2004-2012 Skoda Octavia 4 Door Safety User Manual
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Safety for Your Skoda Octavia 4 Door Second Generation (2004-2012)

Passive Safety 163  
Safety  
Passive Safety  
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Three-point seat belts for all the seats,  
belt force limiter for front and outer rear seats*,  
belt tensioner for front seats,  
Basic information  
Driving the safe way  
seat belt height adjuster for front seats,  
front airbag for the driver and the front seat passenger*,  
side airbags*,  
Passive safety measures reduce the risk of injury in accident situa-  
tions.  
In this section you will find important information, tips and notes on the subject of  
passive safety in your vehicle. We have combined everything here which you  
should be familiar with, for example, regarding seat belts, airbags, child seats and  
safety of children. It is therefore important, in particular, to comply with the notes  
and warnings in this section for your own interest and in the interest of those trav-  
elling with you.  
head airbags*,  
anchoring points for child seat using the “ISOFIX” system,  
anchoring points for child seat using the “Top Tether” system,  
head restraint adjustable for height,  
adjustable steering column.  
The specified safety equipment works together, in order to optimally protect you  
and those travelling with you in accident situations. The safety equipment does not  
protect you or the people travelling with you, if you or your occupants adopt an  
incorrect seated position or the equipment is not correctly adjusted or used.  
WARNING  
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This chapter contains important information on how to use the vehicle  
for the driver and his occupants. You will find further information on safety,  
which concerns you and those travelling with you, in the following chapters  
of this Owner's Manual.  
For this reason you will be provided with information on why this equipment is very  
important, how it protects you and the occupants, what should be observed when  
using the equipment and how you and the people travelling with you can make full  
use of the existing safety equipment. This Owner's Manual contains important  
warning notes, which you and those travelling with you should pay attention to in  
order to reduce a risk of injury.  
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The complete on-board literature should always be in the vehicle. This  
applies in particular, if you rent out or sell the vehicle.  
Safety equipment  
Safety concerns everybody!  
The safety equipment is part of the occupant protection and it can  
reduce the risk of injuries in accident situations.  
“Do not put at risk” your safety and the safety of those travelling with you . In the  
event of an accident, the safety equipment can reduce the risk of injuries. The  
following list contains part of the safety equipment in your vehicle:  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
164 Passive Safety  
Before setting off  
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Never drive when your driving ability is impaired, e.g. through medication,  
alcohol, drugs.  
The driver is always fully responsible for his occupants and for the  
operating safety of the vehicle.  
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Keep to the traffic regulations and the permissible speed limit.  
Adjust the driving speed at all times to the road condition as well as to the traffic  
and weather conditions.  
For your own safety and the safety of the people travelling with you, please pay  
attention to the following points before setting off:  
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Take regular breaks on long journeys - at the latest every two hours.  
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Ensure that the lighting and the turn signal system are functioning properly.  
Inspect the tyre inflation pressure.  
Correct seated position  
Ensure that all the windows offer a good visibility to the outside.  
Safely attach the items of luggage ⇒ page 84, “Loading the luggage compart-  
ment”.  
Correct seated position for the driver  
Correct seated position for the driver is important for safe and  
relaxed driving.  
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Ensure that no objects can obstruct the pedal.  
Adjust the mirror, the front seat and the head restraint to match your body size.  
Point out to your occupants that the head restraints must be adjusted to match  
their body size.  
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Protect the children in suitable child seats with correctly fastened seat belts  
⇒ page 184, “Transporting children safely”.  
Adopt the correct seated position ⇒ page 164, “Correct seated position”. Also  
inform your occupants to adopt the correct seated position.  
Fasten the seat belt correctly. Also inform your occupants to properly fasten the  
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seat belts ⇒ page 170, “How are seat belts correctly fastened?”.  
Fig. 167 The correct distance  
of the driver from the  
steering wheel  
What influences the driving safety?  
The driving safety is primarily determined by the style of driving and  
the personal behaviour of all the occupants.  
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. Please refer to the  
following guidelines.  
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Do not get distracted from concentrating on the traffic situation, e.g. by your  
occupants or mobile phone calls.  
