brake Seat Toledo 2013 Owner's Guide

150Driving
With a sporty driving style , characterised by sudden acceleration, heavy ac-
celeration, speeds that often increase and decrease and maximum speed,
the gearbox adapts to this driving style when the accelerator is pressed fully
down (kick-down) by shifting down as quickly as possible and can even
shift down by several gears at once.
Selecting the best driving programmes is an endless job. Regardless of this,
the driver can also make the gearbox switch to a more dynamic gear shift
programme by pressing the accelerator quickly. This makes the automatic
gearbox shift down into a lower gear that would normally apply to the cur-
rent speed for more rapid acceleration (e.g. to overtake another vehicle)
without having to press the accelerator fully down into the kick-down posi-
tion. On shifting up in a corresponding driving style, the gearbox returns to
the original programme.
When driving along mountain roads, the gearbox adapts to the gradients.
This avoids having to frequently change gears when driving uphill. In Tip-
tronic mode, it is possible to shift down manually when driving downhill to
use the braking effect of the engine. 
Back-up programme
A back-up programme exists in case of faults.
In the event of a fault in the gearbox electronics, this will continue to work
in one of the corresponding back-up programmes. All segments of the
screen are lit up or switched off.
The fault can be seen as follows:
● The gearbox only engages certain gears
● Reverse gear R cannot be engaged
● The manual gearbox switches off in the back-up programme
Note
If the gearbox switches to the back-up programme, visit an Authorised Serv-
ice as soon as possible to solve the problem. 
Manual release of the selector lever
Fig. 107 Manual release
of the selector lever
If there is a fault in the power system to the electronic selector lev-
er lock system (flat battery, blown fuse) or the system itself is faul-
ty, the selector lever cannot be moved from position P in the nor-
mal manner, which prevents the vehicle from being moved. The se-
lector lever must be unlocked using the manual release.
– Apply the handbrake.
– Pull gently on both sides at the front of the selector lever cover.
– Also loosen the cover at the rear.
– Press the yellow plastic part with your finger in the direction in-
dicated by the arrow ⇒ 
Fig. 107. 

152Driving
Switching the parking aid system on and off
Parking aid is switched on when the ignition is on and reverse gear engag-
ed. This is confirmed by a short audible warning.
Parking aid is switched off when reverse gear is released.
WARNING
● Parking aid does not free the driver from responsibility when parking
or performing similar manoeuvres. Pay special attention to small children
or animals, as the parking aid sensors may not always be able to detect
them.
● Before reversing or parking, make sure there are no small obstacles,
e.g. stones, narrow pillars, towing brackets, etc. in front and behind the
vehicle. These obstacles may not always be detected by the parking aid
device.
● The surface of certain objects may not reflect the signals of the park-
ing aid sensors. Therefore, people wearing clothing of this kind may not
be detected by the parking aid system.
● Outside noise may interfere with the parking aid system. Under cer-
tain unfavourable circumstances, certain objects or people may not be
detected.
Note
● If a constant sound at a higher frequency is emitted for 3 seconds when
the system is switched on then there is a fault in the system. Please take the
vehicle to a specialised technical service to solve this fault.
● To ensure that the parking aid system works properly, the sensors must
be kept clean (e.g. free of ice).
● If the parking aid system is switched on when the automatic gearbox se-
lector lever is in position P, the acoustic signal will be interrupted (the car
cannot be moved). Cruise control (Cruise control system)*
Introduction
The cruise control system allows you to drive at a constant speed of 30 km/
h (19 mph) or higher without having to press the accelerator. However, the
speed is only maintained within the margin permitted by the engine power
and the braking effect of the engine.
The  warning lamp lights up on the general instrument panel if cruise con-
trol is switched on.
WARNING
● For safety reasons the cruise control system must not be used in
dense traffic or where roads conditions are poor (e.g. due to ice, aqua-
planing, loose grit, snow). Risk of accident!
● The programmed speed can only be re-established if it is not too high
for current traffic conditions.
● Always switch the cruise control system off after using it in order to
avoid involuntary use.
CAUTION
● The cruise control cannot maintain a constant speed when the vehicle is
moving downhill. The vehicle tends to accelerate under its own weight.
Therefore, shift down or use the brake pedal in good time to slow the vehi-
cle.
Note
● In vehicles with an automatic gearbox, the cruise control system cannot
be switched on if the selector lever is in position P, N or R.
● In vehicles with a manual gearbox, the cruise control cannot be switched
on if first gear or reverse gear is engaged. 

