Get Practical tips -> Checking and refilling levels Guide for Seat Ateca SUV 2020

Checking and refilling levels

●

Place it in the space on the hinge of the

cle. In an accident the canister could be

damaged and could leak.

Practical tips

open flap Fig. 303.

●

›››

Start refuelling. The tank is full as soon as

●

If, in exceptional circumstances, you

the pump’s automatic nozzle cuts off the fuel

supply. Do not try to put in more fuel after the

nozzle cuts out, as this will fill the expansion

chamber in the fuel tank.

Checking and refilling lev-

els

have to carry a spare fuel canister, please

observe the following points:

–

Never fill fuel into the spare fuel canis-

ter if it is inside or on top of the vehicle.

This could cause an explosion. Always

place the canister on the ground to fill

it.

●

Unscrew the cap by turning it to the right as

Refuelling

far as it will go.

●

Refuelling

Close the lid.

–

Insert the filling nozzle as far as possi-

ble into the spare fuel canister.

The correct fuel grade for your vehicle is giv-

en on a sticker on the inside of the fuel tank

flap. Further notes on fuel can be found at

›››

The capacity of your vehicle's fuel tank is giv-

en in page 382.

–

If the spare fuel canister is made of

metal, the filling nozzle must be in con-

tact with the canister during filling. This

helps prevent an electrostatic charge

building up.

page 336.

›››

–

Never spill fuel in the vehicle or in the

luggage compartment. Fuel vapour is

explosive. Risk of fatal accident!

WARNING

Fuel is highly flammable and can cause se-

rious burns and other injuries.

CAUTION

Fig. 303 Fuel tank flap with tank cap attach-

●

When refuelling, turn off the engine, the

ed.

●

If any fuel is spilt onto the vehicle, it

auxiliary heater page 158 and turn off

›››

should be removed immediately. It could

otherwise damage the paintwork.

the ignition for safety reasons.

The fuel tank flap is on the rear right of the

vehicle.

●

Do not smoke when filling the fuel tank or

●

Never run the tank completely dry. The

a canister. Naked flames are forbidden in

the vicinity due to the risk of explosion.

The flap that covers the tank cap is unlocked

and locked automatically using the central

locking.

catalytic converter can be damaged.

●

When filling the fuel tank after having run

●

Observe legislation governing the use,

it completely dry on a vehicle with a diesel

engine, the ignition must be switched on for

at least 30 seconds before starting the en-

gine. When you then start the engine it may

storage and carrying of a spare fuel canis-

ter in the vehicle.

●

Open the fuel tank flap by pressing on the

●

For safety reasons we do not recommend

left side.

»

carrying a spare fuel canister in the vehi-

●

Unscrew the cap by turning it to the left.

335

Practical tips

age of ethanol in the petrol. “E5” means,

for example, an ethanol ratio of 5% max.

take longer than normal (up to one minute)

to start firing.

One way to resolve this is to pour the fuel in

very slowly.

2

3

Diesel with biodiesel (“B” stands for Bio-

diesel). The number indicates the per-

centage of biodiesel in the diesel. “B7”

means, for example, a proportion of bio-

diesel of max. 7%.

Natural gas: “CNG” means Compressed

Natural Gas.

For the sake of the environment

Do not overfill the fuel tank, it may cause

the fuel to overflow if it becomes warm.

Fuel types

Identification of fuels¹⁾

Note

There is no emergency mechanism for the

manual release of the fuel tank flap. If nec-

essary, request assistance from special-

ised personnel.

Type of petrol

3 Valid for: vehicles with petrol engines

Note

The correct grade of petrol is listed inside the

fuel tank flap.

Diesel vehicles are fitted with a protective

device that prevents the insertion of the

wrong fuel hose¹⁾. It is only possible to re-

fuel with Diesel nozzles.

The vehicle is equipped with a catalytic con-

verter and must only be run on unleaded

petrol. The petrol must comply with the

standard EN 228 and be sulphur-free. Fuels

with a 10% ethanol ratio can be refuelled

(E10)²⁾. The types of petrol are differentiated

by using the octane numbers (RON) or via

the anti-knock index (AKI).

Fig. 304 Identification of fuels according to

●

If the pump nozzle is worn, damaged, or if

European Union (EU) Directive 2014/94/

it is very small, it is possible that it will not

be able to open the protective device. Be-

fore trying to insert the pump nozzle by

turning it, try a different pump or request

specialist help.

Fuels are identified by different symbols on

the pump and on your vehicle's tank flap. The

identification serves to prevent confusion

when choosing the fuel.

●

If you fill the tank from a reserve fuel can-

ister, the protective device will not open.

1

Petrol with ethanol (“E” stands for Etha-

nol). The number indicates the percent-

1)

Depending on country

Follow the regulations of the country you are

2)

driving in.

336

Checking and refilling levels

Super unleaded petrol 95 octane petrol or

normal 91 octane petrol at least

●

CAUTION

Fuels high percentage of ethanol, e.g.

In countries in which there is no sulphur-

free fuel, it is also allowed to use low sul-

phur content fuel.

●

We recommend refuelling with super 95 oc-

tane petrol (91 AKI). If not available, normal 91

octane petrol (87 AKI) (with a slight power

loss) may be used.

E30 - E100 button must not be used. The

fuel system would be damaged. Exception:

vehicles with Totalflex engine page 337,

›››

Ethanol fuel.

Ethanol fuel

3 Valid for: vehicles with Totalflex engines

●

A single refuelling with leaded fuel or

Super unleaded petrol, 95 octanes at

least

other metal additives entails a permanent

deterioration of the effectiveness of the

catalytic converter.

You can recognise vehicles with Totalflex en-

gines¹⁾by label on the fuel tank lid with with

the marking “Petrol/ethanol”.

You should use super 95 octane petrol (91

AKI) at least.

●

Only use fuel additives that have been

approved by SEAT. The products that con-

tain substances to increase the octane rat-

ing or decrease knocking may contain met-

al additives that damage the engine and

catalytic converter. This type of products

must not be used.

Vehicles with Totalflex engine can run with

unleaded petrol (95 octane / 91 AKI) accord-

ing to ANP No. 57 and with fuels with any high

percentage of ethanol. The vehicle is refuel-

led in the same way as petrol refuelling.

