seat throttle relearn

How to Perform a Throttle Relearn on Your Seat Vehicle

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Throttle Relearn Procedure for Seat Vehicles

Performing a throttle relearn, also known as a throttle body alignment or idle relearn, is an important maintenance procedure for many Seat vehicles. Over time, the electronic throttle control system can lose its adaptive memory settings, leading to poor idle quality, rough running, hesitation on acceleration, and other drivability issues. Resetting the throttle body calibration allows the engine control module (ECM) to relearn the correct throttle position sensor settings.

This comprehensive guide will explain the throttle relearn procedure for popular Seat models, including the Ibiza, Leon, Altea, Toledo, Arona, Ateca, Tarraco, Alhambra, and Mii. It is intended for informational purposes only – please consult with a qualified Seat mechanic and refer to your vehicle’s service manual before attempting this procedure.

Symptoms Indicating a Throttle Relearn May Be Needed

  • Rough, unstable, or high idle
  • Engine stalling
  • Hesitation or stumbling on acceleration
  • Check engine light on with throttle body-related fault codes
  • Reduced fuel efficiency
  • Uneven or jerky power delivery
  • Surging or hunting idle
  • Inconsistent engine response to accelerator pedal input

Common Reasons for Losing Throttle Calibration

The adaptive throttle position settings can be lost or corrupted for several reasons:

  • Disconnecting or replacing the battery
  • Performing an ECM reset
  • Clearing diagnostic trouble codes
  • Replacing the throttle body
  • Modifying the air intake or engine tune
  • Electrical issues such as corroded wiring or loose connections

If you have experienced any of these situations, it’s a good idea to perform a throttle relearn to restore proper operation. In some cases, a scan tool may directly prompt you that a relearn is required.

Safety Precautions

Before beginning the throttle relearn procedure, make sure to follow these important safety guidelines:

  1. Park your vehicle on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and ensure the transmission is in Park (automatic) or Neutral (manual).
  2. Turn off all electrical accessories and ensure nothing is plugged into the 12V power outlets.
  3. Do not touch or disturb the accelerator pedal during the relearn process. Any external input can cause the procedure to fail.
  4. Make sure the battery is fully charged and in good condition. Use a charger to maintain voltage if needed.
  5. Work in a well-ventilated area away from flammable materials since the engine will be running.
  6. Keep hands, clothing, tools, and other objects away from moving parts in the engine compartment.
  7. Allow the engine to cool before beginning work to avoid burns or injuries.
  8. Wear safety glasses and protective gloves.
  9. Have a fire extinguisher on hand.
  10. If you feel unsure or uncomfortable at any point, stop and consult a professional Seat mechanic for assistance.

General Throttle Relearn Process

While the exact steps can vary between specific Seat models and engine types, the general process for performing a throttle position sensor relearn is as follows:

  1. Switch the ignition on (key in position II) but do not start the engine. Make sure all accessories are off.
  2. Wait 10 seconds to allow the ECM to power up fully. You may hear some clicking noises from the throttle body during this time.
  3. Fully depress the accelerator pedal to the floor and release it completely. Perform this full range of motion 3-5 times in succession.
  4. Wait 7-10 seconds for the ECM to recalibrate the sensor values. Do not touch the pedal during this time.
  5. Start the engine and let it idle in Park for 3 minutes. The engine may run rough or fast at first but should gradually stabilize.
  6. Perform a road test, driving at various steady speeds and gently accelerating. Make sure to drive long enough for the transmission to shift through each gear. Avoid hard acceleration or high RPMs.
  7. If the symptoms persist, repeat the relearn procedure 2-3 more times. In rare cases, a manual throttle body cleaning or replacement may be required if the valve is physically sticking.

Some later model year Seat vehicles (2015+) may support an alternative relearn method using a compatible OBD-II scan tool like VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System):

  1. Connect the scan tool to the vehicle’s diagnostic port and power it on.
  2. Navigate to the Engine Control Module and select Basic Settings.
  3. Depending on your engine type, look for Throttle Body Alignment, Throttle Valve Adaptation, or a similar option. Select it.
  4. Follow the on-screen prompts to perform the relearn. The process will take 30-60 seconds.
  5. Once complete, restart the engine and perform a road test to confirm proper operation.

Not all Seat models support this option. Consult your service manual or a dealer to check if a scan tool relearn is available for your specific vehicle.

Model-Specific Relearn Tutorials

Here are some of the most common Seat models that may require a throttle body relearn, along with specific instructions and tips for each vehicle. Click on a model to jump to its detailed tutorial:

Seat Ibiza

The Seat Ibiza supermini has been in production since 1984 and is now in its fifth generation. Ibiza models from 2008-present (Mk4 and Mk5) commonly require a throttle body relearn after battery or ECM issues.

