Skoda 2014 Rapid Spaceback User manual

SIMPLY CLEVER
ŠKODA Rapid
Owner's Manual

Layout of this Owner's Manual
(explanations)
This Owner's Manual has been systematically designed to make it easy for you to
search for and obtain the information you require.
Chapters, table of contents and subject index
The text of the Owner's manual is divided into relatively short sections which are
combined into easy-to-read chapters. The chapter you are reading at any particular
moment is always specified on the bottom right of the page.
The Table of contents is arranged according to the chapters and the detailed Sub-
ject index at the end of the Owner's Manual helps you to rapidly find the informa-
tion you are looking for.
Direction indications
All direction indications such as “left”, “right”, “front”, “rear” relate to the direction of
travel of the vehicle.
Units of measurement
All values are expressed in metric units.
Explanation of symbols
Denotes a reference to a section with important information and safety
advice in a chapter.
Denotes the end of a section.
Denotes the continuation of a section on the next page.
Indicates situations where the vehicle must be stopped as soon as possi-
ble.
® Denotes a registered trademark.
Indicates the texts displayed in the MAXI DOT screen.
Indicates the texts shown in the segment display.
Display
In this owner's manual, the screen on the MAXI DOT display is used as the display
illustration, provided it is not otherwise stated.
Notes
WARNING
The most important notes are marked with the heading WARNING. These
WARNING notes draw your attention to a serious risk of accident or injury.
CAUTION
A Caution note draws your attention to the possibility of damage to your vehicle
(e.g. damage to gearbox), or points out general risks of an accident.
For the sake of the environment
An Environmental note draws your attention to environmental protection aspects.
This is where you will, for example, find tips aimed at reducing your fuel consump-
tion.
Note
A normal Note draws your attention to important information about the operation
of your vehicle.

Preface
You have opted for a ŠKODA – our sincere thanks for your confidence in us.
You have received a vehicle with the latest technology and range of amenities. Please read this Owner's
Manual carefully, because the operation in accordance with these instructions is a prerequisite for proper use
of the vehicle.
If you have any questions about your vehicle, please contact a ŠKODA Service Partner.
We wish you much pleasure with your ŠKODA and pleasant motoring at all times.
Your ŠKODA AUTO a.s. (hereinafter referred to only as ŠKODA or manufacturer) 

On-board literature
The on-board literature for your vehicle consists of this “owner's manual” as well
as a “service schedule” and the “Help on the road” brochure.
Depending on the vehicle model and equipment, other additional operating man-
uals and instructions may be provided (e.g. an operating manual for the radio).
If one of the documents listed above is missing, please contact a ŠKODA Partner.
Terms used
The on-board literature contains the following terms relating to the service work
for your vehicle.
›“Specialist garage” - A Workshop that carries out specialist service tasks for
ŠKODA vehicles. A specialist garage can be a ŠKODA partner, a ŠKODA service
partner or an independent workshop.
›“ŠKODA service partner” - A Workshop that has been contractually authorized
by the manufacturer ŠKODA AUTO a.s. or its sales partner to perform service
tasks on ŠKODA vehicles and to sell ŠKODA Genuine Parts.
›“ŠKODA partner” - A company that has been authorized by the manufacturer
ŠKODA AUTO a.s. or its sales partner to sell new ŠKODA vehicles and, when ap-
plicable, to service them using ŠKODA Genuine Parts and sell ŠKODA Genuine
Parts.
The owner's manual
This Owner's manual describes all possible equipment variants without identify-
ing them as special equipment, model variants or market-dependent equipment.
Consequently, this vehicle does not need to contain all of the equipment compo-
nents described in this owner's manual.
The scope of equipment of your vehicle relates to your purchase contract for the
vehicle. For more information, contact your local ŠKODA retailer.
The illustrations can differ in minor details from your vehicle; they are only inten-
ded for general information.
The service schedule:
›contains vehicle data including information on service work carried out;
›is intended as proof of services carried out;
›is intended for records relating to the mobility warranty (only valid for some
countries);
›serves as a warranty certificate from the ŠKODA Partner where your vehicle was
purchased.
Therefore please always present the service schedule when you take your vehicle
to a specialist garage.
If the service schedule is missing or in poor condition, please contact the special-
ist garage that regularly services your vehicle. You will need to request a dupli-
cate, in which the specialist garage will confirm the service work previously car-
ried out.
The Help on the road brochure
The Help on the road brochure contains the most important emergency tele-
phone numbers as well as telephone numbers and contact addresses of ŠKODA
Partners in the various different countries.

