2012 SKODA RAPID washer fluid



Engine oil
» page 18
  Coolant temperature/coolant level
» page 19
 Power steering
» page 19
 Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
» page 19
 Traction control (TCS)
» page 20
 Antilock brake system (ABS)
» page 20
 Rear fog light
» page 20
 Bulb failure
» page 20
 Exhaust inspection system
» page 20
 Glow plug system (diesel engine)
» page 21
 EPC fault light (petrol engine)
» page 21
 Diesel particle filter (diesel engine)
» page 21
 Fuel reserve
» page 21
 Airbag system
» page 22
 Tyre control display
» page 22
 Windscreen washer fluid level
» page 22
 Turn signal (left/right)
» page 22 
Fog lights
» page 22
 Speed regulating system
» page 22
 Selector lever lock
» page 22
 Main beam
» page 23 WARNING
■ 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 126, Engine compartment . Ð Handbrake 
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! Ð Brake 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 132. £
17
Instruments and Indicator Lights

Airbag system 
If the warning light  lights up, there is a fault in the airbag system.
The following is displayed in the information display: Error: Airbag
The functionality of the airbag system is also monitored electronically when one
airbag has been switched off.
If a front, side or head airbag or belt tensioner has been switched off using the
vehicle system tester:
› The indicator light
 lights up for around
4 seconds after the ignition is switch-
ed on and then flashes for around 12 seconds.
The following is displayed in the information display: Airbag/belt tensioner deactivated!
If the airbag was switched off using the key-operated switch on the side of the
dash panel on the passenger side:
› The indicator light
 comes on for around 4 seconds after the ignition has been
switched on.
› Airbags that are switched off are indicated in the middle of the dashboard by
the warning light
  in the display      » Fig. 86 on page 103. WARNING
If there is a fault, have the airbag system checked immediately by a ŠKODA
specialist garage. Otherwise, there is a risk of the airbag not being activated in
the event of an accident. ÐTyre control display 
The warning light  lights up, if there is a substantial drop in inflation pressure in
one of the tyres. Check and adjust the pressure in all tyres » page 137.
If the warning light  lights up, there is a fault in the system.
Seek help from a ŠKODA specialist garage.
Further information »

page 141, Tyre control display . Note
If the battery has been disconnected, the warning light  illuminates after the ig-
nition is switched on. The warning light should go out after driving a short dis-
tance. Ð Windscreen washer fluid level 
If the windscreen washer fluid level is too low, the warning light  comes on. Top
up with liquid » page 132, Windscreen washer system.
The following is displayed in the information display: Top up wash fluid! Ð Turn signal system 

Either the left  or right  warning light flashes depending on the position of the
turn signal lever.
If a turn signal light fails, the warning light flashes at twice its normal rate.
Switching off the hazard warning light system is switched on will cause all of the
turn signal lights as well as both warning lights to flash.
Further information » page 36, Turn signal and main beam lever .Ð Fog lights 
The warning light  comes on when the fog lights are operating » page 35.Ð Speed regulating system 
The warning light  comes on when the cruise control is operating » page 75.Ð Selector lever lock 
If the warning light  lights up, operate the brake pedal. This is necessary, to be
able to move the selector lever from position P or N » page 81. Ð
22 Using the system

The windshield wipers and the windshield washer system only operate if the igni-
tion is switched on.
The rear window is wiped once if the windscreen wipers are on when reverse
gear is selected.
Top up with windscreen wiper fluid
» page 132.WARNING
■ Properly maintained windscreen wiper blades are essential for clear visibility
and safe driving » page 41. ■ Do not use the windscreen washer system at low temperatures, without
heating the windscreen beforehand. Otherwise the window cleaner could
freeze on the windscreen and restrict the view to the front. CAUTION
■ In cold temperatures and during the winter, check before the journey or before
switching on the ignition that the wiper blades are not frozen to the windscreen.
If the windscreen wipers are switched on when the blades are frozen to the
windscreen, this may damage both the blades and windscreen wiper motor!
■ If the ignition is switched off while the windscreen wipers are switched on, the
windscreen wipers will continue wiping in the same mode after the ignition is
turned back on. The windscreen wipers could freeze up in cold temperatures be-
tween the time the ignition was turned off and when it was turned back on again.
■ Carefully detach frozen wiper blades from the front or rear window.
■ Remove snow and ice from the windscreen wipers before driving.
■ If the windscreen wipers are handled carelessly, there is a risk of damage to the
windscreen.
■ Replace the windscreen wiper blades once or twice a year for safety reasons.
These can be purchased from a ŠKODA Service Partner.
■ The ignition must not be switched on if the front windscreen wiper arms are fol-
ded out. The wiper blades would move back into their rest position and while do-
ing so damage the paintwork of the bonnet. Note
■ Keep the wiper blades clean. The wiper blades can become soiled with wax resi-
dues after washing in automatic vehicle wash systems » page 118.
■ On vehicles equipped with washer nozzles for the windscreen, these are heated
when the engine is running. Ð Activating the windscreen wipers and washers
Fig. 28
Windscreen wiper lever
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 39.
Flick wipe
› If you only wish to wipe the windscreen
briefly, push the lever into the spring-
tensioned position 4
» Fig. 28
.
Periodic wiping
› Position the lever upwards into position 1
» Fig. 28
.
› Set the desired break between the individual wiper strokes with the switch A
.
Slow wipe
› Position the lever upwards into position 2
» Fig. 28
.
Fast wipe
› Position the lever upwards into position 3
» Fig. 28
.
Automatic wipe/wash for windscreen
› Pull the lever towards the steering wheel into the spring-tensioned position 5
» Fig. 28, the wash system and the windshield wipers will operate.
› Release the lever. The windscreen wash system stops and the wiper continues
for another 1 – 3 wiper strokes (depending on the period of spraying of the
windscreen).
Wiping the rear window pane
› Push the lever away from the steering wheel into position 6
» Fig. 28 and the
windscreen wipers will operate regularly after a few seconds.
Automatic wipe/wash for the rear window
› Push the lever away from the steering wheel into the spring-tensioned position 7
» Fig. 28, the windshield wiper and wash system will operate.
£
ä
40 Using the system

