2012 SKODA FABIA open bonnet

Language
You can set the language for the warning and information texts here.
MFD displays
Activate or deactivate certain displays of the multifunction display here.
Time
The time, time format (12 or 24 hour indicator) and the changeover between sum-
mer/winter time can be set here.
Winter tyres
Here, you can set the speed at which an audible signal should sound. This func-
tion is, for example, used for winter tyres where the maximum permissible speed
is lower than the maximum speed of the vehicle.
When exceeding the speed, the following is shown on the information display:
Winter tyres max. speed ...
km/h.
Units of measurement
The units for the temperature, consumption and distance driven can be set here.
Second speed
The display of the second speed in mph or in km/h can be switched on here 1)
.
Service
Here you can have the remaining kilometres and days until the next service inter-
val displayed, and reset the Service Interval Display.
Factory setting
After selecting the menu Factory setting the factory setting of the information
display is restored. ÐDoor, boot lid and bonnet warning
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 15.
If at least one door is open, or the boot or bonnet is open, the information display
indicates the relevant
open door or boot/bonnet.
An audible signal also sounds if the vehicle is travelling at more than 6

km/h.Ð
ä Auto Check Control
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 15.
Vehicle condition
Certain functions and conditions of individual vehicle systems are checked contin-
uously when the ignition is switched on and also while driving.
Some error messages and other information are displayed in the information dis-
play. The messages are displayed at the same time as the symbols in the informa-
tion display or the warning lights in the instrument cluster » page 17.
If there is at least one error message, the menu item Vehicle status is displayed
in the menu. After selecting this menu the first of the error messages is dis-
played. Several error messages are shown on the display under the message e.g.
1/3. This indicates that the first of a total of three error messages is being dis-
played.
As long as the operational faults are not rectified, the symbols are always indica-
ted again. After they are displayed for the first time, the symbols continue to be
indicated without any extra messages for the driver.
Warning symbols
 Engine oil pressure too low
» page 19
 Clutches of the automatic gearbox are too
hot » page 16
 Check engine oil level,
engine oil sensor faulty
» page 19 Clutches of the automatic gearbox are too hot
A symbol  in the information display indicates that the temperature of the
clutches of the automatic gearbox is too high.
The following is displayed in the information display: Gearbox overheated. Stop! Owner's man.!
Stop the vehicle, switch off the engine, and wait until the symbol  disappears -
risk of gearbox damage! You can continue your journey as soon as the symbol dis-
appears. £
ä
1)
Valid for countries where the values are indicated in British measuring units.
16 Using the system


Speed regulating system
» page 24
 Selector lever lock
» page 24
 Main beam
» page 24WARNING
■ If illuminated warning lights and the corresponding descriptions and warn-
ing notes are not observed, this may result in severe 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 compart-
ment, e.g. inspecting and replenishing oil and other fluids. It is essential to ob-
serve safety notes »
page 138, Engine compartment . ÐHandbrake 
The warning light  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 is displayed in the information display:
Release parking brake! ÐBrake system 
The warning light  illuminates if the brake fluid level is too low or there is a
fault in the ABS.
The following is displayed in the information display:
Brake fluid: Owner's manual!
Stop the vehicle, switch off the engine, and check the level of the brake flu-
id » page 144.
Further information » page 81, Brakes and brake assist systems. WARNING
■ If you have to stop for technical reasons, then park the vehicle at a safe dis-
tance from the traffic, switch off the engine and activate the hazard warning
light system » page 42.
■ The following guidelines should be observed when opening the bonnet and
checking the brake fluid level » page 138, Engine compartment .
■ If the warning light  is displayed simultaneously with warning light
 » page 21, Antilock brake system (ABS) ,  do not continue your jour-
ney! Seek help from a ŠKODA specialist garage. ■ A fault to the braking system can increase the vehicle's braking distance! Ð Seat belt warning light 
The warning light  comes on after the ignition is switched on as a reminder for
the driver to fasten the seat belt. The warning light only goes out if the driver has
fastened his seat belt.
If the seat belt has not been fastened by the driver, a permanent warning signal
sounds at vehicle speeds greater than 20

