lights Seat Altea Freetrack 2010 User Guide
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Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
Main beam headlights 
This warning lamp lights up when the main beams are on.The warning lamp 
 is switched on once main beams are on or once the 
headlight flasher is operating.
Further information ⇒ page 117.
Soot accumulation in the diesel engine particulate filter 
If the indicator lights 
 you may help the filter clear itself by driving in the 
appropriate manner.
To do this, drive about 15 minutes in 4th or 5th gear (automatic gearbox: S 
gear range) at a speed of 60 km/h, with the engine running at approximately 
2000 rpm. In this way, the pollen build up in the filter is burned. When 
cleaning is successful, the indicator turns off.
If the indicator 
 is not deactivated, bring the vehicle to a specialised work-
shop to repair the fault.
WARNING
•Always drive according to the road weather conditions, the terrain and 
traffic. Driving recommendations should  never lead to illegal manoeuvres 
in surrounding traffic.•The diesel engine particulate filter may reach extremely high tempera-
tures; it should not enter into contact with flammable materials under-
neath the vehicle. Failure to comply could result in fire.
Anti-lock brake system (ABS) 
 
A warning lamp system monitors the ABS.
The warning lamp 
 should light up for a few seconds when the ignition is 
switched on. It goes out again after the system has run through an automatic 
test sequence.
There is a fault in the ABS if:
•The warning lamp 
 does not light up when the ignition is switched on.
•The warning lamp does not go out again after a few seconds.•The warning lamp lights up when the vehicle is moving.
The vehicle can still be braked in the normal way (except that the ABS control 
function will not function). Please take the vehicle to a qualified workshop as 
soon as possible. For further information on the ABS see the  ⇒page 183.
If a fault occurs in the ABS, the ESP* warning lamp will also light up.
Brake system fault
If the ABS warning lamp 
 lights up together with the brake warning lamp 
, this indicates not only a fault in the ABS function, but also a possible fault 
in the brake system  ⇒.
WARNING
•Before opening the bonnet, read and observe the warnings on 
⇒ page 213, “Working in the engine compartment”.•If the brake warning lamp 
 should light up together with the ABS 
warning lamp 
, stop the vehicle immediately and check the brake fluid 
level in the reservoir ⇒ page 226, “Brake fluid”. If the fluid level has 
dropped below the “MIN” mark you must not drive on. Risk of accident. 
Obtain technical assistance.
•If the brake fluid level is correct, the fault in the brake system may have 
been caused by a failure of the ABS system. This could cause the rear 
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80wheels to lock quickly when you brake. This could cause the rear to break 
away. Risk of skidding. Stop the vehicle and seek technical assistance.Washer fluid 
This warning lamp lights up to indicate that the windscreen 
washer level is too low.This serves as a reminder to fill up the reservoir at the earliest opportunity 
⇒ page 222
The following message is shown on the dash panel display*
11):  REFILL 
WINDSCREEN WASHER FLUID .
Alternator 
 
This warning lamp signals a fault in the alternator.
The warning lamp 
 lights up when the ignition is switched on. It should go 
out when the engine has started running.
If the warning lamp  lights up while driving, the alternator is no longer 
charging the battery. You should immediately drive to the nearest qualified 
workshop.
You should avoid using electrical equipment that is not absolutely necessary 
because this will drain the battery.
Tyre pressure 
The tyre pressure control system controls the tyre speed and 
the frequency spectrum of each tyre.The tyre monitor 
12) compares wheel revolutions and with this information, 
the diameter of each wheel using the ESP sensors. If the diameter of a wheel 
changes, the tyre monitor indicator lights  . The wheel diameter changes 
when:
•Tyre pressure is insufficient.•The tyre structure is damaged.•The vehicle is unbalanced because of a load.•The wheels of one axle are under more pressure (for example, driving with 
a trailer or on extreme slopes).•The vehicle is fitted with snow chains.•The emergency wheel is fitted.
