torque Seat Leon SC 2013 Owner's manual

173
Driving
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 gear-
box. This can also occur if the clutch pedal is pressed and held and it does
not engage.
CAUTION
To prevent damage and avoid premature wear, please observe the follow-
ing:
● Do not rest your hand on the gear lever while driving. The pressure ap-
plied by your hand is transmitted to the gearbox selector forks.
● Always ensure that the vehicle is completely stopped before engaging
the reverse gear.
● Always press the clutch to the floor when changing gears.
● Never hold the vehicle “on the clutch” on hills with the engine on. 
Automatic gearbox/DSG automatic gearbox* Introduction
Your vehicle is equipped with an electronically controlled manual gearbox.
Torque between the engine and the gearbox is transmitted via two inde-
pendent clutches. They replace the torque converter found on conventional
automatic gearboxes and allow for smooth, uninterrupted acceleration of
the vehicle.
The tiptronic system allows the driver to change gears manually if desired
⇒  page 178, Changing gears in tiptronic mode*. Selector lever positions
The selector lever position engaged is highlighted on the display in the in-
strument cluster. With the selector lever in the manual gearbox positions G,
D, E and S, the engaged gear is also indicated on the display.
P – Parking lock
When the selector lever is in this position, the driven wheels are locked me-
chanically. The parking lock must be engaged only when the vehicle is
sta-
tionary ⇒ 
.
The interlock button (the button on the selector lever handle) must be
pressed in and simultaneously the brake pedal must be depressed before
moving the selector lever either in or out of position P.
R – Reverse gear
Reverse gear must be engaged only when the vehicle is stationary and the
engine is idling ⇒ 
.
To move the selector lever to position R, the interlock button must be press-
ed in and at the same time the brake pedal must be depressed. The reverse
lights come on when the selector lever is in the R position with the ignition
on.
N – Neutral (idling)
With the selector lever in this position, the gear is in neutral.
D/S – Permanent drive (forward) position
The selector lever in the D/S position enables the gears to be controlled in
normal mode (D) or Sport (S). To select Sport mode (S), move the selector
lever backwards. Moving the lever again will select normal mode (D). The
selected driving mode is shown on the instrument panel display.
In normal mode (D), the gearbox automatically selects the best gear ratio.
This depends on the engine load, the road speed and the dynamic gear
control programme (DCP). 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

210Driver assistance systems
Note
Failure to heed the control lamps and text messages when they appear may
result in faults in the vehicle. 
Operating mode
Fig. 143 In the wind-
screen: Field of vision of
the Lane Assist system
camera
Using the camera located in the windscreen, the Lane Assist system detects
the possible lines dividing the lanes. When the vehicle involuntarily ap-
proaches a dividing line it has detected, the system notifies the driver with
a corrective steering movement . The corrective steering movement can be
overruled at any moment.
No warning is produced with the turn signals activated, given that the Lane
Assist system understands that a lane change is required.
Steering wheel vibration
The following situations cause vibration in the steering wheel and require
the driver to take active control of driving: ●
When the limits of the very nature of the system are reached.
● When the maximum rotational torque during the corrective steering
movement is not enough to keep the vehicle inside the lane.
● When no lane is detected during the corrective steering movement.
Switching the Lane Assist system on or off
Through the Easy Connect system
● Push the Easy Connect button CAR
●
Push the Setup function button
● Push the driver assist function button to open the menu
Alternatively: through the driving assist button on the turn signal level*. The Lane centring guide is activated/deactivated in the Easy Connect system
using the CAR
button and the button on the Setup function ⇒ page 79.
Self-deactivation: The Lane Assist system can be automatically deactivated
if there is a system malfunction. The control lamp disappears.
Hands-Off Function
● If the driver does not exert any physical action on the steering wheel for
about 10 to 12 sec. the function deactivates.
● Visual and audible warnings on the instrument panel.
● The function switches off 2 seconds after the warning.
The Lane Assist system is active but it is not available (the control lamp is
lit up yellow)
● When driving at speeds below 65 km/h (38 mph).
● When the Lane Assist system does not detect the dividing lines of the
road. For example, in the event warnings indicating road works, and snow,
dirt, moisture or reflections.
● When the radius of a curve is too small.
● When no road markings can be seen.
● When the distance to the next marking to too great. 