Table of Contents
Abbreviations
Using the system
Cockpit 7
Overview 6
Instruments and Indicator Lights 8
Instrument cluster 8
Warning Lights 12
Information system 20
Driver information system 20
Multifunction display (MFA) 22
MAXI DOT display 25
Service Interval Display 26
Unlocking and opening 28
Unlocking and locking 28
Anti-theft alarm system 33
Luggage compartment lid 34
Electrical power windows 35
Lights and visibility 38
Lights 38
Interior light 42
Visibility 43
Windscreen wipers and washers 44
Rear mirror 46
Seats and useful equipment 48
Adjusting the seats 48
Seat features 50
Practical features 52
Luggage compartment 60
Variable loading floor in the luggage
compartment (Rapid Spaceback) 66
Roof rack system 69
Heating and air conditioning system 71
Heating, ventilation, cooling 71
Heating 72
Air conditioning system (manual air conditioning
system) 74
Climatronic (automatic air conditioning
system) 77
Communication and multimedia 80
Universal telephone installation GSM II 80
Voice control 85
Multimedia 87
Driving
Starting-off and Driving 91
Steering 91
Starting and stopping the engine 92
Brakes 94
Manual gear changing and pedals 96
Automatic transmission 97
Running in 99
Economical driving and environmental
sustainability 100
Avoiding damage to your vehicle 104
Driving abroad 105
Assist systems 107
Brake assist systems 107
Parking aid 109
Cruise Control System 110
START-STOP 112
Towing a trailer 115
Towing device 115
Trailer 119
Safety
Passive Safety 122
General information 122
Correct seated position 123
Seat belts 126
Using seat belts 126
Inertia reels and belt tensioners 129
Airbag system 131
Description of the airbag system 131
Airbag overview 132
Deactivating airbags 135
Transporting children safely 138
Child seat 138
Fastening systems 141
General Maintenance
Taking care of and cleaning the vehicle 143
Washing your car 143
Taking care of your vehicle exterior 144
Taking care of the interior 148
Modifications, repairs and technical alterations 150
Inspecting and replenishing 153
Fuel 153
Engine compartment 155
Engine oil 159
Coolant 161
Brake fluid 163
Vehicle battery 164
Wheels 168
Tyres and wheel rims 168
Winter operation 173
3
Table of Contents

Do-it-yourself
Emergency equipment and self-help 175
Emergency equipment 175
Changing a wheel 177
Tyre repair 180
Jump-starting 182
Towing the vehicle 184
Remote control 186
Emergency unlocking/locking 187
Replacing windscreen wiper blades 188
Fuses and light bulbs 190
Fuses 190
Bulbs 193
Technical data
Technical data 200
Vehicle data 200
Index
4Table of Contents

