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.
The following is shown on the information display if this speed is exceeded: Winter tyres: maximum ... km/h.
Units of measurement
The units for the temperature, consumption and distance driven can be set here.
Alt. speed dis.
Display of the second speed in mph 1)
can be activated here.
Service
The days and kilometres remaining until the next service can be displayed here.
Factory setting
The display can be restored to its factory settings here.
Door, boot lid and bonnet warning
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 18.
If at least one door is open, or the boot or bonnet is open, the MAXI DOT display
shows the vehicle with the corresponding door or boot/bonnet open.
An audible signal also sounds if the vehicle is travelling at more than 6 km/h.
Auto Check Control
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 18.
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 MAXI DOT dis-
play. The messages are displayed simultaneously with the icons in the MAXI DOT
display or with the warning lights in the instrument cluster » page 20.
The Vehicle status menu item is shown in the main menu of the MAXI DOT dis-
play whenever at least one fault message is present. The first of the fault mes-
sages is displayed after this menu item is selected. 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 displayed.
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 symbolsEngine oil pressure too low» page 21Clutches in the automatic gearbox are too
hot» page 19Check engine oil level,
engine oil sensor defective» page 21
Clutches in the automatic gearbox are too hot
The
symbol in the MAXI DOT display indicates that the temperature of the au-
tomatic gearbox clutches is too high.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Gearbox overheating. Stop. Read manual.
Stop the vehicle, switch off the engine, and wait until the
icon goes out – there
is a risk of gearbox damage. You can continue your journey as soon as the icon
disappears.
WARNINGIf you have to stop for technical reasons, park the vehicle at a safe distance
from the traffic, switch off the engine and activate the hazard warning light
system » page 47 . 1)
On models on which the speedometer indicates mph, the second speed is displayed in km/h.
19Instruments and Indicator Lights
Note■Warning messages shown in the MAXI DOT display must be confirmed with but-
ton B » Fig. 7 on page 18 to call up the main menu.■
As long as the operational faults are not rectified, the symbols are always indi-
cated again. After they are displayed for the first time, the symbols continue to be
indicated without any extra messages for the driver.
Warning lights
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Handbrake
20
Brake system
20
Seat belt warning light
21
Alternator
21
Door open
21
Engine oil
21
Coolant
22
Power steering
23
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
23
Traction Control System (ASR)
23
Antilock brake system (ABS)
24
The rear fog light
24
Bulb failure
24
Exhaust inspection system
24
Glow plug system (diesel engine)
24
ECU fault light (petrol engine)
25
Diesel particulate filter (diesel engine)
25
Fuel reserve
25
Airbag system
26
Tyre pressure
26
Windscreen washer fluid level
26
Traction control (TCS) switched off
26
Turn signal system
26
Low beam
27 Fog lights27 Cruise control system27
Selector lever lock
27
Main beam
27
The warning lights show certain functions/faults and may be accompanied by au-
dible signals.
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 160, Engine compartment .
Handbrake
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 20.
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 message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Release parking brake!
Brake system
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 20.
The
indicator light comes on if the brake fluid level in the braking system is too
low or there is a fault in the ABS.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Brake fluid: Read manual.
20Using the system
Airbag systemFirst read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 20.
If the warning light lights up, there is a fault in the airbag system.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Fault: Airbag
The operational capability of the airbag system is monitored electronically, even if one of the airbags is switched off.
If a front, side or head airbag or belt tensioner has been switched off using the vehicle system tester:
› The
warning light comes on for around 4 seconds after the ignition is switch-
ed on and then flashes for approximately another 12 seconds at 2 second inter-
vals.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Airbag/belt tensioner deactivated.
If the front passenger's front airbag was switched off using the key-operated
switch on the side of the dash panel on the passenger side:
› The
warning light comes on for around 4 seconds after the ignition has been
switched on.
› switching off the airbag is indicated in the middle of the dash panel by the light-
ing up of the yellow indicator light in display
» page 138 .
WARNINGIf there is a fault, have the airbag system checked immediately by a specialist
garage. Otherwise, there is a risk of the airbag not being activated in the
event of an accident.
Tyre pressure
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 20.
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.
The warning light coming on indicates a fault in the system.
Seek help from a specialist garage.
Further information » page 176, Tyre pressure monitor .
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.
