check engine light Seat Altea Freetrack 2010 Owner's Manual
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64 Km - Fuel range
The fuel range is calculated using the figures for tank content and current fuel 
consumption. It shows how far the vehicle can travel using the same condi-
tions as a reference.
Ø litre/100 km - Average fuel consumption
The average fuel consumption will be shown  ⇒page 63, fig. 42  after a 
distance of approximately 100 metres has been travelled. Dashes will appear 
in the display until that time. The display will be updated every 5 seconds 
while the vehicle is in motion. The amount of fuel used will not be shown.
ltr/100 km or ltr/hr - Current fuel consumption
The display will show the current fuel consumption in litre/km whilst the 
vehicle is in motion or in litre/hour when the vehicle is in a stationary position 
with the engine running.
Using this display you can see how your driving style affects fuel consump-
tion  ⇒page 192.
Ambient temperature display
The measurement margin extends from -45°C to +58°C. At temperatures 
lower than +4°C, an “ice crystal symbol” is displayed and a “warning” sounds 
if the vehicle is moving at more than 20 km/h (ice warning). This symbol will 
flash for about 10 seconds and remains lit until the exterior temperature rises 
above +4°C or 6°C if it was already lit.
Set speed indicator
When driving at the required speed, enter the speed indicator mode and 
press the button   (Reset), the display remembers the indicated speed. If 
the indicated speed is exceeded, a warning text is displayed on the screen 
5) 
and a warning signal sounds.
This may be deactivated by pressing the button   (Reset). The speed may be altered using the rocker switch   in steps of 5 km/h 
within 5 seconds of the initial memory value.
WARNING
There could be black ice on the road surface even if the “snowflake symbol” 
is not shown. You should, for this reason, not rely exclusively on this 
display - Risk of accident!
Note
When the vehicle is stationary or travelling at very low speeds, the tempera-
ture displayed may be slightly higher than the actual ambient temperature as 
a result of the heat radiated from the engine.Warning or information text in the display
Faults are shown in the display with warning lamps and 
warning/information reports.The system runs a check on certain components and functions when the igni-
tion is switched on and while the vehicle is moving. Functional faults are indi-
cated by symbols with warnings and information texts in the display. An 
audible warning is given in certain cases.
Warning symbols
There are red warning symbols (priority 1) and yellow warning symbols 
(priority 2).
Information text
In addition to warning messages given on a fault, you will receive information 
in the display on procedures or will be asked to carry out certain tasks.
5)Depending on the model version, the message on the screen may vary and may be
represented by flashing of the speed indication or by a speed message.
AA
AA
AB
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Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
Note
In the case of screens without warning or information texts, faults are indi-
cated exclusively by the warning lamps.Warning reports, Priority 1 (red)If one of these faults occurs, the warning lamp will flash or light up and will 
be accompanied by  three audible warnings . This is a danger warning. Stop 
the car and switch off the engine. Check the fault and correct it. Obtain profes-
sional assistance if necessary.
If several priority 1 faults are detected at the same time, the symbols will be 
displayed one after the other for about 2 seconds at a time and will continue 
until the fault is corrected.
No menus will be shown in the display for the duration of a priority 1 warning 
report.
Examples of priority 1 warning reports (red)•Brake system symbol 
 with warning text STOP BRAKE FLUID 
INSTRUCTION MANUAL  or STOP BRAKE FAULT INSTRUCTION MANUAL
•Coolant symbol 
 with the warning text  STOP SEE COOLANT SERVICE 
MANUAL . 
•Engine oil pressure symbol 
 with the warning text  STOP ENGINE OIL 
PRESSURE LOW! SERVICE MANUAL . 
Warning reports, Priority 2 (yellow)If one of these faults occurs, the warning lamp lights up, and is accompanied 
by one audible warning . The function should be checked as soon as possible. If several priority 2 warning reports are detected at the same time, the 
symbols are displayed one after the other for about 2 seconds at a time. After 
a set time, the information text will disappear and the symbol will be shown 
as a reminder at the side of the display.