11)Depending on the version of the model.WARNING (continued)
12)Depending on the model version
Fig. 49  Centre console: 
tyre monitor system 
button
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Safety First
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Practical tips
Technical Data
•The wheel on one axle is changed.
Tyre pressure adjustment
Following the modification to tyre pressure or after changing one or more 
wheels, the button  ⇒page 80, fig. 49 must be kept pressed while the igni-
tion is on until an acoustic signal is heard and the warning lamp goes out.
If the wheels are under excessive load (for example, driving with a trailer or 
heavy load), the tire pressure must be increased to the recommended value 
for a full load (see the sticker on the inside of the fuel flap). If the tyre monitor 
system button is pressed down, the new tyre pressures are confirmed.
The tyre pressure monitor indicator 
 lights up
If the tyre pressure of one or more wheels is much lower than the value set by 
the driver, then the tyre control warning lamp lights up  ⇒.
The tyre pressure monitor indicator  flashes
If the tyre pressure indicator flashes, this indicates a fault. Go to the nearest 
specialist workshop.
WARNING
•When the tyre pressure indicator lights, reduce speed immediately and 
avoid any sudden manoeuvre or braking. Stop when possible, and check 
the tyre pressure and status.•The driver is responsible for correct tyre pressure. For this reason, tyre 
pressure must be regularly checked.•Under certain circumstances (for example, in a sports situation, in 
winter conditions or on a dirt track) the tyre monitor indicator may light or 
function incorrectly.Note
If the battery is disconnected, the yellow indicator 
 lights up after turning 
the ignition on. This should turn off after a brief journey.
Bulb defect 
The warning lamp lights up when  a bulb in the vehicle's exte-
rior lighting is defective.The warning lamp 
 lights up when a bulb in the vehicle's exterior lighting 
(e.g. left-hand main beam) is defective.
The dash panel displays the following message
13):  LEFT FULL BEAM 
FAULTY .
Brake system* / handbrake 
 
The warning lamp lights up if the handbrake is applied, if the 
brake fluid level falls too low or if there is a fault in the brake 
system.
This warning lamp 
 lights up if
•If the handbrake is on.
If you drive faster than 6 km/h with the handbrake on, the following message 
will appear on the dash panel display 
14):  HANDBRAKE ON. Also, an audible 
warning is given.
•If the brake fluid level is too low  ⇒page 226.
The dash panel displays the following message
14):  STOP BRAKE FLUID 
INSTRUCTION MANUAL .
•If there is a fault in the brake system.
The dash panel displays the following message
14):  BRAKE SYSTEM FAULT 
INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL .
13)Depending on the version of the model.14)Depending on the version of the model.
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82This warning lamp can light up together with the anti-lock brake system 
warning lamp.
WARNING
•Before opening the bonnet, read and observe the warnings on 
⇒ page 213.•If the brake warning lamp does not go out, or if it lights up when 
driving, the brake fluid level  ⇒page 226, “Brake fluid” in the reservoir is 
too low. Risk of accident. Stop the vehicle and do not drive on. Obtain tech-
nical assistance.•If the brake warning lamp 
 lights up together with the ABS warning 
lamp 
, the control function of the ABS could be out of action. 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.
Engine oil pressure 
This warning lamp indicates that the engine oil pressure is 
too low.If this warning symbol starts to flash, and is accompanied by three  audible 
warnings, switch off the engine and check the oil level. If the oil level is too 
low, add more engine oil  ⇒page 216.
The dash panel displays the following message
15):  STOP ENGINE OIL 
PRESSURE INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL .
If the symbol flashes although the oil level is correct,  do not drive on. The 
engine must not even run at idle speed. Obtain technical assistance.
Cruise control system* 
The warning lamp comes on when the cruise control system 
is switched on.The warning lamp 
 l i g h t s  u p  w h e n  t h e  c r u i s e  co n t r o l  s y s te m  is  s wi tch e d  o n .  
Further notes on the cruise control system ⇒ page 179.
Indicator for open doors or tailgate* 
This indicator lights if one of the doors or the tailgate is open.The warning light 
 should go off when all the doors are closed correctly.