To perform the relearn procedure:

  1. Make sure the engine is off and cool. The key should be in the ignition but switched off.
  2. Disconnect the negative battery terminal for 10 minutes to fully reset the ECM. Reconnect the battery.
  3. Turn the key to the “on” position (second click) but do not start the engine.
  4. Wait 30 seconds, then fully depress and release the accelerator pedal 5 times within 10 seconds.
  5. Wait another 30 seconds for the relearn to complete. You may hear a slight clicking noise from the throttle body.
  6. Start the engine and let it idle for 5 minutes. The idle may be high at first but should gradually come down to normal.
  7. Take the Ibiza for a 10-minute test drive. Accelerate smoothly through each gear and make sure the idle remains stable.

Tips:

  • Ibiza models with keyless ignition (KESSY) use the same procedure, just press the Start button without your foot on the brake to enter accessory mode.
  • If the check engine light comes on during the relearn with throttle-related fault codes, the throttle body may be faulty. Common codes include P0121, P0122, P0123, P0222, P0223.
  • The Ibiza’s throttle body is located on top of the engine, attached to the intake manifold. Over time, carbon deposits can accumulate on the throttle plate and housing, causing the valve to stick. If the relearn doesn’t resolve your issues, try cleaning the throttle body with throttle body cleaner spray.

Seat Leon

The Seat Leon compact car shares many components with the Volkswagen Golf and Audi A3. First introduced in 1998, the Leon is known for its sporty handling and performance. Models from 2005-present (Mk2 and later) use a drive-by-wire throttle system that may need to be relearned after electrical issues.

Follow these steps:

  1. Sit in the driver’s seat and close all doors.Insert the key into the ignition.
  2. Turn the key to the ON position (second click) without starting the engine. All warning lights should illuminate.
  3. Wait 10 seconds, then fully press and release the accelerator pedal to the floor 3 times within 5 seconds.
  4. Wait another 10 seconds for the ECM to recalibrate. Do not touch the pedal during this time.
  5. Start the engine and let it idle in Park for 2 minutes. The idle speed may be slightly high at first but should gradually decrease.
  6. Perform a road test, driving normally for at least 10 minutes. Make sure the transmission shifts through each gear.
  7. If you still experience symptoms like rough idle or hesitation, repeat steps 1-6 after letting the engine cool down completely.

Tips:

  • Leon models with push-button start follow the same general procedure. Just press the Start button twice without touching the brake pedal to enter accessory mode.
  • If you have a VCDS (VAG-COM Diagnostic System) scan tool, you can perform the throttle body alignment through the Engine Control Module’s Basic Settings. Look for the option “Throttle Valve Adaptation” or similar.
  • A dirty throttle body can cause idle instability and prevent a successful relearn. Inspect the throttle plate and housing for carbon buildup. Clean with throttle body cleaner spray if needed.

Seat Altea

The Seat Altea is a compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced from 2004 to 2015. It uses the same platform as the Leon and shares many of its engine options. Altea models can develop throttle body issues, especially after a dead battery or ECM reset.

To perform a throttle relearn:

  1. Enter the vehicle and close all doors. Insert the key into the ignition.
  2. Turn the key to the ON position (second click) without cranking the engine.
  3. Wait 10 seconds, then slowly press and release the accelerator pedal fully 5 times.
  4. Wait 30 more seconds for the ECM to complete the relearn. You may hear a quiet click from the throttle body when it’s done.
  5. Start the engine and allow it to idle for 3 minutes without touching the pedal. The RPMs may be higher than normal at first.
  6. Take the Altea for a 10-15 minute test drive. Accelerate smoothly and drive at various steady speeds. Confirm the idle returns to normal and power delivery is linear.
  7. If rough idle or hesitation persists, repeat the relearn procedure after allowing the engine to cool fully.

Tips:

  • If the Altea’s battery has been disconnected, make sure it is fully recharged before attempting a throttle relearn. Low system voltage can cause the process to fail.
  • The Altea’s throttle body may accumulate carbon deposits that interfere with the relearn. If you suspect this is the case, remove the throttle body and clean the throttle plate and housing with carburetor cleaner. Make sure it is completely dry before reinstalling.
  • In rare cases, a faulty throttle position sensor, accelerator pedal position sensor, or wiring issue can cause persistent throttle relearn problems. Have these components tested by a qualified Seat technician if the relearn procedure doesn’t resolve your issues.

Seat Toledo

The Seat Toledo is a small family car that has been produced in four distinct generations since 1991. Models from 1998-2009 (Mk2 and Mk3) and 2012-2019 (Mk4) can experience throttle body issues that require a relearn procedure.