Priority 2
 warning reports will not be shown until all  Priority 1 warning 
reports have been dealt with!
Examples of priority 2 warning reports (yellow):
6)
•Fuel warning light with the information text  PLEASE REFUEL. •Windscreen washer fluid symbol 
 with the information text REFILL 
WINDSCREEN WASHER FLUID . Refill the windscreen washer tank 
⇒ page 222.
6)Depending on the version of the model.
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Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
•The risk of an accident increases if your vehicle breaks down. Use a 
warning triangle to draw the attention of other road users in order to 
prevent danger to thirds.•The engine compartment is a dangerous area! Before you open the 
bonnet to work on the engine or in the engine compartment, you must 
switch the engine off and allow it to cool to reduce the risk of scalding or 
other kind of injuries. Read and observe the relevant warnings 
⇒ page 213.Note
•The appropriate warning lamp for a fault will light up in vehicles without 
warning or information texts in the display.•In vehicles with warning or information texts on the screen, the appro-
priate warning lamp for a fault will light up and a warning or information text 
will also appear on the screen.Fuel level / reserve 
This symbol lights up to indicate that the fuel tank under the 
reserve level.It lights up when only 7 litres of fuel remain in the tank. Also, an  audible 
warning  is given. This serves as a reminder to fill up with fuel at the earliest 
opportunity ⇒ page 210.
The dash panel displays the following message
8):  PLEASE REFUEL! .
Coolant Level* / temperature 
The warning lamp lights up if the coolant temperature is too 
high or if the coolant level is too low.There is a fault if:•The warning symbol does not go out again after a few seconds.•The warning lamp lights up or flashes while the vehicle is moving, while 
three acoustic warning signals  ⇒  are emitted.
This means that either the coolant level is too low or the coolant temperature 
is too high.
Coolant temperature too high
The dash panel displays the following message
9):  CHECK COOLANT 
INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL . ⇒ page 220.
First look at the coolant temperature gauge. The coolant temperature is too 
high if the needle is over the warning area on the dial.  Stop the vehicle, 
switch the engine off and wait for it to cool down.  Check the coolant level.
If the coolant level is correct, the overheating may be caused by a malfunction 
of the radiator fan. Check the radiator fan fuse and have it replaced if neces-
sary  ⇒page 249.
If the warning lamp lights up again after driving on for a short distance,  stop 
the vehicle and switch the engine off . Contact an Authorised Service Centre 
or a qualified workshop.
Coolant level too low
The dash panel displays the following message10):  STOP CHECK COOLANT 
INSTRUCTIONS MANUAL .
8)Depending on the version of the model.WARNING (continued)
9)Depending on the version of the model.10)Depending on the version of the model.
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78First look at the coolant temperature gauge. If the needle is in the normal 
range, top up with coolant at the earliest opportunity  ⇒.
WARNING
•If your vehicle is immobilised for any technical reasons, move it to a 
safe distance  from  traffic. Tur n the e ngin e off, turn t he hazard l ights  on and 
place the warning triangle.•Never open the bonnet if you can see or hear steam or coolant escaping 
from the engine compartment. Risk of scalding. Wait until you can no 
longer see or hear escaping steam or coolant.•The engine compartment is a danger ous area! Before carrying out any 
work in the engine compartment, switch off the engine and allow it to cool 
down. Always note the corresponding warnings  ⇒page 213.
Rear fog light 
This warning lamp lights up when the rear fog light is switched on 
. Further 
information ⇒ page 111.
Turn signals 
 
The warning lamp flashes when the indicators are in opera-
tion.Depending on which indicator is operating, either the left 
 or right 
 indi-
cator lamp flashes. Both warning lamps will flash at the same time when the 
hazard warning lights are switched on.