Abbreviations
Abbreviation Definition
rpm Engine revolutions per minute
ABS Anti-lock brake system
AG Automatic gearbox
TCS Traction control
CO2 in g/km discharged quantity of carbon dioxide in grams per driven kilo-
meter
DPF Diesel particle filter
DSG Automatic double clutch gearbox
EDL Electronic differential lock
ECE Economic Commission for Europe
ESC Electronic Stability Control
EU European Union
GSM Groupe Spécial Mobile - a digital network of mobile devices for
the transmission of voice and data
HBA Hydraulic brake assist
HFP Hands-free profile - connection of a mobile device by means of
its Bluetooth® profile
HHC Uphill start assist
kW Kilowatt, measuring unit for the engine output
MDI Mobile Device Interface - connecting an external device via
the AUX or USB input
MFD Multifunction display
MG Manual gearbox
MPI Gasoline engine with a multi-point fuel injection
N1 Panel van intended exclusively or mainly for the transporta-
tion of goods
Nm Newton meter, measuring unit for the engine torque
PIN Personal Identification Number - personal identification num-
ber for the connection of electronic devices using Bluetooth®
Abbreviation Definition
TDI CR Diesel engine with turbocharging and common rail injection
system
TSI Petrol engine with turbocharging and direct injection 
5
Abbreviations

Fig. 1 Cockpit
6Using the system

Using the system
Cockpit
Overview
Electrical power windows 36
Door opening lever on the driver's side 32
Electric exterior mirror adjustment 47
Air outlet vents on the driver's side 71
Parking ticket holder 52
Operating lever:
›Turn signal light, headlight and parking light, headlight flasher 40
›Speed regulating system 110
Steering wheel:
›With horn
›With driver’s front airbag 133
›with pushbuttons for radio, navigation system and mobile
phone 80
Instrument cluster 8
Operating lever:
›Windscreen wiper and wash system 45
›Information system 20
Air outlets in the central part of the dash panel 71
Depending on equipment fitted:
›Radio
›Navigation system
Button for hazard warning light system 41
Warning light for the deactivated front seat passenger airbag 136
Interior rear-view mirror 46
Key switch for switching off the passenger airbag (in front passen-
ger storage compartment) 136
Front passenger airbag 133
Storage compartment on the front passenger side 59
Air outlet vents on the front passenger side 71
Power window in the front passenger door 35
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
Door opening lever on the front passenger side 32
Light switch and headlight beam range regulation (on the dash
panel) 38, 38
Bonnet release lever 157
Fuse box in the dashboard 190
Lever for adjusting the steering wheel 91
Ignition lock 93
Pedals 96
Bar with keys depending on the equipment fitted:
› Seat heater on the front left seat 50
› TCS 107
› Central locking system 31
› Rear window heater 43
› START STOP 112
› Seat heater on the front right seat 50
Depending on equipment fitted:
›Gearshift lever (manual gearbox) 96
›Selector lever (automatic gearbox) 97
Handbrake lever 95
Depending on equipment fitted:
›Cup holder 54
›Multimedia holder 57
›Ashtrays 55
Storage compartment 54
Depending on equipment fitted:
›Operating controls for the heating 72
›Operating controls for the air conditioning system 74
›Operating controls for Climatronic 77
Note
The arrangement of the controls and switches and the location of some items on
right-hand drive models may differ from that shown in » Fig. 1. The symbols on
the controls and switches are the same as for left-hand drive models. 
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
7
Cockpit

Instruments and Indicator Lights
Instrument cluster
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
Overview 8
Engine revolutions counter 9
Display 9
Speedometer 9
Coolant temperature gauge display 10
Fuel gauge display 10
Counter for distance driven 11
Digital clock 11
Display of the second speed 11
Auto Check Control 11
When the ignition is on, the instrument cluster is illuminated1).
Fault display
If there is a fault in the instrument cluster, the Error message will appear in the
display. Have the fault rectified as soon as possible by a specialist garage.
WARNING
■Concentrate fully at all times on your driving! As the driver you are fully re-
sponsible for road safety.
■Never operate the controls in the instrument cluster while driving, only
when the vehicle is stationary! 
Overview
Fig. 2 Instrument cluster
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 8.
Revolutions counter with warning lights » page 9
Display» page 9:
›With counter for distance driven » page 11
›With service interval display » page 26
›With digital clock » page 11
›with multifunction display (MFA) » page 22
›With information system » page 20
Speedometer with warning lights » page 9
Coolant temperature gauge1)» page 10
Button for display mode:
›Setting the hours/minutes » page 11
›Enable / disable the display of the second speed2) » page 11
›Service intervals - Display of the number of days and kilometres remaining
until the next service2) » page 26 

