2013 SKODA FABIA service

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 symbolsEngine oil pressure too low» page 21Clutches in the automatic gearbox are too
hot» page 19Check 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

 ECU fault light (petrol engine)First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 20.
If the warning light  comes on or begins to flash while driving, a fault exists in
the engine control unit. The engine control unit allows the vehicle to run in emer-
gency mode.
Seek help from a specialist garage.

 Diesel particulate filter (diesel engine)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 20.
The diesel particulate filter separates the soot particles from the exhaust. The
soot particles collect in the diesel particulate filter where they are burnt on a reg-
ular basis.
The 
warning light comes on if soot has accumulated in the filter.
In order to clean the filter, and where traffic conditions permit »
, the vehicle
should be driven for at least 15 minutes or until the warning light goes out at an
steady speed of at least 60 km/h at engine speeds of 1800 - 2500 rpm with 4th
or 5th gear engaged (automatic gearbox: position S).
The 
warning light only goes out once the diesel particulate filter has been
successfully cleaned.
If the filter is not properly cleaned, the warning light 
does not go out and the
warning light 
begins to flash.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Diesel particulate filter: Read manual.
The engine control unit allows the vehicle to run in emergency mode. After switching the ignition off and on again the indicator light, the indicator light 
also lights up.
Seek help from a specialist garage.
WARNING■ The diesel particle filter achieves very high temperatures. Therefore do not
park in areas where the hot filter can come into direct contact with dry grass
or other combustible materials – there is the risk of fire.■
Always adjust your speed to suit weather, road, region and traffic condi-
tions. The recommendations indicated by the warning light must not tempt
you to disregard the national regulations for road traffic.
CAUTION
As long as the warning light  lights up, one must take into account an in-
creased fuel consumption and in certain circumstances a power reduction of the
engine.
Note
■ We recommend avoiding regularly driving short distances to assist the combus-
tion process of the soot particles in the filter.■
Using diesel fuel with an increased sulphur content can considerably reduce the
service life of the filter. A ŠKODA Service Partner will be able to tell you which countries use diesel fuel with a high sulphur content.
■
If the engine is turned off during the filter cleaning process or shortly after-
wards, the cooling fan may turn on automatically for a few minutes.

 Fuel reserve
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 20.
The indicator light  will come on if the fuel level is less than 7 litres.
An audible signal sounds as a warning signal.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Please refuel. Range: ... km
Note
The text in the MAXI DOT display only goes out after the vehicle has been refuel-
led and driven a short distance.
25Instruments and Indicator Lights

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

Removing›Pull the ashtray » Fig. 62 out and up.
Fitting›
Insert the ashtray vertically.
WARNINGNever put flammable objects in the ashtray – there is a risk of fire.
CAUTION
Do not hold the ashtray by the cover when removing it – there is a risk of it break- ing.
Cigarette lighter
Fig. 63
Centre console: Cigarette lighter
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 69.
Operating the cigarette lighter
›
Press in the button in the cigarette lighter » Fig. 63.
›
Wait until the button pops forward.
›
Remove the cigarette lighter immediately and use.
›
Place the cigarette lighter back into the socket.
WARNING■
Take care when using the cigarette lighter! Improper use of the cigarette
lighter can cause burns.■
The cigarette lighter also operates when the ignition is switched off or the
ignition key withdrawn. Therefore never leave children unattended in the ve-
hicle.
Note
■ The cigarette lighter socket can also be used as a 12Volt socket for electrical ap-
pliances » page 70 .■
Further information » page 147, Services, modifications and technical altera-
tions .

12-volt power outlet
Fig. 64
Boot: Power socket
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 69.
Overview of the 12-volt power socket
In the front centre console » Fig. 63 on page 70.
In the luggage compartment » Fig. 64.
Using the power socket
›
Remove the cover from power socket or cigarette lighter, or open the cover for
the power socket.
›
Connect the plug for the electrical appliance to the socket.
Further information » page 147, Services, modifications and technical alterations .
70Using the system

Under these severe conditions , the thickness of the brake pads must also be
checked by a specialist garage between services.
Wet roads or road salt
The performance of the brakes can be delayed as the brake discs and brake pads may be moist or have a coating of ice or layer of salt on them in winter. The
brakes are cleaned and dried by applying the brakes several times.
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. The brakes are cleaned and dried by applying the brakes several times.
Faults in the brake surface
If it is found that the braking distance has suddenly become longer and that the brake pedal can be depressed further, the brake system may be faulty.
Visit a specialist garage immediately and adjust your style of driving appropriately as you will not know how great the damage is.
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 20, 
Brake system .
Brake booster
The brake booster increases the pressure generated with the brake pedal. The
brake booster only operates when the engine is running.
Handbrake
Fig. 87
Handbrake
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 98.
Apply
›
Pull the handbrake lever firmly upwards.
Releasing
›
Pull the handbrake lever up slightly and at the same time push in the locking
button » Fig. 87 .
›
Move the lever right down while pressing the lock button.
The handbrake warning light  lights up when the handbrake is applied, provided
the ignition is on.
WARNINGPlease note that the handbrake must be fully released. A handbrake which is only partially released can result in the rear brakes overheating. This can have
a negative effect on the operation of the brake system – there is a risk of an
accident.

