2013 SKODA RAPID brake fluid

Brake fluid170Vehicle battery171
Wheels
175
Tyres and wheel rims
175
Winter operation
180
Do-it-yourself
Emergency equipment and self-help
182
Emergency equipment
182
Changing a wheel
184
Tyre repair
187
Jump-starting
189
Towing the vehicle
191
Remote control
193
Emergency unlocking/locking
194
Replacing windscreen wiper blades
195
Fuses and light bulbs
197
Fuses
197
Bulbs
200
Technical data
Technical data
207
Vehicle data
207
Index
4Table of Contents

 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

Information on brakingFirst read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 99.
If the brakes are applied in full and the control unit for the braking system consid-
ers the situation to be dangerous for the following traffic, the brake light flashes
automatically.
After the speed was reduced below around 10 km/h or the vehicle was stopped,
the brake light stops flashing and the hazard warning light system switches on.
The hazard warning light system is switched off automatically after accelerating
or driving off again.
Before travelling a long distance at a steep gradient, reduce speed and shift into
the next lowest gear. As a result, the braking effect of the engine will be used,
reducing the load on the brakes. Any additional braking should be completed in-
termittently, not continuously.
Wear-and-tear
The wear of the brake pads is dependent on the operating conditions and driving style.
The brake pads wear more quickly if a lot of journeys are completed in towns and
over short distances or if a very sporty style of driving is adopted.
Under these severe conditions , the thickness of the brake pads must also be
checked by a specialist garage between service intervals.
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 appropriate-
ly, as you will not know the exact extent of the damage.
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 15,  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. 91
Handbrake
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn- ings on page 99.
Apply
›
Pull the handbrake lever firmly upwards.
Release
›
Pull the handbrake lever up slightly and at the same time push in the lock but-
ton » Fig. 91 .
›
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.
A warning signal sounds if the vehicle is inadvertently driven off with the hand-
brake applied.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Release parking brake!
The handbrake warning is activated if the vehicle is driven at a speed of more
than around 6 km/h for more than 3 seconds. 
100Driving

In order to operate a vehicle with a variable service interval, it must only be fil-
led and topped up with the prescribed engine oil.
If this engine oil is not available, the oil change is subject to a fixed service inter-
val. In this case, the vehicle must be changed to the fixed service interval.
Note
■
The corresponding motor oil specifications » page 167.■A specialist garage can perform the changeover from the variable service inter-
val to the fixed service interval, or from the fixed service interval to the variable
service interval.

Fixed service intervals QI1 - QI4
First read and observe the introductory information given on page 147.
InspectionQI1 - QI4
After the first 30,000 km or 2 years a)
, then every
30,000 km or every 1 year a)
.Every 15,000 km or every 1 year a)
(applies to Rus-
sia).
Oil change service
QI1Every 5000 km or every 1 year a)
.QI2Every 7500 km or every 1 year a)
.QI3Every 10,000 km or every 1 year a)
.QI4Every 15,000 km or every 1 year a)
.Brake fluid
change First change after 3 years, then every 2 yearsa)
(whichever comes first).
WARNINGThe brake fluid must always be changed after the first 3 years and then every
2 years. Longer intervals between changing the brake fluid can cause vapour
bubbles to form in the brake system on sharp braking. This can impair the effi- ciency of the brakes – risk of accident!NoteFor diesel operation with a high sulphur content, the oil must be changed every
7500 km. Ask your specialist garage for information on the countries where diesel fuel has a high sulphur content.
Variable service interval QI6
First read and observe the introductory information given on page 147.
The service intervals depend on the intensity at which the vehicle is driven and
the local conditions in which the vehicle is used. For example, your vehicle is sub-
jected to different loads when driven over short distances than when driven over
long distances. The service intervals are therefore variable.
InspectionAfter the first 30,000 km or 2 years a)
, then every 30,000 km
or every 1 year a)
.Oil change serviceAccording to the service interval display (at the latest after
30,000 km or 2 years a)
).Brake fluid
changeFirst change after 3 years, then every 2 yearsa)
(whichever comes first).
WARNINGThe brake fluid must always be changed after the first 3 years and then every
2 years. Longer intervals between changing the brake fluid can cause vapour
bubbles to form in the brake system on sharp braking. This can impair the effi- ciency of the brakes – risk of accident!

Information about the ŠKODA service
First read and observe the introductory information given on page 147.
You have access to an extensive servicing network of ŠKODA Service Partners for
the maintenance of your vehicle. 
148General Maintenance

WARNINGInjuries 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 P.
■
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!
■
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.
WARNING (Continued)■ 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.
WARNING■ Read and observe the information and warning instructions on the fluid con-
tainers.■
Keep fluids in their original containers and keep securely out of the reach of
children! 
163Inspecting and replenishing

›Take the bonnet support out of its holder 3
» Fig. 133 in the direction of the
arrow and secure the opened bonnet by inserting the end of the support into the opening 4
.
Closing
›
Lift the bonnet slightly and unhook the bonnet support. Insert the bonnet sup-
port into the designated holder
3
» Fig. 133 .
›
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 release lever » Fig. 132.
Engine compartment overview
Fig. 134
Principle sketch: Engine compartment
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn- ings
on page 162.
Coolant expansion reservoir
169
Windscreen washer fluid reservoir
165
Engine oil filler opening
168123Engine oil dipstick167Brake fluid reservoir170
Vehicle battery
171
Note
The location of the inspection points in the engine compartment of petrol and
diesel engines is practically identical.
Radiator fan
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 162.
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. 135
Engine compartment: Wind-
screen washer fluid reservoir
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn- ings on page 162.
The windscreen washer fluid reservoir is located in the engine compartment and
contains the cleaning fluid for the windscreen or rear window and for the head-
lights. 
456165Inspecting and replenishing

Loss of coolant
A loss of coolant is first and foremost an indication of a leak in the system. Do
not merely top up the coolant. Have the cooling system checked by a specialist
garage.
Replenishing
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 168.
Only top up with new coolant.
›
Switch off the engine.
›
Allow the engine to cool.
›
Place a cloth over the cap of the coolant expansion tank and unscrew the cap carefully .
›
Replenish the coolant.
›
Turn the cap until it clicks into place.
Do not use an alternative additive if the specified coolant is not available in an emergency. In this case, use just water and have the correct mixing ratio of waterand coolant additive restored by a specialist garage as soon as possible.

Brake fluid
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Checking the brake fluid level
170
Changing
171WARNING■ The engine compartment of your car is a hazardous area. The following
warning instructions must be followed at all times when working in the en-
gine compartment » page 162.■
If the fluid level has dropped below the MIN marking » Fig. 138 on page 170,
 do not continue your journey - risk of accident! Seek help from a specialist
garage.
■
Do not use used brake fluid - the function of the brake system may be im-
paired – risk of accident!
CAUTION
Brake fluid damages the paintwork of the vehicle.
Note
The brake fluid is changed as part of a compulsory inspection service.
Checking the brake fluid level
Fig. 138
Engine compartment: Brake fluid
reservoir
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 170.
The brake fluid reservoir is located in the engine compartment.
›
Switch off the engine.
›
Open the bonnet.
›
Check the level of brake fluid in the reservoir » Fig. 138.
The level must be between the “MIN” and “MAX” markings. 
170General Maintenance