wheel Seat Mii 2012 Owner's Guide

160Driver assistance systems
Malfunction in the laser sensor
If the laser sensor operation is impaired, for example due to heavy rain,
spray, snow or dirt, the City Safety Assist system function is temporarily
switched off. On the instrument panel display the control lamp  flashes.
When the fault in the laser sensor has been rectified, the City Safety Assist
system function automatically becomes available. The control lamp 
switches off.
The following conditions could prevent the City Safety Assist system from
functioning:
● Tight bends.
● Accelerator pressed all the way down to the floor.
● If the City Safety Assist system is switched off or there is a fault
⇒ page 156.
● If the laser sensor is dirty, covered or overheated ⇒ page 157.
● In the event of snow, heavy rain or dense fog.
● If there are vehicles in front.
● Vehicles changing lanes.
● Vehicles moving in the opposite direction in the same lane.
● Very dirty vehicles with a low degree of reflection.
● Presence of thick dust. 
Hill hold
Introduction
Additional information and warnings:
● SEAT information system ⇒ page 22
● Braking, stopping and parking ⇒ page 134 ●
Vehicle battery ⇒ page 193
● Wheels and tyres ⇒ page 210
● Accessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications ⇒ page 222
● Hill hold ⇒ page 273
WARNING
The smart technology included in the hill hold cannot change the laws of
physics. Do not let the extra convenience afforded by the hill hold tempt
you into taking any risks when driving.
● Any accidental movement of the vehicle could result in serious injury.
● The hill hold is not a replacement for driver awareness.
● Adjust your speed and driving style to visibility, weather, road and
traffic conditions.
● The hill hold cannot always keep the vehicle at a standstill on a slope
or brake sufficiently when travelling downhill (e.g. on slippery or frozen
surfaces).

Warning lamps
lights upPossible causeSolution
The Start-Stop system is ena-
bled.

The Start-Stop system is ena-
bled but the engine cannot be
automatically stopped.Contact a Specialised
workshop.

The Start-Stop system cannot
start the engine.Start the engine by hand
using the vehicle's key
⇒ page 120.
There is a fault in the alternator.⇒ page 193 

172At the filling station
WARNING (Continued)
– If you are using a metal fuel canister, the nozzle must always touch
the canister while it is being filled to avoid static electricity.
– Follow the legal requirements for the use, storage and transport of
spare fuel canisters.
– Insure that the fuel container complies with manufacturing stand-
ards, for example, ANSI or ASTM F852-86.
CAUTION
● Always remove any fuel spilled anywhere on the vehicle to avoid dam-
age to the wheel housing, the tyre and vehicle paintwork.
● Refuelling a petrol engine with diesel can cause serious engine and fuel
system damage; the resulting malfunctions are not covered by the SEAT
warranty. If you refuel with the wrong type of fuel, never start the engine.
This applies to even the smallest amount of the wrong fuel. You should ob-
tain professional assistance. With the engine running, the composition of
the wrong fuel could significantly damage the fuel system and the engine
itself.
For the sake of the environment
Fuels can contaminate the environment. Collect any spilt service fluids and
allow a professional to dispose of them. Control lamps and fuel gauge
Fig. 105 On the instru-
ment panel: fuel gauge
for petrol
Fig. 106 On the instru-
ment panel: fuel gauge
for petrol
The fuel gauge can vary depending on the vehicle equipment ⇒ Fig. 105
or ⇒ Fig. 106. 

174At the filling station
Refuelling with petrol
Fig. 107 Open fuel tank
flap with tank plug at-
tached to the holder
Before refuelling, always turn off the engine, the ignition, mobile tele-
phones, auxiliary heating and keep them off during refuelling.
Opening the fuel tank flap
● The fuel tank plug is at the rear of the vehicle on the right.
● Pull the rear zone of the fuel tank flap to open.
● Unfold the key shaft if necessary
⇒ page 28.
● Insert the vehicle key into the lock cylinder of the fuel tank plug and turn
the key in an anticlockwise direction.
● Take out the fuel tank plug by turning it in an anticlockwise direction
and rest it on the upper part of the fuel tank flap ⇒ Fig. 107.
Refuelling
The correct petrol type for the vehicle is located on a sticker inside the fuel
tank flap ⇒ page 177. ●
If the automatic filler nozzle is operated correctly, it will switch itself off
as soon as the fuel tank is full ⇒ 
.
● Do not continue to refuel if it is turned off! Otherwise, this will fill the ex-
pansion chamber and fuel may leak out if the ambient conditions are warm.
Closing the fuel tank flap
● Screw on the fuel tank filler plug in a clockwise direction until it is fully
inserted with a click.
● Insert the vehicle key into the lock cylinder of the fuel tank plug, turn the
key in a clockwise direction and remove the key.
● Press the tank flap until it clicks into place. The fuel tank flap must be
flush with the body contour.
WARNING
Do not continue refuelling once the fuel nozzle has switched itself off.
The fuel tank may be filled too much. As a result, fuel may spurt out and
spill. This could lead to a fire, explosion and severe injuries.
CAUTION
● Always remove any fuel spilled anywhere on the vehicle to avoid dam-
age to the wheel housing, the tyre and vehicle paintwork.
For the sake of the environment
Fuels can contaminate the environment. Collect any spilt service fluids and
allow a professional to dispose of them. 