Manual gear shifting and pedals
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Manual gear changing
100
Pedals
100
99Starting-off and Driving

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

Driving through water on streetsFig. 95
Driving through water
First read and observe the introductory information given on page 108.
The following instructions must be observed if vehicle damage is to be avoided
when driving through water (e.g. flooded roads).
›
Determine the depth of the water before driving through it.
The water level must not reach above the web of the lower sill » Fig. 95.
›
Do not drive any faster than at a walking speed.
At a higher speed, a water wave can form in front of the vehicle, which can cause
water to penetrate into the engine's air intake system or other parts of the vehi- cle.
›
Never stop in the water, do not reverse and do not switch the engine off.
›
Deactivate the START-STOP system before driving through water » page 116,
START-STOP .
WARNING■
Driving through water, mud, sludge etc. can reduce the braking power and
extend the braking distance – there is the risk of an accident.■
Avoid abrupt and sudden braking immediately after water crossings.
■
After driving through bodies of water, the brakes must be cleaned and dried
as soon as possible by intermittent braking. Only apply the brakes for the pur-
pose of drying and cleaning the brake discs if the traffic conditions permit this.
Do not place any other road users in jeopardy.
CAUTION■ When driving through water, some parts of the vehicle such as the engine,
gearbox, chassis or electrics can be severely damaged.■
Oncoming vehicles can generate water waves which can exceed the permissible
water level for your vehicle.
■
Potholes, mud or rocks can be hidden under the water making it difficult or im-
possible to drive through the body of water.
■
Do not drive through salt water. The salt can lead to corrosion. Any vehicle parts
that have come into contact with salt water must be rinsed immediately with
fresh water.
Note
We recommend that the vehicle is checked by a specialist garage after it has been
driven through water.
Driving abroad
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Unleaded petrol
109
Headlights
110
In certain countries, it may be possible that the ŠKODA service partner network is
limited or has not been established. This is the reason why procuring certain
spare parts may be somewhat complicated and specialist garages may only be
able to make limited repairs.

Unleaded petrol
First read and observe the introductory information given on page 109.
A vehicle fitted with a petrol engine must always be refuelled with unleaded pet-
rol » page 159 , Unleaded petrol . Information regarding the locations of filling
stations that offer unleaded petrol is, for example, provided by the automobile
associations.

109Starting-off and Driving

Assist systems
Brake assist systems
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Stabilisation control (ESC)
111
Antilock Braking System (ABS)
112
Traction Control System (ASR)
112
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL and XDS)
112WARNING■ A lack of fuel can cause irregular engine running or cause the engine to shut
down. The brake assist systems would then be without function – there is the
risk of an accident.■
Adjust the speed and driving style to the current visibility, weather, road and
traffic conditions. The increased safety offered by the brake assist systems
must not tempt you to take greater risks than otherwise – there is the risk of
an accident.
■
Visit a specialist garage immediately in the event of an ABS fault. Adjust
your style of driving according to the damage to the ABS as you will not know
how great the damage is and the limitation it is placing on the braking effi-
ciency.
CAUTION
■ All four wheels must be fitted with the same tyres approved by the manufactur-
er to ensure the brake assist systems operate correctly.■
Changes to the vehicle (e.g. to the engine, brakes, chassis) can influence the
functionality of the brake assist systems » page 147, Services, modifications and
technical alterations .
■
If a fault occurs in the ABS system, the ESC, TCS and EDL will also fail to work.
An ABS fault is indicated with by the  warning light » page 24.

Stabilisation control (ESC)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 111.
The ESC system helps to maintain control of the vehicle in situations where it is
being operated at its dynamic limits, such as a sudden change to the direction of
travel. Depending on the road surface conditions, the risk of skidding is reduced,
thereby improving the vehicle's driving stability .
The ESC system is automatically activated each time the ignition is switched on.
The direction which the driver wishes to take is determined based on the steering angle and the speed of the vehicle and is constantly compared with the actual
behaviour of the vehicle. If differences exist, such as the car beginning to skid,
the ESC system will automatically brake the appropriate wheel.
During an intervention of the system, the warning light 
flashes in the instru-
ment cluster.
The following systems are integrated into the electronic stabilisation control
(ESC) :
› Antilock brake system (ABS),
› Traction control (TCS),
› Electronic Differential Lock (EDL and XDS);
› Hydraulic brake assist (HBA);
› Hill hold control (HHC).
The ESC system cannot be deactivated. The 
» Fig. 96 on page 112 button can
only be used to deactivate the TCS. The 
warning light comes on in the instru-
ment cluster when the TCS is deactivated.
In the event of an ESC fault, the ESC warning light illuminates in the instrument cluster 
» page 23 .
Hydraulic brake assist (HBA)
HBA increases the braking effect and helps to shorten the braking distance.
The HBA is activated by very rapid depression of the brake pedal. To achieve the
shortest possible braking distance, the brake pedal must be applied firmly until
the vehicle has come to a complete standstill.
HBA is automatically switched off when the brake pedal is released. ABS is activated sooner and more effectively with the intervention of HBA. 
111Assist systems