If super is not available, if necessary, use nor-

mal 91 octane petrol (87 AKI). In this case only

use moderate engine speeds and a light

throttle. Refuel with super as soon as possi-

ble.

●

Also consider that page 336, T y pe of pet-

Do not use fuels shown in the pump as

›››

Unleaded super plus 98 octane petrol or

super 95 octane petrol at least

containing metals. LRP (lead replacement

petrol) fuels contain high concentrations of

metal additives. Risk of engine damage!

rol

Note

We recommend refuelling with super plus 98

octane petrol (93 AKI). If not available: super

95 octane petrol (91 AKI) (with a slight power

loss).

●

High engine speed and full throttle can

SEAT recommends filling the tank exclu-

sively with petrol every 10,000 km to de-

crease impurities that using E100 ethanol

fuel might have left in the engine.

damage the engine when using petrol with

an octane rating lower than the correct

grade for the engine.

If super is not available, if necessary, use nor-

mal 91 octane petrol (87 AKI). In this case only

use moderate engine speeds and a light

throttle. Refuel with super as soon as possi-

ble.

Note

●

Fuel with an octane rating higher than the

one required by the engine can be used.

1)

This motor is only available in some markets.

337

Practical tips

If this message is ignored, the yellow warning

lamp  will come on when the remaining

range is less than 1000 km. The indication

that in XXX km it will no longer be possible to

restart the engine will appear on the instru-

ment panel display.

Diesel

Risk of damaging the fuel system and the

engine! Obtain technical assistance.

3 Valid for: vehicles with diesel engines

Please note the information on the inside of

the fuel tank flap.

AdBlue^®

Information about AdBlue^®

We recommend you use Diesel according to

standard EN 590.

If the yellow indicator lamp is ignored, when

remaining range of 0 km is displayed, it will

no longer be possible to restart the engine.

The red warning lamp  will light up.

AdBlue^®is a registered brand of the German

Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA)

and is also known as AUS32 or DEF (Diesel

Exhaust Fluid).

The diesel can thicken at very low tempera-

tures, thus affecting the start or operation of

the engine. Ask your service station attendant

if their diesel is suitable for winter use.

Water in the fuel filter¹⁾

If your vehicle has a diesel engine and is

equipped with a fuel filter with a water sep-

arator, the instrument panel may display the

Fig. 305 Related video

CAUTION

Filling the AdBlue^®tank excessively can

cause damage to the tank.

The consumption of AdBlue^®depends on

your personal driving style, the temperature

of the system and on the outdoor tempera-

ture when the vehicle is used.

AdBlue^®freezes at temperatures of -11 °C (+13

°F). The system has heating elements that

guarantee its operation even at low tempera-

tures.

following warning:

in the fuel

^Water

filter.If this is the case, take the vehicle to

a specialised workshop so that they can

drain the fuel filter.

Control and warning lamps

CAUTION

It lights up red



●

Never use of FAME (biodiesel), petrol,

heating oil, other fuels or thinning agents

as they can cause severely damage the

fuel system and the engine.

The capacity of the AdBlue^®tank is approx.

11 litres.

The engine cannot be restarted! The AdBlue level

is too low.

Stop the vehicle in a suitable, safe and flat area then

top up with the minimum required quantity of AdBlue

When the range is less than 2400 km the

instrument panel screen displays a message

requesting an AdBlue^®refill.

●

If the wrong fuel has been filled, do not

page 339.

›››

start the engine under any circumstances.

1)

Depending upon country.

338

Checking and refilling levels

Fill AdBlue^®

●

Unscrew the tank cap by turning it in an an-

They light up red



^and

ti-clockwise direction.

The engine cannot be restarted! Fault in the

AdBlue system.

●

Please observe the manufacturer's instruc-

tions, indicated on the refill bottle.

●

Contact a specialised workshop. Have the system

checked there.

Check the expiry date.

●

Remove the cap of the refill bottle.

It lights up yellow



●

Insert the neck of the bottle in the tank filler

neck vertically and screw the bottle on by

hand, by turning it in a clockwise direction.

The AdBlue reserve is low.

Refill AdBlue within the next kilometres (or miles) that

are indicated page 339. SEAT recommends con-

›››

●

Press the refill bottle in the direction of the

tacting a specialised workshop.

filler neck and hold it in this position.

●

have been poured into the AdBlue^®tank. Do

not compress or break the bottle!

Fig. 306 AdBlue tank cap.

Wait until the contents of the refill bottle

They light up yellow



^and

Operations prior to refilling

There is a fault in the AdBlue system or unsuitable

AdBlue fluid has been used.

Park the vehicle on a flat surface and turn off

the ignition. If the vehicle is on a slope or on a

curb, the level indicator may not detect the

refill properly.

If a warning message about AdBlue^®levels

appears on the dash panel display, fill at

least the minimum amount required (ap-

prox. 5 litres) Only after adding this amount

will the system detect that AdBlue^®has been

added and you will be able to start the en-

gine again. The maximum amount that can

be refilled is 11 litres.

●

Turn the bottle in a counter-clockwise di-

Contact a specialised workshop. Have the system

checked there.

rection and gently pull it upwards

.

›››

The AdBlue^®tank is full when no more liquid

comes out of the bottle.

●

Several warning and control lamps should

light up for a few seconds when the ignition is

switched on, signalling that the function is be-

ing verified. They will switch off after a few

seconds.

●

Screw on the tank cap in a clockwise direc-

tion until it is tightly closed.

●

Close the fuel tank flap.

Operations before driving

●

WARNING

Observe the safety warnings

trol and warning lamps on page 88.

After refilling the tank, only switch on the ig-

in Con-

›››

nition.

●

Leave the ignition on for at least 30 sec-

Fill with a refill bottle

Only use AdBlue^®that complies with ISO

22241-1. Only use original containers.

onds for the system to detect the fluid load.

●

Make sure you wait for at least 30 seconds

»

before starting the engine!

●

Open the tank cover Fig. 306.

›››

339

Practical tips

Refilling the dispenser with AdBlue

Never pour AdBlue^®into the fuel tank.

Control lamps

●

This could result in engine damage.

●

Valid for vehicles with selective catalytic re-

duction.

