press the accelera-

tor

.

›››

●

To avoid rolling back on gradients always

Moving off uphill in vehicles with Hill start

assistant*

hold the vehicle with the footbrake or

handbrake if you have to stop.

Stopping briefly

–

Once you have engaged a gear, release

–

Apply the foot brake to hold the vehicle

briefly when stationary (for instance at traf-

fic lights). Do not press the accelerator.

the footbrake and press the accelerator

CAUTION

page 248, Hill driving assistant.

›››

●

If you stop the vehicle on a gradient, do

not attempt to stop it from rolling by de-

pressing the accelerator when a gear has

been selected. This could cause overheat-

ing and damage the automatic gearbox.

Apply the handbrake firmly or press the

brake pedal in order to prevent the vehicle

from rolling back.

Driving downhill: in some situations (on

mountain roads or when towing a trailer or

caravan) it can be advantageous to switch

temporarily to the manual gearbox pro-

gramme so that the gear ratios can be selec-

ted manually to suit the driving conditions

Stopping/Parking

If the driver door is opened and the selector

lever is not in position P, the vehicle could

move. The driver message will be:  Gear

change: selector lever in the drive

position!.Additionally, a buzzer will sound.

.

›››

●

If you allow the car to roll with the selec-

–

Press and hold the brake pedal

Apply the handbrake.

.

›››

On level ground it is sufficient to move the se-

lector lever to position P. On slopes, first en-

gage the parking brake and then put the se-

lection lever into the P position. This avoids

overloading the locking mechanism and it will

be easier to move the selector lever from po-

sition P.

tor lever in position N with the engine

switched off, the automatic gearbox will be

damaged as it will not be lubricated.

–

Move the selector lever to position P.

●

In certain driving situations or traffic con-

ditions, such as frequently starting, pro-

longed “creeping” of the vehicle or traffic

jams with continuous stoppages, the gear-

box could overheat causing damage! If the

warning lamp  lights up, stop the vehicle

as soon as possible and wait for the gear-

Holding the car on a hill

–

Always apply the brake pedal firmly to pre-

vent the vehicle “from moving backwards”;

WARNING

if necessary, apply the handbrake

. Do

›››

not try to stop the vehicle “rolling back” by

Observe the safety warnings

in Selec-

›››

box to cool page 256.

›››

increasing the engine speed when a gear is

tor lever positions on page 250.

engaged (pressing the accelerator)

.

›››

253

Driving

–

Condition: the engine must have reached op-

erating temperature and the steering wheel

must not be turned.

With your right foot, press the accelerator

down to the full throttle or kick-down posi-

tion. The engine speed will stabilise at

about 3,200 rpm (petrol engine) or about

2,000 rpm (diesel engine).

Kick-down feature

The kick-down feature allows maximum ac-

celeration to be reached.

The engine speed for launch-control is differ-

ent on petrol and diesel engines. To use the

launch-control you must disconnect the anti-

slip regulation (ASR) through the Easy Con-

When the accelerator pedal is pressed right

down past the point of resistance at full throt-

tle, the gearbox will shift down to a lower

gear, depending on road speed and engine

speed. The upshift to the next higher gear is

delayed until the engine reaches maximum

rpm.

Take your left foot off the brake pedal.

WARNING

nect system menu

^››› ^{page 35. The}

warning lamp  will stay switched on or will

flash slowly depending on whether or not the

vehicle has a driver information system*.

●

Always adapt your driving style to the

traffic conditions.

●

Only use the launch control programme

On vehicles with the driver information sys-

tem, the ESC lamp lights up permanently and

the corresponding text message Stability

control deactivated(temporary) appears

on the instrument panel to indicate the deac-

tivation status.

when road and traffic conditions permit,

and make sure your manner of driving and

accelerating the vehicle does not incon-

venience or endanger other road users.

WARNING

Please note that if the road surface is slip-

pery or wet, the kick-down feature could

cause the driving wheels to spin, which

could result in skidding.

●

Make sure that the ESC remains switched

on. Please note that when the ASR and ESC

are deactivated, the wheels may start to

spin, causing the vehicle to lose grip. Risk

of accident!

–

When the engine is running, switch off the

traction control (ASR)¹⁾.

Launch control program

3 Valid for vehicles: with Launch-Control/6-

Speed DSG with diesel engines superior to 125

kW and petrol engines superior to 140 kW.

