2004 SKODA FABIA fuel cap

Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights
14
The fuel tank has a capacity of about 45 litres. The warning symbol  in
the instrument cluster lights up when the pointer reaches the reserve
marking. There are now about 7 litres of fuel remaining in the tank. This
symbol is a reminder for you, that you must refuel.
The following will be displayed in the information display*:
PLEASE REFUEL
A peep sounds as an additional warning signal.
Caution
Never run the fuel tank completely empty! An irregular fuel supply can
result in poor ignition or misfiring. Unburnt fuel may get into the exhaust
system and damage the catalytic converter.
Speedometer with counter for distance
driven
The distance which you have driven with your vehicle is shown in kilom-
eters (km). On certain model versions, the readout is shown in “miles”.
Bottom counter (trip counter) for distance driven
The bottom counter indicates the distance which you have driven since
this counter was last reset - in steps of 100 metres or 1/10 of a mile. It can
be reset to zero by pressing the reset button next to the trip counter
⇒ fig. 3 .
Top counter for distance driven
The top counter for distance driven indicates the total distance in kilom-
eters or miles which the vehicle has been driven.
Fault display
dEF will appear as a constant text in the display field of the counter for
distance driven if there is a fault in the instrument cluster. Have this fault
rectified without delay by a Škoda dealer.
Warning against excessive speeds*
An acoustic warning signal will sound when the vehicle speed exceeds
120 kilometres per hour. The acoustic warning signal will switch off again
when the vehicle speed goes below this speed limit.
This function is only valid for some countries.
WARNING
Never seek to adjust the trip counter for distance driven while
driving for safety reasons.
Fig. 3 Instrument
cluster: Counter for
distance driven

Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights31
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
Coolant temperature/coolant level 
The warning light  comes on for a few seconds 1) when the ignition is
switched on.
The coolant temperature is too high or the coolant level too low if the
warning light
 does not go out after the engine is started or flashes while
driving.
3 peeps sound as an additional warning signal.
In this case stop and switch the engine off and check the coolant level;
top up the coolant as necessary.
Do not continue your journey if for some reason it is not possible under
the conditions prevailing to top up with coolant. Keep the engine
switched off and obtain professional assistance from a Škoda dealer.
If the coolant is within the specified range, the increased temperature may
be caused by an operating problem at the coolant fan. Check the fuse for
the coolant fan, replace it if necessary ⇒page 225, “Fuse assignment at
battery”.
Do not continue driving if the warning light does not go off although the
fluid is at the correct level and also the fuse of the fan is in proper order.
Contact a Škoda dealer to obtain assistance.
Please also refer to the additional instructions ⇒page 189, “Cooling
system”.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
STOP CHECK COOLANT SERVICE MANUAL
WARNING
•Take care when opening the coolant expansion bottle. If the
engine is hot, the cooling system is pressurized - risk of scalding.
It is best to allow the engine to cool down before removing the cap.
•Do not touch the coolant fan The coolant fan may switch on
automatically even if the ignition is off.
Electronic immobiliser 
Data is compared between the ignition key and the control unit when
switching on the ignition. The indicator light  will light up for a few
seconds when ignition key authorisation is confirmed.
The warning light will start flashing continuously if a non-authorised igni-
tion key (for example the wrong ignition key) has been used. The engine
cannot be started ⇒page 39.
It is only possible to start the engine of the vehicle with a Genuine Škoda
key with the matching code.
Fuel reserve 
The warning light  comes on, if the fuel level is still about 7 litres.
A peep sounds as an additional warning signal.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*: PLEASE REFUEL
1)The warning light  on vehicles fitted with information display does not come on
after switching the ignition on, but only if the coolant temperature is to\
o high or the
coolant level is too low.