It lights up

Do not carry the refill bottle inside the



vehicle. If there is a leak (due to tempera-

ture changes or damage to the bottle), the

AdBlue^®may damage the vehicle.

●

Fault in the emission control system.

Open the tank cap.

Reduce speed and drive carefully to the nearest spe-

cialised workshop to have the engine checked.

●

Turn the SCR tank cap anti-clockwise

Fig. 306.

›››

●

Add AdBlue until the nozzle stops for the

first time.

For the sake of the environment

Flashes



Dispose of the refill bottle in an environ-

ment-friendly manner.

Combustion failures that can damage the catalytic

converter.

●

Close the SCR tube by turning it clockwise

until you hear a click.

Reduce speed and drive carefully to the nearest spe-

cialised workshop to have the engine checked.

Note

WARNING

You can buy refill bottles that are adequate

AdBlue^®should only be stored in the origi-

nal container, which should be tightly

closed and kept in a safe place.

It lights up

for AdBlue^®use at SEAT dealerships .



Particulate filter blocked page 341.

›››

It lights up



CAUTION

Engine management and

emissions control system

Fault in the petrol engine management.

Have the engine checked as soon as possible by a

specialised workshop.

●

When refilling, the nozzle grip should be

aligned downward. Otherwise the nozzle

will not connect automatically.

Introduction

When the ignition is switched on, the  (Electronic

Power Control) lights up and should go off once the

engine has started.

●

Do not try to add any more additive after

the nozzle has stopped for the first time.

The AdBlue tank could overflow and AdBlue

could spill out.

WARNING

●

Due to the high temperatures reached by

the exhaust gas scrubbing system, you

should not park your vehicle near a surface

that can catch fire easily. Fire hazard!

Only use AdBlue^®that complies with ISO

It lights up



●

22241-1. Only use original containers.

●

Diesel engine preheating system.

The engine can be started straight away when the

lamp switches off.

Never mix AdBlue^®with water, fuel or ad-

●

Do not apply wax underneath the vehicle

ditives. Any type of damage caused by

such a mixture will not be covered by the

warranty.

around the area of the exhaust system: Fire

hazard!

340

Checking and refilling levels

atmosphere. The catalytic converter can also

be damaged by overheating.

cle is moving. See Manual.The partic-

Flashes



ulate filter needs cleaning (regeneration).

Fault in the diesel engine management.

Have the engine checked as soon as possible by a

specialised workshop.

CAUTION

Regeneration of the petrol particulate fil-

ter (only for 2.0l TSI engines)

Never run the fuel tank completely dry be-

cause an irregular fuel supply can cause

ignition faults. This allows unburnt fuel to

enter the exhaust system, which could

cause overheating and damage the cata-

lytic converter.

Requirements for the regeneration journey:

the engine is at operating temperature.

Note

While the control lamps , ,  or  are

on, there might be faults in the engine, fuel

consumption may go up and the engine

might lose power.

●

Drive at a speed of at least 80 km/h

Completely remove your foot from the ac-

›››

●

celerator pedal for a few seconds to let the

vehicle roll with the gear engaged.

For the sake of the environment

●

Consider the legal speed limits as well as

Even when the emission control system is

working perfectly, there may be a smell of

sulphur from the gases on occasions. This

depends on the sulphur content of the fuel

used. This can quite often be avoided by

changing to another brand of fuel.

Catalytic converter

the recommended gears.

●

Repeat this procedure (accelerate and let

To maintain the useful life of the catalytic

converter

roll) until the control lamp turns off.

●

Only use unleaded petrol with petrol en-

This procedure involves an autonomous par-

ticulate filter cleaning process and may take

some time.

gines.

●

Never run the fuel tank dry.

Particulate filter

3 Valid for: vehicles with petrol or diesel particu-

late filters

●

If the warning lamp does not turn off, go im-

mediately to a specialised workshop to repair

the fault.

When changing or adding engine oil, do not

exceed the necessary amount page 347,

T o pping up the engine oil.

›››

●

Never tow the vehicle to start it, use jump

The particulate filter eliminates most of the

soot from the exhaust gas system. Under nor-

mal driving conditions the filter cleans itself. If

the filter does not clean itself (e.g. if short

journeys are made continuously), it becomes

blocked with soot and the following indica-

tion is displayed to the driver:  Particu-

late filter: cleaned while the vehi-

Regeneration of the petrol (except the TSI

2.0l engine) and diesel particulate filter

leads if necessary page 47.

›››

If you should notice misfiring, uneven running

or loss of power when the car is moving, have

the vehicle inspected by a specialised work-

shop. In general, the emissions warning lamp

 will light up when any of these symptoms

occur. If this happens, any unburnt fuel can

enter the exhaust system and escape into the

Requirements for the regeneration journey:

the engine is at operating temperature.

●

Drive at a speed of between 50-120 km/h

(31-75 mph). This increases the temperature

»

and burns the soot in the filter

.

›››

341

Practical tips

●

Consider the legal speed limits as well as

the particulate filter is not affected. Also

avoid making short trips all the time.

parking brake. If the vehicle has a manual

gearbox, place the lever in neutral; if it has

an automatic gearbox, place the selector

lever in position P. Wait for the engine to

cool down.

the recommended gears.

●

End the regeneration journey once the con-

trol warning lamp has gone out.

If the warning lamp stays on after 30 minutes

of running in regeneration mode, have a spe-

cialised workshop repair the fault

Engine compartment

●

Never open the bonnet if you see steam

or drips of coolant being released from the

engine compartment. Wait until no steam

or coolant can be seen before opening the

bonnet.

Working in the engine compart-

ment

WARNING

●

Keep children away from the engine

Always adjust your speed to suit the weath-

er conditions, roads, braking distance and

traffic if the particulate filter is in its regen-

eration phase. Route recommendations

should never make you disregard each

country's specific traffic regulations.

compartment.

●

Never spill liquids used for vehicle opera-

tion on the engine compartment, as these

may catch fire (e.g. the antifreeze in cool-

ant).

Fig. 307 Related video

●

Avoid causing short-circuits in the elec-

CAUTION

trical system, particularly at the points

where the jump leads are attached

›››

Always be aware of the danger of injury and

scalding as well as the risk of accident or fire

when working in the engine compartment

(e.g. when checking and refilling fluids).