If any of both indicators fails, the warning lamp will start flashing twice faster 
than normal. Further information on the indicators 
⇒page 117.
Engine management* 
 
This warning lamp monitors the engine management system 
for petrol engines.
The warning lamp 
 (Electronic Power Control) lights up when the ignition 
is switched on to show that the lamp is working properly. It should go out 
once the engine is started.
If there is a fault in the electronic engine management system while you are 
driving, this warning lamp will light up. Stop the vehicle and seek technical 
assistance.
Glow plug system / Engine fault 
 
The warning lamp lights up to show that the glow plugs are 
preheating. It flashes if there is an engine fault.
Warning lamp 
 is lit
The warning lamp  lights up while the glow plugs are preheating. When the 
warning lamp goes off, the engine should be started straight away.
Warning lamp 
 flashes
If a fault develops in the engine management system while you are driving, 
the glow plug lamp will flash 
. Take the vehicle to an Authorised Service 
Centre as soon as possible and have the engine checked.
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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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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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Driving
168If the engine does not start immediately, switch the starter off after 
10 seconds and try again after half a minute. If the engine still does not start, 
the fuel pump fuse should be checked  ⇒page 249, “Fuses”.
WARNING
•Never start or run the engine in un ventilated or closed rooms. The 
exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, an odourless and colourless 
poisonous gas. Risk of fatal accidents. Carbon monoxide can cause loss of 
consciousness. It can also cause death.•Never leave the vehicle unattended if the engine is running.•Never use “cold start sprays”, they could explode or cause the engine 
to run at high revs. Risk of injury.Caution
•When the engine is cold, you should avoid high engine speeds, driving at 
full throttle and over-loading the engine. Risk of engine damage.•The vehicle should not be pushed or towed more than 50 metres to start 
the engine. Unburnt fuel could enter the catalytic converter and damage it.•Before attempting to push-start or tow a vehicle in order to start it, you 
should first try to start it using the battery of another vehicle. Note and follow 
the instructions  ⇒page 262, “Jump-starting”.For the sake of the environment
Do not warm-up the engine by running the engine with the vehicle stationary. 
You should drive off as soon as you start the engine. This helps the engine 
reach operating temperature faster and reduces emissions.
Starting diesel engines
The engine can only be started using a genuine SEAT key with 
its correct code.– Move the gear lever to the neutral position and depress the 
clutch pedal thoroughly and hold it in this position for the starter 
to turn the engine on.
– Turn the ignition key to the starting position.
– Turn the ignition key to position  ⇒page 166, fig. 138   . The 
indication lamp 
 will light for engine pre-heating.
– When the warning lamp turns off,  turn the key to position   to 
start the engine. Do not press the accelerator.
– Let go of the ignition key as soon as the engine starts, the starter  motor must not be allowed to run on with the engine.
When starting a very cold engine, it may be a little noisy for the first few 
seconds until oil pressure has built up in the hydraulic valve compensators. 
This is quite normal, and no cause for concern.
If there are problems starting the engine, see  ⇒page 262.
Glow plug system for the diesel engine
To avoid unnecessary discharging of the battery, do not use any other major 
electrical equipment while the glow plugs are pre-heating.
Start the engine as soon as the glow plug warning lamp  ⇒page 78 goes out.
Starting the engine after the fuel tank has been completely run dry
If the fuel tank has been completely run dry, it may take longer than normal 
(up to one minute) to start the engine after refuelling with diesel fuel. This is 
because the system must eliminate air first.
A1A2
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Checking and refilling levels
212Petrol additives
Petrol additives improve the quality of the petrol.The quality of the petrol influences running behaviour, performance and 
service life of the engine. For this reason, you should use good quality petrol 
containing additives. These additives will help to prevent corrosion, keep the 
fuel system clean and prevent deposits from building up in the engine.
