
The system is turned off when any of the following is present.
› The vehicle is locked.
› The ignition is switched on.
› About 30 seconds after all the doors have been closed.
Rear interior light
Fig. 45
Interior lights at the rear
Switch for lamp
» Fig. 45
Switching on/off
The rear interior light is operated together with the front interior light 1)
.
› When the front interior lighting is
switched on, the rear interior lighting also
turns on automatically.
› When the front interior lighting is
switched off, the rear interior lighting can
be turned on/off as required.
Visibility
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Rear window heater
64
Front sun visors
65Rear window heaterFig. 46
Dash panel: Button for rear win-
dow heater
The heating for quick defrosting and ventilation of the rear window.
Button in the center console » Fig. 46
Switching the rear window heater on/off
When the heater is switched on, a lamp lights up inside the button.
The heating only works when the engine is running.
The heater automatically switches off after approximately 7 minutes.
For the sake of the environment
The heating should be switched off as soon as the window is de-iced or free
from mist. The reduced current consumption will have a favourable effect on
fuel economy.
Note
■ If the on-board voltage drops, the heater switches off automatically, in order
to provide sufficient electrical energy for the engine control » page 147, Auto-
matic load deactivation .■
If the light is flashing inside the button the heater is off due to low battery.
1)
This function only applies to certain countries. In some countries, the light at the rear is controlled inde-
pendently from the light at the front.
64Using the system

Activating the windscreen wipers and washersFig. 48
Operation of the screen wiper and washer: front / rear
Read and observe
and on page 65 first.
Lever positions
0Wipers off1Periodic windscreen wiping/automatic wiping in rain2Slow windscreen wiping3Rapid windscreen wiping4 Flick windscreen wiping, service position of the wiper
arms » page 168 , (spring-loaded position)5Automatic wipe/wash for windscreen (spring-tensioned position)6Wiping the rear window pane (the windscreen wiper wipes at regu-
lar intervals after a few seconds)7Automatic wipe/wash for the rear window (spring-tensioned posi-
tion)ASwitches for setting: the desired pause between the individual wip-
er strokes / the speed of the wiping in rain (operating lever in the
position 1
)
Interval windscreen wiping
The wiping intervals are also speed-dependent regulated.
Automatic windscreen wiping in rain
The wiping intervals are controlled depending on the rain intensity.
Automatic wipe/wash for windscreen
The wash system operates immediately, the windscreen wipers wipe some-
what later.
Letting go of the operating lever will cause the windscreen wash system to
stop and the wipers to continue for another 1-3 wiper strokes (depending on
the spraying duration).
Automatic wipe/wash for the rear window
The wash system operates immediately, the windscreen wiper wipes some-
what later.
Letting go of the operating lever will cause the windscreen wash system to
stop and the wiper to continue for another 1-3 wiper strokes (depending on
the spraying duration). The operating lever remains in position 6
.
Note
The rear window is wiped once automatically if the windscreen wipers are on
when reverse gear is selected.
Headlight cleaning system
Read and observe
and on page 65 first.
After the ignition is switched on, the headlights are always cleaned at the first
and after every tenth spray of the windscreen (setting
5
» Fig. 48 on
page 66 ), when the low beam or main beam is switched on.
You should remove stubborn dirt (such as insect residues) from the headlight
lenses at regular intervals, for example when refuelling. The following guide-
lines must be observed » page 130, Headlight glasses .
To ensure the proper operation of the cleaning system during the winter, any
snow should be removed from the washer nozzle fixtures and ice should be
cleared with a de-icing spray.
CAUTION
Never remove the nozzles from the headlight cleaning system by hand – risk of
damage!
Rear mirror
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Interior mirror
67
Exterior mirror
68
66Using the system