●

When the exhaust system detects that

page 47. The battery could explode.

the particulate filter is close to saturation,

the self-cleaning function of this system

recommends optimal driving for this func-

tion.

●

If working inside the engine compart-

ment, remember that, even when the igni-

tion is switched off, the radiator fan may

start up automatically, and therefore there

is a risk of injury.

Always observe the warnings listed below

and follow all general safety precautions.

●

Due to the high temperatures caused by

the regeneration of the particulate filter, it

is possible that the radiator fan will acti-

vate after stopping the engine, even it its

operating temperature has not been

reached.

The vehicle's engine compartment is a po-

●

Never cover the engine with additional in-

tentially hazardous area

.

›››

sulating materials such as a blanket. Risk of

fire!

WARNING

●

Do not unscrew the cap on the coolant

When work is done in the engine compart-

ment, injuries, burns, accidents and even

fires can occur.

●

expansion tank when the engine is hot. The

cooling system is under pressure.

Noise, smells and high idle speeds can

occur during regeneration.

●

Always use the correct engine oil and the

●

Switch the engine off, remove the key

from the ignition and apply the electronic

correct fuel to make sure the useful life of

342

Checking and refilling levels

Opening and closing the bonnet

●

Protect face, hands and arms by cover-

Observe the following additional warn-

ing the cap with a large, thick rag to protect

against escaping coolant and steam.

ings if work on the fuel system or the elec-

trical system is necessary:

●

–

Always make sure you have not left any

Always disconnect the battery from the

objects, such as cleaning cloths or tools, in

the engine compartment.

on-board network.

–

Do not smoke.

●

If you have to work underneath the vehi-

–

Never work near naked flames.

cle, you must use suitable stands addition-

ally to support the vehicle, there is a risk of

accident!. A hydraulic jack is insufficient for

securing the vehicle and there is a risk of

injury.

–

Always keep an approved fire extin-

guisher immediately available.

For the sake of the environment

Fig. 308 Release lever in the driver's footwell

●

If any work has to be performed when the

●

Inspect the ground underneath your vehi-

area.

engine is started or with the engine running,

there is an additional, potentially fatal,

safety risk from the rotating parts, such as

the drive belts, alternator, radiator fan, etc.,

and from the high-voltage ignition system.

You should also observe the following:

cle regularly so that any leaks are detec-

ted at an early stage. If you find spots of oil

or other fluids in the area where it was

parked, have your vehicle inspected at the

workshop.

●

Service fluids leaks are harmful to the en-

–

Never touch the electrical wiring of the

ignition system.

vironment. For this reason you should make

regular checks on the ground underneath

your vehicle. If you find spots of oil or other

fluids, have your vehicle inspected in a

specialised workshop.

–

Ensure that jewellery, loose clothing

and long hair do not get trapped in ro-

tating engine parts. Danger of death.

Before starting any work remove jewel-

lery, tie back and cover hair, and wear

tight-fitting clothes.

Note

Fig. 309 Cam under the bonnet

In right-hand drive vehicles* some brake

fluid reservoirs are on the other side of the

engine compartment Fig. 310.

–

Never accelerate with a gear engaged

Opening the bonnet

without taking the necessary precau-

tions. The vehicle could move, even if

the handbrake is applied. Danger of

death.

›››

The bonnet is released from inside the vehi-

cle.

Before opening the bonnet, make sure that

the windscreen wiper arms are in place

against the windscreen.

»

343

Practical tips

●

Open the door and pull the lever under the

Release the bonnet stay and replace it in its

WARNING

Make sure that the bonnet is properly

closed. If it opens when driving, it can

cause an accident.

1

dashboard Fig. 308

●

.

support.

●

›››

To lift the bonnet, press the release catch

At a height of approximately 30 cm let it fall

2

under the bonnet upwards Fig. 309

The arrester hook under the bonnet is re-

leased.

.

so it locks.

›››

If the bonnet does not close, do not press

downwards. Open it again and let it fall as

mentioned above.

CAUTION

●

The bonnet can be opened. Release the

bonnet stay and secure it in the fixture de-

signed for this in the bonnet.

To avoid damage to the bonnet and to the

windscreen wiper arms, only open it when

the windscreen wipers are in place against

the windscreen.

Closing the bonnet

●

Slightly lift the bonnet.

344

Checking and refilling levels

Checking levels

Fig. 310 Diagram for the location of the various el-

ements.

From time to time, the levels of the different

fluids in the vehicle must be checked. Never

fill with incorrect fluids, otherwise serious

damage to the engine may be caused.

changing oil, use only those oils that comply

with VW standards.

Note

The layout of parts may vary depending on

the engine.

We recommend that the oil change be done

by a technical service or specialised work-

shop.

1

Coolant expansion tank page 349

›››

2

3

4

5

6

Engine oil level dipstick page 347

›››

Engine oil

If the engine oil level is too low

Engine oil filler cap page 347

›››

You can get information about the correct en-

gine oil for your vehicle at your workshop.

Brake fluid reservoir page 350

›››

General notes

Battery (under the cover) page 352

›››

If the recommended engine oil is not availa-

ble, in the event of an emergency you can

change the oil once with a maximum of 0.5 L

of the next oil until the next oil change:

The engine comes with a special, multi-grade

oil that can be used all year round.

Windscreen washer reservoir

page 351

›››

Because the use of high-quality oil is essen-

tial for the correct operation of the engine

and its long useful life, when topping up or

»

345

Practical tips

–

Petrol engines: standard VW 504 00,

VW 502 00, VW 508 00, ACEA C3 or

API SN.

Diesel engines: standard VW 507 00,

VW 505 01, ACEA C3 or API CK-4.

(once) conforming to the specifications

VW 506 00, VW 506 01, VW 505 00,

VW 505 01 or ACEA B3/ACEA B4 (up to 0.5 l)

Engine oil specifications

Diesel engines

page 345.

›››

Type of

Engine type

Specifica-

tion

Service

Engine oil additives

Have the oil changed by a specialised work-

shop.

Set Service

No type of additive should be mixed with the

engine oil. The deterioration caused by these

additives is not covered by the warranty.

With particulate

filter (DPF)^a)

and Flexible

Service Inter-

vals

VW 507 00

Using engine oil that is compliant with the VW

504 00 standard instead of VW 508 00

could increase consumption and the vehicle’s

CO₂emissions.

