2023 Seat Ateca Lightning

In the world of the Seat Ateca for the year 2023, its carefully made lighting system shows how light can be used to make art. From the time the car starts up, this symphony of lighting is more than just a practical necessity; it’s also a design element that makes the car safer, easier to see, and more appealing to look at as a whole. At the front are the headlights, which are often made with LED technology that not only makes the road ahead brighter but also gives the Ateca a unique look. These headlights, whether they are halogen or LED, go from day to night with ease. Some types even have an automatic on/off feature that responds to changes in the environment. LED daytime running lights (DRLs) give the Ateca a more modern look and make it easier to see. They are built into the design without looking out of place. Even the turn signs are flexible, as they often use LEDs to let other drivers know quickly and clearly what you want to do. The inside of the Ateca can be turned into a bright refuge with adjustable ambient lighting that gives it a sophisticated feel. The instrument panel and infotainment system are lit with soft light, making sure that important information is easy to see without hurting the eyes. When the trip goes late into the night, the lighting system shows how well it works. Fog lights shine through the fog to make the way clear, and rear fog lights make it easier to see the car from behind. Built-in lights in the exterior mirrors and door handles create a welcoming atmosphere and make it easier to get in and out of the car safely. Safety is still the most important thing. 

Lights

Vehicle lighting

Control lamps

It lights up

• Driving light totally or partially faulty.
• Fault in the cornering light system.

It lights up

• The rear fog light was switched.

It lights up

• Left or right turn signal.
• The control lamp flashes twice as fast when a turn signal is faulty.
• Hazard warning lights.

It lights up

• Trailer turn signals

It lights up

• Main beam on or flasher.

It lights up

• The Light Assist system.

Several warning and control lamps light up for a few seconds when the ignition is switched on, signalling that the function is being verified. They will switch off after a few seconds.

WARNING: Observe the safety warnings ››› in Control and warning lamps.

Headlight switch

• Turn the switch to the required position.

Symbol	Ignition switched off	Ignition is switched on
0	Fog lights, dipped beam and side lights off.	Daylight running lights switched on.

AUTO	The “Coming home”, “Leaving home” and Wel- come lights may be switched on.	Automatic control of dipped beam and daytime running light.
	Side light on.	Daylight running lights switched on.
	Dipped beam headlight off	Dipped beam switched on.

• The driver is personally responsible for the correct use and adjustment of the lights in all situations.

Automatic dipped beam headlight control AUTO

The automatic dipped beam control is merely intended as an aid and is not able to recognise all driving situations. When the light switch is in position AUTO, the vehicle lights and the instrument panel and switch lighting switch on automatically in the following situations:

• The photo sensor detects darkness, for example, when driving through a tunnel. They switch off when adequate lighting is detected.
• The rain sensor detects rain and activates the wipers. They switch off when the wipers have not been activated for a few minutes.

Daytime running lights

The daytime running lights consist of individual lights, integrated in the front headlights. These lights come on when the daytime running lights are switched on. On vehicles equipped with LED tail lights, the rear side light is switched on as well.

The daytime running lights turn on every time the ignition is switched on, if the switch is in position 0 or AUTO, according to the level of exterior lighting. When the light switch is in position AUTO, a light sensor automatically switches dipped beam on and off (including the control and instrument lighting) or the daytime running lights depending on the level of exterior lighting.

Motorway light

The motorway light is available on vehicles equipped with full-LED lights. The function is connected and disconnected via the corresponding Infotainment system menu.

• Activation: when going above 110 km/h (68 mph) for more than 10 seconds, the dipped beam raises slightly to increase the driver’s visibility distance.
• Deactivation: when reducing the speed of the vehicle below 100 km/h (62 mph), the dipped beam immediately returns to its normal position.

Audible warnings to advise the driver that

the lights have not been switched off If the ignition is not connected and the driver door is open, an audible warning signal is heard in the following cases: this will remind you to turn the light off.

• When the parking light.
• When the light switch is in position or .

WARNING

If the road is not well lit and other road users cannot see the vehicle well enough or at all, accidents may occur.

• The automatic dipped beam control (AUTO) only switches on the dipped beam when there are changes in light conditions but not, for example, when it is foggy.

WARNING

The side lights or daytime running lights are not bright enough to illuminate the road ahead and to ensure that other road users are able to see you.