If good quality petrol with additives is not available or engine problems occur, 
the required additives must be added during refuelling.DieselDiesel*Diesel fuel  must correspond to DIN EN 590 (EN = “European standard”). It 
must have a cetane number (CN) of at least 51. The cetane number indicates 
the ignition quality of the diesel fuel.
Notes on filling with fuel  ⇒page 210.Biodiesel*The biodiesel fuel must comply with the DIN EN 14.214 (FAME) Standard.•Biodiesel is a methyl ester obtained from rapeseed oil.•DIN is the German abbreviation for “ Deutsches  Institut für N ormung e.V.”, 
the German standards institute.•EN means  European Norm.•FAME is the English abbreviation for “ Fatty  Acid  Methyl  Ester”. Your Authorised Service Centre can also be consulted to know if the vehicle 
has been prepared for biodiesel use.
Things to note about RME fuel (biodiesel)
•The performance of a vehicle using biodiesel maybe somewhat reduced.•Fuel consumption of a vehicle using biodiesel may be slightly higher.•RME fuel is resistant to the cold down to approx. -10°C.•At temperatures below -10°C, we recommend using winter diesel fuel.•Your vehicle is designed to be refuelled with up to a maximum of 7% 
blended biodiesel in accordance with standard DIN 51628.Caution
•RME fuel can damage the fuel system in vehicles which are not suitably 
adjusted.•If you decide to use biodiesel in your vehicle, please use only RME fuel 
which is DIN E 14,214 compliant.•If you use biodiesel that does not meet the required standard, the fuel 
filter could become clogged.Note
•In case of low exterior temperatures and a fuel biodiesel percentage of 
higher than 50%, an increase in gas emission may occur during operation of 
the independent heating.•The fuel filter may become clogged when fu el is changed to biodiesel. For 
this reason, we recommend you that, when having run 300 or 400 km after a 
fuel change, the fuel filter change must also be done. Also note the instruc-
tions in the Inspection and Maintenance plan.•If the vehicle is to remain parked for more than about two weeks, we 
recommend filling the fuel tank with biodiesel and driving about 50 km in 
order to avoid damage to the injection system.
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Checking and refilling levels
216•Wait until no more steam, smoke or coolant is emitted from the bonnet, 
then carefully open the bonnet.•When working in the engine compartment, always observe the safety 
warnings  ⇒page 213.
Closing the bonnet– Raise the bonnet slightly
– Release the bonnet stay and  replace it in its support.
– At a height of about 30 cm let it fall so it is locked.If  the  b onn et  d o es  n ot clos e , do  not  p ress  d ownwa rds .  Op e n it o nce  m or e an d 
let it fall as before.
WARNING
If the bonnet is not closed properly, it  could open while you are driving and 
completely obscure your view of the road. Risk of accident.•After closing the bonnet, always check that it is properly secured. The 
bonnet must be flush with the surrounding body panels.•If you notice that the bonnet latch is not secured when the vehicle is 
moving, stop the vehicle immediately  and close the bonnet properly. Risk 
of accident.
Engine oilEngine oil specifications
The engine oil used must conf orm with exact specifications.Specifications
The engine comes with a special, high quality, multi grade oil that can be 
used in all seasons of the year except for those regions affected by extreme 
cold.
As the use of high quality oil is essential for the correct operation of the 
engine and its long useful life, when topping up or replacement is necessary 
use only those oils that conform to the requirements of the VW standards.
If it is not possible to find oil conforming to the VW standards then oil 
conforming to the ACEA or API standards with an appropriate viscosity at 
atmospheric temperature should be used instead. The use of this type of oil 
may have some repercussions on the performance of the engine for example, 
long starting time, increased consumption and a higher emission level.
If a top up is required then different oils may be mixed as long as they all 
conform to the VW standards.
The specifications (VW standards) set out in the following page should 
appear on the container of the service oil; the container will display together 
the different standards for petrol and diesel engines, the oil can be used for 
both types of engines.
WARNING (continued)
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