Without particu-

late filter (DPF)

Set Service

Intervals

VW 505 01^b)

VW 506 01^b)

Note

Before a long trip, we recommend finding

an engine oil that conforms to the corre-

sponding VW specifications and recom-

mend keeping it in the vehicle. This way, the

correct engine oil will always be available

for a top-up if needed.

a)

Only use recommended oils, otherwise you may

damage the engine.



Recommended by SEAT

b)

If the quality of the fuel available in the country

does not fulfil the EN 590 (for diesel) standard.

SEAT recommends using original SEAT oil to

guarantee high SEAT engine performance.

Warning lamp

Vehicles with diesel particulate filter*

It lights up red



Only VW 507 00 engine oil, with reduced ash

formation, may be used in diesel engines

equipped with particulate filter. Using other

types of oil will cause a higher soot concen-

tration and reduce the life of the DPF. There-

fore:

 Do not carry on driving!

Engine oil pressure too low.

Switch off the engine. Check the engine oil level.

If this warning lamp  starts to flash, and is accom-

panied by three audible warnings, switch off the en-

gine and check the oil level. If necessary, add more

●

oil page 347.

Avoid mixing this oil with other engine oils.

›››

●

Only in exceptional circumstances, if the

If the warning lamp  flashes although the oil level

is correct, stop driving. Do not even run the engine at

idle speed! Obtain technical assistance.

engine oil level is too low page 347 and

you cannot obtain the oil specified for your

vehicle, you can use a small quantity of oil

›››

346

Checking and refilling levels

Checking oil level

WARNING

Any work carried out in the engine com-

partment or on the engine must be carried

out cautiously.

It lights up yellow



–

Park the vehicle in a horizontal position.

Check the engine oil level as soon as possible.

Replace oil as soon as you have the opportunity to

–

Briefly run the engine at idle speed until the

operating temperature is reached and then

stop.

do so page 347.

›››

●

When working in the engine compart-

ment, always observe the safety warnings

It flashes yellow



–

Wait for about two minutes.

page 342.

›››

Fault in the oil level sensor.

Pull out the dipstick. Wipe the dipstick with

a clean cloth and insert it again, pushing it

in as far as it will go.

Have the check done by a specialised workshop. Un-

til then it is advisable to check the oil level every time

you refuel.

CAUTION

A

If the oil level is above area , do not start

the engine. This could result in damage to

the engine and catalytic converter. Con-

tact a Technical Service.

–

Then pull it out once more and check the oil

WARNING

Observe the safety warnings

trol and warning lamps on page 88.

level Fig. 311. Top up with engine oil if

›››

necessary.

in Con-

›››

A

The oil must leave a mark between zones

C

A

.

and . It can never go above zone

Topping up the engine oil

●

A

Zone : do not add oil.

Checking the engine oil level

B

Zone : you can add oil but keep the level

in that zone.

●

C

B

.

Zone : add oil until zone

Depending on how you drive and the condi-

tions in which the vehicle is used, oil con-

sumption can be up to 0.5 l/1000 km. Oil

consumption is likely to be higher for the first

5,000 km. For this reason the engine oil level

must be checked at regular intervals, prefera-

bly when filling the tank and before a journey.

Fig. 312 In the engine compartment: Engine oil

»

filler cap.

Fig. 311 Engine oil dipstick.

The engine oil dipstick indicates the level of

the oil.

347

Practical tips

Before opening the bonnet, read and observe

●

damage to the engine and catalytic con-

verter. Contact a specialised workshop.

Wear eye protection to avoid injuries,

the warnings

in Working in the engine

›››

such as acid burns, caused by splashes of

oil.

compartment on page 342.

●

When removing the oil drain plug with

For the sake of the environment

Topping up engine oil

your fingers, keep your arm horizontal to

help prevent oil from running down your

arm.

The oil level must never be above zone

●

Unscrew cap from engine oil filler opening

A

Fig. 311 . Otherwise oil can be drawn in

›››

Fig. 312.

›››

through the crankcase breather and leak

into the atmosphere via the exhaust sys-

tem.

●

Wash your skin thoroughly if it comes into

●

Carefully add oil in small quantities (no

more than 0.5 l).

contact with engine oil.

●

Engine oil is poisonous! Used oil must be

●

To avoid adding too much oil, whenever you

stored in a safe place out of the reach of

children.

add a certain amount, wait about 2 minutes

and recheck the oil level page 347.

Note

›››

Before a long trip, we recommend finding

an engine oil that conforms to the corre-

sponding VW specifications and recom-

mend keeping it in the vehicle. This way, the

correct engine oil will always be available

for a top-up if needed.

●

If necessary, add some more oil.

CAUTION

●

When the oil level reaches at least zone

No additives should be used with engine oil.

This could result in engine damage. Any

damage caused by the use of such addi-

tives would not be covered by the factory

warranty.

B

Fig. 311 , unscrew the engine oil filler

›››

cap carefully

.

›››

The position of the oil filler opening is shown

in the corresponding engine compartment il-

lustration page 345.

›››

Engine oil change

For the sake of the environment

We recommend that you change the en-

gine oil and the filter at a technical service

centre.

Engine oil specification page 346.

›››

We recommend that you have the engine oil

changed by a Technical Service.

●

WARNING

Oil is highly inflammable! Ensure that no oil

comes into contact with hot engine compo-

nents when topping up.

WARNING

Only change the engine oil yourself if you

have the specialist knowledge required!

●

Never pour oil down drains or into the

ground.

●

Use a suitable container when draining

the used oil. It must be large enough to hold

all the engine oil.

●

Before opening the bonnet, read and ob-

CAUTION

serve the warnings page 342.

›››

●

A

If the oil level is above area Fig. 311

,

›››

Wait for the engine to cool down. Hot oil

do not start the engine. This could result in

may cause burn injuries.

348

Checking and refilling levels

Refilling coolant

WARNING

If there is not enough anti-freeze in the

coolant system, the engine may fail lead-

ing to serious damage.

Cooling system

Coolant specifications

The engine cooling system is supplied from

the factory with a specially treated mixture of

water and at least 40 % of the additive

G12evo (TL-VW 774 J), purple. This mixture

gives the necessary frost protection down to

-25°C (-13°F) and protects the light alloy

parts of the engine cooling system against

corrosion. It also prevents scaling and con-

siderably raises the boiling point of the cool-

ant.