• Always use your dipped beam head lights if it is raining or if visibility is poor.
• Never drive with daytime lights if the road is not well-lit due to weather or lighting conditions.
• On vehicles with rear lights with bulbs, when activating the daytime running light the rear lights are not switched on. A vehicle which does not have the rear lights on may not be visible to other drivers in the darkness, in the case of heavy rain or in conditions of poor visibility.

WARNING

• If the headlights are set too high and not used correctly, there is a risk of dazzling or distracting other road users. This could result in a serious accident.
• Always make sure that the headlights are correctly adjusted.

Note

• The legal requirements regarding the use of vehicle lights in each country must be observed.
• The dipped beam headlights will only work with the ignition on. The side lights come on automatically when the ignition is turned off.

Fog lights

The warning lamps or also show, on the light switch or instrument panel, when the front fog lights are on.

• Turning on the front fog lights: pull the light switch out from its first click position ››› Fig. 97 1, from positions , or AUTO.
• Turning on the rear fog light : pull the light switch fully out 2 from position , or AUTO.
• To switch off the fog lights, press the light switch or turn it to position 0.

Note: The rear fog light can dazzle drivers behind you. You should use the rear fog light only when visibility is very poor.

Turn signal and main beam lever

More the lever to the required position:

1. Right turn light or right-hand parking light (ignition switched off).
2. Left turn light or left-hand parking light (ignition switched off).
3. Turning main beam headlights on: control lamp lit up on the instrument panel.
4. The headlight flasher comes on while we pull the lever. Control lamp lit up.

Place the lever in rest position to turn off the corresponding function.

Convenience turn signals

When the ignition is switched on, move the lever as far as possible upwards or downwards and release the lever. The turn signal will flash three times. The convenience turn signals are switched on and off in the infotainment system by means of the function button > Settings > Light > Light Assist > Convenience turn signals.
In vehicles that do not have the corresponding menu, this function can be deactivated in a specialised workshop.

Parking light

The parking lights will only work with the ignition off. If said light is on, an audible warning will sound while the driver door is open.

• Switch the ignition off.
• Move the turn signal lever up or down.

When the parking light is switched on, the front side light and the tail light on the corresponding side of the vehicle turn on.

Parking light on both sides

• Switch the ignition off.
• Place the light switch in position.
• Lock the vehicle from the outside.

In doing so, only the side lights of both headlights light up, and additionally the tail lights will do so partially.

WARNING

Improper or lack of use of the turn signals, or forgetting to deactivate them can confuse other road users. This could result in a serious accident.

• Always give warning when you are going to change lane, overtake or when turning, activating the turn signal in good time.
• As soon as you have finished changing lane, overtaking or turning, switch the turn signal off.

WARNING

• Incorrect use of the headlights may cause accidents and serious injury, as the main beam may distract or dazzle other drivers.

Note

• When you turn the ignition off without having turned the turn signals off, an acoustic signal sounds while the driver door is open. This is intended as a reminder to switch off the turn signal, unless you wish to leave the parking light on.
• If the convenience turn signals are operating (three flashes) and the other convenience turn signals are switched on, the active part stops flashing and only flashes once in the new part selected.
• The turn signal only works when the ignition is switched on. The hazard warning lights also work when the ignition is switched off.
• If a trailer turn signal malfunctions, the control lamp will stop flashing (trailer turn signals) and the vehicle turn signal will flash at double speed.
• The main beam headlights can only be switched on if the dipped beam headlights are already on.
• In cold or damp weather conditions, the headlights, tail lights and turn signals may mist up inside temporarily. This is normal and in no way effects the useful life of the vehicle lighting system.
• The parking light does not activate automatically if the left- or right-hand turn signal is left on and the ignition is disconnected.

Main beam assist

Main beam assist (Light Assist)

The main beam assist automatically prevents glare from vehicles moving in the opposite direction or ahead in the same direction. In addition, the main beam assist detects illuminated areas and disconnects the main beam headlight when passing, e.g. by populated areas. Within its limitations, the assist system automatically connects or disconnects the main beam headlight depending on the environmental and traffic conditions, as well as the speed.

Switching the main beam assist on

• Turn on the ignition and turn the light switch to the position AUTO.
• From the base position, press the turn signal and main beam headlights lever forwards ››› Fig. 98 3.

When the main beam assistant is on, the indicator lamp lights up on the instrument cluster display. When the main beam light is on, the main beam indicator lamp lights up on the instrument cluster.

Switching the main beam assist off

• Turn the light switch to a position other than AUTO.
• OR: while the main beam is on, pull the turn
  signal light and main beam headlights lever
  forwards ››› Fig. 98 4.
• OR: if the main beam assistant is on, but the main beam does not turn on, press the turn signal and main beam lever forwards to turn the main beam on manually. Pull the turn signal and main beam lever back to switch off the main beam manually, if necessary.
• OR: switch off the ignition.

