2008 SKODA FABIA ABS

Contents4
How are seat belts correctly fastened? . . . . . . . . . . Belt tensioner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Airbag system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Description of the airbag system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Front airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Side airbags* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Head airbags* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deactivating an airbag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transporting children safely . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . What you should know about transporting children!Child seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Attaching a child seat using the “ISOFIX” system*Attaching child seat using the “Top Tether” system
Driving Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intelligent Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Electronic stability programme (ESP)* . . . . . . . . . . Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brake booster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Antilock brake system (ABS)* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brake Assist* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Electrohydraulic power steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tyre inflation pressure-control system* . . . . . . . . . Diesel particle filter* (diesel engine) . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving and the Environment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The first 1 500 kilometres and then afterwards . . Catalytic converter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Driving in an economical and environmentally conscious manner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Environmental compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Motoring abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Avoiding damage to your vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To w i n g a t r a i l e r. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Towing a trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Taking care of your vehicle and cleaning the vehicle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Care of the exterior of vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Care of the interior of vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Refuelling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inspecting and Replenishing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Engine compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cooling system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Windshield washer system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheels and Tyres. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessories, changes and replacement of partsAccessories and replacement parts . . . . . . . . . . . . .Technical changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Breakdown assistance. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Breakdown assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .First-aid box* and Warning triangle* . . . . . . . . . . .Fire extinguisher* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Vehicle tool kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tyre repair kit* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Spare wheel* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Changing a wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Jump-starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tow-starting and towing vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuses and light bulbs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Electric fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Technical Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Technical Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .General information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Used abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Performances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Identification details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Fuel consumption according to the regulations (99/100/EU) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.2 l/44 kW - EU 4/EU 2DDK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.2 l/51 kW - EU 4/EU 2DDK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,4 l/63 kW - EU 4/EU 2DDK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,6 l/77 kW - EU 4/EU 2DDK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.4 ltr./51 kW TDI PD - EU 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.4 ltr./59 kW TDI PD - EU 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1.9 ltr./77 kW TDI PD - EU 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Vehicles of the group Fabia N1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Vehicles of the group Combi N1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
128130
132132133136138139
142142145148149
151
151151154154155155156156158
159159160
160163164165
166166
169
169169169174
177177177178
180180183186188189193
194194
200200200
201
201201201202202202203208209
213213217
223
223223223223223223
224225226228230232234236238240241
243
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Layout of this Owner's Manual (explanations)6
Layout of this Owner's Manual (explanations)
The Owner's Manual has been systematically designed, in order to make it easy for you to find and absorb the information you require.
Chapters, table of contents and subject index
The text of the manual are divided into relatively short sections which are combined into easy-to-read chapters. The chapter you are reading at any particular moment is highlighted at the bottom right of the page.
The Table of contents is arranged according to the chapters and the detailed Subject index at the end of the Owner's Manual helps you to rapidly find the infor-mation you are looking for.
Sections
The majority of Sections apply to all models.
Since there is a wide range of different equipment and options available it is clearly unavoidable, despite dividing the contents into sections, that mention may be made of equipment which is not fitted to your vehicle.
Equipment which is marked * is only standard on certain vehicle model versions or only suppliable as optional equipment for certain models.
Brief information and instructions
Each section has a Heading.
This is followed by Brief information (in large italic lettering), which tells you the subject which is dealt with in this section.
Most of the illustrations are accompanied by an Instruction (in relatively large letters) which explains to you in a straightforward way the action you have to take. Work steps which have to be carried out are illustrated with a hyphen.
Notes
All four kinds of notes, which are used in the text, are always stated at the end of the respective section.
WARNING
The most important notes are marked with the heading Warning. These Warning notes draw your attention to a serious risk of accident or injury. While reading the text you will frequently encounter a double arrow followed by a small warning symbol. This symbol is intended to draw your attention to a Warning note at the end of the section to which you must pay careful attention.
Caution
A Caution note draws your attention to the possibility of damage to your vehicle (e.g. damage to gearbox), or points out general risks of an accident.