Diesel fuel
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 124.
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 128
Engine compartment overview 128
Checking the engine oil level 129
Replenishing the engine oil 129
Changing engine oil 130
Coolant 130
Checking the coolant level 130
Replenishing the coolant 131
Radiator fan 131
Checking the brake fluid 132
Brake fluid change 132
Windscreen washer system 132
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. £
126 General Maintenance

Opening and closing the bonnet
Fig. 96
Bonnet/radiator grille release lever: Release lever Fig. 97
Securing the bonnet
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 126.
Opening
›
Open the front left door.
› Pull the release lever under the dash panel 1
» Fig. 96
in the direction of the
arrow.
Before opening the bonnet, ensure that the arms of the windscreen wipers are
correctly in place against the windscreen otherwise the paintwork could be dam-
aged.
› Press the release lever in the direction of the arrow 2
» Fig. 96
and the bonnet
is unlocked.
› Grab hold of the bonnet and lift.
ä ›
Take the bonnet support out of its holder 3
in the direction of the ar-
row » Fig. 97 and secure the opened bonnet by inserting the end of the support
in the opening 4
in the bonnet.
Closing
› Lift the bonnet slightly and unhook the bonnet support. Press the bonnet sup-
port into the holder 3
designed to hold it.
› Let the bonnet drop into the lock carrier lock from a height of around 20 cm –
do not push it in .
› Check that the bonnet is closed properly. Ð Engine compartment overview
Fig. 98
1.2 ltr./63 kW TSI petrol engine
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 126.
Coolant expansion reservoir 130
Windscreen washer fluid reservoir 132
Engine oil filler opening 129
Engine oil dipstick 129
Brake fluid reservoir 132
Vehicle battery 133
£
ä 1
2
3
4
5
6
128
General Maintenance

Checking the brake fluid
Fig. 101
Engine compartment: Brake fluid
reservoir
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 126.
The brake fluid reservoir is located in the engine compartment.
›
Switch off the engine.
› Open the bonnet
» page 128.
› Check the level of brake fluid in the reservoir
» Fig. 101. The level must be be-
tween the “MIN” and “MAX” markings.
When driving, a slight drop in the fluid level is caused by the wear-and-tear and
automatic adjustment of the brake pads, and is therefore perfectly normal.
There may be an indication of a leak in the brake system, however, if the fluid lev-
el drops significantly within a short time or if it drops below the “MIN” marking. If
the brake fluid level is too low, this is indicated by the warning light  lighting up
in the instrument cluster » page 17, Brake system . WARNING
If the fluid level has dropped below the MIN marking,  do not continue your
journey – risk of accident! Seek help from a
ŠKODA specialist garage.ÐBrake fluid change
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 126.ä
ä Brake fluid absorbs moisture. Over time it therefore absorbs moisture from the
environment. Excessive water in the brake fluid may be the cause of corrosion in
the brake system. The water content also lowers the boiling point of the brake
fluid.
The brake fluid must comply with the following standards or specifications:
› VW 50114;
› FMVSS 116 DOT4. WARNING
Using old brake fluid can result in severe stress on the brakes because of the
formation of vapour bubbles in the brake system. This greatly impairs the
braking efficiency and thus also the safety of your vehicle. CAUTION
Brake fluid damages the paintwork of the vehicle. Ð Windscreen washer system
Fig. 102
Engine compartment: Wind-
screen washer fluid reservoir
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 126.
The windscreen washer fluid reservoir contains the cleaning fluid for the wind-
screen or rear window and for the headlight cleaning system. The windscreen
washer fluid reservoir is located in the engine compartment.
The capacity of the reservoir is about 3.5 litres or about 5.4

litres on vehicles that
have a headlight cleaning system. £
ä
132 General Maintenance

