Airbag system
Description of the airbag system
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
System description
98
Airbag deployment
98WARNING■ An airbag can only offer you optimal protection in combination with a fas-
tened seat belt .■
The airbag is not a substitute for the seat belt, but instead forms part of the
complete passive vehicle safety concept.
■
To ensure passengers are protected with the greatest possible effect when
the airbag is deployed, the front seats must be correctly adjusted to match
the body size » page 91, Correct seated position .
■
If you do not fasten the seat belts when driving, lean too far forward or
adopt an incorrect seated position, you are exposing yourself to increased risk
of injury in the event of an accident.
WARNINGObserve the following instructions for handling the airbag system.■If there is a fault, the airbag system must be checked by a specialist garage
immediately. Otherwise, there is a risk that the airbag will not be deployed in the event of an accident.■
No modifications of any kind must be made to parts of the airbag system.
■
Any work on the airbag system including the installation and removal of sys-
tem components due to other repair work (e.g. removal of the steering wheel)
must only be carried out by a specialist garage.
■
Never make any changes to the front bumper or bodywork.
■
It is prohibited to manipulate individual parts of the airbag system as this
might result in the airbag being deployed.
■
The protective function of the airbag system is sufficient for only one acci-
dent. The airbag system must then be replaced if the airbag has been de-
ployed.
System description
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 98.
The functional status of the airbag system is indicated by the indicator light in
the instrument cluster » page 20.
When the airbags are deployed, they fill with gas and inflate.
A grey white or red, non-harmful gas is released when the airbag is inflated. This
is perfectly normal and is not an indication of a fire in the vehicle.
Depending on the vehicle equipment, the airbag system consists of the
following modules.
› Electronic control unit.
› Front airbag for the driver and the front passenger
» page 99.
› Side airbags Head-thorax
» page 100;
› Airbag warning light in the instrument cluster
» page 20,
Airbag system .
› Key switch for the front passenger airbag
» page 102.
› Warning light for the front passenger airbag deactivation/activation in the mid-
dle of the dash panel » page 102.
Note
■
The airbag system needs no maintenance during its working life.■If you sell your vehicle, provide the complete vehicle documentation to the new
owner. Please note that the information relating to the possibility of deactivating
the front passenger airbag must be included!■
When disposing of vehicle or parts of the airbag system, it is important to com-
ply with the national legal requirements.
Airbag deployment
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 98.
The airbags inflate in fractions of a second and at a high speed in order to be able
to offer additional protection in the event of an accident.
The airbag system is only functional when the ignition is switched on.
In certain accident situations, several airbags may be deployed simultaneously.
98Safety
We recommend that you ask a ŠKODA service partner to deactivate any other air-bags.
Monitoring the airbag system
The operational capability of the airbag system is monitored electronically, includ-
ing when one of the airbags is switched off.
Airbag deactivated using diagnostic equipment
› The warning light
lights up for approx. 3 seconds after switching on the igni-
tion and then flashes again for approx. 12 seconds.
Front passenger airbag deactivated using the key switch in the storage com- partment
› The warning light
lights up for approx. 3 seconds after switching on the igni-
tion.
› The warning light
3
» Fig. 93 on page 102 lights up after
the ignition has been turned on.
Note
■ The national regulations for switching off airbags must be observed.■A ŠKODA service partner will be able to inform you which, if any, of your vehi-
cle's airbags can or must be deactivated.
Deactivating the front passenger airbag
Fig. 93
Key switch for front passenger airbag/warning light for front pas-
senger airbag activation/deactivation
First read and observe the introductory information given on page 101.
Only the front passenger airbag is deactivated with the key switch.
Switching off›Switch off the ignition.›
Use the key to turn the slot of the key switch into position
2
» Fig. 93 OFF .
›
Check that warning light
3
in the middle of the dash panel
lights up after the ignition is switched on.
Switching on
›
Switch off the ignition.
›
Use the key to turn the slot of the key switch into position
1
» Fig. 93 ON .
›
Check that warning light
3
in the middle of the dash panel
does not light up after the ignition is switched on.
WARNING■ The driver is responsible for whether the airbag is switched on or switched
off.■
Only switch off the airbag when the ignition is switched off! Otherwise a
fault can occur in the system for deactivating the airbag.
■
If the warning light flashes, the front passenger airbag
will not be deployed in the event of an accident! Have the airbag system checked by a specialist garage immediately.
