Seat Ateca. Service Manual - part 11

Air conditioning

Auxiliary heater (additional
heater)*

Introduction

The auxiliary heater runs on fuel from the ve-
hicle's tank and can be used while you are
driving and when the vehicle is stationary.

The auxiliary heater can be switched on using
the fast heating button of the air condition-
ing controls, with the remote control or by
previously programming a departure time in
the auxiliary heater menu of the infotainment
system.

In winter, with the auxiliary heater switched
on, you can defog the windscreen and leave
it free of ice and snow (if it is a thin layer) be-
fore you start driving.

If the outside temperature is very high, the
vehicle interior can be ventilated with the en-
gine off using the auxiliary heater.

WARNING

Swallowing a battery with a 20 mm diameter
or any other button battery can cause serious
and even fatal injuries within a very short
time.

●

Always keep the remote control, keyrings

with batteries, the spare batteries, button
batteries and all other batteries over 20 mm
out of reach of children.

●

If you suspect that someone may have

swallowed a battery, seek immediate medical
attention.

WARNING

The auxiliary heater exhaust fumes contain
carbon monoxide, an odourless and colour-
less toxic gas. Carbon monoxide can cause
people to lose consciousness. It can also
cause death.

●

Never switch on the auxiliary heater or

leave it running in enclosed spaces or areas
with no ventilation.

●

Never programme the auxiliary heater so

that it switches itself on and is running in an
enclosed space or an area with no ventila-
tion.

WARNING

The components of the auxiliary heater are
extremely hot and could cause a fire.

●

Always park your vehicle so that no part of

the exhaust system can come in contact with
easily flammable materials that might be be-
low the vehicle, such as dried grass.

CAUTION

Never place food, medicines or other temper-
ature-sensitive objects close to the air vents.
Food, medicines and other objects sensitive
to heat or cold may be damaged or made un-

suitable for use by the air coming from the
vents.

Note

After switching the engine on with a 12-volt
battery that is heavily discharged or newly
changed or after a jump start some system
settings (such as the time, the date, the per-
sonalised comfort settings and the program-
ming) might be altered or deleted. Check and
correct these settings once the battery is suf-
ficiently charged.

Switching on and off the auxiliary
heater

Switching the auxiliary heater on:



Manually with the fast heating button of the air
conditioner controls. The control lamp of the
button will light up 

››› 

page 160

.



Manually with the remote control 

››› 

page 166

.

 

Automatically by programming and activating a
departure time 

››› 

page 167

.

Switching the auxiliary heater off:



Manually with the fast heating button of the air
conditioner controls. The control lamp of the
button goes off 

››› 

page 160

.



Manually with the remote control 

››› 

page 166

.

»

165

Tec

hnic

al

 d

at

a

Adv

ic

e

Oper

ation

Emer

genc

ie

s

Saf

ety

Operation

Switching the auxiliary heater off:

 

Automatically once the programmed departure
time has arrived or after the programmed oper-
ating time has elapsed 

››› 

page 167

.

 

Automatically when the control lamp  (fuel
level indicator) 

››› 

page 280

 lights up.

 

Automatically when the 12-volt battery charge
is too low 

››› 

page 293

.

Special feature
Once switched off, the auxiliary heater will
continue to operate for a short period of time
in order to burn the fuel remaining in the sys-
tem and also to expel the exhaust fumes.

Remote control

Fig. 164 

Auxiliary heater: remote control.

Fig. 164

Meaning



Switch the auxiliary heater on



Switch the auxiliary heater off

1

Control lamp

If the buttons of the remote control are press-
ed unnecessarily, it could switch on the auxil-
iary heater involuntarily, even when it is out
of range or when the control lamp is flashing.

Control lamp on the remote control
When the buttons are pressed, the control
lamp on the remote control provides the user
with different information:

Control lamp 

1

Meaning

It will light for about 2 sec-
onds in green.

The auxiliary heater has
been switched on using
the  button.

It will light for about 2 sec-
onds in red.

The auxiliary heater has
been switched off using
the  button.

It flashes green slowly for
approximately 2 seconds
(approximately 4 times per
second).

No on

a)

 signal has been

received.

Control lamp 

1

Meaning

It flashes green quickly for
approximately 2 seconds
(approximately 10 times
per second).

The auxiliary heater is
locked.
Possible causes: The fuel
tank is almost empty, the
12-volt battery charge is
too low or there is a fault.

It flashes orange for ap-
proximately 2 seconds
(approximately 4 times per
second).

No off

a)

 signal has been

received.

It will light for about 2 sec-
onds in orange, then
green or red.

The remote control battery
is almost flat. However,
the on or off signal has
been received.

It will light for about 2 sec-
onds in orange, then it
flashes green or red.

The remote control battery
is almost flat. No on or off
signal has been received.

It flashes orange for ap-
proximately 5 seconds.

The remote control battery
is flat. No on or off signal
has been received.

a)

The remote control is out of range. In this case it will be nec-

essary to get closer to the vehicle and press the corresponding
button again.

Replacing the remote control battery
If, when pressing the buttons of the remote
control, control lamp 

1

 flashes orange for

approximately 5 seconds or it does not
switch on, the remote control battery will
need replacing.

166

Air conditioning

The battery is located beneath a cover on the
back of the remote control.

●

To open the cover, lift it slightly at the bot-

tom and slide it down.

●

Remove the old battery.

●

Insert the new battery. When doing so, take

into account the polarity and use batteries of
the same type 

››› 

.