The system also works when the ignition is switched off. It should go off 
approx. 15 seconds after the vehicle is locked.
Power steering system* 
For vehicles with power steering, the level of steering assistance depends on 
the vehicle's speed and on the steering angle.
The warning lamp should light up for a few seconds when the ignition is 
switched on. It should go out once the engine is started.
If the battery is disconnected, the indicator remains lit, even with the engine 
running. The warning light only goes off after a distance of approx. 50 m.
There is a fault in the electromechanical steering system if the lamp does not 
go out or lights up whilst the vehicle is in motion. The indicator may appear 
in two different colours to indicate faults. If it lights yellow, this indicates a 
minor fault. If it lights red, seek workshop assistance immediately, if no 
assistance is available stop driving. Stop the vehicle and seek technical 
15)Depending on the version of the model.
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Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
assistance. The power steering does not work if the battery is flat or if the 
engine is off (for example, for towing). You should take into account that you 
will need considerably more power than normal to steer the vehicle if the 
steering assistance is reduced or has failed completely.
For those vehicles fitted with ESP* the function “Recommended steering 
manoeuvre” is included. See 
⇒page 185.
Emission control system* 
 
This warning lamp monitors the exhaust system.
Warning lamp 
 flashes:
When there is misfiring that can damage the catalytic converter. Reduce 
speed and drive carefully to the nearest qualified workshop to have the 
engine checked.
The dash panel displays the following message
16):  EXHAUST GAS SEE 
WORKSHOP
Warning lamp 
 is lit:
If a fault has developed during driving which has reduced the quality of the 
exhaust gas (e.g. lambda probe fault). Reduce speed and drive carefully to 
the nearest qualified workshop to have the engine checked.
The following information text displayed in the dash panel display :  EXHAUST 
GAS SEE WORKSHOP .
Electronic stabilisation programme (ESP)* 
 
This warning lamp monitors the electronic stabilisation 
programme.
This programme includes the ABS, EDL and TCS. This also includes the brake 
assist system (BAS), automatic cleaning of the brake discs and the trailer 
stability programme (TSP).
The warning lamp 
 has the following functions:
•It will light for about 2 seconds when the ignition is switched on while a 
test of the function is carried out.•It flashes when the ESP is activated when driving.•It will light up continuously if there is a malfunction in the ESP.•It will also come on if a fault should occur in the ABS because the ESP 
operates in conjunction with the ABS.
If the ESP warning lamp 
 lights up and stays on after the engine is started, 
this may mean that the control system has temporarily switched off the ESP. 
In this case the ESP can be reactivated by switching the ignition off and then 
on again. If the warning lamp goes out, this means the system is fully func-
tional.
If the ESP button is activated, the TCS function deactivates and the warning 
lamp flashes.
16)Depending on the version of the model.
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84Differential lock fault (EDL)*
EDL operates along with the ABS in vehicles equipped with an 
Electronic Stabilisation Program (ESP)*A malfunction in the EDL is indicated by the ABS warning lamp 
. Please 
take the vehicle to a qualified workshop as soon as possible. For further infor-
mation on the EDL  ⇒page 186, “Electronic differential lock (EDL)*”.
Traction control system (TCS)*
The traction control system prevents the driven wheels from 
spinning when the vehicle is acceleratingThe warning lamp lights up when the ignition is switched on and should turn 
out after about 2 seconds.
When the TCS is operating while driving, the warning lamp flashes. If the 
system is deactivated or if there is any fault in the same, the warning lamp will 
remain lit.
It will also come on if a fault should occur in the ABS because the TCS oper-
ates in conjunction with the ABS. For further information, see  ⇒page 183, 
“Brakes”
If the TCS button is activated, the TCS function deactivates and the warning 
lamp remains lit.
By pressing again, TCS function is reactivated and the warning lamp switched 
off.