Passive Safety 165  
WARNING (continued)  
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The driver must maintain a distance of at least 25 cm to the steering  
wheel ⇒ page 164, fig. 167. Not maintaining this minimum distance will  
mean that the airbag system will not be able to properly protect you -  
hazard!  
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When driving, hold the steering wheel with both hands firmly on the  
outer edge in the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock position. Never hold the steering  
wheel firmly in the 12 o'clock position or in another way (e.g. in the middle  
of the steering wheel or at the inner steering wheel edge). In such cases,  
injuries to the arms, the hands and the head can occur when the driver  
airbag is deployed.  
Fig. 168 The correct head  
restraint adjustment for the  
driver  
For your own safety and to reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident, we  
recommend the following setting:  
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The backrests must not be angled too far back when driving otherwise  
this will affect proper operation of the seat belts and of the airbag system -  
risk of injury!  
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Adjust the steering wheel so that the distance between the steering wheel and  
your chest is at least 25 cm ⇒ page 164, fig. 167.  
Position the driver seat in the forward/back direction so that you are able to  
press the pedals with your legs at a slight angle .  
Adjust the backrest so that you are able to reach the highest point of the steering  
wheel with your arms at a slight angle.  
Adjust the head restraint so that the top edge of the head restraint is at the same  
level as the upper part of your head ⇒ fig. 168.  
Fasten the seat belt correctly ⇒ page 170, “How are seat belts correctly  
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Ensure that there are no objects in the footwell as any objects may get  
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behind the pedals during a driving or braking manoeuvre. You would then  
no longer be able to operate the clutch, to brake or accelerate.  
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Correct seated position for the front passenger  
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The front passenger must maintain a distance of at least 25 cm from  
the dash panel so that the airbag offers the greatest possible safety  
when an airbag is deployed.  
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fastened?”.  
Manual driver seat adjustment ⇒ page 12, “Adjusting the front seats”.  
Electrical driver seat adjustment ⇒ page 76, “Adjusting front seats electrically*”.  
For the safety of the front passenger and to reduce the risk of injury in the event of  
an accident, we recommend the following setting:  
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Adjust the front passenger seat as far as possible to the rear.  
Adjust the head restraint so that the top edge of the head restraint is at the same  
level as the upper part of your head ⇒ fig. 168.  
WARNING  
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The front seats and the head restraints must always be adjusted to match  
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Fasten the seat belt correctly ⇒ page 170, “How are seat belts correctly  
the body size of the seat occupant as well as the seat belts must always be  
correctly fastened in order to provide an optimal protection for you and your  
occupants.  
fastened?”.  
In exceptional cases the front passenger airbag can be deactivated ⇒ page 181,  
“Deactivating an airbag”.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
166 Passive Safety  
Manual front passenger adjustment ⇒ page 12, “Adjusting the front seats”.  
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If you are transporting ⇒ page 184, “Transporting children safely” children in  
the vehicle, please use a suitable child restraint system.  
Electrical front passenger seat adjustment ⇒ page 76, “Adjusting front seats electri-  
cally*”.  
WARNING  
WARNING  
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The head restraints must always be adjusted to match the body size, in  
order to offer an optimal protection for you and your occupants.  
Always keep your feet in the footwell when the car is being driven - never  
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The front seats and the head restraints must always be adjusted to match  
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the body size of the seat occupant as well as the seat belts must always be  
correctly fastened in order to provide an optimal protection for you and your  
occupants.  
put your feet out of the window or on the surfaces of the seats. You will be  
exposed to increased risk of injury if it becomes necessary to apply the brake  
or in the event of an accident. If an airbag is deployed, you may suffer fatal  
injuries when adopting an incorrect seated position!  
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The front passenger must maintain a distance of at least 25 cm to the  
dash panel. Not maintaining this minimum distance will mean that the  
airbag system will not be able to properly protect you - hazard!  
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If the occupants on the rear seats are not sitting upright, the risk of injury  
is increased due to incorrect routing of the seat belt.  