–

Turn the selector lever to the position “S” or

●

After moving off, the ESC “sport” mode

tiptronic, or else select the sportdriving

should be deactivated by briefly pressing

the   button.

mode from the SEAT Drive Profile*

page 289.

›››

The Launch control programme enables

maximum acceleration.

Note

–

Press the brake pedal firmly with your left

foot and hold it down for at least one sec-

ond.

●

After using the Launch control pro-

gramme, the temperature in the gearbox

may have increased considerably. In this

1)

Vehicles without driver information system: the

warning lamp flashes slowly/Vehicles with driver

information system: the warning lamp stays on.

254

Start and driving

On vehicles with cruise control system*

Stopping inertia mode

case, the programme could be disabled for

several minutes. The programme can be

used again after the cooling phase.

page 269, downhill speed control is acti-

›››

–

Press the brake or the accelerator pedal.

vated when you set a cruising speed.

To make use of the braking force and switch

off the engine again, simply press the brake

pedal briefly.

●

Accelerating with the Launch control pro-

WARNING

gramme places a heavy load on all parts of

the vehicle. This can result in increased

wear and tear.

The downhill speed control cannot defy the

laws of physics. Therefore, speed cannot

be maintained constant in all situations. Al-

ways be prepared to use the brakes!

Applying both the inertia mode (= prolonged

section with less energy) and the switching

off using inertia (= shorter section without

the need for fuel) facilitates improved fuel

consumption and emission balance.

Downhill speed control*

The downhill speed control function helps the

driver when driving down steep gradients.

Inertia mode

WARNING

If the inertia mode has been switched on,

take into account, when approaching an

obstacle and releasing the accelerator

pedal, that the vehicle will not decelerate

in the usual manner: risk of accident!

The inertia mode enables the kinetic energy

of the vehicle to be harnessed enabling cer-

tain stretches to be driven without using the

accelerator. This enables fuel to be saved.

Use the inertia mode to “let the vehicle roll”

before, for example, arriving in a town.

●

Downhill speed control is activated when the

selector lever is in D/S and the driver applies

the foot brake. The automatic gearbox auto-

matically engages a lower gear that is suita-

ble for the slope. The downhill speed control

function attempts to maintain the speed at

which the vehicle was travelling when the

foot brake was applied (subject to the laws of

physics and technical drive limitations). It

may be necessary to adjust the speed again

using the foot brake in certain situations. Giv-

en that the downhill speed control can only

change down to 3rd gear, on very steep de-

scents the tiptronic mode may be required. In

this case, manually reduce the tiptronic to

2nd or 1st gear to use the engine brake and

reduce the charge on the brakes.

●

When using inertia mode while travelling

down hills, the vehicle can increase speed:

risk of accident!

Switching on inertia mode

Condition: selector lever must be in position

D, gradients below 12 %.

●

If other users drive your vehicle, warn

them about inertia mode.

–

Select, in SEAT Drive Profile*, Ecomode

Note

page 289.

›››

●

Inertia mode is only available in eco

(SEAT Drive Profile*) driving mode.

–

Take your foot off the accelerator.

The driver message Inertiawill be dis-

played. At speeds higher than 20 km/h (12

mph), the gearbox will automatically disen-

gage and the vehicle will roll freely, without

the effect of the engine brake. While the vehi-

cle rolls, the engine runs at idling speed.

●

The driver message Inertiais only dis-

played with the current consumption. In in-

ertia mode the gear will no longer be dis-

played (for example “E” will appear instead

of “E7”).

Downhill speed control is deactivated as

soon as the road levels out again or you press

the accelerator pedal.

»

255

Driving

The clutch has overheated and could be

damaged. Stop the vehicle and wait for the

gearbox to cool with the engine at idling

speed and the selector lever in position P.

When the warning lamp and the driver mes-

sage switch off, have the fault corrected by a

specialised workshop without delay. If the

warning lamp and the driver message do not

switch off, do not continue driving. Seek spe-

cialist assistance.

Stop the vehicle in a safe place well away

from moving traffic. Seek specialist assis-

tance.

●

On downhill sections with gradients

above 15 %, the inertia mode will automati-

cally be switched off temporarily.

 Gearbox: too hot. Adapt your

driving accordingly

Emergency program

Continue driving at moderate speeds. When

the warning lamp switches off, you can con-

tinue driving in a normal manner.