Operating the foot brake 
The footbrake must be depressed when this warning lamp lights up. This is 
necessary when the automatic gearbox* selector lever is moved out of the 
positions  P or  N.Electronic immobiliser* “Safe”
This warning lamp flashes if an unauthorised key is used.Inside the key there is a chip that deactivates the electronic immobiliser auto-
matically when the key is inserted into the ignition. The immobiliser will be 
activated again automatically as soon as you pull the key out of the ignition 
lock.
The dash panel displays the following message
17): SAFE . The vehicle cannot 
be used in that case  ⇒page 167.
The engine can, however, be started if the appropriate coded SEAT genuine 
key is used.
Note
A perfect operation of the vehicle is ensured if genuine SEAT keys are used.17)Depending on the version of the model.
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Unlocking and locking105
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
WARNING
•Always close the tailgate properly. Risk of accident or injury.•The tailgate must not be opened when the reverse or rear fog lights are 
lit. This may damage the lighting units.•Do not close the tailgate by pushing it down with your hand on the rear 
window. The glass could smash. Risk of injury!•Ensure the tailgate is locked after closing it. If not, it may open unex-
pectedly while driving.•If the tailgate is not fully closed, open it with the handle and close it 
again correctly. Do not try to close it by pressing on the surface of the tail-
gate, as this may damage the surface.•Never allow children to play in or around the vehicle. A locked vehicle 
can be subjected to extremely high and low temperatures, depending on 
the time of year, thus causing serious injuries/illness. It could even have 
fatal consequences. Close and lock both the tailgate and all the other doors 
when you are not using the vehicle.•Closing the tailgate without observing and ensuring it is clear could 
cause serious injur y to you and to third parties. Make sure that no one is in 
the path of the tailgate.•Never drive with the tailgate open or half-closed, exhaust gases may 
penetrate into the interior of the vehicle. Danger of poisoning!•If you only open the tailgate, do not leave the key inside. The vehicle 
will not be opened if the key is left inside.
Emergency opening
This allows the vehicle to be opened if the central locking 
does not operate (for exampl e, if the battery is flat)There is a groove in the boot allowing access to the emergency 
opening mechanism.
Opening the tailgate from inside the luggage compartment
– Insert the key bit in the groove and unlock the locking system, 
turning the key from right to left, as shown by the arrow 
⇒fig. 67 .
Fig. 67  Tailgate: emer-
gency open
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Lights and visibility111
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
Lights and visibilityLightsSwitching lights on and off 
 
Switching on the side lights
– Turn the light switch ⇒fig. 72 to position 
.
Switching on dipped headlights
– Turn the light switch to position 
.
Switching off the lights
– Turn the light switch to position 0. Switching on the fog lights*
– Pull the switch out of position 
 or  to the first stop. The 
symbol 
 in the light switch lights up.
Switching on the rear fog lights (vehicles with front fog lights)
– Pull the switch out of position 
 or  to the second stop 
⇒ . A warning lamp lights up in the dash panel. 
Switching on the rear fog lights (vehicles with no front fog lights)
– Pull the light switch from position 
 to the last stop. A warning 
lamp lights up in the dash panel.
WARNING
Never drive with just the side lights on. Risk of accident. The side lights are 
not bright enough to illuminate the road ahead and to ensure that other 
road users are able to see you. Always use your dipped headlights if it is 
dark or if visibility is poor.
Note
•The dipped beam headlights will only work with the ignition on. The side 
lights come on automatically when the ignition is turned off.•If the lights are left on after the key has been taken out of the ignition lock, 
a buzzer will sound while the driver door remains open. This is a reminder to 
switch the lights off.
Fig. 72  Detailed view of 
instrument panel: lights, 
fog light and rear fog light 
control
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Lights and visibility
112•The rear fog light is so bright that it can dazzle drivers behind you. You 
should use the rear fog light only when visibility is very poor.•If you are towing a trailer equipped with a rear fog light on a vehicle with 
a factory-fitted towing bracket , the rear fog light on the car will automatically 
be switched off.•The use of the lighting described here is subject to the relevant statutory 
requirements.•Depending on weather conditions (ver y cold or wet), the front and rear 
lights and the indicators may be temporarily misted. This has no influence on 
the life expectancy of the lighting system. The lights will soon demist when 
they are switched on.Automatic lighting*Activation
– Rotate the switch to the position “Auto”, this indication will light  up. Deactivation
– Turn the light switch to 0.
