2013 SKODA RAPID ABS

AbbreviationsAbbreviationDefinitionrpmEngine revolutions per minuteABSAnti-lock brake systemAGAutomatic gearboxTCSTraction controlCO2 in g/kmdischarged quantity of carbon dioxide in grams per driven kilo-
meterDPFDiesel particle filterDSGAutomatic double clutch gearboxEDLElectronic differential lockECEEconomic Commission for EuropeESCElectronic Stability ControlEUEuropean UnionGSMGroupe Spécial Mobile - a digital network of mobile devices for the transmission of voice and dataHBAHydraulic brake assistHFPHands-free profile - connection of a mobile device by means of
its Bluetooth ®
profileHHCUphill start assistkWKilowatt, measuring unit for the engine outputMDIMobile Device Interface - connecting an external device via
the AUX or USB inputMFDMultifunction displayMGManual gearboxMPIGasoline engine with a multi-point fuel injectionN1Panel van intended exclusively or mainly for the transporta-
tion of goodsNmNewton meter, measuring unit for the engine torquePINPersonal Identification Number - personal identification num-
ber for the connection of electronic devices using Bluetooth ®AbbreviationDefinitionTDI CRDiesel engine with turbocharging and common rail injection
systemTSIPetrol engine with turbocharging and direct injection
7Abbreviations

 do not continue to drive! Stop the vehicle, switch off the engine, and wait until
the  icon goes out – risk of gearbox damage! You can continue your journey as
soon as the symbol disappears.WARNINGIf you have to stop for technical reasons, then park the vehicle at a safe dis- tance from the traffic, switch off the engine and switch on the hazard warning
lights » page 44 . The warning triangle must be set up at the prescribed dis-
tance - observe the national legal provisions when doing so.
Note
■ If the MAXI DOT display shows warning messages, these messages must be
confirmed in order to access the main menu » page 22, Using the information
system .■
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.

Indicator lights
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
 Handbrake
14
 Brake system
15
 Seat belt warning light
15
 Generator
15

Open door
15


Engine Oil
16
 
Coolant
16
 Power steering
17
 Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
17
 Traction Control System (ASR)
17

Antilock brake system (ABS)
18
 Rear fog light
18
 Bulb failure
18 Exhaust inspection system18 Glow plug system (diesel engine)18
 Engine performance check (petrol engine)
19
 Diesel particle filter (diesel engine)
19

Fuel reserve
19
 Airbag system
20
 Tyre inflation pressure
20
 Windscreen washer fluid level
20
  Turn signal system
20
 Fog lights
21
 Cruise control system
21

Selector lever lock
21
 Main beam
21
The indicator lights show the current status of certain functions/faults and may
be accompanied by audible signals.
WARNING■ Ignoring illuminated indicator lights and related messages or instructions in
the instrument cluster display may lead to serious personal injury or damage
to the vehicle.■
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 switch on the hazard warning
lights » page 44 . The warning triangle must be set up at the prescribed dis-
tance - observe the national legal provisions when doing so.
■
The engine compartment of your car is a hazardous area. The following
warning notes must be followed at all times when working in the engine com-
partment » page 162 , Engine compartment .

 Handbrake
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
The warning light 
comes on if the handbrake is applied.
An acoustic signal will sound if you drive the vehicle above 6 km/h for at least 3
seconds while the handbrake is applied. 
14Using the system

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 14.
The indicator light  illuminates 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: Log book!
Stop the vehicle, switch off the engine, and check the level of the brake flu-
id » page 170 .
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 switch on the hazard warning
lights » page 44 . The warning triangle must be set up at the prescribed dis-
tance - observe the national legal provisions when doing so.■
The following guidelines should be observed when opening the bonnet and
checking the brake fluid level » page 162, Engine compartment .
■
If the warning light  is displayed simultaneously with warning light
 » page 18 ,  Antilock brake system (ABS) ,  do not continue your jour-
ney! Seek help from a specialist garage.
■
A fault to the ABS system or the braking system can increase the vehicle's
braking distance – risk of accident!