Windscreen washer fluid level
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 20.
If the windscreen washer fluid level is too low, the warning light
comes on.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Top up wash fluid!
Top up with liquid » page 163.
Traction control (TCS) switched off
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 20.
The ASR is switched off by pressing the button » page 112 and the warning light
illuminates.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Traction control (ASR) deactivated.
Turn signal system
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 20.
Either the left
or right
warning light flashes depending on the position of the
turn signal lever.
26Using the system
WARNING (Continued)■Please note that the handling properties of the vehicle may be affected
when transporting heavy objects as the centre of gravity can be shifted –
there is a risk of an accident. The speed and style of driving must be adjusted
accordingly.■
If the items of luggage or objects are attached to the lashing eyes with un-
suitable or damaged lashing straps, injuries can occur in the event of braking
manoeuvres or accidents. To prevent items of luggage from being thrown for-
ward, always use suitable lashing straps which must be firmly attached to the lashing eyes.
■
Items carried in the luggage compartment must be stowed in such a way
that no objects are able to slip forward under sudden driving manoeuvres or
braking – there is a risk of injury.
■
When transporting fastened objects which are sharp and dangerous in the
boot that has been enlarged by folding the rear seats forward, ensure the safety of the passengers transported on the other rear seats » page 126, Cor-
rect seated position of the rear seat passengers .
■
If the rear seat next to the folded forward seat is occupied, ensure maxi-
mum safety, e.g. by placing the goods to be transported in such a way that the
seat is prevented from folding back in case of a rear collision.
■
Never drive with the tailgate fully opened or slightly ajar otherwise exhaust
gases may get into the interior of the vehicle – risk of poisoning.
■
Under no circumstances, should the permissible axle loads and permissible
gross weight of the vehicle be exceeded – there is the risk of an accident.
■
Never transport people in the boot!
CAUTION
Please ensure that the heating elements for the rear window heater are not dam-
aged as a result of abrasive objects.
Note
Tyre pressure must be adjusted to the load » page 174
, Tyre service life .
Class N1 vehicles
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 58.
On class N1 vehicles, which are not fitted with a protective grille, a lashing set which complies with the standard EN 12195 (1 - 4) must be used for fastening the
load.
The proper functioning of the electrical system is essential for the safe operation
of the vehicle. It is important to ensure that it is not damaged during modifica-
tions or when loading or unloading the luggage compartment.
Fastening elements
Fig. 44
Boot: Lashing eyes and fastening elements
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn- ings
on page 58.
The following fastening elements are found in the luggage compart-ment » Fig. 44 .
Lashing eyes for fastening items of luggage and fixing nets.
Fastening elements for fastening fixing nets.
CAUTION
The maximum permissible load of the lashing eyes is 3.5 kN (350 kg). AB59Seats and storage
New engineFirst read and observe the introductory information given on page 103.
The engine has to be run in during the first 1 500 kilometres.Up to 1 000 kilometres
›
Do not drive faster than 3/4 of the maximum speed of the gear in use, i.e. 3/4 of
the maximum permissible engine speed.
›
No full throttle.
›
Avoid high engine speeds.
›
Do not tow a trailer.
From 1 000 up to 1 500 kilometres
Gradually increase the power output of the engine up to the full speed of the
gear engaged, i.e. up to the maximum permissible engine speed.
The red scale on the rev counter indicates the range in which the system beginsto limit the engine speed.
During the first operating hours the engine has higher internal friction than later until all of the moving parts have harmonized. The driving style which you adopt
during the first approx.1 500 kilometres plays a decisive part in the success of
running in your car.
Never drive at unnecessarily high engine speeds even after the running-in period. On vehicles fitted with a manual gearbox, at the very latest shift up into the next
gear when the red area is reached. Observe the recommended gear » page 13,
Recommended gear . Very high engine speeds when accelerating (accelerator) are
automatically restricted »
.
In vehicles with manual transmission, do not drive at unnecessarily low engine
speeds. Shift down a gear when the engine is no longer running smoothly. Ob-
serve the recommended gear » page 13, Recommended gear .
CAUTION
■
The engine is not protected from excessive engine revs caused by shifting
down at the wrong time. This can result in a sudden increase in revs beyond the
permissible maximum rpm and hence engine damage.■
Never rev up a cold engine when the vehicle is stationary or when driving in in-
dividual gears.
