2014 SKODA ROOMSTER brake fluid

Taking care of your vehicle exterior136Taking care of the interior139
Inspecting and replenishing
142
Fuel
142
Engine compartment
145
Engine oil
148
Coolant
150
Brake fluid
152
Vehicle battery
153
Wheels
156
Tyres and wheel rims
156
Approved tyre / rim combinations
160
Winter operation
163
Do-it-yourself
Emergency equipment and self-help
165
Emergency equipment
165
Changing a wheel
166
Puncture set
169
Jump-starting
172
Towing the vehicle
173
Fuses and light bulbs
175
Fuses
175
Replacing bulbs
178
Technical data
Technical data
183
Vehicle data
183
Index
3Table of Contents

Safety
Passive Safety
General information
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Before setting off
8
Driving safety
8
Safety equipment
8
In this section you will find important information, tips and notes on the sub-
ject of passive safety in your vehicle.
We have combined everything here which you should be familiar with, for ex-
ample, regarding seat belts, airbags, child seats and safety of children.
WARNING■ This chapter contains important information on how to use the vehicle for
the driver and his occupants.■
You can find further information on safety concerning you and those trav-
elling with you in the following chapters of this owner's manual.
■
The complete on-board literature should always be in the vehicle. This
applies in particular, if you rent out or sell the vehicle.
Before setting off
Read and observe
on page 8 first.
For your own safety and the safety of the people travelling with you, please
pay attention to the following points before setting off.
Ensure that the lighting and the turn signal system are functioning proper-
ly.
Ensure that the function of the wiper and the condition of the wiper
blades are free of any defects.
Ensure that all of the windows offer good visibility to the outside.
Adjust the rear-view mirror so that vision to the rear is guaranteed.
Ensure that the mirrors are not covered.
Check the tyre inflation pressure.
Check the engine oil, brake fluid and coolant level.
Secure all items of luggage.
Do not exceed the permissible axle loads and permissible gross weight of
the vehicle.
Close all doors as well as the bonnet and boot lid.
Ensure that no objects can obstruct the pedals.
Protect children in suitable child seats with correctly fastened seat
belts » page 22 , Transporting children safely .
Adopt the correct seated position » page 9, Correct and safe seated
position . Tell your passengers to assume the correct seated position.
Driving safety
Read and observe
on page 8 first.
The driver is fully responsible for himself and his occupants. If your driving
safety is effected, you place yourself and the oncoming traffic at risk.
The following guidelines must therefore be observed. Do not become distracted from concentrating on the traffic situation, e.g.
by your passengers or mobile phone calls.
Never drive when your driving ability is impaired, e.g. due to medication, al-
cohol or drugs.
Keep to the traffic regulations and the permissible speed limit.
Always adjust the driving speed to the road, traffic and weather condi-
tions.
Take regular breaks on long journeys – at least every two hours.
Safety equipment
Read and observe
on page 8 first.
The following list contains only part of the safety equipment in your vehicle.
› Three-point seat belts for all the seats.
› Belt force limiters for the front seats.
› Belt tensioners for the front seats.
› Seat belt height adjusters for the front seats.
› Front airbag for the driver and the front passenger.
› Side airbags. 

8Safety

The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.Gearbox overheated. Stop. Owner's 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 switch on the hazard warning
lights system » page 63.
Note
■
Warning messages shown in the MAXI DOT display must be confirmed with
button B » Fig. 25 on page 37 to call up the main menu.■
As long as the operational faults are not rectified, the symbols are always in-
dicated again. After they are displayed for the first time, the symbols continue
to be indicated without any extra messages for the driver.
Warning lights
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
 Handbrake
39
 Brake system
40
 Seat belt warning light
40
 Generator
40
 Open door
40
 
Engine oil
40
 
Coolant
41
 Power steering
42
 Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
42
 Traction Control System (ASR)
42
 Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
42
 The rear fog light
43
 Bulb failure
43
 Exhaust inspection system
43
 Glow plug system (diesel engine)
43 EPC fault light (petrol engine)43 Diesel particulate filter (diesel engine)43

Fuel reserve
44
 Airbag system
44
 Tyre pressure
45
 Windscreen washer fluid level
45