km/h and simultaneously the warning
light  flashes.
If the seat belt is not fastened by the driver during the next 90 seconds, the
warning signal is deactivated and the warning light  lights up permanently.
Further information » page 107, Seat belts. Ð Dynamo 
If the warning light lights up  when the engine is running, the vehicle battery is
not being charged.
Seek help from a ŠKODA

specialist garage. The electrical system requires check-
ing. WARNING
If you have to stop for technical reasons, then park the vehicle at a safe dis-
tance from the traffic, switch off the engine and activate the hazard warning
light system » page 42. £
18 Using the system

CAUTION
If the warning light  (cooling system fault) comes on in addition to the warning
light  when driving, stop the vehicle immediately and switch the engine off -
risk of engine damage! ÐOpen door 
The warning light  comes on if one or several doors are opened or if the boot lid
is opened.
The warning light comes on even when the ignition is switched off. The warning
light lights up for a maximum of 5 minutes. WARNING
If you have to stop for technical reasons, then park the vehicle at a safe dis-
tance from the traffic, switch off the engine and activate the hazard warning
light system » page 42. ÐEngine oil 

The warning light  lights up red (low oil pressure)
The following is displayed in the information display:
Oil Pressure: Engine off! Owner's manual!
The warning light  comes on for a few seconds when the ignition is switched
on 1)
.
Stop the vehicle, switch off the engine, and check the level of the engine
oil » page 141.
Even if the oil level is correct,  do not drive any further if the warning light is
flashing. Also do not leave the engine running at an idling speed.
Seek help from a ŠKODA
specialist garage. The warning light
 lights up yellow (oil quantity too low)
The following is displayed in the information display:
Check oil level!
Stop the vehicle, switch off the engine, and check the level of the engine
oil » page 141, Checking the engine oil level .
An audible signal sounds as a warning signal.
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)
The following is displayed in the information display:
Oil sensor: Workshop!
If the engine oil level sensor is faulty, the warning light flashes  several times
and an audible signal sounds when the ignition is turned on.
Seek help from a

ŠKODA specialist garage. WARNING
If you have to stop for technical reasons, then park the vehicle at a safe dis-
tance from the traffic, switch off the engine and activate the hazard warning
light system » page 42. CAUTION
The red oil pressure light  is not an oil level indicator! One should therefore
check the oil level at regular intervals, preferably after every refuelling stop. Ð Coolant temperature/coolant level 

The indicator light  lights up until the engine reaches operating temperature 2)
.
Avoid high speeds, full throttle and high engine loads.
If the warning light  lights up or flashes, either the coolant temperature is too
high or the coolant level is too low. £1)
The warning light  on vehicles fitted with an information display does not come on after switching
the ignition on, but only if a fault exists or the engine oil level is too low.
2) Not valid for vehicles with information display.
19
Instruments and Indicator Lights