A backup programme is in place if a fault

should occur in the control system.

 Gearbox: press the brake and en-

gage a gear again.

If all the positions of the selector lever are

shown over a light background on the instru-

ment panel display, there is a system fault

and the automatic gearbox will operate in

with the backup programme. When the back-

up programme is activated, it is possible to

drive the vehicle, however, at low speeds and

within a selected range of gears. In some ca-

ses driving in reverse gear may not be pos-

sible.

Gearbox malfunctions

If the fault was caused by a gearbox with a

high temperature, this driver message will be

displayed when the gearbox has cooled

again.

 Gearbox: Fault! Stop the vehicle

and place the lever in the posi-

tion P.

There is a fault in the gearbox. Stop the vehi-

cle in a safe place and do not continue driv-

ing. Seek specialist assistance.

 Gearbox: System fault! You may

continue driving.

CAUTION

Have the fault corrected by a specialised

workshop without delay.

If the gearbox operates with the backup

programme, take the vehicle to a special-

ised workshop and have the fault repaired

without delay.

 Gearbox: System fault! You can

continue driving with restric-

tions. Reverse gear disabled

Take the vehicle to a specialised workshop

and have the fault repaired without delay.

Indications on the instrument panel

display

 Gearbox: System fault! You can

continue driving in D until

switching off the engine

Clutch

 Clutch overheating! Please stop!

256

Start and driving

Note

Display

Meaning

Gear-change recommenda-

tion

The recommended gear indication turns off

when the clutch pedal is pressed in vehi-

cles with manual gearbox or when the se-

lector lever is removed from the tiptronic

position in vehicles with an automatic gear-

box.

The optimal gear is selected.



Changing to a higher gear is rec-

ommended.

  

  

Choosing the ideal gear

Changing to a lower gear is rec-

ommended.

Information regarding the “cleanliness” of

the particulate filter

Steering

The exhaust system manager detects that

the particulate filter is nearly saturated and

contributes to self-cleaning by recommend-

ing the optimal gear. For this reason, it might

be necessary to drive for a short time at a

high rpm.

Information related to steering the

vehicle

Electro-mechanical power steering assists

the driver when steering.

Fig. 261 Instrument panel: gear-change indi-

cator (manual gearbox).

Electro-mechanical power steering adapts

electronically to the speed of the car, torque

and turning angle.

WARNING

While driving, and depending on vehicle

equipment, the instrument panel display may

show a recommendation with the gear num-

ber that would be advisable to save fuel.

The gear change indicator is only an auxili-

ary function and in no case should be a

substitute for careful driving.

If the power steering should fail at any time or

the engine is switched off (for instance when

being towed), the car can still be steered, as

long as the key remains in the ignition. How-

ever, more effort than normal will be required

to turn the steering wheel.

●

The responsibility of choosing the correct

In vehicles with an automatic gearbox, the

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

taking, driving up or down a slope or towing

a trailer) lies with the driver.

selector lever must be in the tiptronic position

page 252.

›››

No recommendation will appear if the opti-

mal gear is already engaged. The current

gear will be displayed.

For the sake of the environment

Selecting the correct gear can help to save

fuel.

Progressive steering

Depending on the vehicle’s features, it may or

may not incorporate a progressive steering

system.

»

257

Driving

In city traffic you do not need to turn so much

The control lamp should light up for a few

seconds when the ignition is switched on. It

should go out once the engine is started.

Control lamp

on parking, manoeuvring or in very tight turns.

It lights up red

On the road or on the motorway, progressive

steering transmits, for example, in bends, a

sportier, more direct and noticeably more dy-

namic driving sensation.



The electromechanical steering is damaged.

Do not continue driving. Stop the vehicle safely and

as soon as possible.

WARNING

If the warning lamps and the corresponding

messages are ignored when they light up,

the vehicle may stall in traffic. It could case

damage to the vehicle and cause acci-

dents and severe injuries.

Have the steering checked immediately by a special-

ised workshop.

Power-assisted steering

Power-assisted steering helps the driver in

critical situations. It recommends the rotation

direction of the steering wheel to perform a

corrective manoeuvre (counter-steering),

thereby causing a small turn of the wheel in

It lights up yellow



●

Never ignore the warning lamps or mes-

The operation of the electromechanical steering is

limited.

sages.

