General Maintenance
Car care191
Service intervals
191
Services, modifications, and technical
alterations
193
Washing your car
196
Taking care of your vehicle exterior
198
Taking care of the interior
201
Inspecting and replenishing
204
Fuel
204
Engine compartment
206
Engine oil
210
Coolant
212
Brake fluid
214
Vehicle battery
215
Wheels
220
Tyres and wheel rims
220
Winter operation
226
Do-it-yourself
Emergency equipment and self-help
227
Emergency equipment
227
Changing a wheel
229
Tyre repair
232
Jump-starting
234
Towing the vehicle
236
Radio remote control
238
Emergency unlocking/locking
240
Emergency operation of the sliding/tilting roof
241
Replacing windscreen wiper blades
242
Fuses and light bulbs
244
Fuses
244
Bulbs
247Technical data
Technical data252
Vehicle data
252
Index
4Table of Contents
Windscreen washer fluid level21 Pads21
Turn signal system
21
Low beam
22
Fog lights
22
Cruise control system
22
Selector lever lock/starting (KESSY system)
22
Main beam
22
The indicator lights show certain functions/faults and may be accompanied by au-
dible signals.
WARNING■ If illuminated indicator 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 206, Engine compartment .
Handbrake
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
The indicator 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 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 214 »
.
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 activate the hazard warning
light system » page 56.■
The following guidelines should be observed when opening the bonnet and
checking the brake fluid level » page 206, Engine compartment .
■
If the warning light is displayed simultaneously with warning light
» page 19 , 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 only
goes out if the driver or front passenger has fastened his seat belt.
If the seat belt has not been fastened by the driver or front passenger, a perma-
nent warning signal sounds at vehicle speeds greater than 20 km/h and simulta- neously the indicator light
flashes.
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.
15Instruments and Indicator Lights
Airbag systemFirst read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 14.
If the indicator light lights up, there is a fault in the airbag system.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Error: Airbag
The functionality 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 indicator light
lights up for around 4 seconds after the ignition is switch-
ed on and then flashes for around 12 seconds.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Airbag/belt tensioner deactivated.
If the air bag was switched off using the key-operated switch on the side of the
dash panel on the passenger side:
› The indicator light
comes on for around 4 seconds after the ignition has been
switched on.
› The deactivated air bag is indicated by the illumination of the warning
light » page 184
in the middle of the dash panel .
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 14.
The indicator 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 » page 221, Service
life of tyres .
If the indicator light lights up, there is a fault in the system.
Seek help from a specialist garage.
Further information » page 223, Tyre pressure monitor .
Note
If the battery has been disconnected, the indicator light illuminates after the
ignition is switched on. The indicator light must 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 14.
If the windscreen washer fluid level is too low, the indicator light
comes on.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Top up wash fluid!
Top up with liquid » page 209, Windscreen washer system .
Pads
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
If the indicator light
is slit, the brake pads are worn.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Check brake wear!
Seek help from a specialist garage.
Turn signal system
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 14.
Either the left
or right
indicator light flashes depending on the position of
the turn signal lever.
21Instruments and Indicator Lights
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. 121
Handbrake
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn- ings on page 137.
Apply
›
Pull the handbrake lever firmly upwards.
Release
›
Pull the handbrake lever up slightly and at the same time push in the locking
button » Fig. 121 .
›
Move the lever right down while pressing the lock button.
The handbrake indicator light
lights up when the handbrake is applied, provi-
ded the ignition is on.
A warning signal sounds if the vehicle is inadvertently driven off with the hand-
brake applied.
The following instruction 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 5 km/h for more than 3 seconds.
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 – risk of accident!
Manual gear changing and pedals
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Manual gear changing
138
Pedals
139
Manual gear changing
Fig. 122
Gearshift pattern of 5 gear or
6 gear manual gearbox
First read and observe the introductory information given on page 138.
Always depress the clutch pedal all the way down. This prevents uneven wear on the clutch.
The gearshift indicator must be observed when changing gear » page 24.
Only engage reverse gear when the vehicle is stationary. Depress the clutch pedal
and hold it fully depressed. Wait a moment before reverse gear is engaged to
avoid any shift noises.
The reversing lights will come on once reverse gear is engaged, provided the igni- tion is on.
138Driving
In order to be able to operate a vehicle with a variable service interval, it must
only be filled and topped up with the specified 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 210.■A changeover from the variable service interval to the fixed service interval, or
from the fixed service interval to the variable service interval, can be carried out
by a specialist garage.
Fixed service intervals QI1 - QI4
First read and observe the introductory information given on page 191.
InspectionQI1 - QI4
First after 30,000 km or 2 years a)
, thereafter 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
QI1After 5,000 km or every 1 year a)
.QI2After 7,500 km or every 1 year a)
.QI3After 10,000 km or every 1 year a)
.QI4After 15,000 km or every 1 year a)
.Brake fluid
change First change after 3 years, then every 2 years.a)
(Whichever comes first).
WARNINGThe brake fluid must always be changed after the first 3 years and then every
2 years. When the brake fluid becomes too old, vapour bubbles may form in
the brake system when the brakes are used hard. The efficiency of the brakes could be seriously affected – risk of accident!NoteFor diesel operation with a high sulphur content, the interval of engine oil change
will be every 7,500 km. Please 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 191.
The service intervals depend on how the vehicle is driven and the local conditions
in which the vehicle is used. For example, your vehicle is subjected to different
loads when driven over short distances than long distances. The service intervals
are also variable.
InspectionFirst after 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 every 2 years a)
).Brake fluid
changeFirst change after 3 years, then every 2 years.a)
(Whichever comes first).
WARNINGThe brake fluid must always be changed after the first 3 years and then every
2 years. When the brake fluid becomes too old, vapour bubbles may form in
the brake system when the brakes are used hard. The efficiency of the brakes could be seriously affected – risk of accident!
Information about the ŠKODA service
First read and observe the introductory information given on page 191.
There is an extensive servicing network made up of ŠKODA service partners at
your disposal, for the maintenance of your vehicle.
192General 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!
207Inspecting and replenishing
Engine compartment overviewFig. 162
Principle sketch: Engine compartment
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn- ings
on page 206.
Coolant expansion reservoir
213
Windscreen washer fluid reservoir
209
Engine oil filler opening
212
Engine oil dipstick
211
Brake fluid reservoir
214
Battery (below a cover)
215
Note
The location of the inspection points in the engine compartment of petrol and
diesel engines is practically identical.
123456Radiator fan
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 206.
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. 163
Engine compartment: Wind-
screen washer fluid reservoir
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn- ings on page 206.
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 adap-
tive headlights.
The filling level of the container is about 3 litres and about 5.5 litres on vehicles
that have a headlight washing system 1)
.
Clear water is not sufficient to intensively clean the windscreen and headlights. We recommend using clean water together with a screen cleaner from the range
of ŠKODA Original Accessories (with antifreeze in winter), which will remove any
stubborn dirt.
1)
In some countries, 5.5 ltr. applies for both variants.
209Inspecting and replenishing
If the coolant level in the coolant expansion tank is too low, this is indicated by
the warning light » page 16 , Coolant lighting up in the instrument cluster.
We still recommend inspecting the coolant level directly at the reservoir from
time to time.
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 212.
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
214
Changing
215WARNING■ 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 206.■
If the fluid level has dropped below the MIN marking » Fig. 166 on page 214,
do not continue your journey - there is a risk of an 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. 166
Engine compartment: Brake fluid
reservoir
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 214.
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. 166.
The level must be between the “MIN” and “MAX” markings.
214General Maintenance