Automatic lighting
If automatic headlight control is switched on, dipped headlights are automat-
ically switched on by a light-sensitive sensor if you drive into a tunnel, for 
example.
The motorway function switches on the dipped headlights when the vehicle 
is driven at over 140 km/h for a few seconds and it switches the lights off 
when the vehicle is driven at less than 65 km/h for a few minutes.
The rain sensor switches on the dipped headlights when the windscreen 
wipers have been operating continuously for a few seconds and it switches 
the lights off when the continuous or intermittent wipe is switched off for 
some minutes 
⇒page 124.
When the automatic dipped light control is connected but the dipped lights 
are off, the warning lamp 
 lights up on the light control  ⇒fig. 73 . If the 
automatic control switches on the dipped lights, the instrument and control 
lighting is also switched on.
WARNING
•If automatic headlight control is switched on, the headlights will not be 
switched on in fog or heavy rain. Therefore, the dipped beam must be 
switched on manually.Note
•For those vehicles with the automatic headlight system, when the key is 
removed from the ignition, the acoustic signal will only sound if the light 
control is in the position 
 or  if the vehicle is not fitted with the coming 
home function.
Fig. 73  Automatic 
lighting
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Lights and visibility113
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
•If the daylight driving automatic light function is switched on, the fog 
lights or rear fog light cannot be switched on in addition.•The use of the lighting described here is subject to the relevant statutory 
requirements.•Do not put stickers on the windscreen in front of the sensor. This may 
cause disruptions or faults in the automatic lighting system.•To avoid damage to the tail lights, the lights mounted on the tailgate go 
off when the tailgate is opened (according to country).Daytime lights*
The daytime light reduces the risk of accidents by increasing 
the visibility of the vehicle. The daytime running lights are 
enabled automatically when the ignition is switched on. It is 
automatically switched off when the side lights are turned on.Daytime lights (halogen lamps)
18)
The daytime lights increase road safety in vehicles fitted with halogen lamps. 
These include the dipped, side and registration plate lights.
The daytime lights are switched on each time the ignition is turned on if the 
light setting is in position  0 or 
. Depending upon the model, a control 
lamp 
 on the light control switch or the lighting up of the dash panel will 
indicate that the daytime lighting is on.
It is not possible for the driver to switch the daytime lights on or off. Please 
contact a qualified workshop if you wish to deactivate the lights. Daytime lights (bi-xenon lamps)
The daytime lights increase road safety in vehicles fitted with bi-xenon lamps. 
The lights are built-in separately to the headlights and are switched on each 
time the ignition is turned on if the light setting is in position 
0 or 
.
Automatic control of the dipped light in combination with the daytime 
lighting (bi-xenon headlamps)
If the  dipped light control  and the daytime lighting  are activated at the same 
time, the dipped lights and the instrument panel lighting will automatically 
come on as required (e.g. on entering a tunnel) and the daytime lights will go 
off. When the automatic dipped light control switches off the dipped lights 
(e.g. on coming out of the tunnel), the daytime lights come back on.
Activating the daytime lights 
With the ignition switched off, move the indicator and main beam lever 
upwards and back (left indicator and headlamp flash).
Switch on the ignition for 3 seconds while holding this position. The daytime 
lights are activated and can be switched on.
Deactivating the daytime lights
With the ignition switched off, move the indicator and main beam lever 
upwards and back (left indicator and headlamp flash) and hold in this posi-
tion.
Switch on the ignition for 3 seconds while holding this position. The daytime 
lights are deactivated and can not be switched on.
Deactivating daytime lights (bi-xenon lamps)
With the ignition switched off, move the indicator and main beam lever 
upwards and back (left indicator and headlamp flash).
Switch on the ignition for 3 seconds. The daytime lights are deactivated and 
can not be switched on.
18)It is only available in some countries or as an optional extra
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