●

Replace the battery cover by inserting the

tabs at the top and pressing the bottom.

Range
The receiver is inside the vehicle. The remote
control, when fitted with new batteries, has a
range of several hundred metres. Obstacles
between the remote control and the vehicle,
bad weather conditions and discharged bat-
teries can considerably reduce the range of
the remote control.

CAUTION

●

The radio frequency remote control con-

tains electronic components. Therefore, avoid
getting it wet and exposing it to knocks or di-
rect sunlight.

●

The use of inappropriate batteries may

damage the radio frequency remote control.
For this reason, always replace the used bat-
tery with another of the same voltage, size
and specifications.

For the sake of the environment

●

Please dispose of your used batteries cor-

rectly and with respect for the environment.

●

The remote control battery may contain

perchlorate. Observe the legal provisions re-
garding disposal.

●

Care should be taken so as not to operate

the remote control unintentionally so as to
prevent the auxiliary heater being switched
on accidentally.

Programming the auxiliary heater

Before programming it, check that the vehi-
cle's date and time are set correctly 

››› 

.

The auxiliary heater is programmed in the

Auxiliary heater

 menu of the infotain-

ment system.

Open the 

Auxiliary heater

 menu.

●

Press the button  in the Climatronic

control panel.

●

Press the  function button.

Function button: function

Switch off

: The auxiliary heater is immediately switched

off.

Function button: function

Heat

, 

Ventilate

: Set to heat or ventilate the vehicle interi-

or when the auxiliary heater is switched on. By pressing
the function button 



, you can select the desired

mode.

Set

: Opens the 

Auxiliary heater

 menu.

 

Departure time 1

, 

Departure time 2

, 

Departure time 3

:

Three different departure times (hh.mm) may be
programmed. If the auxiliary heater should only
be switched on a certain day of the week, this can
also be selected.

Duration

: The duration determines the operating

time of the auxiliary heater when switched on us-
ing the fast heating button  on the air condi-
tioning controls. The duration is also used to cal-
culate the departure time for the manual air con-
ditioner. It can be set between 10 and 60 mi-
nutes at 10-minute intervals.



This returns to the main menu.

The programmed departure time determines
the approximate time it should take to reach
the temperature set in the vehicle. The start
of the heating operation is determined auto-
matically depending on the outside tempera-
ture.

Checking the programming
When a departure time is activated and the
ignition is switched off the control lamp of
the fast heating button  lights up for ap-
proximately 10 seconds.

»

167

Tec

hnic

al

 d

at

a

Adv

ic

e

Oper

ation

Emer

genc

ie

s

Saf

ety

Operation

WARNING

Never programme the auxiliary heater so that
it switches itself on and is running in an en-
closed space or an area with no ventilation.
The auxiliary heater exhaust fumes contain
carbon monoxide, an odourless and colour-
less toxic gas. Carbon monoxide can cause
people to lose consciousness. It can also
cause death.

Operating instructions

The auxiliary heater exhaust system located
below the vehicle must be kept clear of snow,
mud and other objects. The exhaust fumes
must be able to exit freely. The emissions
generated by the auxiliary heater are re-
moved via an exhaust pipe fitted underneath
the vehicle.

On heating the vehicle interior, depending on
the outside temperature, the warm air is first
directed at the windscreen and then to the
rest of the vehicle interior through the air
vents. Directing the diffusers – towards the
windows for example – can affect air distribu-
tion.

When will the auxiliary heater not be activa-
ted?

●

The auxiliary heater requires about as

much power as the dipped beam headlights.
If the 12-volt battery charge is too low, the

auxiliary heater switches off automatically
and cannot be switched on. This avoids prob-
lems when starting the engine.

●

The heating must be activated every time

you want to set off. Similarly, the departure
time must reactivate each time.

●

The control lamp  (fuel level indicator)

lights up.

Note

●

Noises will be heard while the auxiliary

heater is running.

●

When the air humidity is high and the in-

side temperature low, condensation from the
heating and ventilating system may evapo-
rate when the auxiliary heater is switched on.
In this case, steam may be released from un-
derneath the vehicle. This does not mean
that there is a vehicle malfunction.

●

If the vehicle is tilted, e.g. if parked on a

slope, the operation of the auxiliary heater
may be restricted if the fuel tank level is low
(just above the reserve level).

●

If the auxiliary heater is used a number of

times for a long period of time, the 12-volt
battery will lose its charge. To recharge the
battery, the vehicle must be driven for a num-
ber of kilometres from time to time. As a
guideline: The journey should last approxi-
mately as long as the heater was connected.

●

At temperatures below +5°C (+41°F), the

auxiliary heater may switch itself on automat-
ically when the engine is switched on. The

auxiliary heater is switched off again after a
certain time.

168

Driving

Driving

Start and stop the engine

Switching the ignition on and starting
the engine with the key

Fig. 165 

Ignition key positions.

Read the additional information carefully

››› 



page 24

Diesel engines can take a few seconds longer
than usual to start on cold days. Therefore
the clutch pedal (manual gearbox) or the
brake pedal (automatic gearbox) must re-
main pressed until the engine starts up. Dur-
ing preheating, the warning lamp  remains
lit.

The preheating time depends on the coolant
and exterior temperatures. With the engine at
operating temperature, or at outside temper-
atures above +8°C (+46°F), the warning

lamp  will light up for about one second.
This means that the engine starts immediate-
ly.