Traction control (TCS) switched off
45
 
Turning signal system
46
 Low beam
46
 Fog lights
46
 Cruise control system
46
 Selector lever lock
46
 Main beam
46
The warning lights show certain functions/faults and may be accompanied by
audible signals.
WARNING■ If illuminated warning lights and the corresponding descriptions and
warning 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
observe safety notes » page 145, Engine compartment .
 Handbrake
Read and observe
on page 39 first.
The warning 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!
39Instruments and Indicator Lights

 Brake systemRead and observe
on page 39 first.
The 
indicator light comes on 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: Owner's manual!
Stop the vehicle, switch off the engine, and check the level of the brake flu-
id » page 152 .
Further information » page 108, Brakes .
WARNING■
If you have to stop for technical reasons, then park the vehicle at a safe
distance from the traffic, switch off the engine and activate the hazard
warning light system » page 63.■
The following guidelines should be observed when opening the bonnet
and checking the brake fluid level » page 145, Engine compartment .
■
If the warning light 
is displayed simultaneously with warning light
 » page 42 , 
Anti-lock brake system (ABS) , 
do not continue your
journey! Seek help from a specialist garage.
■
A fault to the ABS system or the braking system can increase the vehi-
cle's braking distance – there is a risk of accident.
 Seat belt warning light
Read and observe
on page 39 first.
The  indicator light comes on after the ignition is switched on as a reminder
for the driver and front passenger to fasten their seat belt. The indicator light
only goes out once the driver and front passenger have fastened their seat
belt.
A steady warning signal sounds at vehicle speeds greater than 20 km/h and
the  flashes if the driver and front passenger have not fastened their seat
belts.
The warning signal is switched of and the  indicator light is permanently lit if
the driver and front passenger have not fastened their seat belts within the
next 90 seconds.
Further information » page 12.
 Generator
Read and observe
on page 39 first.
If the warning light lights up 
when the engine is running, the vehicle battery
is not being charged.
Seek help from a specialist garage. The electrical system requires checking.
WARNINGIf you have to stop for technical reasons, park the vehicle at a safe distance
from the traffic, switch off the engine and switch on the hazard warning
lights system » page 63.
CAUTION
 Do not continue driving if the  warning light (coolant system fault) lights
up in addition to the  warning light while you are driving. Stop the engine -
there is a risk of engine damage.
 Open door
Read and observe
on page 39 first.
The warning light 
comes on if one or several doors are opened or if the boot
lid is opened.
The warning light comes on even when the ignition is switched off. The warn-
ing light lights up for a maximum of 5 minutes.
WARNINGIf you have to stop for technical reasons, park the vehicle at a safe distance
from the traffic, switch off the engine and switch on the hazard warning
lights system » page 63.
  Engine oil
Read and observe
on page 39 first.
The warning light  lights up red (low oil pressure)
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Oil pressure: Engine off. Owner's manual! 
40Operation

Brakes
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Information on braking
108
Handbrake
109WARNING■ Greater physical effort is required for braking when the engine is switch-
ed off – risk of accident!■
The clutch pedal must be depressed when braking on a vehicle with man-
ual transmission, when the vehicle is in gear and at low revs. Otherwise,
the function of the brake booster may be impaired – risk of accident!
■
If a front spoiler, full wheel trim, etc. is mounted retrospectively, it must
be ensured that the air supply to the front wheel brakes is not reduced.
The front brakes may overheat, which can have a negative impact on the
functioning of the braking system – there is a risk of an accident.
■
When leaving the vehicle, never leave persons who might, for example,
release the handbrake or take the vehicle out of gear unattended in the ve-
hicle. The vehicle could then start to move – risk of accident!
CAUTION
■ Observe the recommendations on the new brake pads » page 113.■Never let the brakes slip with light pressure on the pedal if braking is not
necessary. This causes the brakes to overheat and can also result in a longer
braking distance and excessive wear.
Information on braking
Read and observe
and on page 108 first.
If the brakes are applied in full and the control unit for the braking system con-
siders 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 stop-
ped, the brake light stops flashing and the hazard warning light system
switches on. The hazard warning light system is switched off automatically af- ter accelerating or driving off again.
Before travelling a long distance down 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 intermittently, not continuously.
Wear-and-tear
The wear of the brake pads is dependent on the operating conditions and driv- ing 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 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 appropri-
ately 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 40,
 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.108Driving