102Safety
WARNING■When washing your vehicle in the winter: Water and ice in the braking sys-
tem can affect the braking efficiency – risk of accident!■
Only wash the vehicle when the ignition is switched off – risk of accident!
CAUTION
Do not wash your vehicle in bright sunlight – risk of paint damage.
For the sake of the environment
Only wash the vehicle at washing bays intended for this purpose.
Washing by hand
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 113.
Soak the dirt with plenty of water and rinse as well as possible.
Clean the vehicle with a soft sponge, a washing glove or a washing brush . Work
from the top to the bottom – starting with the roof.
Only use a car shampoo for stubborn dirt.
Wash out the sponge or washing glove thoroughly at short intervals.
Clean wheels, door sills and similar parts last. Use a second sponge for such
areas.
Give the vehicle a good rinse after washing it and dry it off using a chamois leath- er.
CAUTION
■ When washing the car by hand, protect your hands and arms from sharp-edged
metal parts (e.g. when cleaning the underfloor, the inside of the wheel housings
or the wheel trims, etc.) - There is a risk of cuts!■
Only apply slight pressure when cleaning the vehicle's paintwork.
Automatic car wash systems
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 113.
The usual precautionary measures must be taken before washing the vehicle in
an automatic car wash system (e.g. closing the windows and the sliding/tilting
roof etc.).
If your vehicle is fitted with any particular attached parts, such as a spoiler, roof
rack system, two-way radio aerial etc., it is best to consult the operator of the car
wash system beforehand.
After an automatic wash with wax treatment, the lips of the wipers should be cleaned with cleaning agents specially designed for the purpose, and then de-
greased.
WARNINGFold in the exterior mirrors to prevent damage before washing the vehicle in
an automatic car wash system.
Washing with a high-pressure cleaner
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 113.
When washing the vehicle with a high-pressure cleaner, the instructions for use
of the equipment must be observed. This applies in particular to the pressure
used and to the spraying distance .
Maintain a sufficiently large distance to the parking aid sensors and soft materials
such as rubber hoses or insulation material.
WARNINGNever use circular spray nozzles or dirt cutters! 114General Maintenance
Unleaded petrolFirst read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 122.
Your vehicle can only be operated with unleaded petrol in compliance with the
EN 228 1)
standard.
All petrol engines can be operated using petrol that contains at most 10% bioe-
thanol (E10).
Prescribed fuel – unleaded petrol min. 95 RON Use unleaded fuel with the octane rating 95 RON or higher.
In case of necessity, you can refuel with petrol with the octane ratings 91, 92 or
93 RON, if petrol with the octane rating 95 RON is not available »
.
Fuel additives
Unleaded petrol in accordance with the EN 228 standard 1)
meets all the condi-
tions for a smooth-running engine. We therefore recommend that no fuel addi-
tives are used. This can result in considerable damage to parts of the engine or
the exhaust system.
CAUTION
■ Even filling the tank with leaded petrol that does not meet the standards once
can lead to serious damage to parts of the exhaust system!■
If a fuel other than unleaded fuel which complies to the above mentioned
standards (e.g. leaded petrol) is used by mistake, do not start the engine or
switch on the ignition! Extensive damage to engine parts can occur! We recom-
mend that you have the fuel system cleaned by a specialist garage.CAUTION■ If, in an emergency, the vehicle has to be refuelled with petrol of a lower octane
number than the one prescribed, the journey must only be continued at medium
engine speeds and a low engine load. Driving at high engine revs or a high engine
load can severely damage the engine! Refuel using petrol of the prescribed oc-
tane number as soon as possible.■
Engine parts can be damaged if petrol with a lower octane number than the one
prescribed is used.
■
Even in the event of an emergency, petrol of a lower octane number than 91
RON must not be used, otherwise the engine can be severely damaged!
CAUTION
■ In no case may fuel additives with metal components be used, especially not
with manganese and iron content. LRP(lead replacement petrol) fuels with metal-
lic components may not be used. There is a risk of causing considerable damage
to parts of the engine or exhaust system!■
Fuels with metallic content may not be used. There is a risk of causing consider-
able damage to parts of the engine or exhaust system!
Note
■ Unleaded petrol that has a higher octane number than that required by the en-
gine can be used without limitations.■
On vehicles using prescribed unleaded petrol of min. 95 RON, the use of petrol
with a higher octane number than 95 RON can increase the power and reduce
fuel consumption.