For the sake of the environment
An Environmental note draws your attention to environmental protection aspects. This is where you will, for example, find tips aimed at reducing your fuel consump-tion.
Note
A normal Note draws your attention in a general way to important information.
Direction indications
All direction indications such as “left”, “right”, “front”, “rear” relate to the direction of travel of the vehicle.
Measures
In some countries British measures can be given.
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Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights21
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
WARNING
•If you do not pay attention to the warning lights coming on and the corre-sponding descriptions and warning notes, this may result in severe body injuries or major vehicle damage.
•The engine compartment of your car is a hazardous area. There is a risk of injuries, scalding, accidents and fire when working in the engine
Turn signal lights (to the left)⇒page 22
Turn signal lights (to the right)⇒page 22
Main beam⇒page 22
Low beam⇒page 22
Rear fog light⇒page 22
Dynamo⇒page 22
Fog lights*⇒page 22
Cornering lights*⇒page 22
Electrohydraulic power steering⇒page 23
EPC fault light (petrol engine)⇒page 23
Glow plug system (diesel engine)⇒page 23
Turn signal system for vehicles towing a trailer*⇒page 23
Coolant temperature/coolant level⇒page 24
Electronic immobiliser⇒page 24
Fuel reserve⇒page 24
Engine oil⇒page 25
Brake pad wear*⇒page 25
Open door*⇒page 25
Fluid level in windshield washer system*⇒page 26
Control system for exhaust⇒page 26
Traction control system (TCS)*⇒page 26
Tyre pres su re*⇒page 26
Selector lever lock* (automatic gearbox)⇒page 27
Electronic stability programme (ESP)*⇒page 27
Antilock brake system (ABS)*⇒page 27
Brake system⇒page 28
Airbag system⇒page 28
Diesel particle filter* (diesel engine)⇒page 29
Seat belt warning light*⇒page 29
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Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights26
The warning light comes on even when the ignition is switched off. The warning light goes out 5 minutes after switching off the ignition if one or several doors, the bonnet or boot lid is opened. The warning light goes out after closing the doors.
Windshield washer fluid level*
The warning light  comes on when the ignition is switched on if there is insuffi-cient fluid in the windshield washer system. Top up with liquid ⇒page 193.
A peep sounds as an additional warning signal.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
REFILL WASHER LIQUID
Control system for exhaust 
The warning light  comes on after the ignition has been switched on.
If the warning light does not go out after starting the engine or it lights up or flashes when driving, a fault exists in an exhaust relevant component. The engine manage-ment system selects an emergency programme which enables you to drive to the nearest specialist garage by adopting a gentle style of driving.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
EXHAUST WORKSHOP!
Traction control system (TCS) *
The warning light  comes on for a few seconds when the ignition is switched on.
The warning light comes on when driving when a control cycle is activated.
The warning light will come on and remains on if the TCS is switched off or if there is a fault in the system.
The fact that the TCS system operates together with the ABS means that the TCS warning light will also come on if the ABS system is not operating properly.
If the warning light  comes on immediately after starting the engine, the TCS system can be switched off for technical reasons. In this case, the TCS system can be switched on again by switching the ignition on and off. If the warning light goes out, the TCS system is fully functional again.
Further information about the TCS ⇒page 152.
Note
If the battery has been disconnected and reconnected, the warning light  comes on after switching on the ignition. The warning light must go out after driving a short distance.
Tyre inflation pressure*
The warning light  lights up, if there is a substantial drop in inflation pressure in one of the tyres. Reduce the speed and check or correct as soon as possible the inflation pressure in the tyres ⇒page 194.
A peep sounds as an additional warning signal.
If the warning light flashes, there is a system fault. Visit the nearest specialist garage and have the fault rectified.
Further information about tyre pressure-control system ⇒page 156.
WARNING
•When the warning light  lights up, immediately reduce the speed and avoid sudden steering and brake manoeuvres. Please stop the vehicle without delay at the nearest possible stop and inspect the tyres and their inflation pressures.