For the sake of the environmentDo not drive at unnecessarily high engine speeds. Shifting up sooner helps save
fuel, reduces engine noise and protects the environment.
New tyres
First read and observe the introductory information given on page 103.
New tyres have to be “run in” since they do not offer optimal grip at first. Drive
especially carefully for the first 500 km or so.
New brake pads
First read and observe the introductory information given on page 103.
New brake pads initially do not provide optimal braking performance. They firstneed to be “run in”. Drive especially carefully for the first 200 km or so.
Economical driving and respect the environment
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Driving with anticipation
105
Economical gear changing.
105
Avoiding full throttle
106
Reducing idling
106
Avoiding short distances
106
Checking tyre pressure
106
Avoiding unnecessary ballast
107
Regular maintenance
107
Saving electrical energy
107
Environmental compatibility
107
104Driving
Avoiding full throttleFig. 93
Principle sketch: Fuel consump-
tion in litres/100 km. and speed
in km/h.
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 104.
The slower you drive, the more the fuel savings.
Sensitive use of the accelerator will not only significantly reduce fuel consump-tion but also positively influence environmental pollution and wear of your vehi-
cle.
The maximum speed of your vehicle should, as far possible, never be used. Fuel
consumption, pollutant emissions and vehicle noises increase disproportionally at
high speeds.
The graph » Fig. 93 shows the ratio of fuel consumption to the speed of your ve-
hicle. Fuel consumption will be halved if you drive at only three-quarters of the
possible top speed of your vehicle.
Reducing idling
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 104.
Idling also costs fuel.
In vehicles not equipped with the START-STOP system, turn off the engine when
in a traffic jam, at a level crossing or traffic lights with longer wait times.
Even after just 30 - 40 seconds you will have saved more fuel than that is needed
when you start the engine up again.
If an engine is only idling it takes much longer for it to reach its normal operating
temperature. Wear-and-tear and pollutant emissions, though, are particularly
high in the warming-up phase. Therefore, start driving as soon as the engine has
started, In this case high engine speeds should be avoided.
Avoiding short distances
Fig. 94
Principle sketch: Fuel consump-
tion in l/100 km at different tem-
peratures
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 104.
Short distances result in an above-average high fuel consumption. We therefore recommend avoiding distances of less than 4 km if the engine is cold.
A cold engine consumes the most fuel immediately after the start. Fuel consump-tion drops to 10 litres/100 km after just 1 kilometre. The consumption stabilises
once the engine and catalytic converter have reached their operating tempera-
ture.
An important factor in this connection is also the ambient temperature. The
graph » Fig. 94 shows the different levels of fuel consumption after driving a cer-
tain distance at a temperature of +20 °C and a temperature of -10 °C.
The vehicle has a higher fuel consumption in winter than in summer.
Checking tyre pressure
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 104.
Tyres which are correctly inflated save fuel.
106Driving
Always ensure the tyre inflation pressure is correct. If the pressure is too low, the
tyres will have to overcome a higher rolling resistance. This will not only increase fuel consumption but also tyre wear and the driving behaviour will worsen.
Always check the tyre inflation pressure when the tyres are cold.
Avoiding unnecessary ballast
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 104.
Transporting ballast costs fuel.
Each kilogramme of weight increases the fuel consumption. Therefore, we rec-
ommend that you carry no unnecessary weight.
It is particularly in town traffic, when one is accelerating quite often, that the ve-
hicle weight will have a significant effect upon the fuel consumption. A rule of
thumb here is that an increase in weight of 100 kilograms will cause an increase in fuel consumption of about 1 litre/100 kilometres.
At a speed of 100 - 120 km/h, a vehicle fitted with a roof rack cross member with-
out a load will use about 10 % more fuel than normal due to the increased aero- dynamic drag.
Regular maintenance
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 104.
A poorly tuned engine uses an unnecessarily high amount of fuel.
By having your vehicle regularly maintained by a specialist garage, you create theconditions needed for driving economically. The maintenance state of your vehi-
cle has a positive effect on traffic safety and value retention
A poorly tuned engine can result in a fuel consumption which is 10 % higher than normal.
Check the oil level at regular intervals, e.g. when refuelling. Oil consumption is
dependent to a considerable extent on the load and speed of the engine. Oil con-
sumption could be as high as 0.5 litres/1 000 km depending on your style of driv-
ing.