If the engine does not immediately start up,
interrupt the starting process and try again
after 30 seconds. To start the engine again,
return the key to position 

1

.

Start-Stop System*
If the vehicle is stopped and the Start-Stop
system* switches off the engine, the ignition
remains switched on.

Automatic gearbox: before leaving the vehi-
cle, make sure that the ignition is switched
off and the selector lever is in position 

P.

Driver messages on the instrument panel
display

Press the clutch

This message appears on vehicles with a
manual gearbox if the driver tries to start the
engine without having the clutch pedal
pressed. The engine will only start if you
press the clutch pedal.

Press the brake

This message appears on vehicles with an
automatic gearbox if the driver tries to start
the engine without having the brake pedal
pressed.

Select N or P

This message appears if you try to start or
stop the engine when the selector lever of
the automatic gearbox is not in position 

P or

N. The engine can only start or stop in certain
positions.

Engage position P; the vehicle
can move; doors can only close in
position P.

For safety reasons, this driver message ap-
pears and an audible warning sounds if the
selector lever of the automatic gearbox is not
in position 

P after you switch off the ignition.

Put the selector lever in position 

P, otherwise

the vehicle could roll away.

Gear change: selector lever in
the drive position!

This driver message is displayed when the
selector lever is not in the position 

P when

the driver door is opened. Additionally, a
buzzer will sound. Put the selector lever in
position 

P, otherwise the vehicle could roll

away.

Ignition is switched on

This driver message is displayed and a buz-
zer is sounded when the driver door is
opened with the ignition switched on.

»

169

Tec

hnic

al

 d

at

a

Adv

ic

e

Oper

ation

Emer

genc

ie

s

Saf

ety

Operation

WARNING

●

Never run the engine in confined spaces, as

the exhaust gases are poisonous.

CAUTION

Avoid high engine speeds, full throttle and
extreme load conditions until the engine has
reached its normal operating temperature,
otherwise this can damage the engine.

For the sake of the environment

Do not warm up the engine by idling it. You
should drive off as soon as you start the en-
gine. This will help avoid unnecessary ex-
haust emissions.

Note

●

If it is difficult to turn the ignition key to

the position 

2

, turn the steering wheel to

both sides to release the steering lock.

●

When starting from cold, the engine may be

a little noisy for the first few seconds until oil
pressure has built up in the hydraulic valve
lifters. This is quite normal, and no cause for
concern.

●

If the vehicle battery is disconnected and

reconnected, the key must remain in the posi-
tion 

1

 for around 5 seconds before starting

up.

●

Vehicles with automatic gearbox: after

switching off the ignition, you can only re-
move the ignition key if the selector lever is

in position “P” (parking lock). Next, the se-
lector lever is locked.

Switching off the engine with the key

Switching off the engine

–

Stop the vehicle.

–

Turn the ignition key to position 

1

››› 

Fig. 165

.

Engaging the steering wheel lock
In vehicles with automatic gearbox, the igni-
tion key can only be removed when the selec-
tor lever is in position 

P.

–

Remove the key from the ignition in posi-
tion 

1

 

››› 

Fig. 165

 

››› 

.

–

Turn the steering wheel until you hear it en-
gage.

Possible vehicle theft is prevented with the
steering lock engaged.

WARNING

●

Never switch the engine off until the vehi-

cle is stationary. The brake servo and power
steering functions will not be completely cov-
ered under warranty. More force may also be
needed to turn the steering wheel or to brake.
As you cannot steer and brake in the normal
manner, there is a greater risk of accidents
and serious injury.

●

Never remove the key from the ignition if

the vehicle is in motion. Otherwise, the steer-
ing could suddenly lock, making it impossible
to steer the vehicle: risk of accident!

●

Always take the key with you when you

leave the vehicle. This is particularly impor-
tant if there are children in the vehicle, as
they might otherwise be able to start the en-
gine or use power-operated equipment (e.g.
the electric windows), which could cause in-
juries.

CAUTION

If the engine has been running under high
load for a long time, there is a risk of heat
building up in the engine compartment after
it has been switched off; this could cause en-
gine damage. For this reason, you should idle
the engine for approximately 2 minutes be-
fore you switch it off.

Note

After the engine is switched off the radiator
fan may run on for up to 10 minutes, even if
the ignition is switched off. It is also possible
that the fan turns itself on once more if the
coolant temperature increases due to the
heat accumulated in the engine compartment
or due to its prolonged exposure to solar ra-
diation.

170

Driving

Starter button*

Fig. 166 

In the lower part of the centre con-

sole: starter button.

The vehicle engine can be started with a
starter button (Press & Drive). To do so, there
must be a valid key inside the vehicle in the
area of the front or rear seats.

In vehicles with the Keyless Access

››› 

page 116

 system, the engine can also be

started with the key in the luggage compart-
ment.

Opening the driver's door 

when exiting the

vehicle activates the electronic lock on the
steering column if the ignition is disabled.

Switching the ignition on/off manually
Briefly push the starter button without touch-
ing the brake or clutch pedal 

››› 

.

For vehicles with both manual and automatic
transmission, the starter button text

START ENGINE STOP

 flashes like a heartbeat

when the system is preset for switching the
ignition on and off.

Automatic ignition switch-off
If the driver leaves the vehicle, taking the ve-
hicle key with them but leaving the ignition
on, the ignition is switched off automatically
after a certain time. If at that time the dipped
beam is on, the parking lights will stay on for
approx. 30 minutes. The side light can be
turned off by blocking the vehicle

››› 

page 116

 or manually 

››› 

page 135

.