•Under certain circumstances (e.g. sporty style of driving, wintry or unpaved roads) the warning light  can be delayed or does not light up at all.
•The tyre inflation pressure-control system does not take away the responsability from the driver for the correct tyre inflation pressure.
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Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights27
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
Note
If the battery has been disconnected, the warning light  comes on after switching on the ignition. The warning light must go out after driving a short distance.
Selector lever lock*  (automatic gearbox)
If the warning light  lights up, operate the brake pedal. This is necessary, in order to be able to move the selector lever out of the position P or N.
Electronic stability programme (ESP)*
The warning light  comes on for a few seconds when the ignition is switched on.
Components of the ESP system also include the Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), and the Antilock Brake System ABS (ABS).
The warning light comes on when driving when a control cycle is activated.
The warning light will come on and remains on if the ESP is switched off or if there is a fault in the system.
The fact that the ESP system operates together with the ABS means that the ESP warning light will also come on if the ABS system is not operating properly.
Further information on the ESP ⇒page 151, “Electronic stability programme (ESP)*”.
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)*
The EDL is a part of the ESP. A fault in the EDL is indicated by the ESP warning light  in the instrument cluster. Have the vehicle inspected immediately by your specialist garage. Further information on the EDL ⇒page 153.
Antilock brake system (ABS)* 
The warning light  shows the functionality of the ABS.
The warning light comes on for a few seconds after the ignition has been switched on or when starting the engine. The warning light goes out after an automatic check sequence has been completed.
A fault in the ABS
The system is not functioning properly if the ABS warning light  does not go out within a few seconds after switching on the ignition, does not light up at all or lights up while driving. The vehicle will only be braked by the normal brake system. Visit a specialist garage as quickly as possible and adjust your style of driving in the meantime since you will not know how great the damage is.
Three additional warning tones will sound if there is a major fault in the ABS.
Further information about ABS ⇒page 155, “Antilock brake system (ABS)*”.
A fault in the entire brake system
If the ABS warning light  comes on together with the brake system warning light  (handbrake must be released), there is a fault not only in the ABS but also in another part of the brake system ⇒.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
STOP BRAKE FAULT OWNER'S MANUAL!
WARNING
•If the brake system warning light  comes on together with the ABS warning light  stop the vehicle immediately and check the brake fluid level in the reservoir ⇒page 188, “Brake fluid”. If the fluid level has dropped below the MIN marking, do not drive any further - risk of accident! Contact a Škoda dealer to obtain professional assistance.
•Pay attention to the following instructions ⇒page 181, “Working in the engine compartment” before checking the brake fluid level and opening the bonnet.
•If the brake fluid is at the correct level, the ABS control function has failed. The rear wheels may then block very rapidly when braking. In certain circumstances, this can result in the rear end of the car breaking away - risk of skidding! Drive carefully to the nearest specialist garage and have the fault rectified.
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Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights28
Brake system 
The warning light  flashes or comes on if the brake fluid level is too low, if there is a fault in the ABS or if the handbrake is applied.
If the warning light  flashes (handbrake is not applied), stop and check the brake fluid level ⇒.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
STOP BRAKE FLUID SERVICE MANUAL
If there is a fault in the ABS which also influences the function of the normal brake system (e.g. distribution of brake pressure), the ABS warning light  comes on together with the brake system warning light . Be aware that not only the ABS but also another part of th brake system is defective ⇒.
3 peeps sound as an additional warning signal.
One should get used to high pedal forces, long braking distances and long free play of the brake pedal when driving to the next specialist garage.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
STOP BRAKE FAULT OWNER'S MANUAL!
For further information on the brake system ⇒page 154, “Brakes”.
Handbrake applied
The warning light  also comes on if the handbrake is applied. An audible warning is also given if you drive the vehicle for at least 3 seconds at a speed of more than 6 km/h.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
HANDBRAKE ON
WARNING
•Pay attention to the following instructions ⇒page 181, “Working in the engine compartment” before checking the brake fluid level and opening the bonnet.
