Why does SEAT UK no longer sell the Arosa model?

Whilst we agree that the Arosa was a great product there were a few reasons why it came to the end of its production in 2004. Firstly, to maintain the standard that was being introduced in that highly competitive super-mini segment of the market, we were unable to make it financially viable as a European manufacturer. Secondly, the SEAT brand is quickly evolving in the UK, and with the introduction of recent new models such as Altea, Toledo, and Leon, the Arosa no longer fits into our brand strategy for the future.

Do SEAT UK plan to produce another estate car?

There are no fixed plans for an estate at the moment.

Why are all the recent SEATs MPVs? E.g. Altea, Toledo, Leon.

All new SEATs are not MPVs. For example, Altea sits between the MPV and Hatchback segments. Whilst there are some characteristics of an MPV, such as the seating position, there are equally characteristics of a sports hatchback. The Leon is far from an MPV.

What is SEAT UK's policy on accessories for the UK market - for example, some accessories that are available in the rest of Europe are not available in the UK?

The choice of accessories made available to each market depends upon several factors, such as suitability for a specific market, potential market penetration and even safety regulations. It is also important to bear in mind that certain accessories are only manufactured for left-hand drive vehicles, and for them to be produced for right-hand drive vehicles, SEAT UK need to guarantee to buy a certain amount. Sometimes this is not a viable option. We are aware that certain accessories available in mainland Europe are not available in the UK and we are open to feedback on this subject and willing to collate information to be fed back to the relevant departments for their review.

How does SEAT UK monitor the level of service provided by the dealer network - in particular warranty, recall & service issues?

We do set specific and general parameters for all our dealership network, particularly on subjects such as recalls and warranty repairs, and we do expect a certain level of service from them. This is constantly monitored by our Aftersales Area Managers, who also receive feedback from the Customer Service Centre on specific customer issues. However, all the dealerships within our network are independent businesses, and are in fact franchisees, separated from SEAT UK, and they are ultimately responsible for the level of service they provide. Our Customer Service Centre is more than happy to liase with dealers on customer's behalf, but it must be advised that this can only happen within the specified boundaries.

Can you tell me more about the de-locking problem on the Leon and other models?

The "de-locking problem" is in reality a convenience function incorporated in several VW models. Recent media coverage described how a thief could break in a vehicle by damaging the lock and activate the comfort closing feature to lower the electric windows. However, as soon as SEAT was made aware of the criminal method of forced entry, provision was made to develop measures to resist them and no SEAT models in current production have this kind of door lock fitted. Whilst we understand that customers would like something more to be done about this, it has to be highlighted that there is no security fault on our vehicles and the break-ins are a result of a serious criminal act. Customers who are concerned about their vehicle's security can contact a SEAT approved dealership, who can offer further advice on measures that can be taken or security enhancements that can be made to each vehicle. Detailed instructions have been provided to the dealers within the network detailing certain convenience functions that can be disabled to prevent electric windows from operating with the central locking. On cars with remote central locking, door locking barrels may be replaced with colour coded blanks. Please be advised that charges for these alterations must be settled by the owner.

Why do parts take so long to be delivered?

We normally enjoy a continuous level of parts distribution to our dealership network and are in fact able to supply 95% of our parts within 3 working days. However, there are occasions whereby it is necessary to order parts directly from the Spanish factory, especially if the parts are to be built specifically for a certain vehicle, and this can result in delays.

Why is a winter pack not available in the UK when it is available on some European models?

As with accessories available in other countries but not in the UK, this package, which includes heated front seats, headlight washer and heated washer nozzle, is not available in the UK as we could not guarantee to purchase an amount that would justify the manufacture for right-hand drive vehicles.

Are there any known issues with parts at the moment - in particular Dump Valves and MAF (Air Mass Meters)?

We have no known issues with the Dump Valves fitted to any of our vehicles at present; however, from time to time these parts can fail. Air Mass Meters usually fail as a result of water or dirt particles entering the intake tube, therefore it is important to ensure regular cleaning/replacement of the air filter is adhered to. A different type of Air Mass Meter has also been introduced to all TDI models (except Alhambra) with an additional internal tube, which is technically proven to avoid the penetration of water or dirt, and therefore the failure of the Air Mass Meter. It is also worth noting, any modification to the engine management system could result in premature failure of these items.

Does SEAT offer fixed-price servicing, what does it cost?

Fixed-price maintenance plan can be arranged through SEAT Finance, and there are details of this at www.seat.co.uk . The telephone number for SEAT Finance is 0870 333 4446.

Why does SEAT provide "pre-installed" ICE systems? Would ISO standard sizes not be better?

This design was commonly used on the MY99-02 Ibiza/Cordoba and incorporated the Audio & Heater Controls. The implementation of such a system is based upon detailed customer research and the ultimate decision lies with the manufacturer (SEAT SA). Also note, having an integrated system greatly reduces the risk of theft of the audio system.

Why aren't there more SEAT Dealers in Scotland?

We are constantly striving to add more Dealers to our network and improve the coverage of our Network. We are currently looking at the Scotland area, and in particular Aberdeen to ensure SEAT owners and customers are serviced.