CAUTIONThe cargo elements are designed for attaching loads with a maximum gross
weight of 8 kg.
Double-sided floor covering
Read and observe
and on page 80 first.
You can fit a double-sided floor covering in the luggage compartment.
One side of the double-sided floor covering is made of fabric, the other side is
washable (easy to maintain).
The washable side is used to transport wet or dirty items.
Note
For easier turning of the covering, use the loop attached.
Class N1 vehicles
Read and observe
and on page 80 first.
In class N1 vehicles that are not fitted with a protective grille, a lashing set that
complies with the EN 12195 standard (1-4) must be used for fastening the load.
Proper functioning of the electrical installation is essential for safe vehicle op-
eration. It is important to ensure that the electrical installation is not damaged
during the adjustment process or when the storage area is being loaded and
unloaded.
Roof rack
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
fixing points for base support
85
Roof load
85WARNING■ The transported items on the roof rack must be securely attached – risk
of accident!■
Always secure the load with appropriate and undamaged lashing straps
or tensioning straps.
■
Distribute the load evenly over the roof rack system.
■
When transporting heavy objects or objects which take up a large area on
the roof rack system, handling of the car may change as a result of the dis-
placement of the centre of gravity. The style of driving and speed must
therefore be adapted to the current circumstances.
■
Avoid abrupt and sudden driving/braking manoeuvres.
■
The permissible roof load, permissible axle loads and permissible total ve-
hicle weight must not be exceeded under any circumstance – risk of acci-
dent!
CAUTION
■ Only roof racks from the ŠKODA Original Accessories range should be used.■When dealing with roof rack systems, the installation instructions supplied
with the roof luggage rack system must be observed.■
On models fitted with a power sliding/tilting roof, ensure that the extended
sliding/tilting roof does not hit any items of luggage transported on the roof.
■
Ensure that the boot lid does not hit the roof load when opened.
■
The height of the vehicle changes after mounting a roof luggage rack system
and the load that is secured to it. Compare the vehicle height with available
clearances, such as underpasses and garage doors.
■
Always remove the roof luggage rack system before entering an automated
car wash.
■
Ensure the roof aerial is not impaired by the secured load.
For the sake of the environment
The increased aerodynamic drag results in a higher fuel consumption.84Using the system

Switching automatic mode onSwitching the intensive windshield defroster on/off - when this function
is switched on, the warning light illuminates in the button
Switching the airflow to the windows on and off
Switching the airflow to the upper body on and off
Switching the airflow to the footwell on and off
Switch recirculation on/off » page 87
Switch the cooling system on/off
After the cooling system is switched off, only the ventilation function remains active, whereby the lowest temperature that can be reached is the outside
temperature.
Setting temperature
The set temperature value appears in the display (pos. 2
» Fig. 86 ).
To switch between degrees Celsius and degrees Fahrenheit, the keys
and are to be pressed and held simultaneously.
The information appears in the display in the desired temperature measuring
unit (pos.
3
» Fig. 86 ).
The interior temperature can be set between +18 °C and +29 ℃. The interior
temperature is regulated automatically within this range.
If you select the temperature below +18 ℃, “LO” appears in the display.
If you select a temperature higher than +29 ℃, “HI” appears in the display.
At both end positions, Climatronic runs at maximum cooling/heating output
and the temperature is automatically not regulated.
Controlling blower
The Climatronic system controls the blower stages automatically in line with the interior temperature. However, the blower level can be manually adjusted
to suit your particular needs.
If the blower speed is reduced to a minimum, Climatronic is switched off.
The blower speed set is indicated by displaying the corresponding number of
segments (Pos.
9
» Fig. 86 ) in the display.
Automatic mode
The automatic mode is used in order to maintain a constant temperature and to demist the windows in the interior of the car.
To switch on press the button
. The display shows
(pos.
4
» Fig. 86 ).
Automatic mode can be
switched off by pressing one of the buttons for the air
distribution or by increasing/decreasing the blower speed. The temperature is
nevertheless regulated.WARNING■ Do not switch off the Climatronic system for longer than necessary.■Switch on the Climatronic system as soon as the windows mist up.
Note
■Do not stick anything on or cover the interior temperature sensor11 » Fig. 86 ; it could have an unfavourable effect on the Climatronic system.■
During operation of the Climatronic, an increase in engine idle speed can oc-
cur under certain circumstances in order to ensure adequate heating comfort.
■
As soon as the windscreen mists up, press the symbol button
. Press the
button
once the windscreen has demisted.
Efficient handling of the cooling system
Read and observe
and on page 85 first.
The air conditioning system compressor uses power from the engine when incooling mode, which will affect the fuel consumption.
It recommended to open the windows or the doors of a vehicle for which the
interior has been strongly heated through the effect of direct sunlight in order
to allow the heated air to escape.
The cooling system should not be on if the windows are open.
For the sake of the environment
Pollutant emissions are also reduced when fuel is saved » page 107.
malfunctions
Read and observe
and on page 85 first.
If the cooling system does not operate at outside temperatures higher than +5°C, there is a problem in the system. The reasons for this may be.
› One of the fuses has blown. Check the fuse and replace if necessa-
ry » page 169 .
› The cooling system has switched off automatically for a short time because
the coolant temperature of the engine is too hot » page 32.
89Heating and air conditioning