Heating and air conditioning system
98
Air outlet vents
Fig. 87 Air outlet vents
Open air outlet vents
– Turn the vertical thumbwheel (not when in the end position).
Close air outlet vents
– Turn the vertical thumbwheel into the end position.
Redirecting air flow
– Swivel upward or downward the gril le of the vents in order to
change the direction of the air flow using the vertically
arranged thumbwheel.
– Turn the horizontal thumbwheel on the vent to the right or left in order to change the air flow to the appropriate side.
You can set the air supply to the individual vents with the air distribution
control ⇒page 95, fig. 86 . Air outlet vents 3 and 4 can also be opened
or closed individually.
Unwarmed or cooled air will flow out of the air outlet vents according to the
setting of control dial ⇒page 95, fig. 86 and the atmospheric
conditions.
Using the air conditioning system economically
The compressor on the air conditioning system uses power from the
engine when in cooling mode which will effect the fuel consumption.
It recommended to open the windows or the doors of a vehicle for which
the interior has been strongly heated through the effect of direct sunlight
in order to allow the heated air to escape.
The air conditioning system should not be switched on while travelling
when the window is open.
The desired interior temperature can also be achieved without switching
in the air conditioning system just by switching to fresh air mode.
For the sake of the environment
When you economize on fuel, you also reduce pollutant emissions.
Operational problems
If the cooling system does not operate at outside temperatures higher
than +5°C, there is a problem in the system. The reasons for this may be:
•The fuse on the air conditioning system has blown. Check the fuse,
replace it if necessary ⇒page 224.
AC
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Fuel
180
Prewarming fuel
The vehicle is fitted with a fuel filter prewarming system. This secures
operation of a vehicle using diesel fuel down to an environmental temper-
ature of -25°C.
Biofuel
We recommend refuelling with diesel fuel at temperatures below -10°C.
Caution
It is not permitted to add the various fuel additives on the market, including
petrol, to diesel fuel in order to improve its flow properties.
RefuellingOpening the fuel filler cap
– The fuel filler flap opens when you pull on the actuation lever*
next to the driver's seat ⇒fig. 132 or open at fuel filler tube.
– The fuel filler cap on the fuel filler tube must be unlocked to the left using the vehicle key (only valid for vehicles which do not
have remote unlocking of the fuel filler flap next to the driver's
seat).
– Unscrew the fuel filler cap anti-clockwise and place the fuel filler cap from above on the fuel filler flap ⇒fig. 133.
Closing fuel filler cap
– Screw on the cap by turning it to the right until it is heard to lock.
Fig. 132 Opening lever
for the fuel tank flap
Fig. 133 Fuel filler flap

Fuel181
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
– The fuel filler cap on the fuel filler tube must be locked to the
right using the vehicle key and the key then removed (only
valid for vehicles which do not have remote unlocking of the
fuel filler flap next to the driver's seat).
– Press the fuel tank flap closed.
The correct grade of fuel for your vehicle as well as the tyre size and infla-
tion pressures are stated on a sticker affixed to the inside of the fuel filler
flap. Further information on fuel ⇒page 178.
The fuel tank has a capacity of about 45 litres.
WARNING
Pay attention to any legal requirements if you do carry a spare
canister in the vehicle. We do not recommend carrying any fuel
canisters in your vehicle for safety reasons. The canister can be
damaged in the event of an accident and fuel may leak out.
Caution
•Remove any fuel which has spilled onto the paintwork of your vehicle
immediately. This particularly applies to biodiesel - risk of paint damage!
•Vehicles fitted with catalytic converter should never be allowed to let
the fuel tank to run completely empty. An irregular supply of fuel to the
engine can result in misfiring and unburnt fuel may get into the exhaust
system, which may result in overheating and damage to the catalytic
converter.
For the sake of the environment
The fuel tank is full just as soon as the pump nozzle switches off for the
first time, provided the nozzle has been operated properly. You should not continue refuelling - otherwise the expansion chamber in the fuel tank will
also be filled with fuel. Fuel might flow out of the tank when it heats up.

Inspecting and Replenishing
184
•If your vehicle is fitted with a manual gearbox, move the gear-
shift lever into Neutral, or if it is fitted with automatic gearbox, move
the selector leve r into position P.
•Allow the engine to cool down.
•Keep children clear of the engine compartment.
•Do not touch any hot engine parts - risk of burns!
•Never spill oil and other fluids over the hot engine. Such fluids
(e.g. the antifreeze contained in the coolant) may ignite!
•Avoid short circuits in the electrical system - particularly on the
battery.
•Never place your hand into the radiator fan as long as the
engine is still warm. The fan might suddenly start running!
•Never open the cap of the coolant expansion bottle as long as
the engine is still warm. The cooling system is pressurized!
•Cover over the cap of the coolant expansion reservoir with a
large cloth when opening it as protection for your face, hands and
arms from hot steam or hot coolant.
•Do not let objects, such as e.g cleaning cloth or tools lie in the
engine compartment.
•If you wish to work under the vehicle, you must secure the
vehicle from rolling away and support it with suitable supporting
blocks: the car jack is not sufficient for this - risk of injury!
•In cases where it be necessary to carry out inspection work
when the engine is running there is an additional risk from rotating
parts (e.g. the V-ribbed belt, alternator, radiator fan) and from the
high-voltage ignition system. Pl ease observe in addition the
following:
−Never touch the electrical cables of the ignition system.
− Absolutely avoid any jewellery, loose items of clothing or
long hair from getting into the rotating parts of the engine - Hazard! Therefore remove any jewellery beforehand, tie up your
hair and wear tight fitting clothing.
•Please also comply with the warning instructions stated below
when carrying out any essential work on the fuel system or on the
electrical system:
−Always separate the car battery from the electrical system.
− Do not smoke.
− Never carry out any work close to naked flames.
− Always keep a working fire extinguisher at hand.
Caution
When replenishing fluids in the engine, always ensure that the fluids are
on no account mixed up. This may result in major operating problems and
also vehicle damage!
WARNING (continued)WARNING (continued)

