technical data Seat Exeo 2009 Owners Manual

Intelligent technology183
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
Practical tipsIntelligent technologyElectronic stabilisation programme (ESP)General notes
The electronic stabilisation programme increases the
vehicle's stability on the road.The ESP is designed to increase the degree of control in situations where the
car approaches the limits of adhesion, especially when accelerating and
cornering. It reduces the risk of skidding and improves stability in all road
conditions. The system is active across the entire speed range. The anti-lock brake system (ABS), the electronic differential lock (EDL) and
the traction control system (TCS) are all integrated into the electronic stabili-
sation programme.
How it works
The ESP control unit processes data from the three integrated systems. It also
processes additional inputs provided by other high-precision sensors. These
register the vehicle's rotation about the vertical axis (yaw rate), lateral accel-
eration, brake pressure and steering wheel angle.
The system uses the steering wheel angle and road speed to calculate the
changes of direction desired by the driver, and constantly compares them
with the actual behaviour of the vehicle. If the desired course is not being
maintained (for instance, if the car is starting to skid), then the ESP compen-
sates automatically by braking the appropriate wheel.
The forces acting on the braked wheel bring the car back to a stable condi-
tion. If the vehicle
over swerves (tendency of the rear to leave the road), the
brakes will act on the front wheel facing the outside of the bend. If the vehicle
under swerves (tendency to leave the bend), the braking force is applied to
the rear wheel facing the inside of the bend.
The ESP works in conjunction with the ABS ⇒page 184. If a malfunction
should occur in the ABS, the ESP will also be out of action.
Disabling
The ESP is enabled automatically when the engine is started and performs a
self-test routine.
Fig. 151 Centre console
with ESP switch
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Intelligent technology185
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
the brake assist system automatically boosts the braking force to the
maximum level, up to the point where the anti-lock brake function (ABS) inter-
venes to stop the wheels from locking. You should then keep the brake pedal
pressed until the vehicle has braked to the required speed. The brake assist
system switches itself off as soon as you release the brake pedal.
The brake assist system will not be operative if there is a malfunction in the
ABS or the ESP.
WARNING
Please remember that the accident risk always increases if you drive too
fast, especially in corners or on a slippery road, or if you follow too close
behind the vehicle in front of you. An increased accident risk cannot be
compensated even by the brake assist system. Risk of accident.Electronic differential lock (EDL)
The electronic differential lock prevents the loss of traction
caused if one wheel starts spinning.General notes
The electronic differential lock (EDL) helps the car to start moving, accelerate
and climb a gradient in slippery conditions where this may otherwise be diffi-
cult or even impossible.
How it works
The EDL works automatically, i.e. without the driver's involvement. With the
aid of the ABS sensors, the system monitors the rotational speed of the
driven wheels ⇒
page 184. If a considerable difference in revs is detected
(approx. 100 rpm) in the speed of the driven wheels, e.g. when only one part
of the surface supporting the wheels is slippery, the system applies the brake
to slow down the skidding wheel so that more of the power is directed to the other wheels. The systems works up to a speed of approx. 80 km/h. The
system will make noises while it is working.
Moving away from a standstill
If one wheel has less grip and starts spinning (for instance, if one of the
driven wheels is on ice), keep pressing the accelerator gradually until the car
starts moving.
Overheating of the brakes
To prevent the brake disk of the braked wheel from overheating, the EDL cuts
out automatically if subjected to excessive loads. In this case, the vehicle will
continue to run and will have the same running properties as those of another
without EDL.
The EDL will switch on again automatically when the brake has cooled down.
WARNING
•When accelerating on a uniformly slippery surface (for instance all four
wheels on ice or snow), press the accelerator gradually and carefully.
Despite EDL, the driven wheels may otherwise start to spin. This could
impair the car's stability. Risk of accident.•Even with EDL, you should always adjust your speed to suit the condi-
tions. Do not let the extra safety features tempt you into taking any risks
when driving. Failure to do so could result in an accident.Note
If the ABS warning lamp lights up, this can also mean there is a fault in the
EDL. Please take the vehicle to a specialist garage as soon as possible.
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Intelligent technology187
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
Corrosion
There may be a tendency for dirt to build up on the brake pads and corrosion
to form on the discs if the car is used infrequently, or if you only drive low
mileages without using the brakes very much.
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 a few times from a
moderately high speed
⇒.
Faults in the brake system
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 qual-
ified workshop and have the fault rectified. On the way to the dealer, be
prepared to use more pressure on the brake pedal, and allow for longer stop-
ping distances.
Low brake fluid level
Malfunctions can occur in the brake system if the brake fluid level is too low.
The brake fluid level is monitored electronically.