It is quite normal that a new engine has a higher oil consumption at first, and rea-
ches its lowest level only after a certain running in time. The oil consumption of a
new vehicle can therefore only be correctly assessed after driving about 5 000 km.
For the sake of the environment
■ Additional improvements to the fuel economy can be made by using synthetic
high-lubricity oils.■
Regularly check the ground under the vehicle. Have your vehicle inspected by a
specialist garage if you find any stains caused by oil or other fluids on the ground.
Note
We recommend that your vehicle is serviced on a regular basis by a ŠKODA Serv-
ice Partner.
Saving electrical energy
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 104.
When the engine is running, the alternator generates and supplies electrical pow-
er. If more electrical components of the electrical system are switched on, more
fuel is needed to operate the alternator. We therefore recommend switching off
electrical components if these are no longer required.
Environmental compatibility
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 104.
Environmental protection has played a major role in the design, selection of mate- rials, and manufacture of your new ŠKODA. Particular emphasis has been placed
on the following points.
Design measures › Joints designed to be easily detached.
› Simplified disassembly due to the modular structure system.
› Improved purity of different classes of materials.
› Identification of all plastic parts in accordance with VDA Recommendation 260.
› Reduced fuel consumption and exhaust emission CO
2.
107Starting-off and Driving
The distribution of the weight is very poor if your vehicle is unladen and the trail-
er is laden. Maintain a particularly low speed if you cannot avoid driving with this
combination.
Tyre pressure
Correct the tyre inflation pressure on your vehicle for a “full load” » page 174,
Tyre service life .
Trailer load
The permissible trailer load must not be exceeded under any circumstan- ces » page 201 , Technical data .
The trailer loads specified apply only to altitudes up to 1 000 metres above mean
sea level.
The engine output falls as altitude increases, as does the ability to climb. There-
fore, for every additional 1000 m in height (or part), the maximum permissible
towed weight must be reduced by 10 %.
The towed weight comprises the actual weights of the (loaded) towing vehicleand the (loaded) trailer.
The trailer and drawbar load information on the type plate of the towing equip- ment are merely test data for the towing equipment. The vehicle-specific values
are detailed in the vehicle documents.WARNING■ Do not exceed the maximum permissible axle and drawbar load and the
maximum permissible total or towed weight of the vehicle and the trailer –
there is the risk of an accident and serious injury.■
Slipping loads can significantly affect the stability and safety of the vehicle/
trailer combination – there is the risk of an accident and serious injury.
Towing a trailer
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 121.
Exterior mirrors
You have to have additional exterior mirrors fitted if you are not able to see the
traffic behind the trailer with the standard rear-view mirrors. National legal re-
quirements must be observed.
Headlights
The front of the vehicle can be lifted when a trailer is being towed and the head-
lights can dazzle other road users.
Adjust the headlight setting on the headlight range control » page 44, Headlight
beam adjustment .
Driving speed
For safety reasons, do not drive faster than 80 km/h when towing a trailer.
Immediately reduce your speed as soon as even the slightest swaying of the trail- er is detected. Never attempt to stop the trailer from “swaying” by accelerating.
Brakes
Apply the brakes in good time! If the trailer is fitted with a trailer brake, apply the
brakes gently at first, then brake firmly. This will avoid brake jolts resulting from
the trailer wheels locking.
On downhill sections shift down a gear in good time to also use the engine as a
brake.
Engine overheating
The speed must be reduced immediately if the needle for the coolant tempera- ture gauge moves into the right-hand area or the red area of the scale.
Stop and switch off the engine if the warning light
in the instrument cluster
starts to flash. Wait a few minutes and check the level of coolant » page 167,
Checking the coolant level .
The following guidelines must be observed » page 22,
Coolant .
The coolant temperature can be reduced by switching on the heating.WARNING■ Adapt your speed to the conditions of the road surface and to the traffic sit-
uation.■
Improper or incorrectly connected electric cables can energise the trailer and
cause functional faults to the vehicle's entire electrical system as well as acci-
dents and severe injuries.
■
Work on the electrical system must only be carried out by specialist garages.
■
Never directly connect the trailer's electrical system with the electrical con-
nections for the tail lights or other current sources.
122Driving