180In the engine compartment
Care, cleaning and maintenance
In the engine compartment
Working in the engine compartmentIntroduction
Before working in the engine compartment, make sure that the vehicle is
parked on horizontal and firm ground.
The engine compartment of the vehicle is a hazardous area. Never work on
the engine or in the engine compartment if you are not familiar with the op-
erations to be carried out, the applicable safety standards and especially if
you do not have the instruments, liquids and tools necessary ⇒ 
! In such
a case, have any work carried out by a Specialised workshop. Negligent
work can cause serious injury.
Additional information and warnings:
● Exterior detail ⇒ page 6
● Windscreen wash system ⇒ page 91
● Start and stop the engine ⇒ page 119
● Brake fluid ⇒ page 134
● Checks when filling up ⇒ page 171
● Engine oil ⇒ page 185
● Engine coolant ⇒ page 189
● Vehicle battery ⇒ page 193
● Accessories, parts replacement, repairs and modifications ⇒ page 222
WARNING
If the vehicle moves unexpectedly, this could cause serious injury.
● Never work underneath the vehicle if it is not secured against moving.
If you must work underneath the vehicle with the wheels in contact with
the ground then it should be parked on flat ground, the wheels should be
prevented from moving and the key must be removed from the ignition.
● If you have to work underneath the vehicle, you must use suitable
stands additionally to support the vehicle, there is a risk of accident!.
The jack is not intended for this kind of work and its failure could lead to
severe injuries.
● Disconnect the Start-Stop system.
WARNING
The engine compartment is a dangerous area capable of causing serious
injury.
● For all type of work, always take the utmost precautions, work care-
fully and note the general safety standards in force. Never take personal
risks.
● Never work on the engine or in the engine compartment if you are not
familiar with the necessary operations. If you are not sure about proce-
dures then visit a Specialised workshop to carry out the necessary work.
Incorrect work can cause serious injuries. 

198Vehicle care and maintenance
For the sake of the environment
The remains of vehicle care products should not be disposed of with ordina-
ry household waste. Observe information provided by the manufacturer. 
Washing the vehicle
The longer substances such as insects, bird droppings, resinous tree sap,
road dirt, industrial deposits, tar, soot or road salt and other aggressive ma-
terials remain on the vehicle, the more damage they do to the paintwork.
High temperatures (for instance due to strong sunlight) further intensify the
corrosive effect. The vehicle undercarriage should also be thoroughly wash-
ed at regular intervals.
Automatic car washes
Always observe the instructions provided at the automatic car wash. The
standard precautionary measures prior to entering the car wash should be
taken to avoid damage to the vehicle (close all windows, fold in exterior mir-
rors). If the vehicle is fitted with additional components (spoiler, roof-rack,
aerial...), check with the car wash supervisor whether these can enter the
car wash ⇒ 
.
The vehicle paintwork is so durable that the vehicle can normally be washed
without problems in an automatic car washing tunnel. However, wear and
damage to the paintwork will depend on the type of car wash used. SEAT
recommends the use of car washes without brushes.
To remove traces of wax on windows and to prevent wiper blades from
scratching, please observe the following ⇒ page 200, Cleaning windows
and exterior mirrors.
Washing the vehicle by hand
When washing the vehicle by hand, use plenty of water to soften the dirt
first, and rinse off as well as possible. Then clean the vehicle with a soft
sponge, glove or brush using only slight
pressure. Start at the roof and work downwards. Special vehicle shampoo
should only be used for very persistent dirt.
Rinse the sponge or glove thoroughly and often.
Wheels, sills and similar should be cleaned last. Use a second sponge for
this.
WARNING
Sharp components on the vehicle may cause injury.
● Protect arms and hands from sharp edges when cleaning the vehicle
undercarriage or the interior of the wheel hubs.
WARNING
After the vehicle has been washed, the braking effect will be reduced
(and the braking distance increased) due to moisture (and ice in winter)
on the brakes.
● “Dry the brakes and remove ice” by braking carefully. Ensure that you
are not endangering other road-users or breaking traffic regulations in
the process.
CAUTION
● The temperature of the water must not exceed +60 °C (+140 °F).
● To avoid damage to the paintwork, do not wash the vehicle in full sun.
● Do not use rough sponges or similar which could damage the surface to
clean away the traces of insects.
● Never wipe the headlights with a dry cloth or sponge, always moisten
first. It is best to use soapy water.
● Washing the vehicle in low temperatures: When washing the vehicle
with a hose, do not direct water into the lock cylinders or the gaps around
the doors, rear lid, or sunroof. Locks and seals could freeze! 