 Seat belt warning light
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 14.
The indicator light 
comes on after the ignition is switched on as a reminder for
the driver and front passenger to fasten the seat belt.
The indicator light 
goes out if the driver or front passenger has fastened their
seat belt.
If the driver or front passenger has not fastened their seat belt and the vehicle
speed exceeds 20 km/h, the indicator light  flashes and you will hear an acoustic
signal.
If the seat belt is not fastened by the driver or front passenger during the next
90 seconds, the warning signal is deactivated and the indicator light  lights up
permanently.
 Generator
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 14.
If the warning light lights up 
when the engine is running, the vehicle battery is
not being charged.
Seek assistance from a specialist garage immediately. The electrical system re- quires checking.
WARNINGIf you have to stop for technical reasons, then park the vehicle at a safe dis-
tance from the traffic, switch off the engine and switch on the hazard warning lights » page 44 . The warning triangle must be set up at the prescribed dis-
tance - observe the national legal provisions when doing so.
CAUTION
If the  indicator light (cooling system fault) lights up in addition to the  indica-
tor light while driving,  do not continue driving! Stop the engine - there is a risk
of engine damage!
 Open door
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
The warning light 
comes on if one or several doors are opened or if the boot lid
is opened. 
15Instruments and Indicator Lights

Antilock brake system (ABS)First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 14.
If the warning light  lights up, there is a fault in the ABS.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Error: ABS
The vehicle will only be braked by the normal brake system without the ABS.
Seek assistance from a specialist garage immediately.
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 switch on the hazard warning
lights » page 44 . The warning triangle must be set up at the prescribed dis-
tance - observe the national legal provisions when doing so.■
If the warning light  » page 15 is displayed together with warning light 
 do not continue your journey! Seek help from a specialist garage.
■
A fault to the ABS system or the braking system can increase the vehicle's
braking distance – risk of accident!

 Rear fog light
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
The indicator light 
comes on when the rear fog light is switched on.
For further information, see » page 44.

 Bulb failure
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 14.
The indicator light  lights up if a bulb is faulty.
The indicator light  lights up within a few seconds after switching on the igni-
tion or when a light with a faulty bulb is switched on.
The following message, for example, may be shown in the MAXI DOT display. INFORMATION Check front right low beam!
The rear side lights and the licence plate lighting have several light bulbs. The in-
dicator light 
only lights up if all bulbs in the parking light (in one rear light) or
the licence plate lighting are faulty 1)
. For this reason, regular check that these
light bulbs are working correctly.

 Exhaust inspection system
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
If the warning light 
lights up, there is a fault in the exhaust inspection system.
The system allows the vehicle to run in emergency mode.
Seek assistance from a specialist garage immediately.

 Glow plug system (diesel engine)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 14.
The indicator light 
lights up after the ignition has been switched on. Once the
light has gone out, the engine can be started immediately.
There is a fault in the glow plug system if the warning light 
does not come on
at all or lights up continuously .
If the warning light 
begins to flash while driving, a fault exists in the engine
control. The system allows the vehicle to run in emergency mode. 