Anti-theft alarm system
Introductory information
The anti-theft alarm system increases the level of protection against people
seeking to break into the vehicle. The system triggers audible and visual warning
signals if an attempt is made to break into the vehicle.
How is the alarm system activated?
The anti-theft alarm system is activated when the vehicle is locked with the radio
remote control or the key in the driver's door . It is activated 30 seconds after
locking the door.
How is the alarm system deactivated?
The alarm system is deactivated by pressing the unlock button on the radio re-
mote control. The anti-theft alarm system is reactivated if the vehicle is not
opened within 30 seconds after transmitting the radio signal.
If the vehicle is unlocked by inserting the key into the driver door, the key must
be inserted into the ignition lock and the ignition switched on within 15
seconds
of unlocking the door to deactivate the alarm system. The alarm is triggered if
the ignition is not switched on within 15 seconds.
When is the alarm triggered?
The following security areas of the locked vehicle are monitored: › bonnet;
› boot lid;
› doors;
› ignition lock;
› Vehicle inclination
» page 31;
› Interior of the vehicle
» page 31;
› A drop in voltage of the on-board power supply;
› Socket of the factory-fitted towing device.
An alarm is immediately triggered if either of the two battery terminals is discon-
nected while the anti-theft alarm system is activated.
How is the alarm switched off?
The alarm is switched off by unlocking the vehicle with the radio remote control
or switching on the ignition. Note
■ The working life of the alarm siren is 5 years.
■ Before leaving the car, it must be checked that all of the windows, doors and
the electric sliding/tilting roof are properly closed to ensure the full functionality
of the anti-theft alarm system. ■ Coding of the radio remote control and the receiver unit precludes the use of
the radio remote control from other vehicles. Ð Interior monitor and towing protection
Fig. 15
Button for interior monitor and
towing protection
The interior monitor detects movements inside the car and then triggers the
alarm.
Switching off
› Switch off the ignition.
› Open the driver door.
› Press the button
 » Fig. 15 in the driver's door.
› Lock the vehicle within 30 seconds.
The interior monitor and the towing protection are switched on again automati-
cally the next time the car is locked. £
31
Unlocking and locking

START/STOP
Fig. 88
Centre console: Button for the
START-STOP system
The START-STOP system helps you to save fuel while at the same time reducing
harmful exhaust emissions and CO 2 emissions.
The function is automatically activated each time the ignition is switched on.
In the start-stop mode, the engine automatically switches to the vehicle's idle
phase, e.g. when stopped at traffic lights.
Information regarding the current state of the
START-STOP system is indicated in
the display of the instrument cluster.
Automatic engine shut down (stop phase)
› Stop the vehicle (where necessary, apply the handbrake).
› Take the vehicle out of gear.
› Release the clutch pedal.
Automatic renewed engine restart (start phase).
› Depress the clutch pedal.
Switching the
START-STOP system on and off
The START/STOP system can be switched on/off by pressing the button  » Fig. 88
.
When start-stop mode is deactivated, the warning light in the button lights up.
If the vehicle is in the stop phase when manually switching off the system, the
engine starts immediately.
The

START-STOP system is very complex. Some of the procedures are hard to
check without servicing. The general conditions for the proper functioning of the
START-STOP system are listed in the following overview. Conditions for the automatic engine shut down (stop phase)
› The gearshift lever is in Neutral.
› The clutch pedal is not depressed.
› The driver has fastened the seat belt.
› The driver's door is closed.
› The bonnet is closed.
› The vehicle is at a standstill.
› The factory-fitted towing device is not electrically connected to a trailer.
› The engine is at operating temperature.
› The charge state of the vehicle battery is sufficient.
› The stationary vehicle is not on a steep slope or a steep downhill section.
› The engine speed is less than 1

200 rpm.
› The temperature of the vehicle battery is not too low or too high.
› There is sufficient pressure in the braking system.
› The difference between the outdoor- and the set temperature in the interior is
not too great.
› The vehicle speed since the last time the engine was switched off was greater
than 3 km/h.
› No cleaning of the diesel particle filter takes place
» page 22.
› The front wheels are not turned excessively (the steering angle is less than 3/4
of a steering wheel revolution).
Conditions for an automatic restart (start phase) › The clutch is depressed.
› The max./min. temperature is set.
› The defrost function for the windscreen is switched on.
› A high blower stage has been selected.
› The START STOP button is pressed.
Conditions for an automatic restart without driver intervention
› The vehicle moves at a speed of more than 3 km/h.
› The difference between the outdoor- and the set temperature in the interior is
too great.
› The charge state of the vehicle battery is not sufficient.
› There is insufficient pressure in the braking system.
If the driver's seat belt is removed for more than 30 seconds or the driver's door is
opened during stop mode, the engine must be started manually with the key. The
following messages in the instrument cluster display must be observed. £
88 Using the system