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 35,
Brake sys-
tem .
Brake booster
The brake booster increases the pressure generated with the brake pedal. The
brake booster only operates when the engine is running.WARNINGOnly apply the brakes for the purpose of drying and cleaning the brake
discs if the traffic conditions permit this. Do not place any other road users
in jeopardy.
Handbrake
Fig. 92
Handbrake
Read and observe and on page 102 first.
The hand brake is used when stopping and parking for securing the vehicle
against unwanted movement.
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. 92 .
›
Move the lever right down while pressing the lock button.
The handbrake warning light
lights up when the handbrake is applied, pro-
vided the ignition is on.
A warning signal sounds if the vehicle is inadvertently driven off with the
handbrake 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 6 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 acci-
dent!
Parking
Read and observe
and on page 102 first.
When stopping and parking, look for a place with a suitable surface » .
Only carry out the activities while parking in the specified order.
›
Bring the vehicle to a stop and depress the brake pedal.
›
Firmly apply the handbrake.
›
On vehicles with automatic transmission place the selector lever in the P po-
sition.
›
Switch off the engine.
›
On vehicles with manual transmission select the first gear or reverse gear.
›
Release the brake pedal.
WARNINGThe parts of the exhaust system can become very hot. Therefore, never
stop the vehicle at places where the underside of your vehicle can come in-
to contact with flammable materials such as dry grass, undergrowth,
leaves, spilled fuel or such like. - Risk of fire and serious injury can occur!
Manual gear changing and pedals
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Manual gear changing
104
Pedals
104103Starting-off and Driving

Retraction and economical driving
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Driving in
107
Tips for economical driving
107
The fuel consumption, degree of pollution and vehicle wear depend on driving
style, road condition, weather conditions and the like.
Driving in
Driving in the engine
The engine has to be run in during the first 1 500 kilometres. During this peri-
od, the driving style decides on the quality of the driving-in process.
During the first 1,000 km we recommend not driving faster than 3/4 of the
maximum permissible engine speed, not to drive at full throttle and to dis-
pense with the trailer.
In the area of 1,000 to 1,500 kilometres the engine load can be increased up
to the maximum permitted engine speed.
New tyres
New tyres must firstly be “run in”, as they do not offer optimal grip at first.
Therefore, drive with special care for the first 500 km or so.
New brake pads
New brake pads have to first “grind in” because these do not initially have the
best possible braking effect.
Therefore, drive with special care for the first 200 km or so.
Tips for economical driving
To achieve the lowest possible fuel consumption, the following instructions
must be observed.
Looking ahead when driving
Avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking.
Switch in an energy saving and timely manner Observe the recommended gear » page 43.
Avoid full throttle and high speeds
Fuel consumption will be halved if you drive at only three-quarters of the pos-
sible top speed of your vehicle.
Reducing idling
When the engine is switched off, such as when waiting in a traffic jam, the fuel
economy is already greater after 30 - 40 s than the fuel quantity which is re-
quired for engine re-start.
Avoid short distances
When driving a short distance of less than about 4 km, the engine cannot
reach its operating temperature. As long as the engine has not reached oper-
ating temperature, the fuel consumption is significantly higher than with the
engine hot.
Pay attention to the correct tyre inflation pressure being maintained
Further information » page 149.
Avoid unnecessary ballast
Per 100 kg of weight, consumption increases by about 1 l/100 km. At a speed of
100-120 km/h, a vehicle fitted with a roof rack cross member without a load
will use about 10 % more fuel than normal due to the increased aerodynamic
drag.
Saving electricity
Electrical consumers (e.g. seat heating, air conditioning and the like) only turn
on for as long as necessary.
Driving through water and driving off of made-up roads
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Driving through water
108
Driving off paved roads
108WARNINGImmediately after driving through water, mud, slush and the like, braking
effectiveness will be temporarily impaired » page 102, Information on brak-
ing . For this reason, sudden and violent braking manoeuvres are to be
avoided - there is a risk of accident!107Starting-off and Driving