WARNING
When applying the brakes to clean off deposits on the pads and discs,
select a clear, dry road. Be sure not to inconvenience or endanger other
road users. Risk of accident.
Caution
•Never let the brakes “drag” by leaving your foot on the pedal when you do
not really intend to brake. This overheats the brakes, resulting in longer stop-
ping distances and greater wear.•Before driving down a long, steep gradient, it is advisable to reduce speed
and change to a lower gear (or move the selector lever to a lower gear position
if your car has automatic transmission). This makes use of engine braking and prolongs the service life of the brakes. If you still have to use the brakes,
it is better to brake firmly at intervals than to apply the brakes continuously.
Note
If you wish to equip the car with accessories such as a front spoiler or wheel
covers, it is important that the flow of air to the front wheels is not obstructed,
otherwise the brakes can overheat.Brake servo
The brake servo assists the driver when brakingThe brake servo amplifies the pressure you apply to the brake pedal. The
brake servo works only when the engine is running.
WARNING
Ensure the vehicle does not move while in neutral, when the motor is
stopped. Failure to do so could result in an accident.
Note
If the brake servo is not working, e.g. because the vehicle has to be towed or
because it is broken, you will have to press the brake pedal considerably
harder to make up for the lack of servo assistance.
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Driving and the environment189
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
Driving and the environmentRunning-inRunning in a new engine
The engine needs to be run-in over the first 1,500 km.Up to 1,000 kilometres
– Do not drive at speeds of more than 2/3 the maximum speed.
– Do not accelerate hard.
– Avoid high engine revolutions.
– Do not tow a trailer.
From 1000 to 1500 km
– Speeds can be gradually increased to the maximum road speed
or maximum permissible engine speed (rpm).During its first few hours of running, the internal friction in the engine is
greater than later on, when all the moving parts have bedded in.
For the sake of the environment
If the engine is run in gently, its life will be increased and its oil consumption,
reduced.
Braking effect and braking distance
The braking effect and braking distance are influenced by
driving situations and road conditions.The efficiency of the brakes depends directly on the brake pad wear. The rate
of wear of the brake pads depends to a great extent on the conditions under
which the vehicle is operated and the way the vehicle is driven. If you often
drive in town traffic, drive short distances or have a sporty driving style, we
recommend that you have the thickness of your brake pads checked by an
Authorised Service Centre more frequently than recommended in the Ser vice
Schedule.
If you drive with wet brakes, for example, after crossing areas of water, in
heavy rainfall or even after washing the car, the effect of the brakes is less-
ened as the brake discs are wet or even frozen (in winter): The brakes should
be “dried” by pressing the pedal to restore full braking effect.
WARNING
Longer braking distances and faults in the brake system increase the risk
of accidents.•New brake pads must be run in and do not have the correct friction
during the first 200 km. However, the reduced braking capacity may be
compensated by pressing on the brake pedal a little harder. This also
applies when new brake pads are fitted.•If brakes are wet or frozen, or if you are driving on roads which have
been gritted with salt, braking power may set in later than normal.•On steep slopes, if brakes are excessively used, they will overheat.
Before driving down a long steep slope, it is advisable to reduce speed and
change down into a lower gear (or move the selector lever to a lower gear if
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Driving and the environment191
Safety First
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Technical Data
Diesel engine particulate filter*
The diesel engine particulate filter eliminates soot produced
by burning diesel.The diesel engine dust filter eliminates most of the soot from the exhaust gas
system. Under normal driving conditions, the filter cleans itself. If the driving
conditions do not allow the filter to clean itself (for example, multiple short
trips) the filter will be obstructed by dust and pollen and the indicator
 for
the diesel engine particulate filter indicator will light up. See section on
Warning Lights.
WARNING
•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.Caution
•The vehicle is not designed for refuelling with mixtures of FAME fuel
(biodiesel) over 7% in accordance with DIN 51628. The diesel particle filter
will be damaged if this mixture percentage is exceeded.Economical and environmentally friendly
drivingEconomical and environmen tally friendly drivingFuel consumption, environmental pollution and wear to the engine, brakes
and tyres depends in large part on your driving style. By adopting an econom- ical driving style and anticipating the traffic situation ahead, you can easily
reduce fuel consumption by 10-15%. Some tips on how to help you reduce
pollution while saving money are listed below.
As you drive try to anticipate the traffic situation
A vehicle uses most fuel when accelerating. When you anticipate the situa-
tion, you have to brake less often and, thus, accelerate less. If it is possible,
let the vehicle roll with a gear engaged
, for example, if you see a red light
ahead. The braking effect achieved in this way helps to reduce the wear of
brakes and tyres; emissions and fuel consumption are reduced to zero
(disconnection due to inertia).