System limitations

In the following cases, the main beam headlight must be switched off manually because the main beam assist will not disconnect it on time or disconnect it at all:

• On roads with insufficient lighting with very reflective signs
• If road users are insufficiently lit up, e.g. pedestrians or cyclists.
• On closed curves, when the traffic in the opposite direction is partially hidden, on pronounced slopes or inclinations.
• On roads with traffic in the opposite direction and with a central reservation barrier where the driver can see over it e.g. lorry drivers.
• In the event of fog, snow or heavy rain
• In the event of dust or sand storms
• If the windscreen is damaged in the camera’s field of vision.
• If the camera’s field of vision is misted up, dirty or covered by a sticker, snow or ice.
• If the camera is damaged or if the power supply has been cut off.

WARNING

The convenience features of the main beam assist should not encourage the taking of risks. The system is not a replacement for driver concentration.

• You are always in control of the main beam and adapting it to the light, visibility and traffic conditions.
• It is possible that the main beam headlight control does not recognise all driving situations and is limited under certain circumstances.
• When the field of vision of the camera is dirty, covered or damaged, operation of the main beam control may be affected. This also applies when changes are made to the vehicle lighting system, for example, if additional headlights are installed.

CAUTION

To avoid affecting the operation of the system, take the following points into consideration:

• Clean the field of vision of the camera regularly and make sure it is free of snow and ice.
• Do not cover the field of vision of the camera.
• Check that the windscreen is not damaged in the area of the field of vision of the camera.

Note

• The headlight flasher can be turned on and off manually at any time with the turn signal and main beam lever.
• If there are objects that radiate light in the camera’s area of influence, e.g. a portable navigation system, this may affect the operation of the main beam assist system.

Fog lights with cornering light function

The cornering light function is an additional function to the dipped beam headlights to improve lighting of the side of the road when taking a sharp turn at low speed. The cornering light function works when the dipped beam headlights are already on and it is activated when driving at speeds below approximately 40 km/h (25 mph).

• If the steering wheel is turned or the turn signal is switched on, the front fog light gradually turns on. After the turn, the cornering light function is gradually switched off.
• When engaging reverse gear, both front fog lights turn on.

“Coming home” and “Leaving home” function

The “Coming home” and “Leaving home” function lights up the vehicle’s immediate proximity when getting into and out of it in the dark. When switched on, the front position and dipped beam lights, tail lights and license plate light come on. The “Leaving Home” is controlled by a photosensor. In the vehicle settings menu of the infotainment system you can adjust the duration of the light switch-off delay, and activate and deactivate the function.

Activating the “Coming Home” function

For vehicles with light and rain sensors.

• Switch off the engine and remove the key from the ignition with the light switch in position AUTO.
• The automatic “Coming Home” function is only active when the light sensor detects darkness.

For vehicles without light and rain sensors.

• Switch the ignition off.
• Activate the headlight flashers for approximately 1 second.

When the driver door is opened, the “Coming Home” lighting comes on. The headlight turning off time counts from when the last door or rear lid are closed.

The “Coming Home” lighting turns off in the following cases:

• Automatically, once the headlight turning off time has elapsed.
• Automatically, when a vehicle door or the rear lid is still open 30 seconds after starting the engine.
• When the rotary light switch is turned to position 0.
• With the ignition is switched on.

Activating the “Leaving Home” function

• Unlock the vehicle using the remote control.
• The “Leaving Home” function is only activated when the light switch is in position AUTO and the light sensor detects darkness.

The “Leaving Home” lighting switches off in the following cases:

• Automatically, when the “Leaving Home” switch-on time ends (default 30 sec).
• When the vehicle is locked using the remote control.
• When the light switch is turned to position 0.
• With the ignition is switched on.

Welcome light 1)

The welcome light is a light located on the exterior mirrors, focused on the ground, which activates or deactivates if the light switch is in the AUTO position and the “Coming Home” or “Leaving Home” function is turned on or off.

Note: To activate the “Coming Home” and “Leaving Home” function, the rotary light switch must be in position AUTO and the light sensor must detect darkness.

Hazard warning lights

Hazard warning lights

The hazard warning lights are used to draw the attention of other road users to your vehicle in emergencies.