Emergency starting function
If no valid key is detected inside the vehicle,
an emergency start-up will be required. The
relevant message will appear in the dash
panel display. This may happen when, for ex-
ample, the battery of the vehicle key button
is very low or flat:

●

Immediately after pushing the starter but-

ton, keep the vehicle key next to the right
trim of the steering column.

●

The ignition connects and the engine starts

automatically.

Emergency disconnection
If the engine does not switch off after briefly
pressing the starter button, an emergency
disconnect will be required:

●

Press the starter button twice within 3 sec-

onds or press it once for more than 1 sec-
ond 

››› 

.

●

The engine turns off automatically.

Engine restart feature
If no valid key is detected inside the vehicle
after the engine stops, you will only have 5
seconds to restart it. A warning will display
on the dash panel screen.

After this interval, it will not be possible to
start the engine without a valid key inside
the vehicle.

Automatic deactivation of the ignition on ve-
hicles with the Start-Stop system
The ignition is switched off automatically
when the vehicle is stopped and the auto-
matic engine shutdown is active, if:

●

The driver's seat belt is not fastened,

●

the driver does not step on any pedal,

●

the driver door is opened.

After automatically turning off the ignition, if
the dipped beam  is on, the side light re-
mains on for approx. 30 minutes (if the bat-
tery is sufficiently charged). If the driver locks
the vehicle or manually turns off the light, the
side light goes out.

»

171

Tec

hnic

al

 d

at

a

Adv

ic

e

Oper

ation

Emer

genc

ie

s

Saf

ety

Operation

WARNING

Any accidental movement of the vehicle could
result in serious injury.

●

When switching on the ignition, do not

press the brake or clutch pedal, otherwise
the engine could start immediately.

WARNING

If vehicle keys are used negligently or with-
out due care, this may cause accidents and
serious injury.

●

Never leave any key inside the vehicle

when exiting. Otherwise, a child or unauthor-
ised person could lock the vehicle, start the
engine or connect the ignition and, in this
way, operate electronic equipment (e.g. the
windows).

Note

●

Before leaving the vehicle, always discon-

nect the ignition manually and, if appropri-
ate, take into account the instructions on the
screen of the dash panel.

●

If the vehicle is stationary for a long time

with the ignition on, the vehicle battery
might be discharged and it might not be pos-
sible to start the engine.

●

In diesel vehicles, there may be a delay in

the engine starting if it requires preheating.

●

If during the STOP phase you press the

START ENGINE STOP

 button, the ignition is

switched off and the button flashes.

●

If the indication “Start-Stop system deacti-

vated: Start the engine manually” is dis-
played on the dash panel display, the

START ENGINE STOP

 button will blink.

Starting the engine

3

 Valid for vehicles: with Keyless Access

Step

Starting the engine with the starter but-
ton 

››› 

page 171 (Press & Drive).

1.

Press and hold the brake pedal until step 5 is
performed.

1a.

In vehicles with a manual gearbox: press and
hold the clutch down until the engine starts.

2.

Put the gearbox lever in neutral or the selector
lever in position 

P or N.

3.

Briefly press the starter button 

››› 

Fig. 166

 with-

out pressing the accelerator. For the engine to
start there must be a valid key in the vehicle.
After starting the engine, the light of the

START ENGINE STOP

 button changes to a fixed

light indicating that the engine has started.

4.

If the engine does not start, stop and wait for
approx. 1 minute before trying again. If neces-
sary, perform an emergency start 

››› 

page 171

.

5.

Disconnect the electronic parking brake when
you are about to start driving 

››› 

page 174

.

WARNING

Never leave the vehicle with the engine run-
ning, especially if a gear or gear range is en-
gaged. The vehicle could then suddenly move
or something strange could happen that
would cause damage, fire or serious injury.

WARNING

Cold start sprays could explode or cause a
sudden increase in the engine speed.

●

Never use sprays to cold start the engine.

CAUTION

●

The starter motor or the engine may be

damaged if you try to start the engine while
driving or if you restart it immediately after
switching it off.

●

If the engine is cold, avoid high engine

speeds, pushing the engine too hard and rap-
id acceleration.

●

Do not start the engine by pushing the ve-

hicle or towing it. Unburnt fuel could enter
the catalytic converter and damage it.

Note

●

Do not wait until the engine warms up with

the vehicle stationary; if you have good visi-
bility through the windows, start driving im-
mediately. This helps the engine reach oper-
ating temperature faster and reduces emis-
sions.

172

Driving

●

Electrical components with a high power

consumption are switched off temporarily
when the engine starts.

●

When starting with a cold engine, noise

levels may briefly increase. This is quite nor-
mal, and no cause for concern.

●

When the outside temperature is below

+5°C (+41°F), if the engine is diesel, some
smoke may appear under the vehicle when
the fuel-operated auxiliary heater is on.

Stopping the engine

3

 Valid for vehicles: with Keyless Access

Step

Switch off the engine with the starter
button 

››› 

page 171.

1.

Stop the vehicle completely 

››› 

.

2.

Press and hold the brake pedal until the step
4 is performed.

3.

If you are driving an automatic vehicle, place
the selector lever in position 

P.

4.

Connect the electronic parking brake

››› 

page 174

.

5.

Briefly press the start-up button 

››› 

Fig. 166

.

The 

START ENGINE STOP

 button blinks again. If

the engine fails to switch off, perform an emer-
gency disconnect 

››› 

page 171

.