1
2
3
4
5
1) Applies to vehicles using the MAXI DOT display.
2) Applies to vehicles with a segment display.
8Using the system

Button for:
›Reset trip counter for the distance driven » page 11
›Set hours/minutes
›enable / disable the mode selected by means of the 5 key
Fuel gauge1) » page 10 
Engine revolutions counter
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 8.
The red scale of the rev counter 1 » Fig. 2 on page 8 indicates the range in which
the system begins to limit the engine speed. The system automatically restricts
the engine speed to a steady limit.
You should shift into the next highest gear before the red scale of the revolution
counter is reached, or select mode D on the automatic gearbox.
Follow the recommended gear to prevent engine speeds that are too high or too
low » page 22.
For the sake of the environment
Correct shifting up has the following advantages.
■It helps to reduce fuel consumption.
■It reduces the operating noise.
■It protects the environment.
■It benefits the durability and reliability of the engine. 
6
7

Display
Fig. 3
Display types
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 8.
The instrument cluster can have one of the following types of display » Fig. 3.
Segment display, indicated in the text with the  symbol
MAXI DOT display, indicated in the text with the  symbol 
Speedometer
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 8.
Warning against excessive speeds
An audible warning signal will sound when the vehicle speed exceeds 120 km/h2).
The audible warning signal is switched off when the vehicle speed falls below 120
km/h. 




1) Applies to vehicles using the MAXI DOT display.
2) This function only applies to certain countries.
9
Instruments and Indicator Lights

Coolant temperature gauge display
Fig. 4
Coolant temperature gauge
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 8.
The coolant temperate display » Fig. 4 only works when the ignition is switched
on.
In vehicles with a segment display, the coolant temperature is indicated only by
the lighting up or going out of one of the warning lights » page 14,   Cool-
ant.
Cold range
If the pointer is still in the left area of the scale it means that the engine has not
yet reached its operating temperature. Avoid high speeds, full throttle and high
engine loads. This prevents possible damage to the engine.
The operating range
The engine has reached its operating temperature as soon as the pointer moves
into the mid-range of the scale. At very high ambient temperatures or heavy en-
gine loads, the pointer may move even further to the right.
High temperature range
If the pointer reaches the red area of the scale, the coolant temperature is too
high. Further information » page 14,   Coolant.
CAUTION
Additional headlights and other attached components in front of the air inlet im-
pair the cooling efficiency of the coolant. 

Fuel gauge display
Fig. 5 Fuel gauge
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 8.
The instrument cluster can have one of the following types of fuel gauge » Fig. 5.
Instrument cluster with the MAXI DOT display
Instrument cluster with the segment display
The fuel gauge only works if the ignition is switched on.
The fuel tank has a capacity of about 55 litres. The warning light lights up when
the amount of fuel reaches the reserve zone » page 18.
The reserve zone is indicated by the red area of the scale» Fig. 5 -  or by display-
ing only the last two segments of the scale » Fig. 5 - .
CAUTION
Never drive until the fuel tank is completely empty! The irregular supply of fuel
can cause misfiring. This can result in considerable damage to parts of the engine
and the exhaust system.
Note
After filling up, it can occur that during dynamic driving (e.g. numerous curves,
braking, driving downhill and climbing a steep hill) the fuel gauge indicates ap-
prox. a fraction less. When stopping or during less dynamic driving, the fuel gauge
displays the correct fuel level again. This is not a fault. 