222Intelligent technology
Practical Tips
Intelligent technology
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Description
The ESC helps to improve safety. It reduces the tendency to skid and im-
proves the stability 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 instru-
ment panel when the ESC is intervening .
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 mitigation*.
ESC also helps stabilise the vehicle by changing the torque.
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
ABS prevents the wheels from locking up under 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.
Brake assist system
The brake assist system can reduce the required braking distance. The brak-
ing force is automatically boosted if you press the brake pedal quickly in an
emergency. You must keep pressing the brake pedal until the danger has
passed. Traction control system (ASR)
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.
Electronic differential lock (EDL)
When the EDL detects wheelspin, it brakes the spinning wheel and directs
the power to the other driven wheel. This function is available up to a speed
of around 100 km/h, 62 mph).
To prevent the disc brake of the braked wheel from overheating, the EDL
cuts out automatically if subjected to excessive loads. The vehicle can still
be driven. The EDL will switch on again automatically when the brake has
cooled down.
Tractor-trailer sway mitigation*
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 de-
tected by the ESC, it will automatically brake the towing vehicle within the
limits of the system and mitigate the sway. Tractor-trailer sway mitigation is
not available in all countries.
Electronic self-locking*/Selective torque control*
When driving around bends, an electronic self-locking intervenes. The front
wheel on the inside of the curve, or the two inside wheels, respectively, are
selectively braked as required. This minimises the traction of the front
wheels, allowing you to take bends with greater precision and neutrality. In
certain circumstances, where roads are wet or snow-covered, the respective
system may not intervene.


223
Intelligent technology
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.
The multi-collision brake works for front, side or rear accidents, when the
airbag control unit records its activation level and the accident takes place
at a speed of over 10 km/h (6 mph). The ESC automatically brakes the vehi-
cle, as long as the accident has not damaged the ESC, the brake hydraulics
or the on-board network.
The following actions control automatic braking during the accident:
● When the driver presses the accelerator. The automatic braking does not
take place.
● When the braking pressure through pressing the brake pedal is greater
than the system’s braking pressure. The vehicle will brake manually.
● Multi-collision braking will not be available if ESC is malfunctioning.
WARNING
● The ESC, ABS, ASR, EDL, electronic self-locking differential or selec-
tive torque control systems cannot exceed the limits imposed 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 imme-
diately 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.
● Please remember that the accident risk always increases if you drive
fast, especially 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, elec-
tronic self-locking and selective torque control systems cannot prevent
accidents: risk of accidents!
● Accelerate with caution on slippery surfaces (for example, icy or
snow-covered). Despite the control systems, the driven wheels could
spin, affecting the stability of the vehicle: risk of accident!
Note
● The ABS and ASR will only operate correctly if the four wheels have iden-
tical tyres. Any differences in the rolling radius of the tyres can cause the
system to reduce engine power when this is not desired.
● The regulating processes of the systems can make noises when they in-
tervene.
● If the warning lamp  lights up, or  alternatively, there could be a
fault ⇒ page 69. 
Switching on/off the ESC and ASR
The ESC is switched on automatically when the engine is
started. The ESC cannot be deactivated. ESC in “Sport Mode”
Sport mode is activated through the Easy Connect system menu ⇒ page 79.
The ability of the ESC to stabilise the vehicle is limited; the traction control
system (ASR) becomes disabled ⇒ 
.
The control lamp  will light up. For vehicles with a driver information sys-
tem*, the driver will be shown the electronic stability control (ESC) option:
sport. Warning! Limited stability .
In the following exceptional circumstances enabling the ESC Sport mode to
improve the traction of the wheels is tenable:
● “Swing” the vehicle to unblock it.
● Driving in deep snow or on loose surfaces.
Disable ESC Sport mode
Through the Easy Connect system ⇒ page 79. The warning lamp  will
switch off. For vehicles with a driver information system*, the driver will be
shown the electronic stability control (ESC) option: on .
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