153
Driving
Setting speed
Fig. 109 Turn signal and
main beam headlight lev-
er: cruise control buttons
Setting speed
– Move knob A
⇒ Fig. 109 to the ON position.
– Briefly press rocker switch B
in SET position when you have
reached the speed you wish to set.
On releasing rocker switch B
in SET, the current speed is stored and will
remain constant without having to press the accelerator pedal. 
Adjusting set speed
Increasing speed by pressing the accelerator pedal
– Press the accelerator to increase the speed of the vehicle.
– Release the accelerator and the previously programmed speed
will be resumed.
If, when pressing the accelerator, the vehicle exceeds the program-
med speed by more than 10 km/h (6 mph) for more than 3 mi- nutes, the set speed will be deleted. The speed will have to be
stored again.
Increasing speed by pressing switch
B
.
– Press rocker switch B
⇒ Fig. 109 ⇒ page 153 in RES.
– If the button is held down in RES, the speed increases continu-
ously. Release the switch when the required speed is reached.
The speed is stored.
Setting a lower speed
– The set speed can be reduced by pressing switch B
⇒ Fig. 109
⇒ page 153 in SET.
– If the button is held down in SET, the speed lowers continuous-
ly. Release the switch when the required speed is reached. The
speed is stored.
– On releasing the switch at speeds of less than 30 km/h (19
mph), no speed will be set and the memory will be deleted. The
vehicle must be moving at a speed of over 30 km/h (10 mph)
and press switch B
again in SET for it to be set.
The speed can be reduced by pressing the brake pedal, which tem-
porarily switches off the cruise control. 
Switching off cruise control temporarily
Cruise control is switched off temporarily by pressing switch A ⇒ Fig. 109
⇒ page 153 in CANCEL or by pressing the brake or clutch pedal.
The set speed is stored. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

154Driving
To recover the set speed, briefly press switch B
in RES once you have re-
leased the brake or clutch pedal. 
Switching off cruise control completely
– Move knob A ⇒ Fig. 109 ⇒ page 153 to OFF. 
START-STOP*
Fig. 110 Instrument
panel: Start-Stop system
button
The START-STOP system helps save fuel and reduce harmful emis-
sions and CO 2.
The system is automatically switched on every time the ignition is
switched on.
The system automatically switches off the engine when the vehicle
is stationary, e.g. waiting at traffic lights.
The current status of the START-STOP system is displayed on the
general instrument panel display. Automatic engine shut down (Stop phase)
–
Stop the vehicle (if necessary using the handbrake).
– Shift to neutral.
– Release the clutch pedal.
Automatic engine start up (Start phase)
– Release the clutch pedal.
Switching the START-STOP system on and off
The START-STOP system can be switched on and off by pressing the 
⇒ Fig. 110 button.
The warning lamp in the button will light up when the system is
switched off.
If the vehicle is in Stop phase when the button is pressed, the en-
gine will start immediately.
The START-STOP system works under complex driving conditions that are dif-
ficult to detect without specialist technology. The set of necessary condi-
tions for the correct operating of the START-STOP system are indicated be-
low.
Conditions for automatic engine shut down (Stop phase)
● Selector lever in neutral
● Clutch pedal not pressed
● Driver with seat belt fastened
● Driver door closed
● Bonnet closed
● Vehicle stationary
● The factory-fitted towing bracket is not electrically connected to a trailer 

155
Driving
● Engine at operating temperature
● Vehicle's battery sufficiently charged
● Vehicle not on a very steep slope
● Engine speed below 1200 rpm
● Vehicle's battery temperature is neither too high nor too low
● Sufficient brake system pressure
● Difference between outside temperature and set interior temperature
not too great
● Vehicle speed since last time the engine started was above 3 km/h (2
mph)
● Particulate filter ⇒ page 74 not being cleaned
● Front wheels not overly turned (steering wheel turned less than three
quarters of a turn)
Conditions for engine start up (Start phase)
● Clutch pedal pressed
● Max./min. temperature set
● Windscreen defrost function switched on
● High blower speed
● START-STOP button pressed
Conditions for automatic engine start up without driver involvement
● Vehicle moving at a speed of over 3 km/h (2 mph)
● Difference between outside temperature and interior temperature is too
great
● Vehicle's battery insufficiently charged
● Insufficient brake system pressure
If the driver seat belt is unfastened for more than 30 seconds in Stop phase,
the engine must be started using the ignition key. Please observe the mes-
sages on the general instrument panel display. Warnings on the instrument panel display (valid for vehicles not fitted with
an informative display)
FAULT: START-STOPFault in the START-STOP systemSTART-STOP IMPOSSIBLEEngine cannot be automatically shut
down
START-STOP ACTIVEAutomatic engine shut down (Stop
phase)
SWITCH OFF IGNITIONSwitch the ignition offSTART MANUALLYStart the engine manually
WARNING
● If the engine is switched off, neither the brake servo or the power
steering will work.
● Do not move the vehicle when the engine is switched off.
CAUTION
Switch off the START-STOP system ⇒  page 162 before driving through a
pool of water on the road.
Note
● The battery temperature may reflect the changes in outside temperature
after several hours. If the vehicle has been stopped outside at temperatures
below zero or in direct sunlight, for example, the battery temperature may
take several hours to reach the values required for the correct operating of
the START-STOP system.
● If the Climatronic system is operating automatically, this could impair
automatic engine shut down in certain conditions. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