Change gear early to save energy
An effective way of saving fuel is to change up quickly through the gears.
Running the engine at high rpm in the lower gears uses an unnecessary
amount of fuel.
Manual gearbox: Change from first to second gear as quickly as possible. We
recommend that, whenever possible, you change to a higher gear upon
reaching 2,000 rpm.
Avoid driving at high speed
We advise you not to drive at the top speed permitted by the vehicle. Fuel
consumption, exhaust emissions and noise levels all increase very rapidly at
higher speeds. Driving at moderate speeds will help to save fuel.
Avoid idling
It is worthwhile switching off the engine when waiting in a traffic jam, at level
crossings or at traffic lights with a long red phase. The fuel saved after only
30 - 40 seconds is greater than the amount of fuel needed to restart the
engine.
The engine takes a very long time to warm up when it is running at idling
speed. Mechanical wear and pollutant emissions are also especially high
during this initial warm-up phase. It is therefore best to drive off immediately
after starting the engine. Avoid running the engine at high speed.
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Driving and the environment193
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Technical Data
•Solvent-free wax for protecting the vehicles in transit•Solvent-free adhesives•No CFCs used in production•Surplus materials used extensively for energy conversion and building
materials•Overall water consumption reduced•Heat recovery systems•The use of water-soluble paintsDriving abroadObservationsTo drive abroad, the following must be taken into consideration:•Fo r v eh icles f it te d wit h a ca ta lyt ic co nv er ter e nsur e that unleade d pe tr ol is
available for the journey. See the chapter “Refuelling”. Automobile organisa-
tions will have information about service station networks selling unleaded
fuel.•In some countries, it is possible that a vehicle model is sold under condi-
tions where some spare parts are not available or that the Authorised Service
Centre may only carry out limited repairs.
SEAT importers and distributors will gladly provide information about the
technical preparation of your vehicle and also about necessary maintenance
and repair possibilities.
Adhesive strips for headlightsIf you have to drive a right-hand drive vehicle in a left-hand drive country, or
vice versa, the asymmetric dipped beam headlights will dazzle oncoming
traffic.
To prevent dazzling, you must apply stickers to certain parts of the headlight
lenses. Further information is available in your Authorised Service Centre.
In vehicles with self-directing headlights, the rotation system must previ-
ously be disconnected. To do this, please go to a specialist workshop.
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Trailer towing195
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
Where possible, operate the trailer with the maximum permitted
draw bar
weight on the ball joint of the towing bracket, but do not exceed the specified
limit.
Tyre pressure
Check the tyre pressures on your car, and adjust for “full load” conditions
(refer to the sticker listing the tyre pressures on the door pillar). It may also be
necessary to adjust the tyre pressures on the trailer according to the recom-
mendations of the trailer manufacturer.
Exterior mirrors
Check whether you can see enough of the road behind the trailer with the
standard mirrors. If this is not the case you should have additional mirrors
fitted. The two exterior mirrors should be fitted on folding arms. Adjust the
mirrors to give sufficient rear vision.
Headlights
Before starting a journey, check the headlight beam settings with the trailer
hitched up. If necessary, alter the height of the headlight beams by means of
the headlight range control. See ⇒page 119.
Power supply
When you remove the ignition key, the power supply to the trailer is inter-
rupted.
Removable ball joint coupling
Vehicles with a factory-fitted towing bracket are equipped with a removable
ball joint coupling. This is stored in the spare wheel well in the luggage
compartment together with the necessary fitting instructions.
Note
If you frequently tow, we recommend you also have vehicle ser viced between
services.
Notes on towing
Towing a trailer involves additional attention by the driver.Weight distribution
The weight distribution of a loaded trailer with an unladen vehicle is very
unfavourable. However, if this cannot be avoided, drive extra slowly to allow
for the unbalanced weight distribution.
Speed
The stability of the car and trailer is reduced with increasing speed. Therefore,
it is advisable not to drive at the maximum permissible speed in an unfavour-
able road, weather or wind conditions. This especially applies when driving
downhill.
You should always reduce speed immediately if the trailer shows the slightest
sign of swaying . Never try to stop the “snaking” by increasing speed.
Anticipate hazards and brake in good time. If towing a trailer with an inertia
brake , first brake gently and then more severely. This will prevent brake
tapping by the trailer wheels when they lock. Select a low gear in due course
before going down a steep downhill. This enables you to use the engine
braking to slow down the vehicle.
Swaying and pitching can be reduced by stabiliser aids. We recommend
having stabiliser aids installed when towing trailers with a high trailer load.
They can be purchased and installed at a Dealer.