Vehicles with CNG (compressed natural gas) mode
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Refuelling
124
Automatic switching from CNG to petrol mode
125
Natural gas as fuel
125
1)
In Germany, DIN 51626-1 or E10 for unleaded gasoline with octane number 95 and 91.
123Inspecting and replenishing
Regular gas system checks125Safe natural gas126
Natural gas quality and consumption
126
CNG labels
126WARNING■When operating a CNG-powered vehicle, the national legal requirements
must be observed.■
If a fault occurs or a leak in the natural gas system is suspected or if you
smell gas, proceed as follows: ■Stop immediately and switch off the ignition (this will close the solenoid
valves on the natural gas tanks automatically);
■ Open the doors to ventilate the vehicle sufficiently;
■ Immediately extinguish cigarettes, and remove and switch off other spark-
or fire-causing objects from the vehicle immediately. ■ Seek help from a specialist garage to correct the gas system fault.
■
The following are considered faults on the gas system:
■ Gas leakage from any part of the gas system as well as an error on the
ventilation system.
■ Continuous gas venting through the safety valves.
■ Cracks or damage that could result in a gas leak.
■ Fault in the reduction device, the pressure regulator, gas mixer or in the
injection valves, the pressure gauge, the shut-off or check valves and tank
fixtures.
■ If gas flows into the gas mixer or into the injection valves though the en-
gine is stopped.
■ Exceeding the permissible limits for contaminants in the exhaust gas.
■
Regular gas system checks must be carried out in order to operate a natural
gas vehicle. The vehicle owner is responsible for properly conducted tests.
■
The natural gas tanks must not be exposed to a heat source.
■
Always switch off the ignition in case of an accident or vehicle fire!
■
It is prohibited to drive into automatic car washes, enclosed storage places,
garages and similar areas where it is specifically forbidden to enter with CNG vehicles.
RefuellingFig. 100
Fuel filler
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings on page 123.
The gas filler tube for refuelling with natural gas is located behind the fuel filler
flap next to the petrol filler tube.
The filling couplings of the natural gas refuelling systems may differ in handling.
When refuelling with natural gas at unfamiliar refuelling systems, you should
seek help from trained fuel station staff. If unsure, have the refuelling done by
trained fuel station staff.
The operating instructions of the refuelling system must always be followed.
Open fuel filler flap
›
Open the fuel filler flap with one hand.
›
Remove the cap
1
» Fig. 100 from the gas filler tube
2
.
›
Plug the filling coupling of the refuelling system on the gas filler tube
2
.
The fuel tank is full when the compressor of the refuelling system automatically
switches off. To stop the refuelling operation prematurely, press the “Stop ” but-
ton of the refuelling system.
Closing the filler cap
›
Check that the sealing ring
3
» Fig. 100 has remained in the gas filler tube. If it
has slipped onto the filling coupling, reinsert it into the gas filler tube.
›
Plug the cap
1
onto the gas filler tube.
›
Close the filler cap.
124General Maintenance
Safe natural gasFirst read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 123.
The safety concept of the natural gas system ensures safe operation. It is equip-
ped with the following security features.
› At each natural gas tank, there is a solenoid valve that closes automatically af-
ter turning off the ignition or when running in petrol mode.
› A thermal fuse prevents uncontrolled rise in pressure in the natural gas tank in
case of fire.
› A flow limiter prevents sudden emptying of the natural gas tank in case the
pressure system is damaged.
› All the attachment points and materials are designed for maximum safety.
Natural gas quality and consumption
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 123.
Natural gas is divided into quality groups H-gas and L-gas. The two types of gas
are subdivided according to their calorific value and nitrogen and carbon dioxide
contents. H-gas has a higher calorific value and lower nitrogen or carbon dioxide
content than L-gas.
The higher the calorific value of natural gas, the lower is the consumption. How-
ever, the calorific value and the nitrogen and carbon dioxide contents can vary
within a quality group. Therefore, the consumption of the vehicle may even vary
when driving with only one natural gas quality (either only H-gas or L-gas).
The engine control of your vehicle automatically adjusts to the different natural
gas qualities. Therefore both natural gas qualities can be mixed in the fuel tank. It is therefore not necessary to run the natural gas tank completely empty to fill up
another quality.
CNG labelsFig. 101
CNG label
Fig. 102
Position of the CNG label
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 123.