CAUTION■The vehicle cannot be operated with biofuel RME, therefore this fuel must
not be filled in the tank and used for driving the vehicle. The use of biofuel
RME can cause considerable damage to parts of the engine or fuel system.■
Do not mix any fuel additives, so-called “flow improvers” (petrol and similar
agents), into the diesel. This can result in considerable damage to parts of the
engine or the exhaust system!
Engine compartment
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Opening and closing the bonnet
146
Engine compartment overview
147
Radiator fan
147
Windscreen washer system
147WARNINGInjuries 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
warning instructions outlined below and with the general applicable safety
rules. The engine compartment of your car is a hazardous area!WARNINGInstructions before beginning work in the engine 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 in-
to Neutral, or if the vehicle is fitted with an automatic gearbox, move the
selector 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.
WARNINGInformation for working in the engine compartment■Keep all people, especially children, away from 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 is harmful to health.
■
Avoid contact with the coolant.
■
Coolant vapours are harmful to health.
■
Never open the end cover of the coolant expansion reservoir while the
engine 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
coolant.
■
If any coolant splashes into your eyes, immediately rinse out your eyes
with clear water and contact a doctor as soon as possible.
■
Always keep the coolant in the original container, safe from people who
are not completely independent, especially children - there is a danger of
poisoning!
■
Consult a doctor immediately if coolant is swallowed.
■
Never spill fluids on the hot engine. Such fluids (e.g. the antifreeze con-
tained in the coolant) may ignite!
WARNINGInformation for working in the engine compartment with the engine run-
ning■
Pay particular attention to rotating engine parts (e.g. V-ribbed belt, gen-
erator, 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.
WARNINGInformation for working on the fuel system or the electrical system■Always disconnect the vehicle battery from the electrical system. 145Inspecting and replenishing

›Let the bonnet drop into the lock carrier lock from a height of around 20 cm –
do not push it in .WARNING■
Check that the bonnet is closed properly.■If you notice that the lock is not properly engaged while driving, stop the
vehicle immediately and close the bonnet – risk of accident!
CAUTION
Never open the bonnet by the locking lever » Fig. 132.
Engine compartment overview
Fig. 134
Principle sketch: Engine compartment
Read and observe
and on page 145 first.
Explanation of graphic » Fig. 134
Coolant expansion reservoir
151
Windscreen washer fluid reservoir
147
Engine oil filler opening
150
Engine oil dipstick
149
Brake fluid reservoir
152
Vehicle battery
153123456NoteThe location of the inspection points in the engine compartment of petrol and
diesel engines is practically identical.
Radiator fan
Read and observe
and on page 145 first.
The radiator fan is powered by an electric motor. Operation is controlled ac-
cording to the temperature of the coolant.
WARNINGAfter switching off the ignition, the fan may intermittently continue to op-
erate for approx. 10 minutes.
Windscreen washer system
Fig. 135
Engine compartment: Wind-
screen washer fluid reservoir
Read and observe and on page 145 first.
The windscreen washer fluid reservoir is located in the engine compart-
ment » Fig. 135 .
This contains the cleaning fluid for the windscreen or rear window and for the
headlight cleaning system.
The capacity of the reservoir is about 3.5 litres or about 5.4 litres on vehicles
that have a headlight cleaning system 1)
. 
1)
In some countries, 5.4 litres applies for both variants.
147Inspecting and replenishing

CAUTION■Only top up with new coolant.■Do not use an alternative additive if the specified coolant is not available. In
this case, use only water and have the correct mixing ratio of water and cool-
ant 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
152
Changing
152WARNING■ 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 145.■

Do not continue your journey if the fluid level has fallen below the MIN
marking » Fig. 138 on page 152 - 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.■We recommend using brake fluids from the ŠKODA Original Accessories
range.Checking the brake fluid levelFig. 138
Engine compartment: Brake fluid
reservoir
Read and observe and on page 152 first.
The brake fluid reservoir is located in the engine compartment » Fig. 138.
›
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.
A slight drop in the fluid level results in operation due to normal wear and tear
and the automatic adjustment of the brake pads.
There may be an indication of a leak in the brake system, however, if the fluid level drops significantly within a short time or if it drops below the “MIN” mark-
ing.
If the brake fluid level is too low, this is indicated by the indicator light

» page 40 ,
 Brake system
lighting up in the instrument cluster.
Changing
Read and observe
and on page 152 first.
Brake fluid absorbs moisture. Over time it therefore absorbs moisture from theenvironment.
Excessive water in the brake fluid may be the cause of corrosion in the brake
system.
The water content lowers the boiling point of the brake fluid. 
152General Maintenance