•If the brake system warning light  does not go out a few seconds after switching on the ignition or comes on when driving, stop immediately and check the brake fluid in the reservoir ⇒page 188, “Brake fluid”. If the fluid level has dropped below the MIN marking, do not drive any further - risk of accident! Contact a Škoda dealer to obtain professional assistance.
Airbag system 
Monitoring the airbag system
The warning light  comes on for a few seconds when the ignition is switched on.
There is a fault in the system if the warning light does not go out or comes on or flashes while driving ⇒. This also applies if the warning light does not come on after the ignition is switched on.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
AIRBAG FAULT
The functionality of the airbag system is also monitored electronically, when one airbag has been switched off
The passenger front airbag and also possibly the passenger side airbag which have been switched off using the vehicle system tester:
•The warning light  lights up for 3 seconds after switching on the ignition and then flashes for 12 seconds afterwards in 2 second intervals.
The passenger front airbag and also possibly the passenger side airbag which have been switched off using the switch (for switching off airbags)* in the end face of the dash panel on the front passenger side:
•The warning light  comes on for 3 seconds after the ignition has been switched on.
•Switching off airbags is indicated in the middle of the dash panel by the lighting up of the indicator light   (airbag switched off) ⇒page 140.
WARNING (continued)
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Unlocking and locking30
Unlocking and locking
Key
Description
The vehicle is supplied with two keys without remote control ⇒fig. 16 or with two keys with remote control* ⇒fig. 17. The keys fit in all vehicle locks.
Key ring
The key ring only has the key number on it which is essential for producing other keys. This number can be used to order replacement keys from the Škoda Service Par tners.
The key ring with the number should be separately and securely kept in safe keeping since keys can only be replaced if they are lost or damaged by giving this number. You should also therefore give this key ring to the purchaser when selling the vehicle.
WARNING
•Always withdraw the key whenever you leave the vehicle - even if it is only for a short time. This is particularly important if children are left in the vehicle. The children might otherwise start the engine or operate electrical equipment (e.g. power windows) - risk of injury!
•Do not withdraw the ignition key from the ignition lock until the vehicle has come to a stop. The steering lock might otherwise engage unintention-ally - risk of accident!
Caution
•Each key contains electronic components; therefore protect them against mois-ture and severe shocks.
•Keep the groove of the keys absolutely clean as impurities (textile fibres, dust etc.) have a negative effect on proper operation of the keys and the ignition lock.
Note
Please approach a Škoda Service Partner if you lose a key since he can obtain a new one for you.
Fig. 16 Set of keys without remote control
Fig. 17 Radio-operated key
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Seats and Stowage74
Attachment points
Fitting
– Insert the attachment points of the roof rack into the mounts of the
body so that the pins of the attachment points grasp into the holes of
the body.
Note
•Pay attention to the information regarding assembly and disassembly in the attached instructions.
•If you have any questions, please contact a specialist garage.
Roof load
Distribute weight evenly over the roof luggage rack system. The maximum permis-sible roof load (including roof rack system) of 75 kg and the maximum permissible total weight of the vehicle should not be exceeded.
You cannot make full use of the permissible roof load if you use a roof luggage rack system with a lower load carrying capacity. The load transported on the roof luggage rack system must not exceed the weight limit which is stated in the fitting instructions.
WARNING
•The items which you transport on the roof bar system must be reliably attached - risk of accident!
•You must on no account exceed the permissible roof load, the permis-sible axle loads and the permissible gross weight of your vehicle - risk of accident!
•Please note that the handling properties of your vehicle change when you transport heavy or bulky items on the roof bar system as a result of the displacement of the centre of gravity and the increased wind attack area - risk of accident! You must absolutely adapt your style of driving and the speed of the vehicle to the specific circumstances.
Front cup holder
You can place two cups or beverage cans into the recesses ⇒fig. 86.
WARNING
•Do not place any hot beverages into the cup holder. If the vehicle moves, the hot beverages may spill - risk of scalding!
Fig. 85 Attachment points for base roof carrier
Fig. 86 Front centre console: Cup holder
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