6.

If the vehicle is equipped with a manual gear-
box, put it into 1st or reverse.

WARNING

Never switch off the engine while the vehicle
is moving. This could cause loss of control of
the vehicle, accidents and serious injury.

●

The airbags and belt tensioners do not

work when the ignition is switched off.

●

The brake servo does not work with the en-

gine off. Therefore, you need to press the
break pedal harder to brake the vehicle.

●

Power steering does not work when the en-

gine is not running. You need more strength
to steer when the engine is switched off.

●

If the ignition is switched off, the steering

column could be locked, making it impossible
to control the vehicle.

CAUTION

If the engine is made to work hard for a long
time, it may overheat after being switched
off. To prevent damage to the engine before
switching it off, leave it idle for approx. 2 mi-
nutes in neutral.

Note

After switching off the engine, the cooling fan
may continue to operate in the engine com-
partment for a few more minutes, even with
the ignition off. The radiator fan is automati-
cally switched off.

“My Beat” Function

For vehicles with a convenience key there is
the “My Beat” function. This feature provides
an additional indication of the vehicle igni-
tion system.

When accessing the vehicle, e.g. by opening
the doors with the remote control, the

START ENGINE STOP

 button flashes, drawing at-

tention to the relevant starter system button.

Upon switching the ignition on/off, the light
of the 

START ENGINE STOP

 button flashes. With

the engine switched off, after a few seconds,
the 

STOP ENGINE START

 button stops flashing

and goes out.

With the engine running, the

START ENGINE STOP

 button light stays on, indi-

cating that the engine is running. Upon
switching the ignition off with the

START ENGINE STOP

 button, it starts flashing

again.

In vehicles 

with the Start-Stop system, the

“My Beat” function also offers additional in-
formation:

●

When the engine stops during the Stop

phase, the light of the 

START ENGINE STOP

 but-

ton stays on, since, even though the engine
is off, the Start-Stop system is active.

●

When the engine cannot be stated again

with the Start-Stop system, 

››› 

page 192

, and

needs to be started manually, the

»

173

Tec

hnic

al

 d

at

a

Adv

ic

e

Oper

ation

Emer

genc

ie

s

Saf

ety

Operation

START ENGINE STOP

 button flashes to indicate

this fact.

Braking and parking

Electronic parking brake

Fig. 167 

In the lower part of the centre con-

sole: electronic parking brake button.

The electronic parking brake replaces the
handbrake.

Activating the electronic parking brake
The electronic parking brake can be activated
whenever the vehicle is at a standstill, even
when the ignition is switched off. Activate it
whenever you leave or park the vehicle.

●

Pull and hold the  

››› 

Fig. 167

 button.

●

The parking brake is activated when the

control light of the 

››› 

Fig. 167

 button (arrow)

and the red  control light of the display in
the dash panel are on.

●

Release the button.

Releasing the electronic parking brake

●

Switch the ignition on.

●

Press the button  

››› 

Fig. 167

. At the same

time step hard on the brake pedal or, if the
engine is running, press the accelerator ped-
al slightly.

●

The control light of the 

››› 

Fig. 167

 button

(arrow) and the red  control light of the dis-
play in the dash panel go out.

Automatic release of the electronic parking
brake on starting the engine
The electronic parking brake is automatically
switched off when starting if, after the driv-
er's door is closed and the driver's seat belt
fastened, 

any of the following situations take

place:

●

On vehicles with an automatic gearbox: A

gear range is engaged or the vehicle is
switched to another one and the accelerator
pedal is lightly pressed.

●

In vehicles with a manual gearbox: The

clutch pedal is pressed fully before starting
off and the accelerator is pedal lightly press-
ed.

●

To facilitate certain manoeuvres there are

exceptions that allow the automatic parking

brake to be released without the driver's seat
belt being fastened.

The parking brake can be prevented from be-
ing automatically released by continuously
pulling up the  

››› 

Fig. 167

 switch when

starting off.

The electronic parking brake is not discon-
nected until the  button is released. This
can facilitate starting off when a heavy load
is towed 

››› 

page 259

.

Automatic activation of the electronic park-
ing brake when exiting the vehicle incorrect-
ly
In vehicles with automatic transmission, the
electronic parking brake is activated auto-
matically when exiting the vehicle incorrectly
if:

●

The selector lever is in the 

D/S or R posi-

tion or in the Tiptronic selection track.

●

AND: the vehicle is stationary.

●

AND: the driver door is open.

Emergency braking function
Only use the emergency brake function if you
are unable to stop the vehicle with the foot
brake 

››› 

.

●

Pull and hold the  

››› 

Fig. 167

 button in

this position to 

forcefully stop the vehicle. At

174

Driving

the same time, an acoustic warning can be
heard.

●

To stop the braking process, release the



button or press the accelerator.

WARNING

The improper use of the electronic parking
brake can cause accidents and serious injury.

●

Never use the electronic parking brake to

stop the vehicle, unless it is an emergency.
Braking distances can be considerably lon-
ger, since, under certain circumstances, only
the rear wheels brake. Always use the foot
brake.

●

Never accelerate from the engine when a

gear range or a gear is engaged and the en-
gine is running. The vehicle could move, even
if the electronic parking brake is activated.

CAUTION

To prevent the vehicle from unintentionally
moving when parking it, first apply the elec-
tronic parking brake and then remove your
foot from the brake pedal.

Note

●

In vehicles with a manual gearbox, releas-

ing the clutch and accelerating at the same
time automatically disconnects the electronic
parking brake.