●

Stop the vehicle at the next opportunity

See a specialised workshop immediately and have

the steering checked.

and in a safe place.

the correct direction to avoid skidding

.

›››

If the yellow warning lamp does not light up again af-

ter the engine is restarted and the vehicle has travel-

led a short distance, you do not need to take it to a

specialised workshop.

WARNING

Power-assisted steering, together with the

ESC, helps the driver to control vehicle

steering in critical situations. However, the

driver is ultimately responsible for steering

the vehicle at all times. Power-assisted

steering does not remove this responsibili-

ty.

Run-in and economical driv-

ing

Or: The 12-volt battery was disconnected and has

been connected again.

Drive for a short time at 15-20 km/h (9-12 mph).

Running in the engine

It flashes yellow



A new vehicle should be run in over a dis-

tance of 1500 km (1000 miles). For the first

1,000 km the engine speed should not ex-

ceed 2/3 of the maximum permissible engine

speed. In doing so, do not accelerate at full

throttle and do not drive with a trailer! From

1000 to 1500 km (600 to 1000 miles) you

can gradually increase the engine rpm and

road speed.

The steering column is tight.

Turn the wheel a little to both sides.

Or: Not unlocked or blocked steering column.

Remove the key from the ignition and then switch the

ignition back on. If necessary, check the messages

displayed on the instrument panel display.

Do not drive on if the steering column remains

locked after the ignition has been switched on. Seek

specialist assistance.

258

Start and driving

●

During its first few hours of running, the inter-

nal friction in the engine is greater than later

on when all the moving parts have bedded

down.

Plastic parts and elastomers are marked in

Use of systems for the recovery of residual

accordance with ISO 1043, ISO 11469 and

ISO 1629.

heat (thermal recovery, enthalpy wheels,

etc.).

●

The use of water-soluble paints.

Choice of materials

●

How the vehicle is driven for the first 1,500 km

influences the future engine performance.

Subsequently, also drive at a moderate rate,

especially when the engine is still cold: this

will lead to less engine wear and tear and will

prolong its useful life.

Use of recycled materials.

Use of compatible plastics in the same part

Economical and environmentally-

friendly driving

●

if its components are not easily separated.

●

Use of recycled materials and/or materials

Fuel consumption, environmental pollution

and wear to the engine, brakes and tyres de-

pends largely on driving style. Fuel consump-

tion can be reduced by 10-15% with an eco-

nomical driving style and proper anticipation

of traffic conditions. The following section

gives you some tips on lessening the impact

on the environment and reducing your oper-

ating costs at the same time.

originating from renewable sources.

●

You should also avoid driving with the engine

speed too low. Change down to a lower gear

when the engine no longer runs “smoothly”. If

the engine revs too much, cut fuel injection to

protect the engine.

Reduction of volatile components, including

odour, in plastic materials.

●

Use of CFC-free coolants.

Ban on heavy metals, with the exceptions

dictated by law (Annex II of ELV Directive

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

hexavalent chromium.

Environmental compatibility

Active cylinder management (ACT^®)*

Environmental protection is a top priority in

the design, choice of materials and manufac-

ture of your new SEAT.

Manufacturing methods

●

Depending on vehicle equipment, the active

cylinder management (ACT^®) may automati-

cally deactivate some of the engine cylinders

if the driving situation does not require too

much power. When it is switched off, no fuel is

injected into these cylinders, hence total fuel

consumption may be reduced. The number

of active cylinders can be seen on the instru-

Reduction of the quantity of thinner in the

protective wax for cavities.

●

Use of plastic film as protection during vehi-

Constructive measures to encourage re-

cycling

cle transport.

●

Use of solvent-free adhesives.

●

Joints and connections designed for easy

dismantling.

●

Use of CFC-free coolants in cooling sys-

tems.

●

Modular construction to facilitate disman-

»

ment panel display. page 106.

›››

tling.

●

Recycling and energy recovery from resi-

dues (RDF).

●

Increased use of single-grade materials.

Improvement in the quality of waste water.

259

Driving

Foresight when driving

Avoid driving at high speed

engine can consume up to 10% more fuel

than necessary.