In some countries, national legislation requires that vehicles with CNG operation
be identified by one of the listed labels » Fig. 101.
Position of the CNG label » Fig. 102.
126General Maintenance
Engine compartment
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Opening and closing the bonnet
128
Engine compartment overview
129
Radiator fan
129
Windscreen washer system
129WARNINGInjuries or scolding or risks of accident or fire may occur when working in the
engine compartment. For this reason, it is essential to comply with the warn- ing instructions outlined below and with the general applicable safety rules.
The engine compartment of your car is a hazardous area!WARNINGThe following instructions must be followed before starting work in the en-
gine compartment:■
Turn off the engine and withdraw the ignition key.
■
Firmly apply the handbrake.
■
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 N.
■
Allow the engine to cool.
■
Never open the bonnet if you can see steam or coolant escaping from the
engine compartment – risk of scalding! Wait until no more steam or coolant is
escaping.
WARNINGThe following instructions must be followed when working in the engine com-
partment.■
Keep children clear of the engine compartment.
■
Never touch the radiator fan while the engine is still warm. The fan might
suddenly start running!
WARNING (Continued)■ Do not touch any hot engine parts – risk of burns!■The coolant additive and thus all of the coolant is harmful to your health.■
Avoid contact with the coolant.
■
Coolant vapours are harmful to health.
■
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.
■
If any coolant splashes into your eyes, immediately rinse out your eyes with
clear water and contact a doctor as soon as possible.
■
Always store the coolant additive securely in its original container, and in
particular out of the reach of children – risk of poisoning!
■
If coolant is swallowed, consult a doctor immediately.
■
Do not leave any items (e.g. cloths or tools) in the engine compartment.
■
Never spill fluids on the hot engine. Such fluids (e.g. the antifreeze con-
tained in the coolant) may ignite!
WARNINGThe following warning instructions must be observed at all times when work-
ing in the engine compartment while the engine is running.■
Pay particular attention to rotating engine parts (e.g. V-ribbed belt, genera-
tor, radiator fan) and the high-voltage ignition system – risk to life!
■
Never touch the electric wiring on the ignition system.
■
Avoid short circuits in the electrical system – particularly on the vehicle's
battery.
■
Always make sure that no jewellery, loose clothing or long hair can get
caught in rotating engine parts – risk to life! Always remove any jewellery, tie
back long hair and wear tight fitting clothing before completing any work.
WARNINGThe following warning instructions must be observed if work has to be carried
out on the fuel or electrical systems.■
Always disconnect the vehicle battery from the electrical system.
■
Do not smoke.
■
Never work near open flames.
■
Always have a functioning fire extinguisher nearby.
127Inspecting and replenishing
›Take the bonnet support out of its holder 3
» Fig. 104 in the direction if the
arrow and secure the opened bonnet by inserting the end of the support in the
opening 4
designed for it.
Closing
›
Lift the bonnet slightly and unhook the bonnet support. Insert the bonnet sup-
port into the holder
3
designed for this purpose » Fig. 104.
›
Let the bonnet drop into the lock carrier lock from a height of around 20 cm – do
not push it in .
WARNINGCheck that the bonnet is closed properly.
CAUTION
Never open the bonnet using the locking lever » Fig. 103.
Engine compartment overview
Fig. 105
Schematic diagram: Engine compartment
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn- ings
on page 127.
Engine oil dipstick
131
Engine oil filler opening
131
Coolant expansion reservoir
132123Brake fluid reservoir133Vehicle battery134
Windscreen washer fluid reservoir
129
Radiator fan
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 127.
The radiator fan is powered by an electric motor. Operation is controlled accord-
ing to the temperature of the coolant.
WARNINGAfter switching off the ignition, the fan may intermittently continue to oper-
ate for approx. 10 minutes.
Windscreen washer system
Fig. 106
Engine compartment: Wind-
screen washer fluid reservoir
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn- ings on page 127.
The windscreen washer fluid reservoir is located in the engine compartment and
contains the cleaning fluid for the windscreen or rear window.
The capacity of the windscreen washer fluid reservoir is approximately 3 litres.
Water alone is not sufficient to intensively clean the windscreen. We recommend using clean water together with a screen cleaner from the range of ŠKODA Origi-
nal Accessories (with antifreeze in winter) , which will remove any stubborn dirt.
456129Inspecting and replenishing