●

Ensure that the percentage of additive is

correct for the lowest expected ambient

temperature in the zone in which the vehi-

cle is to be used.

●

When the outside temperature is very

low, the coolant could freeze and the vehi-

cle would be immobilised.

Fig. 313 In the engine compartment: marking

CAUTION

on coolant expansion tank.

The original additives should never be

mixed with coolants which are not ap-

proved by SEAT.

To protect the cooling system, the percent-

age of additive must always be at least 40 %,

even in warm climates where anti-freeze pro-

tection is not required.

●

If the fluid in the expansion tank is not

purple but is, for example, brown, this indi-

cates that the G12evo additive has been

mixed with an inadequate coolant. The

coolant must be changed as soon as possi-

ble if this is the case!

If for weather reasons further protection is

necessary, the proportion of additive may be

increased, but only up to 60 %; otherwise an-

tifreeze protection will diminish and this will

worsen cooling.

For the sake of the environment

When the coolant is topped up, use a mixture

of distilled water and at least 40 % of the

additive G12evo for optimal protection

against corrosion. Mixing G12evo with G13

(TL-VW 774 J), G12 plus-plus (TL-VW 774 G),

G12 plus (TL-VW 774 F), G12 (red) or G11

(green blue) engine coolants decreases pro-

tection again corrosion and should be avoi-

ded.

Fig. 314 Engine compartment: coolant expan-

Coolants and additives can contaminate

the environment. If any fluids are spilled,

they should be collected and correctly dis-

posed of, with respect to the environment.

sion tank cap.

The coolant tank is located in the engine

compartment page 345.

›››

Top up coolant when the level is below the 

(minimum) mark.

»

349

Practical tips

WARNING

Checking coolant level

Brake fluid

–

Park the vehicle in a horizontal position.

●

The cooling system is under pressure. Do

not unscrew the cap on the coolant expan-

sion tank when the engine is hot: risk of

burns!

Check and refill the brake fluid

–

Switch the ignition off.

–

Read off the coolant level on coolant ex-

pansion tank. When the engine is cold, the

coolant level should be between the marks

●

Store the antifreeze in its original con-

tainer and keep it out of reach of children.

Fig. 313. When the engine is hot, it may

›››

●

If working inside the engine compart-

be slightly above the upper mark.

ment, remember that, even when the igni-

tion is switched off, the radiator fan may

start up automatically, and therefore there

is a risk of injury.

Topping up coolant

–

Wait for the engine to cool down.

–

Cover the coolant expansion tank cap with

CAUTION

a cloth and carefully unscrew it to the left

Fig. 315 Engine compartment: brake fluid res-

.

›››

If you run out of coolant in the expansion

tank, park the car in a safe place and do

not continue driving. Obtain technical as-

sistance.

ervoir cap.

–

Top up the coolant only if there is still cool-

ant in the expansion tank, otherwise you

could damage the engine. If there is no

coolant in the expansion tank, do not con-

tinue driving. You should obtain professional

The brake fluid reservoir is located in the en-

gine compartment page 345.

›››

Checking the brake fluid level

assistance

.

›››

The brake fluid level must be between the 

and  markings.

–

If there is still some coolant in the expansion

tank, top up to the upper mark.

However, if the brake fluid level goes down

noticeably in a short time, or drops below the

 mark, there may be a leak in the brake

system. Seek specialist assistance. A warning

light on the instrument panel display monitors

Top up with coolant until the level becomes

stable.

Screw the cap back on correctly.

the brake fluid level page 86.

›››

If there is a coolant leak, take the vehicle spe-

cialised workshop to have the cooling system

examined.

In right-hand drive vehicles the brake fluid

reservoir is on the other side of the engine

compartment.

350

Checking and refilling levels

Changing brake fluid

Check the water level in the windscreen

washer reservoir regularly and top up as re-

quired.

CAUTION

We recommend that you have the brake fluid

changed by a Technical Service.

Brake fluid should not come into contact

with the vehicle paintwork, as it is abrasive.

The container for the windscreen washer

contains the cleaning fluid for the wind-

screen, the rear window and the headlight

washer system*.

WARNING

For the sake of the environment

Brake fluid is an environmental pollutant.

Collect any spilt service fluids and allow a

professional to dispose of them.

If the brake fluid level is low or unsuita-

ble/old brake fluid is used, the brake sys-

tem may fail or braking power may be re-

duced.

●

Open the bonnet  page 342.

The window washer tank is marked with the

›››

●

Check the brake system and the brake

fluid level regularly!

 symbol on the cap.

●

Check there is enough windscreen water in

●

When the brake fluid is used and brakes

Windscreen washer reservoir

the reservoir.

are subjected to extreme braking forces,

bubbles of vapour form in the brake sys-

tem. These bubbles can significantly re-

duce braking power, notably increasing

braking distance, and could result in the to-

tal failure of the brake system.

Checking the level of the window

washer tank and refilling it

Plain water is not enough to clean the wind-

screen and headlights. We recommend that

you always add a product to the windscreen

washer fluid.

●

Be sure to always use the correct brake

Recommended windscreen wipers

fluid. Only use brake fluid that expressly

meets the VW 501 14 standard.

●

For the hottest seasons we recommend

summer G 052 184 A1 for clear glass. Propor-

tions of the mixture in the washer fluid tank:

1:100 (1 part concentrate per 100 parts wa-

ter).

●

You can buy VW 501 14 standard brake

fluid in a SEAT dealership or a SEAT Official

Service. If none is available, use only high-

quality brake fluid that meets DIN ISO 4925

CLASS 4 standards, or USA Standards

FMVSS 116 DOT 4.

●

All year round, G 052 164 A2 for clear glass.

Approximate proportion of the winter mixture,

up to -18°C (0°F): 1:2 (1 part concentrate per 2

parts water); otherwise, a 1:4 proportion of

mixture in the washer fluid tank.

Fig. 316 In the engine compartment: window

●

The replacement brake fluid must be

washer tank cap.

new.

●

Brake fluid should be stored in the closed

The window washer tank is in the engine

original container in a safe place out of

reach of children. Risk of poisoning!

compartment page 345.