If your vehicle breaks down:

1. Park your vehicle at a safe distance from moving traffic.
2. Press the button to switch on the hazard warning lights.
3. Switch the ignition off.
4. Apply the electronic parking brake.
5. For a manual gearbox, engage 1st gear; for an automatic gearbox, move the gear lever to P.
6. Use the warning triangle to draw the attention of other road users to your vehicle.
7. Always take the vehicle key with you when you leave the vehicle.

All turn signals flash simultaneously when the hazard warning lights are switched on. The two turn signal turn signal lamps and the turn signal lamp in the switch will flash at the same time. The simultaneous hazard warning lights also work when the ignition is switched off.

Emergency braking warning

If the vehicle brakes suddenly and continuously at a speed of more than 80 km/h (50 mph), the brake light flashes several times per second to warn the vehicles driving behind. If you continue braking, the hazard warning lights will come on automatically when the vehicle comes to a standstill. They switch off automatically when the vehicle starts to move again.

WARNING

• The risk of an accident increases if your vehicle breaks down. Always use the hazard warning lights and a warning triangle to draw the attention of other road users to your stationary vehicle.
• Due to the high temperatures that the catalytic converter can reach, never park in an area where the catalytic converter could come into contact with highly inflammable materials, for example dry grass or spilt petrol. This could start a fire.

Note

• The 12-volt vehicle battery will run down if the hazard warning lights are left on for a long time, even if the ignition is switched off.
• The use of the hazard warning lights described here is subject to the relevant statutory requirements.

Dynamic headlight range control

The headlight range is automatically adjusted according to the vehicle load status when they are switched on.

WARNING

• Heavy objects in the vehicle may mean that the headlights dazzle and distract other drivers. This could result in a serious accident.

Driving abroad

The light beam of the dipped beam lights is asymmetric: the side of the road on which you are driving is lit more intensely. When a car that is manufactured in a country that drives on the right travels to a country that drives on the left (or vice versa), it is normally necessary to cover part of the headlight bulbs with stickers or to change the adjustment of the headlights to avoid dazzling other drivers. In such cases, the regulations specify certain light values that must be complied with for designated points of the light distribution. This is known as “Tourist light”. The light distribution of the halogen and full- LED headlights allows the specific “tourist light” values to be met without the need for stickers or changes in the settings.

Note: “Tourist light” is only allowed temporarily. If you are planning a long stay in a country that drives on the other side, you should take the vehicle to an Authorised Technical Service to change the headlights.

Interior lights

Lighting of the instrument panel, displays and switches

Depending on the model, the lighting of the instrument cluster and switches can be adjusted in the infotainment system, using the > Settings > Light > Interior lighting function button; OR: > Interior settings > Light > Instrument cluster.

With the ignition on and without light activation, the analogue instrument panel lighting remains activated in daytime light conditions. The lighting is reduced as the exterior light diminishes. In some cases, e.g. when driving through a tunnel without the AUTO function active, the instrument panel lighting may even switch off. The objective of this function is to provide the driver with a visual indication that he or she should activate the dipped beam. If your vehicle is equipped with a digital instrument panel (Digital SEAT Cockpit), the following message will appear Turn on the lights on the instrument panel.

Interior and reading lights

Knob	Function
0	Turns off the interior lights.
	Turning the interior lights on or off.

Central position or a)	The interior lights come on automatically when you unlock the vehicle, open a door or remove the key from the ignition. The light goes out a few seconds after closing all the doors, when locking the vehicle or connecting the ignition.
	Turning the reading light on and off

• a) Depending on version.

Glove compartment and luggage compartment lighting

When opening and closing the glove compartment on the front passenger side and the rear lid, the respective light will automatically switch on and off.

Footwell lighting

The lights in the footwell area below the dash (driver and front passenger sides) will switch on when the doors are opened and will decrease in intensity while driving. This intensity can be adjusted through the infotainment system menu using the function button > Settings > Light > Interior lighting.

Background lighting

• The background lighting lights up the area of the centre console and the footwell area and, depending on the version, the front door panels as well.
• The intensity of the background lighting can be adjusted through the infotainment menu. The colour can also be changed in versions with lighting on the front door panel using the > Settings > Background lighting function button; OR: > Background lighting.

Note

• Depending on the features fitted in the vehicle, LEDs can be used for the following interior lights: front vanity mirror light, rear vanity mirror light, footwell light, sun blind and glove compartment light.
• The reading lights go out when the vehicle is closed and locked or after a few minutes of turning the ignition off. This prevents the 12-volt vehicle battery from discharging.

FAQ