10 Using the system

Counter for distance driven
Fig. 6
Segment display / MAXI DOT dis-
play
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 8.
Daily trip counter (trip)
The daily trip counter A» Fig. 6 indicates the distance which you have driven
since it was last reset - in steps of 100 metres or 1/10 of a mile.
Reset trip counter for the distance driven
›Press and hold the 6 » Fig. 2 on page 8 button.
Odometer
The odometer B » Fig. 6 indicates the total distance the vehicle has travelled.
Note
If the second speed display is enabled on vehicles with a segment display, this
speed will be shown instead of the odometer. 
Digital clock
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 8.
The clock is set with the buttons 5 and 6 » Fig. 2 on page 8.
Select the display that you wish to change with the button 5 and carry out the
change with the button 6.


In vehicles equipped with the MAXI DOT display, it is also possible to set the clock
in the Time menu » page 26.
Display of the second speed
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 8.
The display can show the current speed in mph1).
This feature is provided for driving in countries with different speed units.
MAXI DOT display
The display of the second speed can be set in the menu item settings » page 26,
Settings.
Segment display
›Press the 5» Fig. 2 on page 8 key repeatedly, until the odometer display flash-
es » page 11.
›Press the 6 key while the display flashes.
The second speed is displayed instead of the odometer.
The display of the second speed can be disabled in the same way. 
Auto Check Control
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 8.
Vehicle condition
Certain functions and conditions of individual vehicle systems are checked contin-
uously when the ignition is switched on and also while driving.
Some error messages and other information are displayed in the MAXI DOT dis-
play. The messages are displayed simultaneously with the symbols in the MAXI
DOT display or with the warning lights in the instrument cluster » page 12.


1) For models with the speedometer in mph, the second speed is displayed in km/h.
11
Instruments and Indicator Lights

The menu item Vehicle status is shown in the main menu of the MAXI DOT dis-
play whenever at least one fault message exists. After selecting this menu, the
first of the error messages is displayed. If there are several error messages, the
display will show 1/3, for example, below the message. This indicates that the
first of a total of three error messages is being displayed.
Warning symbols in the MAXI DOT display
Engine oil pressure too low » page 14
Clutches of the automatic gearbox are too
hot » page 12
Check engine oil level,
engine oil sensor faulty » page 14
Problem with the engine oil pressure » page 12
 Problem with the engine oil pressure
If the  symbol is shown in the MAXI DOT display, you must have your vehicle
checked immediately by a specialist garage. The information about the maximum
permissible engine speed is displayed together with this symbol.
 Clutches of the automatic gearbox are too hot
A  symbol in the MAXI DOT display indicates that the temperature of the auto-
matic gearbox clutches is too high.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Gearbox overheated. Stop! Log book!
 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.
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 41.

Note
■If the MAXI DOT display shows warning messages, these messages must be
confirmed in order to access the main menu » page 20, 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. 
Warning Lights
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
 Handbrake 13
Braking system 13
 Seat belt warning light 13
 Generator 13
 Open door 14
  Engine oil 14
  Coolant 14
 Power steering 15
 Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 15
 Traction Control System (ASR) 15
Antilock brake system (ABS) 16
 The rear fog light 16
 Bulb failure 16
 Exhaust inspection system 16
 Glow plug system (diesel engine) 17
 EPC fault light (petrol engine) 17
 Diesel particle filter (diesel engine) 17
 Fuel reserve 18
 Airbag system 18
 Tyre pressure 18
 Windscreen washer fluid level 18
  Turn signal system 19
 Fog lights 19
12 Using the system

 Cruise control system 19
 Selector lever lock 19
 Main beam 19
The warning lights show certain functions/faults and may be accompanied by au-
dible signals.
WARNING
■If illuminated warning 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 155, Engine compartment.
 Handbrake
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
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! 
Braking system
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
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 163.
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 41.
■The following guidelines should be observed when opening the bonnet and
checking the brake fluid level » page 155, Engine compartment.
■If the warning light  is displayed simultaneously with warning light
 » page 16, 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 12.
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. 
 Generator
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
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. 