Inspecting and Replenishing187
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
Checking the oil level
– Park the vehicle on a horizontal surface.
– Switch the engine off.
– Open the bonnet ⇒ in “Working in the engine compart-
ment” on page 183.
– Wait a few minutes and pull out the oil dipstick ⇒.
– Wipe off the dipstick with a clean cloth and insert it again fully.
– Then withdraw the dipstick again and read off the oil level.
Oil level within range
– You must top up the oil ⇒page 187. It is sufficient, once this
is done, to keep the oil level is within range .
Oil level within range
– You may top up the oil. It is possible that the oil level may then
be within range after doing this.
Oil level within range
– You must not top up the oil.
It is normal for the engine to consume oil. The oil consumption may be as
much as 0.5 l/1 000 km depending on your style of driving and the condi-
tions under which you operate your vehicle. The oil consumption may be
slightly higher than this during the first 5 000 kilometres.
One should therefore check the oil level at regular intervals, preferably
every time after the fuel tank is filled or after driving for long stretches.
We recommend maintaining the oil level within the range if the engine
has been operating at high loads, for example during a lengthy motorway trip during the summer months, towing a trailer or negotiating a high
mountain pass,
but not above this .
The warning light in the instrument cluster* will indicate ⇒page 32
whether the oil level is too low. In this case, check the oil level as soon as
possible. Top up with an appropriate quantity of oil.
For clarity, the figure shows only part of the engine compartment with a 1.4
litre/74 kW engine ⇒page 186, fig. 138 and a 1.2 litre/40 kW engine
⇒ page 186, fig. 139 .
Caution
•Always check the oil level on vehicles with engine 1.2 l/47 kW when
the engine is warm. Otherwise the measuring result is incorrect und oil
could be incorrectly replenished - risk of engine damage!
•The oil level must on no account go beyond the range . Danger of
damaging the catalytic converter.
•Do not continue your journey if for some reason it is not possible
under the conditions prevailing to top up with oil. Switch of the engine
and obtain professional assistance from a Škoda dealer.
Replenishing engine oil
– Inspect the oil level ⇒page 186.
– Unscrew the cap of the engine oil filler opening ⇒page 186, fig. 139.
– Pour in a suitable grade of oil in portions of 0.5 litres ⇒page 185, “Engine oil specifications”.
– Inspect the oil level ⇒page 186.
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Wheels and Tyres199
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
Wheels and Tyres
Wheels
General comments
•New tyres do not offer optimal grip at first and should therefore be run
in for about 500 km at a moderate speed and an appropriately cautious
style of driving. You will also profit from longer tyre life.
•The tread depth of new tyres may differ because of design features
and the configuration of the tread (depending on the type of tyre and the
manufacturer).
•Drive over curbs on the side of the road and other such obstacles
slowly and, where possible, at a right angles in order to avoid damage to
tyres and wheel trims.
•Inspect your tyres from time to time for damage (punctures, cuts, splits
and bulges). Remove foreign bodies from the tyre profile.
•Damage to tyres and wheels is frequently not visible. Unusual vibra-
tions or pulling of the vehicle to one side could be a sign of tyre damage.
Please reduce your speed immediately and stop if you suspect that
a wheel is damaged. Inspect the tyres for signs of damage (bulges,
splits, etc.) If no visible damage is present, please drive at an appropri-
ately slow speed and carefully to the nearest Škoda dealer in order to
have your vehicle inspected.
•Also protect your tyres from contact with oil, grease and fuel.
•Immediately replace any dust caps of the valves which have got lost.
•Mark wheels before removing them so that their previous direction of
running can be maintained when mounted them again.
•Always store wheels or tyres which been removed in a cool, dry and,
where possible, dark place. Tyres which are not fixed to a wheel trim
should be stored upright. Unidirectional tyres*
The direction of rotation of the tyres is marked by arrows on the wall of the
tyre. This indicates the direction of rotation of the tyre, and it is essential
that the tyres are fitted on to run in this direction. Only then are the tyres
able to provide the optimal properties in terms of grip, low noise, wear-
and-tear and aquaplaning.
Further information concerning the use of unidirectional tyres
⇒
page 204.
WARNING
•New tyres during the first 500 km do not offer optimal grip and
should therefore be run approp riately - risk of accident!
•Never drive with damaged tyres - risk of accident!
Note
Please observe the various differing legal requirements regarding tyres.