Automatic gearbox
Automatic gearbox
ä
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Introductory information 90
Starting-off and driving 91
Selector lever positions 91
Manual shifting of gears (Tiptronic) 92
Selector lever lock 93
Kickdown function 93
Dynamic shift programme 93
Emergency programme 94
Selector lever-emergency unlocking 94
WARNING
■ Do not depress the accelerator if changing the position of the selector lever
when the vehicle is stationary and the engine is running - risk of accident!
■ Never move the selector lever into position R or P when driving - risk of an
accident!
■ When the engine is running and the vehicle is stationary, it is necessary to
hold the car with the brake pedal in all the positions of the selector lever (ex-
cept P and N) since the power transmission is never completely interrupted,
also not when the engine is idling - the vehicle creeps.
■ The selector lever must be placed into position P and the handbrake firmly
applied before the bonnet can be opened and work on the running engine can
be completed - risk of accident! The safety guidelines must always be ob-
served » page 138, Engine compartment . WARNING (Continued)
■ If stopping on a hill (downhill gradient), never try to maintain the vehicle sta-
tionary with the gear engaged by means of the
“accelerator pedal”, i.e. by let-
ting the clutch slip. This can lead to overheating of the clutch. If there is a risk
of overheating of the clutch due to overload, the clutch is opened automati-
cally and the vehicle rolls backward - risk of accident!
■ If you have to stop on a slope, depress and hold the brake pedal to prevent
the vehicle from rolling back.
■ On a smooth or slippery road surface using the kickdown function can cause
the driven wheels to spin - risk of skidding! CAUTION
■ The double clutch on the automatic gearbox DSG is equipped with an overload
protection. If the uphill function is used when the vehicle is stationary or driving
slowly uphill, the thermal stress on the clutches is increased. ■ If the clutch system overheats, the symbol  is shown in the information dis-
play along with the message Gearbox overheated. Stop! Owner's man.! appears.
An audible signal sounds as a warning signal. Stop the vehicle, switch off the en-
gine, and wait until the symbol  disappears - risk of gearbox damage! You can
continue your journey as soon as the symbol disappears. Ð Introductory information
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 90.
Shifting up and down through the gears is performed automatically. The gearbox
can also be switched to
Tiptronic mode. This mode makes it possible for you to
also shift gears manually » page 92.
The engine can only be started when the selector lever is in position P or N . If
the selector lever is not in the P or N positions when locking the steering, switch-
ing the ignition on or off or when leaving the engine on, the following message
will appear in the Information display Move selector lever to position P/N! or, in
the instrument cluster display:  P/N
.
At temperatures below -10 °C the engine can only be started in the selector lever
position P 1)
. £
ä
1)
Applies to DSG.
90 Using the system

Diesel fuel
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 136.
Your vehicle can only be operated with
diesel fuel, which complies with the
standard EN
590 (standard DIN 51628 in Germany, standard ÖNORM C 1590 in
Austria, GOST R 52368-2005/EN 590:2004 in Russia).
Operation in winter - Winter-grade diesel fuel
In the winter, only use diesel fuel, which complies with the standard EN 590
(standard DIN 51628 in Germany, standard ÖNORM C 1590 in Austria,
GOST R 52368-2005/EN 590:2004 in Russia). “Winter-grade diesel fuel” will still
operate properly even at a temperature of -20 °C.
It is often the case in countries with different climatic conditions that diesel fuels
available have a different temperature characteristic. The ŠKODA Service Partners
and filling stations in the relevant country will be able to provide you with infor-
mation regarding the diesel fuels available.
Preheating fuel
The vehicle is fitted with a fuel filter preheating system. This secures operation of
a vehicle using diesel fuel down to an environmental temperature of -25 °C.
Fuel additives
Fuel additives, so-called “flow improvers” (petrol and similar products) must not
be added to the diesel fuel. CAUTION
■ Just filling the tank once with diesel fuel that does not comply with the stand-
ard, can cause severe damage to parts of the engine, the fuel and exhaust sys-
tem!
■ If a different fuel other than diesel fuel, which complies to the above mentioned
standards (e.g. petrol) is used by mistake do not start the engine or switch on the
ignition! Extensive damage to engine parts can occur! We recommend that the
fuel system is cleaned by a

