2008 SKODA FABIA brake fluid

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
NKO A05F 20.book Page 4 Wednesday, April 2, 2008 1:02 PM

Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights19
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
There is at least one error message to be read when the term VEH. STATUS is flashing in the menu. The display will show STATUS 1/2 (for example) if a number of error messages are displayed. This display indicates that the first of a total of two error messages should be displayed.
Actuate the rocker switch , to call up the individual error messages.
If a fault occurs, a warning signal will also sound in addition to the symbol and text in the display:
•Priority 1 - three warning signals,
•Priority 2 - one warning signal.
Red symbols
A red symbol signals danger.
Proceed as follows if a red symbol is displayed:
– Stop the vehicle.
– Switch the engine off.
– Check the functions indicated.
– Obtain professional assistance.
Meaning of the red symbols:
Three successive warning signals will sound if a red symbol appears.
If several operational faults of priority 1 exist, the symbols appear one after the other and are each illuminated for about 5 seconds.
Yellow symbols
A yellow symbol signals a warning.
The meaning of the yellow symbols:
AA
Fig. 13 Information display: Oil pressure is low
Coolant level too low/coolant temperature too high⇒page 24
Engine oil pressure too low ⇒page 25
Fuel level low⇒page 24
Check engine oil level, engine oil sensor faulty⇒page 25
Brake pad worn⇒page 25
Washer fluid level low⇒page 26
Fig. 14 Information display: Fuel level low
NKO A05F 20.book Page 19 Wednesday, April 2, 2008 1:02 PM

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
NKO A05F 20.book Page 21 Wednesday, April 2, 2008 1:02 PM

Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights25
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
Engine oil 
The warning light  lights up red (low oil pressure)
The warning light comes on for a few seconds 2) when the ignition is switched on.
Stop the vehicle and switch the engine off if the warning light does not go off after the engine has started or flashes while driving. Check the oil level and top up with oil as necessary ⇒page 184.
3 peeps sound as an additional warning signal.
Do not continue your journey if for some reason it is not possible under the conditions prevailing to top up with oil. Keep the engine switched off and obtain professional assistance from a specialist garage, otherwise it could lead to severe engine damage.
Do not drive any further if the warning light flashes even if the oil is at the correct level. Do not run the engine not at idling speed either. Contact the nearest specialist garage to obtain professional assistance.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
STOP OIL PRESS. ENGINE OFF! OWNER'S MANUAL!
The warning light  lights up yellow* (oil quantity too low)
If the warning light lights up yellow, the quantity of oil in the engine is probably too low. Check as soon as possible the oil level or top up ⇒page 184 with engine oil.
A peep sounds as an additional warning signal.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
CHECK OIL LEVEL
The warning light will go out if the bonnet is left open for more than 30 seconds. If no engine oil has been replenished, the warning light will come on again after driving about 100 km.
The warning light  flashes yellow* (engine oil level sensor faulty)
A fault on the engine oil level sensor is indicated additionally by an audible signal and the warning light coming on several times after the ignition has been switched on.
In this case have the engine inspected without delay by a specialist garage.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
OIL SENSOR WORKSHOP!
WARNING
•If you must stop for technical reasons, then park the vehicle at a safe distance from the traffic and switch off the engine and switch on the hazard warning light system ⇒page 48.
•The red oil pressure light  is not an oil level indicator! One should therefore check the oil level at regular intervals, preferably after every refu-eling stop.
•Pay attention to the following instructions ⇒page 181, “Working in the engine compartment” before checking the coolant fluid level and opening the bonnet.
Thickness of the brake pads* 
If the warning light  comes on, contact a specialist garage immediately and have the brake pads on all of the wheels inspected.
A peep sounds as an additional warning signal.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
CHECK BRAKE PAD
Open door* 
The warning light  comes on if one or several doors, the bonnet or boot lid is opened.2)The warning light  on vehicles fitted with information display does not come on afterswitching the ignition on, but only if a fault exists or the engine oil level is too low.
NKO A05F 20.book Page 25 Wednesday, April 2, 2008 1:02 PM

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.
NKO A05F 20.book Page 26 Wednesday, April 2, 2008 1:02 PM

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.
NKO A05F 20.book Page 27 Wednesday, April 2, 2008 1:02 PM

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)
NKO A05F 20.book Page 28 Wednesday, April 2, 2008 1:02 PM

Intelligent Technology154
Brakes
What has a negative effect on braking efficiency?
Wear-and-tear
Wear-and-tear to the brake pads is greatly dependent on the operating conditions of the vehicle and your style of driving. Particularly if you drive a great deal in towns and over short distances or if you adopt a sporty style of driving, it may be neces-sary to have the thickness of the brake pads inspected at a specialist garage between the service inspections.
Wet roads or road salt
There may be a certain delay before the brakes take full effect under certain condi-tions such as when driving through water, during heavy rain showers or after the vehicle has been washed in an automatic vehicle wash, since the brake discs and brake pads may be moist or even have a coating of ice on them in winter. You should dry the brakes as soon as possible (by applying and releasing the brakes several times, if the road conditions and the traffic situation allows it).
There also may be a certain delay before the full braking efficiency is available when driving on roads which have been treated with road salt if you have not used the brakes for some considerable time beforehand. The layer of salt on the brake discs and brake pads must first be rubbed off when you apply the brakes.
Corrosion
Corrosion on the brake discs and dirt on the bake pads occur if the vehicle has been parked for a long period and if you do not make much use of the braking system.
We recommend cleaning the brake discs by firmly applying the brakes at a fairly high speed if you do not make much use of the braking system or if surface corro-sion is present ⇒.
Faults in the brake surface
If you notice that the braking distance has suddenly become longer and that the brake pedal can be depressed further, it is possible that a brake circuit of the dual-circuit brake system has failed. Drive, in such cases, to the nearest specialist garage without delay in order to have the problem rectified. Drive at a reduced speed while on your way to the dealer and adapt your style of driving to the higher brake pedal pressure required.
Low brake fluid level
An insufficient level of brake fluid may result in problems in the brake system. The level of the brake fluid is monitored electronically ⇒page 28, “Brake system ”.
WARNING
•Only apply the brakes for the purpose of drying and cleaning the brake discs if the traffic conditions permit this. Do not place any other road users in jeopardy.
•When retrospectively mounting a front spoiler, solid wheel hubs etc. one must ensure that the air supply to the front wheel brakes is not reduced otherwise the braking system could run too hot.
•Allow for the fact that new brake pads do not achieve their full braking efficiency until approximately 200 kilometres. New brake pads must be first “run in” before they develop their optimal friction force. You can, however, compensate for this slightly reduced braking force by increasing the pres-sure on the brake pedal. This guideline also applies to any new brake pads installed at a future date.
Caution
•Never allow the brakes to rub by applying slight pressure if you do not wish to brake the vehicle. This causes the brakes to overheat and can also result in a longer braking distance and excessive wear.
•Before negotiating a steep downhill section, please reduce your speed and shift down into the next lower gear (manual gearbox) or select a lower driving stage (automatic gearbox). This enables you to make full use of the braking power of the vehicle and reduces the strain on the brakes. Any additional braking should be done intermittently, not continuously.
Brake booster
The brake booster boosts the pressure which you generate with the brake pedal. The necessary pressure is only generated when the engine is running.
NKO A05F 20.book Page 154 Wednesday, April 2, 2008 1:02 PM