Acceleration causes the vehicle to consume

more fuel. If you think ahead when driving,

you will need to brake less and thus acceler-

ate less. Wherever possible, let the car roll

slowly to a stop, with a gear engaged (for in-

stance when you can see that the next traffic

lights are red). This takes advantage of the

engine braking effect, reducing wear on the

brakes and tyres. Emissions and fuel con-

sumption will drop to zero due to the overrun

fuel cut-off.

Avoid travelling at top speed, whenever pos-

sible. Fuel consumption, emission of harmful

gases and noise pollution multiply dispropor-

tionately as speed is increased. Driving at

moderate speeds will help to save fuel.

Avoid short journeys

The engine and catalytic converter need to

reach their optimal operating temperature

in order to minimise fuel consumption and

emissions.

Reduce idling time

In vehicles with the Start-Stop system idling is

automatically reduced. In vehicles without

the Start-Stop system it is worth switching off

the engine, for example, at level crossings

and at traffic lights that remain red for long

periods of time. When an engine has reached

operating temperature, and depending on

the cylinder capacity, keeping it switched off

for a minimum of about 5 seconds already

saves more than the amount of fuel necessa-

ry for restarting.

A cold engine consumes a disproportionate

amount of fuel. The engine reaches its work-

ing temperature after about four kilometres

(2.5 miles), when fuel consumption will return

to a normal level.

Changing gear to save energy

An effective way of saving is to change in ad-

vance to a higher gear. Running the engine at

high rpm in the lower gears uses an unneces-

sary amount of fuel.

Check tyre pressure

Always make sure the tyres are inflated to the

correct pressures page 333 to save fuel. If

›››

the pressure is below half bar, fuel consump-

tion may increase by 5%. Due to the greater

rolling resistance, under-inflation also increa-

ses tyre wear and impairs handling.

Manual transmission: shift up from first to

second gear as soon as possible. In any case,

we recommend that you change to a higher

gear upon reaching 2,000 rpm. Choosing the

right gear enables fuel savings. Select the

highest possible gear appropriate for the

driving situation (the engine should continue

functioning with cyclical regularity).

The engine takes a long time to warm up

when it is idling. Mechanical wear and pollu-

tant emissions are also especially high during

this initial warm-up phase. It is therefore best

to drive off immediately after starting the en-

gine. Avoid running the engine at high speed.

Do not use winter tyres all year round as

they increase fuel consumption by up to 10%.

Avoid carrying unnecessary loads

Given that every kilo of extra weight will in-

crease the fuel consumption, it is advisable to

always check the luggage compartment to

make sure that no unnecessary loads are be-

ing transported.

Regular maintenance

Automatic transmission: accelerate gradu-

ally and without reaching the “kick-down”

position.

Regular servicing helps in saving fuel even

before the engine is started. A well-serviced

engine gives you the benefit of improved fuel

efficiency as well as maximum reliability and

an enhanced resale value. A badly serviced

260

Start and driving

Since the luggage rack increases the aero-

dynamic drag of the vehicle, you should re-

move it when not needed. At speeds of

100-120 km/h (62-75 mph), this will save 12%

of fuel.

may not be enough power available to start

the engine.

from losing too much charge and to ensure

that the engine can be started reliably.

Your vehicle is equipped with an intelligent

power management system to control the

distribution of electrical energy. This signifi-

cantly improves reliability when starting the

engine, and also prolongs the useful life of the

battery.

Dynamic power management

While the vehicle is moving, this function dis-

tributes the available power to the various

electrical devices and systems according to

their requirements. The power management

ensures that on-board systems do not con-

sume more electrical power than the alterna-

tor can supply, and thus maintains the maxi-

mum possible battery power level.

Save electrical energy

The engine drives the alternator, thereby

generating electricity. This implies that any

increase in power consumption also increa-

ses fuel consumption! For this reason, switch

off any unneeded electrical devices. Devices

that use a lot of electricity includes the blow-

er at a high setting, the rear window heating

or the seat heating*.

The main functions incorporated in the power

management system are battery diagnosis,

residual current management and dynam-

ic power management.

Note

Battery diagnosis

●

Neither is the power management system

The battery diagnosis function constantly

registers the condition of the battery. Sensors

detect the battery voltage, battery current

and battery temperature. This enables the

system to calculate the current power level

and charge condition of the battery.

able to overcome the given physical limits.

Please remember that the power and use-

ful life of the battery are limited.

Power management

●

When there is a risk that the vehicle will

not start, the alternator power failure or

low battery charge level warning lamp will

be shown  page 123.