199
Vehicle care and maintenance
CAUTION
To prevent damage to the vehicle, please observe the following before en-
tering an automatic car wash :
● Compare the distance between the vehicle wheels and the distance be-
tween the guide-rails of the car wash to prevent damage to the wheels and
tyres!
● Switch off the rain sensor before taking the vehicle to an automatic car
wash.
● Compare the height and width of your vehicle with the available height
and width when entering and driving through the car wash!
● Fold in exterior mirrors Electrically retractable exterior mirrors must NOT
be folded in or out by hand. Always use the electrical power control.
● To avoid damaging the bonnet paintwork, rest the windscreen wipers on
the windscreen after drying the wiper blades. Do not let them fall!
● Lock the rear lid to prevent it from opening unexpectedly while inside
the car wash. 
Washing the vehicle with high pressure cleaning apparatus
When cleaning the vehicle with a high-pressure cleaner, always follow the
operating instructions for the equipment. Pay special attention to the re-
quired pressure of the jet and the distance between the jet and the vehicle
⇒ 
.
Keep a suitable distance from soft materials, such as rubber hoses or insu-
lating material, and from the parking distance warning system sensors. The
sensors of the parking distance warning system are situated on the rear
bumper ⇒ 
.
Do not use a nozzle that sprays the water out in a direct stream or one that
has a rotating jet for forcing off dirt ⇒ 
.
WARNING
The incorrect use of high pressure cleaning equipment could result in
permanent damage, visible or invisible, to the tyres or other materials.
This could result in serious accident.
● Ensure there is a suitable distance between the nozzle and the tyres.
● Never wash tyres with a concentrated jet or so-called “dirt blasters”.
Even at large spraying distances and short cleaning times, you may dam-
age the tyres.
WARNING
After the vehicle has been washed, the braking effect will be reduced
(and the braking distance increased) due to moisture (and ice in winter)
on the brakes.
● “Dry the brakes and remove ice” by braking carefully. Ensure that you
are not endangering other road-users or breaking traffic regulations in
the process.
CAUTION
● The temperature of the water must not be above +60 °C (+140 °F).
● To avoid damage to the paintwork, do not wash the vehicle in full sun.
● To ensure that the system functions well, the sensors located on the
bumper must be kept clean and free from ice. When cleaning with pressure
hoses and steam cleaners, the sensors should be sprayed only briefly. A
distance of 10 cm between the sensors and the steam / hose nozzle must
be observed.
● Do not use a high pressure cleaner to remove ice or snow from windows
● Washing the vehicle in low temperatures: When washing the vehicle
with a hose, do not direct water into the lock cylinders or the gaps around
the doors, rear lid, or sunroof. Locks and seals could freeze! 
Vehicle diagramPrior to a journey...While drivingCare, cleaning and mainte-
nanceIf and whenTechnical Data