›››

The capacity of the window washer tank can

»

be found in page 382.

›››

351

Practical tips

Battery acid is extremely corrosive. Wear pro-

tective gloves and eye protection. Rinse any

splashes of electrolyte with plenty of water.

CAUTION

ids could cause serious malfunctions and

engine damage!



If the water from the windscreen washer

does not contain enough anti-freeze, it may

freeze on the windscreen and rear window,

reducing forward and rear visibility.

●

Not having windscreen wiper fluid re-

duces visibility through the windscreen,

and leads to loss of visibility in headlights

in models with headlight washer.

Fires, sparks, open flames and smoking are

prohibited.







●

In winter, ensure the windscreen washer

contains enough anti-freeze.

The battery should only be charged in a well-

ventilated zone. Risk of explosion!

●

In cold conditions, you should not use the

Keep children away from acid and batteries!

windscreen wiper system unless you have

warmed the windscreen with the ventila-

tion system. The antifreeze could freeze on

the windscreen and reduce visibility.

Battery

Disconnecting the battery

General information

The battery should only be disconnected in

exceptional cases. When the battery is dis-

connected, some of the vehicle's functions

are lost. These functions will require resetting

after the battery is reconnected.

The battery is located in the engine compart-

ment and is almost maintenance-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.

CAUTION

Never mix an unsuitable antifreeze or other

similar additives with the windscreen wash-

er water. A greasy layer may be formed on

the windscreen which will impair visibility.

When disconnecting the battery from the ve-

hicle on-board network, disconnect first the

negative cable and then the positive cable.

●

Use clean water with a window cleaner

recommended by SEAT.

All work on batteries requires specialist

knowledge. Please refer to a SEAT Official

Service or a workshop specialising in batter-

ies: risk of burns or exploding battery!

Deactivate the anti-theft alarm* before you

disconnect the battery Otherwise the alarm

will be triggered.

●

If necessary, add a suitable antifreeze to

the water in the reservoir.

The battery must not be opened. Never try

to change the fluid level of the battery. Oth-

erwise explosive gas is released from the bat-

tery that could cause an explosion.

CAUTION

If the vehicle is not used for long periods

●

Do not mix cleaning products recommen-

The vehicle has a system for monitoring the

current consumption when the engine is left

ded by SEAT with other products. This

could lead to flocculation and may block

the windscreen washer jets.

unused for long periods of time page 355.

›››

Battery warning indications

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

●

When topping up service fluids, make ab-

solutely certain that you fill the fluids into

the correct reservoirs. Using the wrong flu-

Wear eye protection.



352

Checking and refilling levels

soon as the ignition is switched on and the

engine started.

●

The batteries should be charged in a well-

ventilated room only.

Never use a defective battery. This could

cause an explosion. Replace a damaged

battery immediately.

●

Keep children away from acid and bat-

Winter conditions

teries.

During the winter, the starting power may be

reduced, and if necessary, the battery should

CAUTION

Do not expose the battery to direct sun-

light over a long period of time, as the in-

tense ultraviolet radiation can damage the

battery housing.

●

Before working on the electrical system,

you must switch off the engine, the ignition

and all electrical devices. The negative ca-

ble on the battery must be disconnected.

When a light bulb is changed, you need on-

ly switch off the light.

●

be charged

›››

WARNING

Always be aware of the danger of injury

and chemical burns as well as the risk of

accident or fire when working on the bat-

tery and the electrical system:

●

If the vehicle is left standing in cold con-

●

Deactivate the anti-theft alarm by un-

ditions for a long period, protect the bat-

tery from “freezing”. If it freezes it will be

damaged.

locking the vehicle before you disconnect

the battery! The alarm will otherwise be

triggered.

●

Wear eye protection. Protect your eyes,

●

When disconnecting the battery from the

skin and clothing from acid and particles

containing lead.

vehicle on-board network, disconnect first

the negative cable and then the positive

cable.

Warning lamp

●

Battery acid is extremely corrosive. Wear

protective gloves and eye protection. Do

not tilt the batteries. This could spill acid

through the vents.

It lights up



●

Switch off all electrical devices before

reconnecting the battery. Reconnect first

the positive cable and then the negative

cable. Never reverse the polarity of the

connections. This could cause an electrical

fire.

Alternator fault.

●

Neutralise any electrolyte splashes on

The control lamp lights up when the ignition is

switched on. It should go out when the engine

has started running.

the skin, eyes or clothing with a soapy solu-

tion, and rinse off with plenty of water. If

acid is swallowed by mistake, consult a

doctor immediately.

●

Never charge a frozen battery, or one

If the control lamp  lights up while driving,

the alternator is no longer charging the bat-

tery. You should immediately drive to the

nearest specialised workshop.

which has thawed. This could result in ex-

plosions and chemical burns. Always re-

place a battery which has frozen. A flat

battery can also freeze at temperatures

close to 0°C (+32°F).

●

Fires, sparks, open flames and smoking

are prohibited. When handling cables and

electrical equipment, avoid causing sparks

and electrostatic charge. Never short the

battery terminals. High-energy sparks can

cause injury.

You should avoid using electrical equipment

that is not absolutely necessary because this

will drain the battery.

●

Ensure that the vent hose is always con-

nected to the battery.

●

A highly explosive mixture of gases is re-

leased when the battery is under charge.

353

Practical tips

Start-Stop systems ( page 248) are equip-

›››

Checking the battery electrolyte

level

Charging or changing the battery

ped with a special battery. Therefore, it must

only be replaced with a battery of the same

specifications.

If you often drive short distances or if the ve-

hicle is not driven for long periods, the battery

should be checked by a specialised work-

shop between the scheduled services.

The electrolyte level should be checked reg-

ularly in high-mileage vehicles, in hot coun-

tries and in older batteries.

Your vehicle is equipped with an intelligent

power management system to control the

distribution of electrical energy page 355.

›››

If the battery has discharged and you have

problems starting the vehicle, the battery

might be damaged. If this happens, we rec-

ommend you have the vehicle battery

checked by a Technical Service where it will

be re-charged or replaced.