Clear water is not sufficient to intensively clean the windscreen and headlights.
We therefore recommend using clean water with a screen cleaner
(including anti-
freeze in the winter) that is able to remove stubborn dirt.
Antifreeze should always be added to the cleaning water in the winter even if the
vehicle is fitted with heated windscreen washer nozzles.
Under exceptional circumstances, methylated spirits can also be used if no screen
cleaner with antifreeze is available. The concentration of methylated spirits must
not be more than 15
%. The freeze protection at this concentration is sufficient
only to -5 °C. CAUTION
■ Under no circumstances must radiator antifreeze or other additives be added to
the windscreen washer fluid.
■ If the vehicle is fitted with a headlight cleaning system, only cleaning products
which do not attack the polycarbonate coating of the headlights must be added
to the windscreen washer fluid. Note
Do not remove the filter from the windscreen washer fluid reservoir when replen-
ishing it with liquid otherwise the liquid transportation system can be contamina-
ted, which can cause the windscreen washer system to malfunction. ÐVehicle battery
ä
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Battery cover 134
Checking the battery electrolyte level 135
Operation in winter 135
Charging a vehicle battery 135
Disconnecting and reconnecting the vehicle battery 136
Replacing the vehicle battery 136
Automatic load deactivation 136Warning symbols on the vehicle battery
Symbol Importance
 Always wear eye protection.
 Battery acid is severely caustic. Always wear gloves and eye protec-
tion.
 Keep fire, sparks, open flames and lit cigarettes well clear of the ve-
hicle battery.
 When charging the vehicle battery, a highly explosive gas mixture is
produced.
 Keep children away from the vehicle battery. Improper handling of the vehicle battery can cause damage. We therefore recom-
mend that any work on the vehicle battery is carried out by a

ŠKODA Service Part-
ner.
There is a risk of injuries, scalding, accidents and burns when carrying out any
work on the battery and on the electrical system. For this reason, it is essential to
comply with the warning instructions stated below and with the general applica-
ble rules of safety. WARNING
■ The battery acid is strongly corrosive and must, therefore, be handled with
the greatest of care. Always wear protective gloves, eye and skin protection
when handling the vehicle battery. Corrosive fumes in the air irritate the air
passages and lead to conjunctivitis and inflammation of the air passages in
the lungs. They corrode tooth enamel. After contact with the skin, the acid
creates deep wounds which take a long time to heal. Repeated contact with
diluted acids causes skin diseases (inflammations, ulcers, slin cracks). Acids
coming into contact with water are diluted accompanied by significant devel-
opment of heat.
■ Do not tilt the battery otherwise battery electrolyte may flow out of the bat-
tery vent openings. Protect the eyes with safety glasses or a shield! There is
the danger of suffering blindness! If any battery electrolyte comes into con-
tact with your eyes, rinse the relevant eye immediately with clear water for
several minutes. Then consult a doctor immediately. £
133
Inspecting and replenishing

Index
A
ABS 73
Warning light 20
Accessories 144
Adjusting Exterior mirror 42
Adjusting seats 92
Adjustment Seat 45
Aerial 118
see Radio reception 120
Airbag 99
Deployment 99
Front airbag 100
Head airbag 102
Side airbag 101
Airbag system 99
Air conditioning system Air outlet vents 60
Climatronic 65
Manual air conditioning system 62
Alarm 29
Anti-theft alarm system 29
Antilock brake system 73
Armrest 45
rear 48
Ashtray 53
ASR 73
Assist systems ABS 20, 73
ASR 73
Cruise control systems (CCS) 75
EDL 73
ESC 19, 72
Parking aid 74START/STOP 77
TCS 20
Auto Check Control 16
Automatic gearbox 79
Dynamic shift programme 82
Emergency programme 82
Information for driving 79
Kickdown 82
Manual shifting of gears 81
Parking 80
Selector lever-emergency unlocking 83
Selector lever lock 81
Selector lever positions 80
Starting off 80
Stopping 80
Tiptronic 81
Automatic load deactivation 136
AUX-IN 90
Avoiding damage to your vehicle 113
B
Before setting off 91
Belts 95
Belt tensioners 98
Bonnet Closing 128
Opening 128
Boot Class
N1 vehicles 49
Cover 50
Emergency unlocking 31
Fastening elements 49
Fixing nets 50
Hooks 50
Light 49
see Boot lid 31
Unlocking the boot lid 31
Boot lid 31
Automatic locking 31
Brake assist 72Brake booster 72
Brake fluid Checking 132
Brakes Brake booster 72
Handbrake 72
Running in 109
Warning light 17
Braking Brake fluid 132
Breakdown kit 149
Bulbs Replacing 159
Button in the driver's door Electrical power windows 31
C
Car computer see Multifunction display 11
Car jack 145
Carrier 51
Catalytic converter 109
Central locking button 27
Central locking system 25
lock 27
unlock 26
Changes 144
Changing Engine oil 130
Wheel 146
Charging a vehicle battery 135
Checking Battery electrolyte level 135
Brake fluid 132
Coolant level 130
Engine oil 129
Oil level 129
Windscreen washer fluid 132
Children and safety 105
170 Index