157
Driving and the environment
New tyres
New tyres must be submitted to “running in”, given that initially their grip is
not yet at the maximum level. During approximately the first 500 km (120
miles) drive very carefully. 
New brake pads
New brake pads do not yet provide maximum friction capacity. New brake
pads must be “run in” first. During approximately the first 200 km (120
miles) drive very carefully. 
Catalytic converter
An exhaust gas emission control system (catalytic converter) that functions
perfectly is vitally important for vehicle operation that respects the environ-
ment.
Please observe the following indications:
● Refuel only using unleaded petrol ⇒ page 180, Unleaded petrol in pet-
rol engine vehicles.
● Do not add too much oil to the engine ⇒ page 186, Checking the en-
gine oil level;.
● Do not switch off the ignition while driving.
If you are required to drive in a country where unleaded fuel is not available
and when returning to a country where using a catalytic converter is obliga-
tory, the catalytic converter must be replaced.
WARNING
● Due to the high temperatures that the catalytic converter can reach,
the vehicle must be stopped so that the catalytic converter does not
come into contact with easily flammable material underneath the vehicle.
Risk of fire!
● Never use substances for additional underbody protection or anti-cor-
rosion for the exhaust pipes, the catalytic converter or the antithermic
screen. Risk of fire!
CAUTION
● Never completely empty the tank! An irregular fuel supply can cause ig-
nition faults, which can result in damage to a substantial amount of engine
parts and the exhaust system.
● Refuelling just once with leaded petrol disables the exhaust system! 
Economical and ecological driving General notes
Fuel consumption, environmental impact and engine, brake and tyre wear
depend largely on three factors:
● personal driving style
● the conditions in which the vehicle is used
● prior technical conditions
By adopting an economical driving style and anticipating the traffic situa-
tion ahead, you can easily reduce fuel consumption by 10-15%. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

158Driving and the environment
Fuel consumption also depends on factors that cannot be influenced by the
driver. It is normal for consumption to be greater in winter or in difficult con-
ditions, on roads in poor condition, when towing a trailer, etc.
Fuel consumption can also vary considerably from that stated by the manu-
facturer due to the outside temperature, the weather and driving style.
The vehicle has factory-fitted technical conditions in order to save fuel and
to operate in economic mode. SEAT pays special attention to minimize the
environmental impact. Take the following indications in this chapter into ac-
count in order to conserve and to take advantage of these qualities:
The engine speed must be maintained at the maximum in order to prevent
vehicle resonance and high fuel consumption. 
Foresighted driving
The vehicle consumes the majority of fuel when accelerating, therefore
avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. If you think ahead when driv-
ing, you will need to brake less and thus accelerate less. For example, when
approaching a red traffic light, allow the vehicle to decelerate freely or use
the engine braking effect. Saving energy when changing gear
Fig. 111 Fuel consump-
tion in litres per 100 km
(miles) relating to the en-
gaged gear
Changing up early to the next higher gear will save fuel.
Manual gearbox
● Drive in first gear only at a length of approximately one length of the ve-
hicle.
● When 2000 revs have been reached, change up to the next gear.
An efficient way of saving fuel is to change up early to a higher gear. Ob-
serve the recommendations for changing gear ⇒ page 60, Recommended
gear display.
An appropriately engaged gear can influence fuel consumption ⇒ Fig. 111.
Automatic gearbox
● Press the accelerator pedal slowly. Avoid pressing the pedal to the kick-
down position.
● If you press the accelerator pedal slowly with an automatic gearbox, and
economical program will automatically be selected.
Note
Observe the recommendations for changing gear ⇒ page 60.