●

Open the bonnet and then lift the cover

The power management function ensures

that the battery is charged much more effi-

ciently than on vehicles without a power

management system. To maintain this func-

tion after replacing the battery, we recom-

mend that the replacement battery used is of

the same make and type as the original fitted

battery. To make proper use of the power

management function after the battery has

been changed, have the battery coded to the

power management mode at a specialised

workshop.

that protects the front part of the battery

in Working in the engine compart-

›››

ment on page 342.

●

Check the colour display in the "magic eye"

on the top of the battery.

If there are air bubbles in the window, tap

the window gently until they disperse.

●

Charging the battery

The vehicle battery should be charged by a

specialised workshop only, as batteries using

special technology have been installed and

they must be charged in a controlled environ-

ment.

The position of the battery is shown in the

corresponding engine compartment diagram

page 345.

›››

The “magic eye” indicator, located on the top

of the battery changes colour, depending on

the charge state and electrolyte level of the

battery.

WARNING

Replacing a vehicle battery

●

Always use only maintenance free bat-

The battery has been developed to suit the

conditions of its location and has special

safety features. If the battery must be re-

placed, consult a technical service for infor-

mation on electromagnetic compatibility, the

size and maintenance, performance and

safety requirements of the new battery in

your vehicle before you purchase one. SEAT

recommends you have the battery replaced

by a technical service.

teries that do not run flat alone and whose

properties, specifications and size corre-

spond to the standard battery. The specifi-

cations are indicated on the battery case.

There are two different colours:

●

Black: correct charge status.

●

Before starting any work on the batteries,

●

Transparent/light yellow: the battery must

be replaced. Contact a specialised work-

shop.

you must read and observe the warnings

›››

in General information on page 353.

For the sake of the environment

 Batteries contain toxic substances such

as sulphuric acid and lead. They must be

354

Checking and refilling levels

Battery diagnosis

disposed of appropriately and must not be

disposed of with ordinary household waste.

Note

The battery diagnosis function constantly

registers the condition of the battery. Sensors

detect the battery voltage, battery current

and battery temperature. This enables the

system to calculate the current power level

and charge condition of the battery.

●

Neither is the power management system

able to overcome the given physical limits.

Please remember that the power and use-

ful life of the battery are limited.

Energy management

●

When there is a risk that the vehicle will

not start, the alternator power failure or

low battery charge level warning lamp will

Optimisation of the starting ca-

pacity

Residual current management

be shown  page 86.

›››

The residual current management reduces

power consumption while the vehicle is

parked. It controls the supply of power to the

various electrical devices while the ignition is

switched off. The system takes the battery di-

agnosis data into consideration.

The power management controls the distri-

bution of electrical energy and thus helps to

ensure that there is always enough power

available to start the engine.

Flat battery

Starting ability has first priority.

If a vehicle with a conventional electrical sys-

tem is left parked for a long time, the battery

will gradually lose its charge because certain

electrical devices, such as the electronic

gearbox lock continues to draw current even

when the ignition is off. In some cases there

may not be enough power available to start

the engine.

Short trips, city traffic and low temperatures

all place a heavy load on the battery. In

these conditions a large amount of power is

consumed, but only a small amount is sup-

plied. The situation is also critical if electrical

devices are in use when the engine is not run-

ning. In this case power is consumed when

none is being generated.

Depending on the power level of the battery,

switch off the individual electrical devices

one after the other to prevent the battery

from losing too much charge and to ensure

that the engine can be started reliably.

Dynamic power management

Your vehicle is equipped with an intelligent

power management system to control the

distribution of electrical energy. This signifi-

cantly improves reliability when starting the

engine, and also prolongs the useful life of the

battery.

While the vehicle is moving, this function dis-

tributes the available power to the various

electrical devices and systems according to

their requirements. The power management

ensures that on-board systems do not con-

sume more electrical power than the alterna-

tor can supply, and thus maintains the maxi-

mum possible battery power level.

In these situations you will be aware that the

power management system is intervening to

control the distribution of electrical power.

When the vehicle is parked for long peri-

ods

The main functions incorporated in the power

management system are battery diagnosis,

residual current management and dynam-

ic power management.

If you do not drive your vehicle for a period of

several days or weeks, the power manage-

ment will gradually shut off the electrical de-

vices one by one or reduce the amount of

»

355

Practical tips

current they are using. This limits the amount

of power consumed and helps to ensure reli-

able starting even after a long period. Some

convenience functions, such as remote vehi-

cle opening, may not be available under cer-

tain circumstances. These functions will be

restored when you switch on the ignition and

start the engine.

reduce the current they are consuming. Heat-

ing systems in particular use a large amount

of electrical power. If you notice, for instance,

that the seat heating* or the rear window

heater is not working, they may have been

temporarily switched off or regulated to a

lower heat output. These systems will be

available again as soon as sufficient electri-

cal power is available.

Wheels

Wheels and tyres

General notes

–

When driving with new tyres, be especially

careful during the first 500 km (300 miles).

With the engine switched off

You may also notice that the engine runs at a

slightly faster idling speed when necessary.

This is quite normal, and no cause for con-

cern. The increased idling speed allows the

alternator to meet the greater power require-

ment and charge the battery at the same

time.

–

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 obstacle.

For example, if you listen to the sound system

with the engine switched off the battery will

run down.

–

Check from time to time if the tyres are

If the energy consumption means there is a

risk that the engine will not start, a text will

appear in vehicles with a driver information

system*.

damaged (punctures, cuts, cracks or

dents). Remove any foreign objects em-

bedded in the treads.

–

Damaged wheels and tyres must be re-

placed immediately.

This driver indicator tells you that you must

start the engine so that the battery can re-

charge.

–

Keep grease, oil and fuel off the tyres.

–

Replace any missing valve caps as soon as

possible.

When the engine is running

Although the alternator generates electrical

power, the battery can still become dis-

charged while the vehicle is being driven. This

can occur when a lot of power is being con-

sumed but only a small amount supplied, es-

pecially if the battery is not fully charged ini-

tially.

–

Mark the wheels before taking them off so

that they rotate in the same direction when

put back.

–

When removed, the wheels or tyres should

be stored in a cool, dry and preferably dark

place.

To restore the necessary energy balance, the

system will then temporarily shut off the elec-

trical devices that are using a lot of power, or

356

Practical tips -> Checking and refilling levels for Your Seat Ateca SUV 2020

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