ŠKODA Service Partner.
■ Water which has collected in the fuel filter can cause engine faults.
■ Your vehicle is not adapted for use of biofuel (RME), therefore this fuel must not
be refuelled and driven. The use of biofuel (RME) can cause considerable damage
to parts of the engine or fuel system. Ð
ä Engine compartment
ä
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Opening and closing the bonnet 140
Engine compartment overview 140
Checking the engine oil level 141
Replenishing the engine oil 141
Changing engine oil 142
Coolant 142
Checking the coolant level 143
Replenishing the coolant 143
Radiator fan 144
Checking the brake fluid 144
Changing the brake fluid 144
Windscreen washer system 145
There is a risk of injuries, scalding, accidents and fire when working in the en-
gine compartment, e.g. inspecting and replenishing oil and other fluids. For this
reason, it is essential to comply with the warning instructions stated below and
with the general applicable rules of safety. The vehicle's engine compartment is
a hazardous area . WARNING
■ Never open the bonnet if you can see steam or coolant flowing out of the
engine compartment - risk of scalding! Wait until the steam or coolant has
stopped escaping.
■ Turn off the engine and withdraw the ignition key.
■ If the vehicle is fitted with a manual gearbox, move the gearshift lever into
Neutral, or if the vehicle is fitted with an automatic gearbox, move the selec-
tor lever into position P .
■ Firmly apply the handbrake.
■ Allow the engine to cool.
■ For safety reasons, the bonnet must always be properly closed when driving.
This is why after closing the bonnet, the lock must always be checked to en-
sure it has engaged properly. £
138 General Maintenance

WARNING (Continued)
■ If you notice that the lock is not properly engaged while driving, stop the ve-
hicle immediately and close the bonnet - risk of an accident!
■ Keep children clear of the engine compartment.
■ Do not touch any hot engine parts - risk of burns!
■ Never spill fluids on the hot engine. Such fluids (e.g. the antifreeze con-
tained in the coolant) may ignite!
■ Avoid short circuits in the electrical system - particularly on the vehicle's
battery.
■ Never touch the radiator fan while the engine is still warm. The fan might
suddenly start running! ■ Never open the end cover of the coolant expansion reservoir while the en-
gine is still warm. The cooling system is pressurized!
■ When opening the end cover of the coolant expansion reservoir, cover it
with a cloth to protect your face, hands and arms from hot steam or hot cool-
ant.
■ Do not leave any items such as cloths or tools in the engine compartment.
■ If you wish to work under the vehicle, you must secure the vehicle from roll-
ing away and support it with suitable supporting blocks: the car jack is not
sufficient for this - risk of injury!
■ If any inspection work has to be carried out when the engine is running,
there is an additional risk from rotating parts (e.g. V-belt, alternator, radiator
fan) and the high-voltage ignition system. The following must also be ob-
served: ■Never touch the electric wiring on the ignition system.
■ Always make sure that no jewellery, loose clothing or long hair can get
caught in rotating engine parts - hazard! Always remove any jewellery, tie
back long hair and wear tight fitting clothing before completing any work.
■ Additionally, the following warning instructions must be observed if work
has to be carried out on the fuel or electrical system. ■Always disconnect the vehicle battery from the electrical system.
■ Do not smoke.
■ Never work near open flames.
■ Always have a functioning fire extinguisher nearby. CAUTION
■ Always top up using the correct specification of fluids. This may result in major
operating problems and also vehicle damage!
■ Never open the bonnet using the locking lever - danger of causing damage. For the sake of the environment
In view of the environmentally friendly disposal of fluids, the specials tools and
knowledge required for such work, we recommend that fluids are changed by a
Škoda
Service Partner as part of the inspection service. Note
■ If you have any questions regarding the fluids, visit a
ŠKODA Service Partner.
■ Fluids with the correct specifications can be purchased from ŠKODA Original Ac-
cessories. Ð
139
Inspecting and replenishing