Here’s how to perform it:

  1. With the engine off, open the driver’s door and put the key in the ignition.
  2. Turn the key to the ON position (second click) without starting the engine.
  3. Wait 10 seconds, then press the accelerator pedal to the floor and release it fully. Repeat this 4 more times.
  4. Wait 30 seconds for the ECM to finish the relearn process. You may hear the throttle body motor clicking during this time.
  5. Start the engine and let it idle in Park for 3-5 minutes. Do not touch the pedal. The idle speed will likely be high at first but should come down gradually.
  6. Drive the Toledo normally for 10-15 minutes, using various throttle positions. Confirm the idle is smooth and throttle response is normal.
  7. If you still notice symptoms like rough idle, stumbling, or poor throttle response, repeat steps 1-6 after letting the engine cool completely.

Tips:

  • Toledo models with push-button start use the same procedure. Just press the Start button twice without your foot on the brake to enter accessory mode.
  • If you have a VCDS or similar VAG diagnostic tool, you can perform the throttle body alignment through the Engine Control Module’s Basic Settings. Select “Throttle Valve Adaptation” or an equivalent option and follow the on-screen prompts.
  • Inspect the Toledo’s throttle body for carbon buildup or sticking. Remove and clean the throttle plate and housing with throttle body cleaner spray if needed. Make sure it is fully dry before reinstalling.

Seat Arona

The Seat Arona subcompact crossover SUV was introduced in 2017. It shares its platform with the Ibiza Mk5 and Volkswagen Polo. Arona models can require a throttle relearn procedure after battery replacement or other electrical issues.

To perform the relearn:

  1. Sit in the driver’s seat and close the door. Press the Start button once without your foot on the brake to enter accessory mode.
  2. Wait 10 seconds, then fully depress and release the accelerator pedal 5 times.
  3. Press the Start button again to shut off the ignition. Wait 10 more seconds.
  4. Restart the engine normally and let it idle for 3 minutes. The idle speed may be higher than usual at first but should gradually decrease.
  5. Take the Arona for a 10-15 minute test drive. Accelerate smoothly through each gear and make sure the idle remains stable.
  6. If you still experience rough idle, hesitation, or jerky acceleration, repeat steps 1-5 after allowing the engine to fully cool down.

Tips:

  • Make sure the Arona’s battery is fully charged before beginning the relearn procedure. Low voltage can prevent the ECM from properly recalibrating the throttle position sensor.
  • If the engine check light comes on with throttle-related fault codes during the relearn, there may be an underlying issue with the throttle body, accelerator pedal position sensor, or wiring harness. Have these components inspected by a Seat technician.
  • The Arona’s throttle body can accumulate carbon deposits over time, causing the throttle plate to stick. If the relearn procedure doesn’t resolve your drivability issues, try cleaning the throttle body with throttle body cleaner spray. Make sure it is completely dry before reinstalling.

Seat Ateca

The Seat Ateca compact crossover SUV was first released in 2016. It uses the Volkswagen Group MQB platform, shared with vehicles like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Skoda Karoq. Ateca models can require a throttle relearn after battery or ECM issues.

Follow this procedure:

  1. Enter the vehicle and close all doors. Press the Start button once without touching the brake pedal to enter accessory mode.
  2. Wait 10 seconds, then fully press and release the accelerator pedal 4 times within 5 seconds.
  3. Press the Start button again to turn off the ignition. Wait 10 more seconds.
  4. Restart the engine and let it idle in Park for 2-3 minutes. The idle speed may be high initially but should come down after a minute or so.
  5. Drive the Ateca for 10-15 minutes, using various throttle positions and allowing the transmission to shift through each gear.
  6. If rough idle, stumbling, or poor throttle response persists, repeat steps 1-5 after allowing the engine to cool down completely.

Tips:

  • If you have access to a VCDS or similar VAG diagnostic tool, you can perform the throttle body alignment through the Engine Control Module’s Basic Settings menu. Look for “Throttle Valve Basic Setting” or a similar option and follow the prompts.
  • Inspect the Ateca’s throttle body for carbon buildup or sticking. Clean the throttle plate and housing with throttle body cleaner spray if needed. Ensure it is fully dry before reinstalling.
  • A weak or failing battery can cause throttle relearn issues. Check the battery voltage and condition before beginning the procedure. Charge or replace the battery if necessary.

Seat Tarraco

The Seat Tarraco is a mid-size crossover SUV that debuted in 2018. It shares its underpinnings with the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace and Skoda Kodiaq. Tarraco models may require a throttle relearn procedure after battery replacement, ECM issues, or other electrical problems.

Here’s how to perform it:

  1. Get in the driver’s seat and close the door. Press the Start button once without depressing the brake pedal to enter accessory mode.
  2. Wait 10 seconds, then fully press and release the accelerator pedal 5 times within 5 seconds.
  3. Press the Start button again to turn off the ignition. Wait 10 more seconds.
  4. Start the engine normally and let it idle for 3-5 minutes. Do not touch the accelerator pedal during this time. The idle speed may be higher than normal at first but should gradually decrease.
  5. Take the Tarraco for a 15-20 minute test drive. Accelerate smoothly and drive at various steady speeds, allowing the transmission to shift through each gear.
  6. If you still experience rough idle, hesitation, or poor throttle response, repeat steps 1-5 after letting the engine cool down fully.