1)
Applies to vehicles with START-STOP system.
18Using the system

Vehicle keyFig. 11
Key: without/with remote control
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn- ings
on page 31.
Two keys are provided with the vehicle » Fig. 11.
Keys without remote control
Keys with remote control (remote control keys)
The transmitter with the battery is housed in the handle of the remote control key. The receiver is located in the interior of the vehicle.
The operating range of the remote control key is approx. 30 m. But this range ofthe remote control can be reduced if the batteries are weak.
The remote control key has a fold-open key bit which can be used for unlocking
and locking the car manually and also for starting the engine.
The spare key must by initialised by a specialist garage after repair or replace-
ment of the receiver unit. Only then can the remote control key be used again.
WARNING■ Always withdraw the key whenever you leave the vehicle – even if it is only
for a short time. This is particularly important if children are left in the vehicle.
Otherwise, children might start the engine or operate electrical equipment
(e.g. power windows) – risk of injury!■
Do not withdraw the ignition key from the ignition lock until the vehicle has
come to a stop. The steering lock might otherwise engage unintentionally –
risk of accident!
CAUTION■ Each key contains electronic components; therefore it must be protected
against moisture and severe shocks.■
Keep the groove of the keys absolutely clean. Impurities (textile fibres, dust,
etc.) have a negative effect on the functionality of the locking cylinder and igni-
tion lock.
■
The battery must be replaced if the central locking or anti-theft alarm system
does react to the remote control at less than approx. 3 metres away » page 193.
Note
If you lose a key, please contact a specialist garage, which will be able to provide
you with a new one.
Unlocking/locking with the key
Fig. 12
Left side of the vehicle: Turning
the key for unlocking and lock-
ing the vehicle
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 31.
Unlocking
›
Turn the key in the locking cylinder of the driver's door in the direction of travel
(unlocking position)
A
» Fig. 12 .
Locking
›
Turn the key in the locking cylinder of the driver's door in the opposite direction
of travel (locking position)
B
» Fig. 12 .
If the driver's door has been opened, the vehicle cannot be locked.

32Using the system

Assist systems
Brake assist systems
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
111
Antilock Braking System (ABS)
112
Traction Control System (TCS)
112
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
112
Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)
112
Hill Hold Control (HHC)
112WARNING■ A lack of fuel can cause irregular engine running or cause the engine to shut
down. The brake assist systems would then fail to function – risk of accident!■
Adjust the speed and driving style to the current visibility, weather, road and
traffic conditions. The increased safety provided by the brake assist systems
must not tempt you to take safety risks – risk of accident!
■
In the event of an ABS fault, visit a specialist garage immediately. Adjust
your style of driving according to the damage to the ABS, as you will not know
the exact extent of the damage or the extent to which this is limiting the
braking efficiency.
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 149.
■
If a fault occurs in the ABS system, the ESC, ASR and EDL will also not work. An
ABS fault is indicated by the warning light  » page 18 .

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)Fig. 100
ESC system: TCS button
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 111.
The ESC system helps improve control of the vehicle in situations where it is be-
ing operated at its dynamic limits, such as a sudden change to the direction of
travel. Depending on the conditions of the road surface, the risk of skidding is re-
duced, 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 actualbehaviour of the vehicle. In the event of deviations, 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 Stability Control (ESC).
› Antilock Brake System (ABS)
» page 112.
› Traction control (ASR)
» page 112.
› Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
» page 112.
› Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)
» page 112.
› Hill Hold Control (HHC)
» page 112.
The ESC system cannot be deactivated. The 
» Fig. 100 symbol button can only
be used to deactivate the ASR.
The warning light 
lights up in the instrument cluster when the ASR is deactiva-
ted. 
111Assist systems

The TCS should normally always be enabled. The system should be deactivated
only in the following situations, for example.
› When driving with snow chains.
› When driving in deep snow or on a very loose surface.
› When “rocking a car free” when it has become stuck.
Ensure the TCS is activated again afterwards.
Antilock Braking System (ABS)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 111.
ABS prevents the wheels locking when braking. Thus helping the driver to main-
tain control of the vehicle.
The intervention of the ABS is noticeable from the pulsating movements of the
brake pedal which is accompanied by noises.
When the ABS system is active, do not brake periodically or reduce the pressure
on the brake pedal.