202Vehicle care and maintenance
● Insert a new blade of the same length and type in the windscreen wiper
arm in the opposite direction to the arrow B
and hook into place. This fea-
ture is operational when the blade is in position (arrow A).
● Return the windscreen wiper arm to the windscreen. Do not let it simply
drop down!
WARNING
Worn or dirty wiper blades reduce visibility and increase the risk of acci-
dent and serious injury.
● Always replace damaged or worn blades or blades which do not clean
the windscreen correctly.
CAUTION
● Damaged or dirty windscreen wipers could scratch the glass.
● If products containing solvents, rough sponges or sharp objects are
used to clean the blades, the graphite layer will be damaged.
● Never use fuel, nail varnish remover, paint thinner or similar products to
clean the windows.
Note
If wax deposits, other cleaning products from the automatic car wash, or
other care products, are left on the windscreen and the rear window, the
blades can scratch the glass. Remove wax deposits with a special product
or cleaning cloths. 
Caring for and polishing the vehicle paintwork
Waxing
Regular waxing protects the paintwork. It is time to apply a good coat of wax
when water no longer forms droplets and rolls off the clean paintwork. Even if a
wax solution is used regularly in the automatic car wash, SEAT rec-
ommends protecting the paint with a hard wax coating at least twice a year.
Polishing
Polishing is only necessary if the paint has lost its shine, and the gloss can-
not be brought back by applying wax.
If the polish does not contain wax, a wax product should be applied after
polishing.
CAUTION
● To prevent damage, vehicle polish or hard wax should not be used on
components painted in matt paint, plastic components and the glass head-
lamp and tail light covers.
● Do not polish your vehicle in a sandy or dusty environment. 
Care and cleaning of chrome and aluminium wheel rims
● Use a clean, damp, lint-free, smooth cloth to clean anodized surfaces.
● If there is a lot of dirt, use a special cleaning product which does not
contain solvents.
● Then, polish the chrome and aluminium wheel trims with a smooth dry
cloth.
CAUTION
In order to prevent damage to the aluminium and chrome wheel trims:
● Do not clean or polish them in direct sunlight.
● Do not clean or polish them in sandy or dusty environments.
● Do not use abrasive cleaning agents such as home cream cleaners.
● Do not use insect sponges, scouring pads, or similar products to clean
insect deposits. 

203
Vehicle care and maintenance
● Do not polish dirty surfaces.
● Do not use products containing solvents.
● Do not use hard wax.
CAUTION
Chrome hub caps or wheel covers may have been painted additionally. Do
not treat them with aluminium or chrome wax products, nor chrome or alu-
minium polish. Instead, use commercial paint wax or polish. 
Cleaning wheels
Cleaning steel wheels
Use an industrial cleaner to remove brake dust. Therefore, clean wheel rims
regularly with a separate sponge.
Any damage to the paint on steel wheel rims should be touched up before
the metal starts to rust.
Caring for and cleaning alloy wheels
Remove road salt and brake dust by washing the wheels approximately
once a fortnight. Use an acid free detergent to clean the wheel rims. SEAT
recommends treating the wheel rims thoroughly with a hard wax about
once every three months.
It is important to remove road salt and brake dust by washing the wheels at
regular intervals, otherwise the finish will be impaired.
Always use an acid-free detergent for alloy wheel rims. Vehicle polish or oth-
er abrasive agents should not be used.
If the protective coating on the paint has been damaged (for example, hit by
a stone), it should be repaired immediately. Caring for rubber seals
The rubber seals on doors, windows, etc., remain flexible, provide a better
seal and last longer if they are regularly treated with a product specifically
designed for use on rubber.
Before applying the product, use a soft cloth to remove dust and dirt from
the rubber seals.

De-icing the door lock cylinder
To de-ice the lock cylinders, SEAT recommend the use of genuine SEAT spray
with lubricating and anti-corrosive properties.
CAUTION
The use of products containing degreasing agents to de-ice the locks may
rust the lock cylinder. 
Protection of vehicle undercarriage
The vehicle underbody is coated to protect it from chemical and mechanical
damage. The protective coat on the undercarriage may wear through use
while driving. Therefore, SEAT recommends that the protective coating on
the undercarriage and on the running gear should be regularly checked, and
repaired if necessary. 
Vehicle diagramPrior to a journey...While drivingCare, cleaning and mainte-
nanceIf and whenTechnical Data