This system helps to ensure relia-

ble starting

›››

Residual current management

The power management controls the distri-

bution of electrical energy and thus helps to

ensure that there is always enough power

available to start the engine.

The residual current management reduces

power consumption while the vehicle is

parked. It controls the supply of power to the

various electrical devices while the ignition is

switched off. The system takes the battery di-

agnosis data into consideration.

Flat battery

Starting ability has first priority.

If a vehicle with a conventional electrical sys-

tem is left parked for a long time, the battery

will gradually lose its charge because certain

electrical devices, such as the electronic

gearbox lock continues to draw current even

when the ignition is off. In some cases there

Short trips, city traffic and low temperatures

all place a heavy load on the battery. In

these conditions a large amount of power is

consumed, but only a small amount is sup-

plied. The situation is also critical if electrical

devices are in use when the engine is not

Depending on the power level of the battery,

switch off the individual electrical devices

one after the other to prevent the battery

»

261

Driving

running. In this case power is consumed when

none is being generated.

When the engine is running

Engine management and

emission control system

Although the alternator generates electrical

power, the battery can still become dis-

charged while the vehicle is being driven. This

can occur when a lot of power is being con-

sumed but only a small amount supplied, es-

pecially if the battery is not fully charged ini-

tially.

In these situations you will be aware that the

power management system is intervening to

control the distribution of electrical power.

Introduction

WARNING

When the vehicle is parked for long peri-

ods

●

Because of the high temperatures which

can occur in the exhaust purification sys-

tem (catalytic converter or particulate fil-

ter), do not park the vehicle where the ex-

haust can come into contact with flamma-

ble materials under the car (e.g. on grass or

at the forest edge). Fire hazard!

To restore the necessary energy balance, the

system will then temporarily shut off the elec-

trical devices that are using a lot of power, or

reduce the current they are consuming. Heat-

ing systems in particular use a large amount

of electrical power. If you notice, for instance,

that the seat heating* or the rear window

heater is not working, they may have been

temporarily switched off or regulated to a

lower heat output. These systems will be

available again as soon as sufficient electri-

cal power is available.

If you do not drive your vehicle for a period of

several days or weeks, the power manage-

ment will gradually shut off the electrical de-

vices one by one or reduce the amount of

current they are using. This limits the amount

of power consumed and helps to ensure reli-

able starting even after a long period. Some

convenience functions, such as remote vehi-

cle opening, may not be available under cer-

tain circumstances. These functions will be

restored when you switch on the ignition and

start the engine.

●

Do not apply wax underneath the vehicle

around the area of the exhaust system: Fire

hazard!

Control lamps

You may also notice that the engine runs at a

slightly faster idling speed when necessary.

This is quite normal, and no cause for con-

cern. The increased idling speed allows the

alternator to meet the greater power require-

ment and charge the battery at the same

time.

With the engine switched off

It lights up



For example, if you listen to the sound system

with the engine switched off the battery will

run down.

Fault in the emission control system. (e.g. faulty

lambda sensor).

Reduce speed and drive carefully to the nearest spe-

cialised workshop to have the engine checked.

If the energy consumption means there is a

risk that the engine will not start, a text will

appear in vehicles with a driver information

system*.

Flashes



Combustion fault which could damage the catalytic

converter.

This driver indicator tells you that you must

start the engine so that the battery can re-

charge.

Reduce speed and drive carefully to the nearest spe-

cialised workshop to have the engine checked.

262

Start and driving

Catalytic converter

For the sake of the environment

It lights up



Even when the emission control system is

working perfectly, there may be a smell of

sulphur from the exhaust gas under some

conditions. This depends on the sulphur

content of the fuel used. Quite often the

problem can be solved by changing to an-

other brand of fuel.

Particulate filter blocked page 263.

›››

To maintain the useful life of the catalytic

converter

It lights up



●

Use only unleaded petrol with petrol en-

gines, as lead damages the catalytic con-

verter.

Fault in the management of the petrol engine.

Have the engine checked by a specialised workshop

as soon as possible.

●

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

●

The warning lamp  (Electronic Power Control)

lights up when the ignition is switched on while sys-

tem operation is being verified. It should go out once

the engine is started.

For engine oil changes, do not replenish

with too much engine oil page 326, Top-

ping up engine oil.