●

If the vehicle battery is flat, it will not be

possible to disconnect the electronic parking
brake. Use the jump-start 

››› 



page 60

.

●

When the electronic parking brake is ap-

plied or released, noises may be heard.

●

The system performs automatic and audi-

ble tests sporadically in the parked vehicle if
some time elapses without the electronic
parking brake being used.

Parking

The electronic parking brake should always
be applied when the vehicle is parked.

Always note the following points when park-
ing the vehicle:

–

Use the brake pedal to stop the vehicle.

–

Apply the electronic parking brake.

–

Put it in 1st gear.

–

Switch the engine off and remove the key
from the ignition. Turn the steering wheel
slightly to engage the steering lock.

–

Never leave a vehicle key in the vehicle.

Additional notes on parking the vehicle on
gradients:
Turn the steering wheel so that the vehicle
rolls against the kerb if it started to roll.

●

If the vehicle is parked facing 

downhill,

turn the front wheels so that they point to-
wards the kerb.

●

If the vehicle is parked facing 

uphill, turn

the front wheels so that they point away from
the kerb.

●

Secure the vehicle as usual by applying the

electronic parking brake firmly and putting it
in 1st gear.

WARNING

●

Take measures to reduce the risk of injury

when you leave your vehicle unattended.

●

Never park where the hot exhaust system

could ignite inflammable materials, such as
dry grass, low bushes, spilt fuel etc.

●

Never allow vehicle occupants to remain in

the vehicle when it is locked. They would be
unable to open the vehicle from the inside,
and could become trapped in the vehicle in
an emergency. In the event of an emergency,
locked doors will delay assistance to vehicle
occupants.

●

Never leave children alone in the vehicle.

They could set the vehicle in motion, for ex-
ample, by releasing the electronic parking
brake or the gearshift lever, which would
cause the vehicle to move, but uncontrolla-
bly.

●

Depending on weather conditions, it may

become extremely hot or cold inside the vehi-
cle. This can be fatal.

175

Tec

hnic

al

 d

at

a

Adv

ic

e

Oper

ation

Emer

genc

ie

s

Saf

ety

Operation

Information on the brakes

New brake pads
For the first 400 km (250 miles), new brake
pads have not yet reached their maximum
braking capacity, and need to be “run in”
first. However, you can compensate for the
slightly reduced braking effect by applying
more pressure on the brake pedal. Avoid
overloading the brakes while running them
in.

Wear
The rate of wear on the 

brake pads depends

a great deal on how you drive and the condi-
tions in which the vehicle is operated. This is
a particular problem in urban traffic and
short stretches, or with very sporty driving.

Depending on the speed, the braking force
and the environmental conditions (for exam-
ple, the temperature, air humidity, etc.)
noises may be produced on braking.

Wet roads or road salt
In certain situations (for example, on driving
through flooded areas, in severe downpours
or after washing the vehicle) the braking ac-
tion could be delayed if the discs and pads
are damp, or frozen in winter. In this case the
brakes should be “dried” by pressing the
brake pedal several times.

At high speed and with the windscreen wip-
ers activated, the brake pads will briefly
touch the brake discs. This takes place, al-
though unnoticeable to the driver, at regular
intervals to improve the response time of the
brakes when they are wet.

The effectiveness of the brakes can also be
temporarily reduced if the vehicle is driven
for some distance without using the brakes
when there is a lot of salt on the road in win-
ter. The layer of salt that accumulates on the
discs and pads can be removed by gently ap-
plying the brakes a few times.

Corrosion
There may be a tendency for corrosion to
form on the discs and dirt to build up on the
brake pads if the vehicle is used infrequently
or the brakes are not used very often.

If the brakes are not used frequently, or if
rust has formed on the disks, it is advisable
to clean off the pads and disks by braking
firmly a few times at a moderately high speed

››› 

.

Fault in the brake system
If the brake pedal travel should ever increase
suddenly, this may mean that one of the two
brake circuits has failed. Drive immediately
to the nearest specialised workshop and
have the fault repaired. Drive there slowly
and remember that you will have to apply

more pressure on the brake pedal and allow
for longer stopping distances.

Low brake fluid level
Malfunctions can occur in the brake system if
the brake fluid level is too low. The brake flu-
id level is monitored electronically.

Brake servo
The brake servo increases the pressure you
apply to the brake pedal. It works only when
the engine is running.

WARNING

●

Apply the brakes heavily to clean the brake

system only in a suitable traffic situation. Do
not put other road users in danger: there is
risk of causing an accident.

●

Ensure the vehicle does not move while in

neutral, when the engine is stopped. Failure
to follow this instruction could result in an
accident.

●

If the brake fluid loses its viscosity and is

subjected to heavy use, vapour bubbles can
form in the brake system. This reduces the ef-
ficiency of the brakes.

CAUTION

●

Never let the brakes “drag” by leaving your

foot on the pedal when it is not necessary to
brake. This overheats the brakes, resulting in
longer stopping distances and greater wear.

176

Driving

●

Before driving down a long, steep gradient,

it is advisable to reduce speed and select a
lower gear. This makes use of engine braking
and relieves the brakes. If you still have to
use the brakes, it is better to brake firmly at
intervals than to apply the brakes continu-
ously.

Note

●

If the brake servo is out of action, for exam-

ple when the car is being towed, you will
have to press the brake pedal considerably
harder than normal to make up for the lack of
servo assistance.