Reheating
When climbing long hills in hot weather with the engine running fast in low
gear, you should keep an eye on the coolant temperature gauge ⇒page 60.
Reduce speed immediately if the needle moves to the right end of the scale.
If the temperature warning light
 in the instrument cluster should start
flashing, stop the car and let the engine cool down by running it at idling
speed for a few minutes.
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Trailer towing197
Safety First
Controls and equipment
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Technical Data
Removable towing bracketIntroduction
Special care is required when fitting and removing the towing
bracket.The removable ball joint attachment for the towing bracket is stored under the
floor panel in the luggage compartment.•On vehicles with a spare wheel ⇒fig. 153 .
The ball joint can be fitted and removed by hand.
Equipment / Accessories mounted on the towing bracket
Please note that the ball joint attachment can be damaged by using unsuit-
able equipment that is mounted onto the towing bracket (e.g. bicycle rack).
Due to the material construction, such damage to the towing bracket dramat-
ically increases safety risks and in extreme cases could lead to breakage of
the towing bracket while towing ⇒. Therefore,
before buying such equipment, ensure that it is suitable for
mounting onto the vehicle's towing bracket and that it is approved for this
purpose. To prevent damage to the ball joint from unsuitable equipment, we
recommend that equipment for the towing bracket be purchased through
your SEAT Dealer. Also refer to ⇒page 214.
WARNING
•Only mount equipment on the towing bracket of your vehicle if you are
certain it will not damage the bracket. The use of unsuitable accessory
equipment can result in severe damage to the towing bracket, and it could
then break while pulling a trailer - Risk of accident.•Never use tools of any kind when fitting and removing the ball joint.
This would damage the locking device, no longer guaranteeing the correct
working order of the bracket. This could lead to an accident.Note
•Do not attempt to modify or repair the ball joint or other towing bracket
components.•Should you have any difficulties when using the towing bracket, or
suspect that it is not fitted properly, contact a specialist garage.•Before setting off, always check that the ball joint is secured properly
⇒ page 200.•Never disengage the ball joint with the caravan / trailer still hitched or
with a bicycle rack or similar accessory still attached.•It is advisable to remove the ball joint when you are not towing a trailer.
Make sure that the cover piece is properly fitted on the mounting fixture on
the vehicle.•Remove the ball joint before washing the vehicle with pressurised steam
equipment. Make sure the cover piece is fitted correctly onto the mounting
fixture.
Fig. 153 Luggage
compartment: Spare
wheel with towing bracket
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Trailer towing199
Safety First
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Technical Data
Make sure the ball joint is clean and undamaged
– Check the locking pin , release pin , shaft section and
knob ⇒page 198, fig. 155 on the ball joint to make sure they
are clean and undamaged.
The spring mechanism inside the ball joint must be in the ready
position
– Check that the red marking ⇒page 198, fig. 156 on the knob
is inside the black zone marked on the ball joint.
– Check that the locking pin is inside the holes in the shaft section of the ball joint.
– Check that the knob protrudes visibly from the ball joint, so that there is a clear gap between the knob and the ball joint.The ball joint can only be installed if the internal spring mechanism is in the
ready position.
Cont ⇒page 199, “Fitting the ball joint (step 3)”.
Fitting the ball joint (step 3)
AA
AB
AC
AD
AAAB
AC
Fig. 157 Removable
towing bracket: Setting
the spring mechanism to
the "ready" positionFig. 158 Removable
towing bracket: inserting
the ball joint
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Trailer towing201
Safety First
Controls and equipment
Practical tips
Technical Data
Safety check
– Check that the green marking ⇒page 200, fig. 159 on the
knob is inside the black zone marked on the ball joint.
– Check that the knob is directly against the ball joint, so that there is no gap between the knob and the ball joint -arrow-.
– Check that the ball joint is locked and the key is removed so that the knob cannot be pulled out ⇒.
– Check that the ball joint fits tightly in the mounting fixture (try moving it about to check).
To w i n g s o c k e t
– To plug in the electrical connection for the trailer, pull down the socket below the bumper ⇒page 200, fig. 160 .If the safety check is not satisfactory, the ball joint must be fitted again prop-
erly.
WARNING
To avoid accidents, the ball joint must meet all the safety requirements
listed in the safety check. The towing bracket must not be used if any one
of these requirements is not met. If this is the case, you should contact a
specialist garage.
Removing the ball joint– Insert the key in the lock ⇒fig. 161 on the knob.
– Unlock the ball joint by turning the key to the red marking.
AA
Fig. 161 Removable
towing bracket: Removing
the ball jointFig. 162 Rear bumper:
fitting the cover piece
A1
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