›››

Particulate filter

●

Never tow the vehicle to start it, use jump

The particulate filter eliminates most of the

soot from the exhaust gas system. Under nor-

mal driving conditions, the filter cleans itself.

The particulate filter is cleaned automatically

without need for indication by the warning

lamp . This may be noticed because the

engine idle speed increases and an odour

may be detected.

leads if necessary

^››› ^{page 59.}

It lights up



If you notice misfiring, uneven running or loss

of power when the vehicle is moving, reduce

speed immediately and have the vehicle in-

spected at the nearest specialised workshop.

In general, the exhaust warning lamp  will

light up when any of the described symptoms

occur. If this happens, unburnt fuel can enter

the exhaust system and escape into the envi-

ronment. The catalytic converter can also be

damaged by overheating.

Diesel engine glow plug system.

The engine glow plug system has been activated.

The engine can be started straight away when the

lamp switches off.

Flashes



If automatic filter purification cannot be car-

ried out (because only short trips are taken,

for example), soot will accumulate on the fil-

ter and the particulate filter warning lamp will

 switch on.

Fault in the management of the diesel engine.

Have the engine checked by a specialised workshop

as soon as possible.

Note

CAUTION

Facilitate the automatic filter cleaning proc-

ess by driving in the following manner:

While the control lamps are on , , 

or  there might be faults in the engine,

fuel consumption may go up and the en-

gine might lose power.

Never run the fuel tank completely dry be-

cause the irregularity of the fuel supply

may cause ignition problems. This allows

unburnt fuel to enter the exhaust system,

which could cause overheating and dam-

age the catalytic converter.

●

Drive for approximately 15 minutes at a

minimum speed of 60 km/h (37 mph) in 4th or

5th gear (automatic gearbox: S gear range).

»

263

Driving

●

Maintain the engine speed at approximate-

distribution of power is controlled automati-

cally according to your driving style and the

CAUTION

Driving through flooded areas may se-

verely damage vehicle components such

as the engine, transmission, running gear or

electrical system.

ly 2,000 rpm.

●

road conditions. Also see page 245, Brak-

›››

The rise in temperature causes the soot on

the filter to burn. On completion of the clean-

ing the warning lamp will switch off. If the

warning lamp does not switch off, go immedi-

ately to a specialised workshop to rectify the

problem.

ing and stability systems.

The four-wheel drive is specially designed to

complement the superior engine power. This

combination gives the vehicle exceptional

handling and performance capabilities, both

on normal roads and in more difficult condi-

tions, such as snow and ice. Even so (or per-

haps especially for this reason), it is important

●

Whenever driving through water, the

Start-Stop system* must be switched off

page 265.

›››

Note

●

Check the depth of the water before en-

tering the flooded zone.

Driving tips

to observe certain safety points

.

›››

●

Do not stop in the water, drive in reverse,

Winter tyres

Driving through flooded roads

or stop the engine in any situation.

Thanks to four-wheel drive, your vehicle will

have plenty of traction in winter conditions,

even with the standard tyres. Nevertheless,

we still recommend that winter tyres or all-

season tyres be fitted on all four wheels to

give even better braking response.

To prevent damage to the vehicle when driv-

ing through water, for example, along a floo-

ded road, please observe the following:

●

Note that vehicles travelling in the oppo-

site direction may splash water that could

exceed the maximum permitted water

height for your vehicle.

●

The water should never come above the

●

Avoid driving through salt water (corro-

lower edge of the bodywork.

sion).

●

Drive at pedestrian speed.

Snow chains

On roads where snow chains are mandatory,

this also applies to cars with four-wheel drive

^››› ^{page 57.}

WARNING

Four-wheel drive (4Drive)

3 Valid for vehicles: 4Drive all-wheel drive

After driving through water, mud, sludge,

etc., the braking effect can be delayed

slightly due to moisture build-up on the

discs and brake pads. Applying the brakes

carefully several times will remove the

moisture and restore the full braking effect.

On four-wheel drive models, the engine pow-

er is distributed to all four wheels

Changing tyres

On vehicles with four-wheel drive, all four

tyres must have the same rolling circumfer-

ence. Also avoid using tyres with varying

General notes

On four-wheel drive vehicles, the engine

power is distributed to all four wheels. The

tread depths page 335.

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264

Driving -> Start and driving for Your Seat Leon 4 Door Third Generation (2012-2020)

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