Traction Control System (TCS)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 111.
If the wheels are slipping, the TCS adapts the engine speed to the conditions of
the road surface. The TCS makes it much easier to start off, accelerate and climb
steep hills even if the conditions of the road surface are unfavourable.
The TCS function is activated automatically each time the ignition is switched on.
If your vehicle is fitted with the ESC system, the ASR is integrated into the ESC
system » page 111 .
During an intervention of the system, the TCS warning light 1)
flashes in the in-
strument cluster.

Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 111.
If one of the wheels starts to spin, the EDL system brakes the spinning wheel and transfers the driving force to the other wheels. This ensures the stability of the
vehicle and a quick journey.
The EDL switches off automatically in order to avoid excessive heat generation
on the brake of the wheel being braked. The vehicle can continue to be driven
and has the same characteristics as a vehicle not fitted with EDL. The EDL
switches on again automatically as soon as the brake has cooled down.

Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 111.
The HBA increases the braking effect and helps to reduce the braking distance.
The HBA is activated by the very quick operation of the brake pedal. In order to
achieve the shortest possible braking distance, the brake pedal must be applied
firmly until the vehicle has come to a standstill.
The HBA function is automatically deactivated when the brake pedal is released.
The ABS is activated faster and more effectively with the intervention of the HBA.

Hill Hold Control (HHC)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 111.
When driving on slopes, HHC allows you to move your foot from the brake pedal
to the accelerator pedal without having to use the handbrake.
The system holds the brake pressure produced by the activation of the brakepedal for approx. 2 seconds after the brake pedal is released. 

1)
Valid for vehicles without Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
112Driving

Seat belts
Using seat belts
Introduction
Fig. 114
Driver wearing seat belt
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
The physical principle of a frontal collision
131
Fastening and unfastening seat belts
132
Belt height adjustment on the front seats
133
Seat belts that are fastened correctly offer good protection in the event of an ac-
cident. They reduce the risk of an injury and increase the chance of survival in the
event of a major accident.
Correctly fastened seat belts hold occupants of the car in the correct seated posi-
tion » Fig. 114 .
The seat belts reduce the kinetic energy (energy of motion) to a considerable ex-
tent. They also prevent uncontrolled movements which, in turn, may well result in
severe injuries.
Occupants of a vehicle who have correctly fastened their seat belts have the ma-
jor benefit of the fact that the kinetic energy is absorbed as effectively as possi-
ble by the belts.
The structure of the front end of the vehicle and other passive safety measures,
such as the airbag system, also contribute to the kinetic energy being reduced as
effectively as possible. The energy produced is thus absorbed and there is less
risk of injury.
Particular safety aspects must be observed when transporting children in the ve-
hicle » page 142 , Transporting children safely .WARNING■
Fasten your seat belt before each journey – even when driving in town! This
also applies to the passengers seated at the rear – risk of injury!■
Expectant women must also always wear a seat belt. This is the only way of
ensuring optimal protection for the unborn child » page 132, Fastening and
unfastening seat belts .
■
Maximum seat belt protection is only achieved if you are correctly seat-
ed » page 127 , Correct seated position .
■
The seat backrests of the front seats must not be tilted too far to the rear
otherwise the seatbelts can lose their effectiveness.
WARNINGObserve the following instructions for the correct routing of the seat belt.■Always ensure that the webbing of the seat belts is properly routed. Seat
belts which are not correctly adjusted can themselves cause injuries even in
minor accidents.■
Adjust the height of the belt in such a way that the shoulder part of the belt
is roughly positioned across the middle of your shoulder – on no account
across your neck.
■
A seat belt which is hanging too loose can result in injuries as your body is
moved forward by the kinetic energy produced in an accident and is then sud-
denly held firm by the belt.
■
The belt webbing must not run across solid or fragile objects (e.g. specta-
cles, ball-point pens, bunches of keys etc.). Such objects can cause injury.
WARNINGObserve the following instructions for handling the seat belts.■The belt webbing must not be jammed in-between at any point or twisted,
or chafe against any sharp edges.■
Make sure you do not catch the seat belt in the door when closing it. 
130Safety