●

If you wish to equip the vehicle with acces-

sories such as a front spoiler or wheel covers,
it is important that the flow of air to the front
wheels is not obstructed, otherwise the
brakes can overheat.

Front assist system

Electronic stability control (ESC)
The ESC helps to improve safety. It reduces
the tendency to skid and improves the stabil-
ity and roadholding of the vehicle. The ESC
detects critical handling situations, such as
vehicle understeer or oversteer, or wheelspin
on the driving wheels. It stabilises the vehi-
cle by braking individual wheels or by reduc-
ing the engine torque. The warning lamp will

flash on the instrument panel when the ESC
is intervening .

The ESC includes the anti-lock brake system
(ABS), the front assist system (HBA), the trac-
tion control system (ASR), electronic differen-
tial lock (EDS), electronic torque control
(XDS) and tractor-trailer sway mitigation*.
ESC also helps stabilise the vehicle by chang-
ing the torque.

Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
ABS prevents the wheels from locking up un-
der braking until the vehicle has reached a
virtual standstill. You can continue to steer
the vehicle even when the brakes are on full.
Keep your foot on the brake pedal and do not
pump the brakes. You will feel the brake ped-
al pulsate while the ABS is working.

Front assist system (HBA)
The brake assist system can reduce the re-
quired braking distance. The braking force is
automatically boosted if you press the brake
pedal quickly in an emergency. You must
keep pressing the brake pedal until the dan-
ger has passed.

Traction control system (ASR)
In the event of wheelspin, the traction control
system reduces the engine torque to match
the amount of grip available. This helps the

car to start moving, accelerate or climb a gra-
dient.

Electronic differential lock (EDL)
When the EDL detects wheelspin, it brakes
the spinning wheel and directs the power to
the other driven wheel. This function is active
up to approximately 100 km/h (62 mph).

To prevent the disc brake of the braked wheel
from overheating, the EDL cuts out automati-
cally if subjected to excessive loads. The ve-
hicle can still be driven. The EDL will switch
on again automatically when the brake has
cooled down.

Tractor-trailer sway mitigation*
If the vehicle is pulling a trailer, it will control
the following: Tractor-trailers tend to sway.
When the swaying of the trailer is felt by the
vehicle and detected by the ESC, it will auto-
matically brake the towing vehicle within the
limits of the system and mitigate the sway.
Tractor-trailer sway mitigation is not available
in all countries.

Electronic torque management (XDS)
When taking a curve, the driveshaft differen-
tial mechanism allows the outer wheel to turn
at a higher speed than the inner wheel. In
this way, the wheel that is turning faster (out-
er wheel) receives less drive torque than the
inner wheel. This may mean that in certain

»

177

Tec

hnic

al

 d

at

a

Adv

ic

e

Oper

ation

Emer

genc

ie

s

Saf

ety

Operation

situations the torque delivered to the inner
wheel is too high, causing the wheels to
spin. On the other hand, the outer wheel is
receiving a lower drive torque than it could
transmit. This causes an overall loss of lateral
grip on the front axle, resulting in understeer
or “lengthening” of the trajectory.

The XDS system can detect and correct this
effect via the sensors and signals of the ESC.

Via the ESC, the XDS will brake the inside
wheel and counter the excess driving torque
of that wheel. This means that the driver's
desired trajectory is much more precise.

The XDS system works in combination with
the ESC and is always active, even when ASR
traction control is disconnected, or the ESC in
Sport mode or disconnected.

Multi-collision brake
In an accident, the multi-collision brake can
help the driver by braking to avoid the risk of
skidding during the accident, which could
lead to further collisions.

The multi-collision brake works for front, side
or rear accidents, when the airbag control
unit records its activation level and the acci-
dent takes place at a speed of over 10 km/h
(6 mph). The ESC automatically brakes the
vehicle, as long as the accident has not dam-
aged the ESC, the brake hydraulics or the on-
board network

The following actions control automatic brak-
ing during the accident:

●

When the driver presses the accelerator,

the automatic braking does not take place.

●

When the braking pressure through press-

ing the brake pedal is greater than the sys-
tem’s braking pressure the vehicle will brake
automatically.

●

Multi-collision braking will not be available

if ESC is malfunctioning.

WARNING

●

The ESC, ABS, ASR, EDS and the electronic

torque control system cannot exceed the lim-
its imposed by the laws of physics. Always
bear this in mind, especially on wet or slip-
pery roads. If you notice the systems cutting
in, you should reduce your speed immediate-
ly to suit the road and traffic conditions. Do
not be encouraged to take risks by the pres-
ence of more safety systems. If you do, an ac-
cident may occur.

●

Please remember that the accident risk al-

ways increases if you drive fast, especially in
corners or on a slippery road, or if you follow
too close behind the vehicle in front of you.
The ESC, ABS, brake assist, EDS and the elec-
tronic torque control system cannot prevent
accidents: risk of accidents!

●

Accelerate with caution on slippery surfa-

ces (for example, icy or snow-covered). De-
spite the control systems, the driven wheels

could spin, affecting the stability of the vehi-
cle: risk of accident!

Note

●

The ABS and ASR will only operate correctly

if the four wheels have identical tyres. Any
differences in the rolling radius of the tyres
can cause the system to reduce engine power
when this is not desired.

●

The regulating processes of the systems

can make noises when they intervene.

●

If the warning lamp  lights up, or  alter-

natively, there could be a fault 

››› 

page 110

.