13
Instruments and Indicator Lights

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 41, Hazard warning light system.
CAUTION
If the  warning light (cooling system fault) lights up in addition to the  warn-
ing light while driving,  do not continue to drive! 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 12.
The warning light  comes on if one or several doors are opened or if the boot lid
is opened.
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 41.
  Engine oil
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
The warning light  lights up red (low oil pressure)
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Oil pressure: Log book!
Stop the vehicle, switch off the engine, and check the level of the engine
oil » page 160.



Even if the oil level is correct,  do not drive any further if the warning light is
flashing. Also do not leave the engine running at an idling speed.
Seek help from a specialist garage.
The warning light  lights up yellow (oil quantity too low)
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Check oil level!
Stop the vehicle, switch off the engine, and check the level of the engine
oil » page 160.
The warning light will go out if the bonnet is left open for more than 30 seconds.
If no engine oil has been replenished, the warning light will come on again after
driving about 100 km.
The warning light  flashes yellow (engine oil level sensor faulty)
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Oil sensor: Workshop!
If the engine oil level sensor is faulty, the warning light flashes  several times
and an audible signal sounds when the ignition is turned on.
Seek help from a specialist garage.
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
lights » page 41.
  Coolant
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
The indicator light  lights up until the engine reaches operating temperature1).
Avoid high speeds, full throttle and high engine loads.
If the warning light  lights up or flashes, either the coolant temperature is too
high or the coolant level is too low. 



1) Applies to vehicles with a segment display.
14 Using the system

The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
ENGINE COOLANT PLEASE CHECK Log book!
Stop the vehicle, switch off the engine, check the level of the coolant » page 162,
and refill the coolant if necessary » page 163.
If the coolant is within the specified range, the increased temperature may be
caused by an operating problem at the radiator fan. Check the fuse for the radia-
tor fan, replace if necessary » page 192, Fuses in the engine compartment.
Do not continue driving if the warning light   does not go off even though the
coolant level is correct and the fuse for the fan is in working order!
Seek help from a specialist garage.
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 41.
■Carefully open the coolant expansion bottle. If the engine is hot, the cooling
system is pressurized – risk of scalding! It is therefore best to allow the engine
to cool down before removing the cap.
■Do not touch the radiator fan. The radiator fan may switch itself on auto-
matically even if the ignition is off. 
 Power steering
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
If the indicator light  lights up, there is a fault in the power steering system.
The power steering operates with reduced steering assist or does not function at
all.
Seek help from a specialist garage. 


 Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
The warning light flashes to show that the ESC is currently operating.
If the warning light  comes on immediately after you start the engine, the ESC
might be switched off due to technical reasons. Switch the ignition off and on
again. If the indicator light  does not light up after you switch the engine back
on, the ESR is fully functional again.
If the warning light lights up there is a fault in the ESC system.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Error: Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
or
Error: Traction control (ASR)
Seek help from a specialist garage.
Further information » page 107, Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
Note
If the vehicle's battery has been disconnected and reconnected, the warning light
 comes on after switching on the ignition. The warning light should go out after
driving a short distance. 
 Traction Control System (ASR)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
The warning light flashes to show that the ASR is currently operating.
If the warning light  comes on immediately after starting the engine, the ASR
can be switched off for technical reasons. Switch the ignition off and on again. If
the warning light  does not light up after you switch the engine back on, the
ASR is fully functional again.
If the warning light  lights up, there is a fault in the ASR. 
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15
Instruments and Indicator Lights