210Vehicle care and maintenance
Wheels and tyres
Introduction
SEAT recommend that all work on tyres and wheels is carried out by a Speci-
alised workshop. They have the necessary special tools and replacement
parts, trained personnel and facilities for disposing of the old tyres. SEAT
recommends visiting a Technical Service.
Additional information and warnings:
● Transporting ⇒ page 97
● Braking, stopping and parking ⇒ page 134
● Caring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior ⇒ page 197
● Notes for the user ⇒ page 233
● Vehicle tool kit ⇒ page 246
● Wheel trims ⇒ page 248
● Change wheel ⇒ page 250
● Tire Mobility Set ⇒ page 256
WARNING
The vehicle cannot be totally controlled or braked if the tyres (new or
used) are worn or damaged.
● Incorrect use of wheels and tyres could make driving more dangerous
and result in serious accidents and damage.
● All four wheels must be fitted with radial tyres of the same type, size
(rolling circumference) and the same tread pattern.
● New tyres do not give maximum grip and will not have reached their
maximum braking capacity to start with, and therefore need running in.
To prevent accidents and major damage, extreme caution should be tak-
en for the first 600 km (400 miles).
WARNING (Continued)
● Check tyre pressures regularly and ensure they are maintained at the
pressures indicated. If the tyre pressure is too low, the tyres could over-
heat, resulting in tread detachment or even burst tyres.
● Never drive on damaged (punctured, cut, cracked or dented) or worn
tyres. Driving on damaged or worn tyres could result in burst tyres, seri-
ous accidents or damage. Worn or damaged tyres must be replaced im-
mediately.
● Never exceed the maximum permitted speed or loads specified for the
type of tyre fitted on your vehicle.
● The efficiency of driver and brake assist systems also depends on the
grip of the tyres.
● If you notice unusual vibration or if the vehicle pulls to one side when
driving, stop the vehicle immediately and check the tyres and wheels for
damage.
● To minimise the risk of losing control of the vehicle or causing a seri-
ous accident, never undo the bolted joints of beadlock wheels.
● Never mount used tyres or wheels if you are not sure of their previous
history. They may be damaged, although the damage is not immediately
visible.
● Old tyres, even if they have never been used, may lose air or burst un-
expectedly while driving, especially at high speeds, resulting in serious
accident and injury. If tyres are over six years old, they should only be
used in an emergency and with extreme caution.
Note
For technical reasons, it is not generally possible to use the wheels from
other vehicles. In some cases, this may also be true for the same model of
wheel. Please refer to the vehicle documents or ask at a Technical Service. 

211
Vehicle care and maintenance
About your tyres and wheels
Fig. 120 Diagram for
changing wheels
The tyres of a vehicle are the components which are subjected to most
stress and are the most underestimated. Tyres are very important, as the
support offered by their narrow surface is the only point of contact between
the vehicle and the road.
The service life of tyres is dependent on tyre pressure, driving style, the care
they receive and the correct fitting.
The tyres and wheel rims are an essential part of the vehicle's design. The
tyres and rims approved by SEAT are specially matched to the characteris-
tics of the vehicle and our critical to good road holding and safe handling.
Avoiding damage to tyres and wheels
● If you have to drive over a kerb or similar obstacle, drive very slowly and
as near as possible at a right angle to the kerb.
● Inspect the tyres regularly for damage (punctures, cuts, cracks, dents).
● Remove any foreign bodies found on the outside of the tread provided
they have not passed through the wall of the tyre
⇒  page 216.
● The instructions for tyre control systems should always be observed. ●
Replace damaged or worn tyres as soon as possible ⇒ page 216.
● Regularly check tyres for non-visible damage ⇒ page 216.
● Never exceed the maximum permitted speed or loads specified for the
type of tyre fitted on your vehicle ⇒ page 218.
● Do not allow tyres (including the spare wheel) to come into contact with
aggressive substances, grease, oil, fuel or brake fluid ⇒ 
.
● Lost valve caps should be replaced immediately.
Tyres with directional tread pattern
Tyres with directional tread pattern have been designed to operate best
when rotating in only one direction. An arrow on the tyre sidewall indicates
the direction of rotation on tyres with directional tread ⇒ page 218. Always
observe the direction of rotation indicated when mounting the wheel. This
guarantees optimum grip and helps to avoid aquaplaning, excessive noise
and wear.
If the tyre is mounted in the opposite direction of rotation, drive with ex-
treme caution, as the tyre is no longer being used correctly. This is of partic-
ular importance when the road surface is wet. Change the tyre as soon as
possible or remount it with the correct direction of rotation.
Interchanging tyres
To ensure that the wear is equal on all tyres the wheels should be changed
round from time to time according to the system ⇒ Fig. 120. All the tyres will
then last for about the same time.
SEAT recommends you take the vehicle to a Specialised workshop to have
the tyres changed.
Tyres that are over 6 years old
Tyres are subject to an ageing process as a result of physical and chemical
processes. This may affect their performance. Tyres which are stored for
long periods of time without being used, harden and become more fragile
than tyres which are in constant use.
SEAT recommends that tyres over six years old are replaced with new tyres.
This also applies to tyres (including the spare wheel) which appear to be in 
Vehicle diagramPrior to a journey...While drivingCare, cleaning and mainte-
nanceIf and whenTechnical Data