225
Intelligent technology
Corrosion
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.
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 at a
moderately high speed ⇒ 
.
Fault 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
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.
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.
Brake servo
The brake servo increases the pressure you apply to the brake pedal. It
works only when the engine is running.
WARNING
● Apply the brakes heavily to clean the brake system only in a suitable
traffic situation. Do not put other road users in danger: risk of causing an
accident.
● Ensure the vehicle does not move while in neutral, when the engine is
stopped. Failure to do so could result in an accident.
CAUTION
● Never let the brakes “drag” by leaving your foot on the pedal when it is
not necessary 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 select a lower gear. This makes use of engine braking and re-
lieves 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 the brake servo is out of action due to a malfunction, or if the car has
to be towed, you will have to press the brake pedal considerably harder to
make up for the lack of servo assistance.
● If you wish to equip the vehicle 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. 
Electro-mechanical steering
Electro-mechanical power steering assists the driver when
steering.
Electro-mechanical power steering adapts electronically to the speed of the
car, torque and turning angle.
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. However, more ef-
fort than normal will be required to turn the steering wheel.
Driver warning lamps and messages
 (in red) Faulty steering! To park the vehicle

Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

236Trailer
Retrofitting a towing bracket*
It is possible to fit a towing bracket to the rear of the vehicle.
Fig. 150 Attachment points for towing bracket
If a towing bracket is to be fitted after the vehicle is purchased, this must be
completed according to the instructions of the towing bracket manufacturer.
The attachment points for the towing bracket A
are on the lower part of the
vehicle.
The distance between the centre of the ball coupling and the ground should
never be lower than the indicated value, even with a fully loaded vehicle
and including the maximum drawbar load.
Elevation values for securing the towing bracket:
B65 mm (minimum)C350 mm to 420 mm (fully laden vehicle)D1040 mmE317 mm
FLEON / LEON SCLEON ST319 mm596 mm
Fitting a towing bracket
● Driving with a trailer involves an extra effort for the vehicle. Therefore,
before fitting a towing bracket, please contact a Technical Service to check
whether your cooling system needs modification.
● The legal requirements in your country must be observed (e.g. the fitting
of a separate control lamp).
● Certain vehicle components, e.g. the rear bumper, must be removed and
reinstalled. The towing bracket securing bolts must be tightened using a
torque wrench, and a power socket must be connected to the vehicle electri-
cal system. This requires specialised knowledge and tools.
● Figures in the illustration show the elevation value and the attachment
points which must be considered if you are retrofitting a towing bracket.
WARNING
The towing brackets should be fitted at a specialised workshop.
● If the towing bracket is incorrectly installed, there is a serious danger
of accident.
● For your own safety, please observe the instructions provided by the
manufacturer of the towing bracket.
CAUTION
● If the power socket is incorrectly installed, this could cause damage to
the vehicle electrical system. 

260Checking and refilling levels
WARNING
● Brake fluid should be stored in the closed original container in a safe
place out of reach of children. Risk of poisoning!
● If the brake fluid is left in the system for too long and the brakes are
subjected to heavy use, vapour bubbles may form in the brake system.
This would seriously affect the efficiency of the brakes and the safety of
the vehicle. This may cause an accident.
CAUTION
Brake fluid should not come into contact with the vehicle paintwork, as it is
abrasive. 
Battery General information
The battery is located in the engine compartment and is almost mainte-
nance-free. It is checked as part of the Inspection Service. Nevertheless,
check the terminals are clean and have the correct tightening torque, espe-
cially in summer and winter.
Disconnecting the battery
The battery should only be disconnected in exceptional cases. When the
battery is disconnected, some of the vehicle's functions are “lost” ( ⇒ table
on page 260). These functions will require resetting after the battery is re-
connected.
Deactivate the anti-theft alarm* before you disconnect the battery Other-
wise the alarm will be triggered.
effectReprogrammingOne-touch function of the electric
windows⇒ page 104, One-touch opening and
closing*
Remote control keyIf the vehicle does not respond to the
key, they should be synchronised
⇒ page 91
Digital clock⇒ page 63
ESC warning lampAfter driving for a few metres, the
warning lamp goes out again.
If the vehicle is not used for long periods
The vehicle has a system for monitoring the current consumption when the
engine is left unused for long periods of time ⇒ page 226. Some functions,
such as the interior lights, or the remote door opening, may be temporarily
disabled to prevent the battery from running flat. These functions will come
back on as soon as the ignition is switched on and the engine started.
Winter conditions
During the winter, the starting power may be reduced, and if necessary, the
battery should be charged ⇒ 
in Important safety warnings for handling a
vehicle battery on page 261 
Important safety warnings for handling a vehicle battery
All work on batteries requires specialist knowledge. Please refer to a SEAT
Official Service or a workshop specialising in batteries: risk of burns or ex-
ploding battery!
The battery must not be opened. Never try to change the fluid level of the
battery. Explosive gas is released from the battery that could cause an ex-
plosion. 