Switching on/off the ESC and ASR

The ESC is switched on automatically when
the engine is started, and only works when
the engine is running and includes the ABS,
EDS and ASR systems.

The ASR function should only be switched off
in situations in which traction is insufficient,
including:

●

When driving in deep snow or on surfaces

that are not very firm.

●

To “free” the vehicle if it gets stuck.

Then switch the ASR function back on.

178

Driving

Depending on the finishes and versions,
there is the possibility of disconnecting only
the ASR or activating the ESC Sport mode.

Disable ASR
The Easy Connect system menu is used to
switch off the ASR 

››› 

page 112

. The traction

control system will be disabled.

The control lamp  lights up. For vehicles
with a driver information system* the driver
will be informed that 

ASR is disabled

.

Activate ASR
The Easy Connect system menu 

››› 

page 112

is used to switch on the ASR. The traction
control system will be enabled.

The control lamp  switches off. For vehicles
with a driver information system* the driver
will be informed that 

ASR is enabled

.

ESC in “Sport” mode
Sport mode can be connected via the Easy
Connect 

››› 

page 112

 system menu. The ac-

tion of the ESC and the ASR is limited 

››› 

.

The control lamp  lights up. For vehicles
with a driver information system* the driver
will be informed that:

Electronic Stability Control
(ESC): sport. Warning! Limited
stability

Disable ESC “Sport” mode
Through the Easy Connect system menu

››› 

page 112

. The warning lamp  will switch

off. For vehicles with a driver information sys-
tem* the driver will be informed that:

Electronic Stability Control
(ESC): On

ESC in “Offroad”

1)

 mode

Turn the Driving Experience button to select
the Offroad mode and connect it

››› 

page 230

. The interventions of the ESC, as

well as of the ASR, EDS and the ABS, adapt to
irregular terrain.

The control lamp  lights up.

In the following exceptional situations it may
make sense to activate the Offroad mode to
allow the wheels to spin:

●

When “swinging” the vehicle to get it un-

stuck.

●

Driving in deep snow or on loose surfaces.

●

When driving on rough terrain with much of

the car's weight is lifted off the wheels (axle
articulation).

●

Steep descents with braking on unpaved

terrain.

For your safety we recommend that you turn
off the Offroad mode when it is not absolute-
ly necessary.

Disable the ESC Offroad mode
Turn the Driving Experience button to select a
different driving mode 

››› 

page 230

. The

warning lamp  will switch off.

ESC in “Snow” mode

1)

Turn the Driving Experience button to select
the “Snow” mode and connect it.

››› 

page 230

 Traction control system (ASR) in-

terventions adjust to the adhesion of snowy
roads.

Disable the ESC “Snow” mode
Turn the Driving Experience button to select a
different driving mode 

››› 

page 230

.

WARNING

The ESC Sport mode should be activated only
when traffic conditions and the ability of the
driver allow it. Danger of skidding!

●

With ESC in Sport mode, the stabilising

function will be limited to allow for a sportier

»

1)

Only for 4Drive models.

179

Tec

hnic

al

 d

at

a

Adv

ic

e

Oper

ation

Emer

genc

ie

s

Saf

ety

Operation

drive. The driving wheels could spin and the
vehicle could skid.

WARNING

You should only activate the Offroad Mode or
disable the ASR if the experience of the driver
and traffic conditions allow it. Danger of skid-
ding!

●

With the Offroad mode activated, the stabi-

lisation function is limited. In particular, if
the road is too smooth and slippery, the driv-
ing wheels could spin and the vehicle could
skid.

Note

If the ASR is disconnected or the ESC’s Sport
mode is selected, cruise control* will be
switched off.

Manual gearbox

Changing gear

Read the additional information carefully

››› 



page 41

In some countries the clutch pedal must be
fully pressed down for the engine to start.

Selecting reverse gear

●

Engage reverse gear only when the vehicle

is stopped.

Changing down gears
While driving, changing down a gear must al-
ways be done gradually, i.e. to the gear di-
rectly below and when the engine speed is
not too high 

››› 

. Changing down while by-

passing one or various gears at high speeds
or at high engine speeds can damage the
clutch and the gearbox, even if the clutch
pedal remains depressed 

››› 

.

WARNING

When the engine is running, the vehicle will
start to move as soon as a gear is engaged
and the clutch released. This is also the case
with the electronic parking brake switched
on.

●

Never engage reverse gear when the vehi-

cle is moving.

WARNING

If the gear is changed down inappropriately
by selecting a gear that is too low, you may
lose control of the vehicle, causing an acci-
dent and serious injuries.

CAUTION

When travelling at high speeds or at high en-
gine speeds, selecting a gear that is too low

can cause considerable damage to the clutch
and the gearbox. This can also occur if the
clutch pedal is pressed and held and it does
not engage.

CAUTION

To prevent damage and avoid premature
wear, please observe the following:

●

Do not rest your hand on the gear lever

while driving. The pressure applied by your
hand is transmitted to the gearbox selector
forks.

●

Always ensure that the vehicle is complete-

ly stopped before engaging the reverse gear.

●

Always press the clutch to the floor when

changing gears.

●

Never hold the vehicle “on the clutch” on

hills with the engine on.

Automatic gearbox/DSG auto-
matic gearbox*

Introduction

Your vehicle is equipped with an electronical-
ly controlled manual gearbox. Torque be-
tween the engine and the gearbox is trans-
mitted via two independent clutches. They re-
place the torque converter found on conven-
tional automatic gearboxes and allow for

180