Tips:

  • If you have access to a VCDS or similar VAG diagnostic tool, you can perform the throttle body alignment using the “Basic Settings” function in the Engine Control Module. Look for “Throttle Valve Adaptation” or a similar option and follow the on-screen instructions.
  • The Tarraco’s throttle body can accumulate carbon deposits over time, causing the throttle plate to stick or bind. If the relearn procedure doesn’t resolve your issues, try cleaning the throttle body with a dedicated throttle body cleaner spray. Make sure it is completely dry before reinstalling.
  • A weak or failing battery can cause problems with the throttle relearn process. Check the battery voltage and condition before starting the procedure. Charge or replace the battery if needed.

Seat Alhambra

The Seat Alhambra is a large multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that has been in production since 1996. It is mechanically identical to the Volkswagen Sharan and shares many components with the Ford Galaxy. Alhambra models from 2000-present (Mk1 facelift and Mk2) can require a throttle body relearn after battery or ECM issues.

To perform the relearn procedure:

  1. Sit in the driver’s seat and close all doors. Insert the key into the ignition.
  2. Turn the key to the ON position (second click) without starting the engine. All warning lights should illuminate.
  3. Wait 10 seconds, then fully depress and release the accelerator pedal 4 times within 5 seconds.
  4. Wait another 30 seconds for the ECM to recalibrate the throttle position sensor. Do not touch the pedal during this time.
  5. Start the engine and let it idle in Park for 3-5 minutes. The idle speed may be higher than normal initially but should gradually come down.
  6. Drive the Alhambra for 15-20 minutes, using various throttle positions and allowing the transmission to shift through each gear. Confirm the idle is smooth and throttle response is linear.
  7. If you still experience drivability issues, repeat steps 1-6 after allowing the engine to fully cool down.

Tips:

  • If you have access to a VCDS or similar VAG diagnostic tool, you can perform the throttle body alignment using the “Basic Settings” function in the Engine Control Module. Look for “Throttle Body Alignment” or a similar option and follow the prompts.
  • Inspect the Alhambra’s throttle body for carbon buildup or sticking. Clean the throttle plate and housing with throttle body cleaner spray if needed. Make sure it is completely dry before reinstalling.
  • A weak or failing battery can cause issues with the throttle relearn process. Check the battery voltage and condition before beginning the procedure. Charge or replace the battery if necessary.

Seat Mii

The Seat Mii is a city car that was produced from 2011 to 2019. It is closely related to the Volkswagen Up! and Skoda Citigo. While the Mii uses a traditional cable-operated throttle body, its ECM can still benefit from a throttle position sensor relearn in some cases.

Here’s the procedure:

  1. With the engine off, open the driver’s door and put the key in the ignition.
  2. Turn the key to the ON position (second click) without cranking the engine.
  3. Wait 10 seconds, then press the accelerator pedal to the floor and release it fully. Repeat this 3 times in a row.
  4. Wait another 10 seconds for the ECM to relearn the idle position.
  5. Start the engine and let it run for 2 minutes without touching the pedal.
  6. Take the Mii for a short test drive, accelerating gently through the gears. The idle should remain stable.
  7. If you still experience a rough idle or stalling, repeat the procedure after letting the engine cool down.

Tips:

  • The Mii’s throttle position sensor is located on the throttle body, typically on the right side when viewed from the front of the engine. Make sure the sensor is securely mounted and the electrical connector is free of corrosion.
  • If the Mii’s idle air control valve becomes clogged with carbon deposits, it can cause idle instability that may be mistaken for a throttle position sensor issue. Remove the IAC valve and clean it with carburetor cleaner if the relearn procedure doesn’t resolve your problem.
  • A failing coolant temperature sensor can also cause poor idle quality on the Mii. Check the sensor’s resistance with a multimeter – it should read around 2.5 kΩ at room temperature.

Words from Boss Erwin

Performing a throttle body relearn is an important maintenance procedure for many Seat models. By resetting the electronic throttle control system’s adaptive memory, you can restore proper idle quality, throttle response, and overall driveability.

The exact relearn process can vary between different engines and model years, so it’s important to consult your owner’s manual or a Seat workshop manual for specific instructions. In general, the procedure involves turning the ignition on and depressing the accelerator pedal several times in quick succession, followed by an idle period and a road test drive.

If the relearn procedure doesn’t resolve your issues, there may be an underlying problem with the throttle body, accelerator pedal position sensor, wiring harness, or ECM. Have these components diagnosed by a qualified Seat technician.