Driving through waterFig. 96
Maximum permissible water lev-
el when driving through water
Read and observe on page 107 first.
The following instructions must be observed if vehicle damage is to be avoided
when driving through water (e.g. flooded roads).
›
Therefore determine the depth of the water before driving through bodies of
water.
The water level must not reach above the web of the lower beam » Fig. 96.
›
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 induction system or other parts
of the vehicle.
›
Never stop in the water, do not reverse and do not switch the engine off.
CAUTION
■ Should water penetrate into the intake system of the engine, there is a
threat of serious damage being incurred by the engine parts!■
When driving through water, some vehicle parts such as chassis, electrics or
transmissions can be severely damaged.
■
Oncoming vehicles can generate water waves which can exceed the permis-
sible water level for your vehicle.
■
Potholes, mud or rocks can be hidden under the water, making it difficult or
impossible to drive through the body of water.
■
Do not drive through salt water, as the salt can cause corrosion. An vehicle
coming into contact with salt water is to be thoroughly rinsed with fresh wa-
ter.
Driving off paved roads
Read and observe
on page 107 first.
Only drive on such roads and in such terrain, which match the vehicle parame-
ters » page 177 , Technical data as well as your driving skills.
The driver is always responsible for deciding whether the vehicle can handle
travelling in the given terrain.
WARNINGDrive particularly aware and pro-actively outside paved roads.■Always adjust your driving to the current terrain and weather conditions.
Excessive speed or incorrect driving manoeuvres can cause damage to the
vehicle and lead to serious injuries.■
Objects trapped under the floor of the vehicle can damage the fuel lines,
the brake system, the seals and other parts of the chassis. Check the un-
derside of the vehicle and remove the trapped objects.
■
Combustible objects such as dry leaves or twigs caught under the base of
the vehicle could ignite on hot vehicle parts - risk of fire!
CAUTION
■ Pay attention to the ground clearance of the vehicle! When driving over ob-
jects which are larger than the ground clearance, the chassis and its compo-
nents can get damaged.■
Drive slowly in unknown terrain and watch out for unexpected obstacles,
such as potholes, rocks, stumps, etc.
■
Check up on confusing sections of unpaved roads before travelling on them
and consider whether such travelling is possible without risk.
108Driving

Assist systems
Braking and stabilisation systems
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
109
Antilock Braking System (ABS)
109
Traction Control System (TCS)
109
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
110
Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)
110
Hill Hold Control (HHC)
110
This chapter deals with the functions of the braking and stabilisation systems,
with the error indicator referred to in chapter » page 34, Indicator lights .
The braking and stabilisation systems are automatically activated each time
the ignition is switched on.
WARNING■ 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!■
The increased safety provided by the brake assist systems must not
tempt you to take safety risks – risk of accident!
■
Adjust the speed and driving style to the current visibility, weather, road
and traffic conditions.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Fig. 97
Press the ESC system: Activat-
ing/deactivating TCS
Read and observe on page 109 first.
The ESC improves vehicle stability in dynamic driving situations, such as when the vehicle starts to skid.
The ESC monitors whether the desired direction of the current vehicle motion
is occurring. In case of any deviation (e.g. oversteer), the ESC automatically
brakes individual wheels to maintain the desired direction.
During an intervention of the system, the warning light
flashes in the instru-
ment cluster.
The ESC system cannot be deactivated. The
» Fig. 97 button can only be
used to deactivate the TCS » page 109.
The warning light lights up in the instrument cluster when the ASR is deacti-
vated.
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.
Antilock Braking System (ABS)
Read and observe
on page 109 first.
ABS prevents the wheels locking when braking. Thus helping the driver to
maintain 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 pres-
sure on the brake pedal.
Traction Control System (TCS)
Read and observe
on page 109 first.
TCS prevents the spinning of the wheels of the driven axle. TCS reduces thedrive power transmitted to the wheels in the case of slipping wheels. Thus, for
example, driving on road surfaces with low grip is made easier.
If your vehicle is fitted with the ESC system, the ASR is integrated into the ESC
system » page 109 .
109Assist systems