162Driving and the environment
Note
You will receive information about the modification of the headlights at an
authorised SEAT dealer. 
Preventing damage to the vehicle
In order to prevent damage to the vehicle, take special care:
● on roads in poor condition
● when mounting the kerb
● when approaching very steep ramps, etc.
● with the parts of the vehicle situated on the lower part of the vehicle, i.e.
the spoiler, the exhaust pipe,
This applies especially to vehicles with a very low suspension (sport) and
when the vehicle is fully loaded. 
Driving through water
Fig. 113 Driving through
water To prevent the vehicle from being damaged when driving through water (i.e.
flooded roads), please observe the following:
●
Determine the depth of the water before entering. The water can reach a
maximum height of below the door sill ⇒ Fig. 113.
● Drive at a maximum pace of walking speed. Driving at a higher speed
can cause a wave in front of the vehicle, which can cause water to enter the
engine air intake system or other parts of the vehicle.
● Never stop in the water, never reverse and never stop the engine.
● Before driving through water deactivate the START-STOP system
⇒ page 154.
WARNING
● Driving through water, dirt and mud can reduce braking capability
and prolong the braking distance – Risk of accident!
● Do not carry out any sudden or strong braking manoeuvres after driv-
ing through water.
● Clean and dry the brakes as soon as possible after driving through
water by breaking intermittently. Carry out braking in order to dry the
brakes and clean the brake discs only if traffic so permits. Do not put oth-
er drivers at risk.
CAUTION
● In the event of driving through water the parts of the vehicle can be seri-
ously damaged, such as the engine, gearbox, catalytic converter, suspen-
sion or the electrical system.
● Oncoming vehicles that drive through water can cause waves that ex-
ceed your vehicle's permitted level for driving through water.
● There may be pot-holes mud or rocks under the water that can hinder or
prevent driving through water.
● Do not drive through salt water. The salt can cause rust. All components
that are exposed to salt water must be rinsed immediately with fresh water. 

165
Driving the vehicle with a trailer
WARNING
● Exceeding the maximum established load per axle and the maximum
towing bracket load in addition to the maximum permitted load or the
load of the vehicle + trailer assembly can cause accidents and serious in-
juries.
● A sliding load could considerably affect the stability and safety of the
vehicle + trailer assembly, resulting in accidents and serious injuries.

Towing a trailer
Exterior mirrors
Check whether you can see enough of the road behind the trailer with the
standard rear vision mirrors. If this is not the case, you should have addi-
tional exterior mirrors fitted. Observe the relevant statutory requirements of
the country you are in.
Headlights
Before starting a journey, also check the headlight beam settings with the
trailer hitched up. Adjust the headlight range settings if necessary
⇒ page 99, Range control of main lights .
Driving speed
For your own safety do not drive faster than the maximum permitted speed
indicated on the trailer.
At all times, immediately reduce speed if you detect the slightest swaying
movement of the trailer. Never try to “return the trailer to a straight posi-
tion” by accelerating.
Brakes
Brake in due course! If the trailer has an overrun brake, apply the brakes
gently at first and then, firmly. This will prevent the jerking that can be caused by locking of trailer wheels. Change to a lower gear in good time be-
fore descending a slope in order to take advantage of the engine brake.
The trailer is incorporated into the vehicle anti-theft alarm system.
●
When the vehicle has a factory-fitted anti-theft alarm and a towing
bracket
● When the trailer is electrically connected to the vehicle via the towing
bracket socket
● When the vehicle electrical device and the towing bracket are operation-
al
● When the vehicle is locked and the vehicle anti-theft alarm device is ac-
tivated
Once the electrical connection is interrupted with the vehicle trailer locked,
the alarm sounds.
Always switch off the vehicle anti-theft alarm device before connecting or
disconnecting a trailer. The vehicle anti-theft alarm device could cause the
alarm to sound ⇒ page 91, Anti-theft alarm system*.
Engine overheating
In the event that the coolant temperature gauge needle moves to the right
section of the scale or to the red area, immediately reduce speed. If the con-
trol lamp  flashes on the general instrument panel, stop the vehicle and
switch off the engine. Wait several minutes and check the coolant level in
the tank ⇒ page 188.
Please observe the following indications ⇒ page 72, Coolant level and tem-
perature .
The coolant temperature can be reduced by switching on the heating. 
Safety FirstOperating instructionsPractical TipsTechnical specifications

166Driving the vehicle with a trailer
WARNING
● Adjust your speed to suit the road and traffic conditions.
● An electrical installation that is connected incorrectly or by non-spe-
cialised personnel can prevent the connection of the current to the trailer
and cause faults in the electrical system operation throughout the entire
vehicle, leading to accidents and serious injury.
● All electrical work must be carried out only by the specialised serv-
ices.
● Never directly connect the trailer electrical device to the electrical
sockets of the reverse driving lights or other sources of electrical current.
CAUTION
● Avoid corners, and sudden and sharp braking.
● Once the trailing arm has been removed, place the corresponding cover
on the hole of the fastening point. This prevents dirt from entering the hole
– see the trailer system assembly manual.
Note
● In the event of frequent journeys with a trailer, we recommend also hav-
ing the vehicle inspected in-between the service intervals.
● When connecting and disconnecting the trailer, the handbrake must be
applied.
● For technical reasons, trailers with LED reverse lights cannot be incorpo-
rated into the vehicle anti-theft alarm system. 