The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Error: Traction control (ASR)
Seek help from a specialist garage.
Further information » page 108, Traction Control System (TCS).
Note
If the vehicle's battery has been disconnected and reconnected, the indicator
light  comes on after switching on the ignition. The indicator light should go out
after driving a short distance. 
Antilock brake system (ABS)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
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 help from a specialist garage.
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
lights » page 41.
■If the warning light  » page 13 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! 
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 The rear fog light
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
The warning light  comes on when the rear fog lights are operating » page 41.
 Bulb failure
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
The warning light  comes on if a bulb is faulty:
›within a few seconds of the ignition being switched on;
›when a light with a defective bulb is turned on.
The following message, for example, may be shown in the MAXI DOT display.
INFORMATION Check front right low beam!
Note
The rear side lights and the licence plate lighting have several light bulbs. The in-
dicator light  only lights up if all light bulbs of the licence plate lighting or the
parking light (in one rear light) are defective. 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 12.
If the warning light  lights up, there is a fault in the exhaust inspection system.
The engine control unit allows the vehicle to run in emergency mode.
Seek help from a specialist garage. 
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16 Using the system

 Glow plug system (diesel engine)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
The warning light  comes on after the ignition has been switched on. The en-
gine can be started immediately after the pre-glow warning light goes out.
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 engine control unit allows the vehicle to run in emergency mode.
Seek help from a specialist garage. 
 EPC fault light (petrol engine)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
If the warning light  lights up, there is a fault in the engine control. The engine
control unit allows the vehicle to run in emergency mode.
Seek help from a specialist garage. 
 Diesel particle filter (diesel engine)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
The diesel particulate filter separates the soot particles from the exhaust. The
soot particles collect in the diesel particulate filter where they are burnt on a reg-
ular basis.
If the indicator light  lights up, soot has accumulated in the filter.
In order to clean the filter, and where traffic conditions permit » , the vehicle
should be driven at an even speed of at least 60 km/h at engine speeds of 1 800 -
2 500 rpm for at least 15 minutes or until the warning light goes out with the 4th
or 5th gear engaged (automatic gearbox: position S) when the traffic situation
permits it.
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The indicator light  only goes out after the diesel particulate filter has been
successfully cleaned.
If the filter is not properly cleaned, the warning light  does not go out and the
warning light  begins to flash.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Diesel particulate filter: Log book!
The engine control unit allows the vehicle to run in emergency mode. After
switching the ignition off and on again the indicator light, the indicator light 
also lights up.
Seek help from a specialist garage.
WARNING
■The diesel particle filter achieves very high temperatures. Therefore do not
park in areas where the hot filter can come into direct contact with dry grass
or other combustible materials – there is the risk of fire!
■Always adjust your speed to suit weather, road, region and traffic condi-
tions. The recommendations indicated by the warning light must not tempt
you to disregard the national regulations for road traffic.
CAUTION
As long as the warning light  lights up, one must take into account an in-
creased fuel consumption and in certain circumstances a power reduction of the
engine.
Note
■To assist the combustion process of the soot particles in the filter, we recom-
mend that regularly driving short distances be avoided.
■Using diesel fuel with an increased sulphur content can considerably reduce the
lifespan of the filter. A ŠKODA service partner will be able to tell you which coun-
tries use diesel fuel with a high sulphur content.
■If the engine is turned off during the filter cleaning process or shortly after-
wards, the cooling fan may turn on automatically for a few minutes. 
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17
Instruments and Indicator Lights

 Fuel reserve
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
The indicator light  will come on if the fuel level is less than 7 litres.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Please refuel. Range: ... km
Note
The text in the display goes out only after refuelling and driving a short distance. 
 Airbag system
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 12.
If the warning light  lights up, there is a fault in the airbag system.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Error: Airbag
The operational capability of the airbag system is monitored electronically, includ-
ing when 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.
›Airbags that are switched off are indicated in the middle of the dashboard by
the warning light   in the display      » Fig. 123 on page 136.
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WARNING
If 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 12.
The warning 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 168.
If the indicator light  lights up, there is a fault in the system.
Seek help from a specialist garage.
Further information » page 171, Tyre pressure monitor.
Note
If the battery has been disconnected, the warning light  illuminates after the ig-
nition is switched on. The warning light should 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 12.
If the windscreen washer fluid level is too low, the warning light  comes on.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Top up wash fluid!
Top up with liquid » page 158, Windscreen washer system.
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18 Using the system