279
Emergencies
Anti-theft wheel bolts
Fig. 167 Anti-theft
wheel bolt with cap and
adapter
A special adapter (vehicle tools) is required to remove the anti-
theft wheel bolts.
– Remove the wheel cover* or the cap*.
– Insert the adapter onto the anti-theft wheel bolt and push it on
as far as it will go.
– Insert the wheel brace (vehicle tools) onto the adapter as far as
it will go.
– Remove the wheel bolt ⇒ page 279.
Note
Make a note of the code number of the anti-theft wheel bolt and keep it in a
safe place, but not in your vehicle. If you need a new adapter, you can ob-
tain it from the SEAT Official Service, indicating the code number. 
Loosening the wheel bolts
Fig. 168 Wheel: loosen
the wheel bolts
– Insert the box spanner (vehicle tools) onto the wheel bolt as far
as it will go 1)
.
– Turn the wheel bolt approximately one turn to the left ⇒  Fig. 168
-arrow-. To apply the required torque, hold the wheel brace at
the end. If it is not possible to loosen a wheel bolt, carefully ap-
ply pressure with one foot on the end of the box spanner. Hold
on to the vehicle for support and take care not to slip. 
1)
An adapter is required to unscrew or tighten the anti-theft wheel bolts ⇒ page 279.
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

282Emergencies
To benefit from the advantages of tyres with this type of tread pattern, the
defective tyre should be replaced as soon as possible so that all tyres again
rotate in the correct direction. 
After changing a wheel
– On alloy wheels: replace the wheel bolt caps.
– On plate wheels: replace the wheel hubcap ⇒ page 278.
– Put the tools and jack back in the luggage compartment.
– If the replaced wheel does not fit in the spare wheel housing,
store it safely in the luggage compartment ⇒ page 17.
– Check the tyre pressure of the newly mounted tyre as soon as
possible.
– In vehicles fitted with a tyre pressure indicator, adjust the pres-
sure and store the reading in the radio/Easy Connect system*
⇒ page 214.
– The wheel bolts should be tightened to 120 Nm. Check the tor-
que as soon as possible with a torque wrench. Meanwhile, drive
carefully.
– Have the flat tyre replaced as quickly as possible. Spare wheel
General information
Fig. 171 Compact tem-
porary spare wheel:
raised floor panel
The temporary spare wheel has been designed to be used for short
periods of time. Have the tyres checked, and if necessary, replaced
as soon as possible at a SEAT Official Service or at a specialised
workshop.
Please note the following restrictions when using the compact tem-
porary spare wheel. The compact temporary spare wheel is de-
signed specifically for this model. For this reason, do not use a
temporary spare wheel from a different type of vehicle.
Removing the temporary spare wheel
– Lift and hold up the floor panel to remove the temporary spare
wheel ⇒ Fig. 171.
– Turn the thumb wheel anti-clockwise. 

304Technical specifications
Technical specifications
Technical specifications
Important
The information in the vehicle documentation always takes
precedence over the information in this Instruction Manual.
All technical specifications provided in this documentation are valid for the
standard model in Spain. The vehicle data card included in the Mainte-
nance Programme or the vehicle registration documentation shows which
engine is installed in the vehicle.
The figures may be different depending whether additional equipment is fit-
ted, for different models, for special vehicles and for other countries. Abbreviations used in the Technical Specifications sectionAbbrevia-
tionMeaning
kWKilowatt, engine power measurement.
PSPferdestärke (horsepower), formerly used to denote engine
power.
rpmRevolutions per minute - engine speed.NmNewton metres, unit of engine torque.litres per100 kmFuel consumption in litres per 100 km (70 miles).
g/kmCarbon dioxide emissions in grams per km (mile) travelled.CO 2Carbon dioxideCNCetane number, indication of the diesel combustion power.
RONResearch octane number, indication of the knock resistance
of petrol.