SEAT Leon Common Problems and Solutions
High Idling
Problem:
The coolant sensor can fail on these cars, causing high idling. Is the video below similar to your issue?
Solution:
You need to replace the coolant sensor to fix this problem.
Difficulty level
Airbag warning light
Problem:
The electrical wiring underneath the drivers seat is known to fail, causing the airbag warning light to appear on the dashboard. Do not worry too much, as this is not commonly the airbag at fault.
Solution:
You will need to repair the wiring to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Water leaking into front footwells
Problem:
There is a known issue with the door seals on the Leon. If you are finding wet patches or smelling dampness from the front footwell, this is the most likely cause.
Solution:
You will need to ensure that the seal between the A-pillar and the door is fitted correctly and may even result in a new seal being needed. Once you have sorted the seal, you will need to ensure you dry out the carpets to stop dampness setting in.
Difficulty level
DPF warning light
Problem:
When the DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) warning light is switched on the dashboard, it usually means the DPF is blocked. This happens when the vehicle is used for short journeys, not allowing the DPF to get hot enough to burn off the unwanted particles.
Solution:
You will need to take the car out onto an open road where you can drive at around 2500rpm in 4th gear for about 10 minutes to allow the filter to get hot enough to burn off the particulates. This should clear the filter and turn off the DPF warning light on the dashboard. If the warning light does not go out, you may have to remove the DPF and clean it out manually or it may even be an issue with the sensor.
Difficulty level
Loss Of Power (All 2.0-ltr TDI Diesels)
Problem:
The engine power cuts out while driving.
Solution:
This isn’t a very common problem, but it does tend to affect some 2-litre TDI diesels. It’s being caused by either a faulty fuel pump relay or the turbo unit. Check the fuel pump relay first, as this is a much easier and less pricey fix. If your fuel pump relay seems to be fine, then you will have to order a full turbo unit from our Seat Leon parts listing and replace the faulty one.
Difficulty level
Water on the Road
Problem:
When you turn off the car, you can see a drop of water on the road. This is sometimes accompanied by the warning light that tells you that the water coolant level is low, even when you have filled it.
Solution:
If the warning light is not on, but you have been running the AC, then this should be nothing to worry about. If you have a water leak as well as the low coolant warning light, then this will be down to a faulty sensor. We have a range of sensors available if you need to replace a broken or damaged one. If replacing the sensor doesn’t work, then you will need to carry out a pressure test on your cooling system to discover the location of the leak.
Difficulty level
Can’t Get Into 5th and 6th Gear
Problem:
You can move the gear stick into the 5th and 6th positions, but the car remains in 4th gear.
Solution:
The Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) is notorious for problems and has been the subject of a huge number of updates. You may need to replace the entire DSG, which is available from our website. However, before you do that, it’s worth having a full diagnostic scan to make sure.
Difficulty level
Turn Signal Not Working
Problem:
The turn signal doesn’t work.
Solution:
This can be a tricky problem to notice since you will still hear the clicking sound that’s normally there. Usually, you will only find out this is an issue if someone tells you or if you conduct regular walkarounds. This was a common fault in Leons built between 2016 and 2018, and it’s a programming issue. You’ll need to reprogram the on-board network control unit, which will usually have to be done by a Seat dealership.
Difficulty level