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Always keep your feet in the footwell when the vehicle is being driven -  
never place your feet on the instrument panel, out of the window or on the  
surfaces of the seats. You will be exposed to increased risk of injury if it  
becomes necessary to apply the brake or in the event of an accident. If an  
airbag is deployed, you may suffer fatal injuries when adopting an incorrect  
seated position!  
Examples of an incorrect seated position  
An incorrect seated position can lead to severe injuries or death for  
the occupants.  
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The backrests must not be angled too far back when driving otherwise  
this will affect proper operation of the seat belts and of the airbag system -  
risk of injury!  
Seat belts offer their optimum protection only if the webbing of the seat belts is  
properly routed. Incorrect seated positions considerably reduce the protective  
functions of the seat belts and therefore increase the risk of injury due to an incor-  
rect routing of the seat belt. The driver is fully responsible for himself and the occu-  
pants, in particular for the children. Do not permit an occupant to adopt an incor-  
rect seated position when the car is moving.  
Correct seated position for the occupants on the rear seats  
Occupants on the rear seats must sit upright, keep the feet in the  
footwell and must have their seat belts correctly fastened.  
The following list contains the examples of seated positions which are dangerous  
for the occupants. This list is not complete, however we would like you to get inter-  
ested in this subject.  
To reduce the risk of injury in the event of a sudden braking manoeuvre or an acci-  
dent, the occupants on the rear seats must observe the following:  
Therefore, while the car is moving never:  
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Adjust the head restraints so that the top edge of the head restraints are at the  
same level as the upper part of your head ⇒ page 165, fig. 168.  
Fasten the seat belt correctly ⇒ page 170, “How are seat belts correctly  
fastened?”.  
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stand up in the vehicle,  
stand up on the seats,  
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kneel onto the seats,  
tilt the backrest fully to the back,  
Passive Safety 167  
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lean against the dash panel,  
lie on the rear seats,  
only sit on the front area of the seat,  
sit to the side,  
lean out of the window,  
put the feet out of the window,  
put the feet on the dash panel,  
put the feet on the seat upholstery,  
occupy the footwell,  
have the seat belt not fastened,  
occupy the luggage compartment.  
WARNING  
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If the occupant adopts an incorrect seated position, he is exposed to life-  
threatening injuries, in case he is hit by a deployed airbag.  
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Before setting off, please adopt the correct seated position and do not  
change this seated position while the car is moving. Also advise your occu-  
pants to adopt the correct seated position and not to change this seated  
position while the car is moving.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
168 Seat belts  
Seat belts  
It is important that you pay attention to safety measures, particularly when trans-  
porting children in the vehicle ⇒ page 184, “What you should know about trans-  
porting children!”.  
Why seat belts?  
WARNING  
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Fasten your seat belt each time before setting off, also when driving in  
town! This also applies to the people seated at the rear - risk of injury!  
Expectant women must also always wear a seat belt. This is the only way  
of ensuring optimal protection for the unborn child ⇒ page 170.  
It is important for the belt webbing to be properly routed if the seat belts  
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are to offer the maximum protection. You can see a description of how safety  
belts should be fitted properly on the next pages.  
Fig. 169 Driver wearing seat  
belt  
Note  
Please comply with any differing legal requirements when using the seat belts.  
It is a proven fact that seat belts offer good protection in accidents ⇒ fig. 169. Thus  
wearing a seat belt is a legal requirement in most countries.  
Seat belts which have been correctly fastened and adjusted hold the occupants of  
the car in the correct seated position ⇒ fig. 169. The belts reduce the kinetic energy  
(energy of motion) to a considerable extent. They also prevent uncontrolled move-  
ments which, in turn, may well result in severe injuries.  
The occupants of a vehicle who have fastened and correctly adjusted their seat belt,  
profit to a major extent from the fact that the kinetic energy is optimally absorbed  
by the belts. The structure of the front end of the vehicle and other passive safety  
measures, such as the airbag system, also contribute to reducing the kinetic energy.  
The energy produced is thus absorbed and there is less risk of injury.  
Accident statistics prove that seat belts which are fastened and properly adjusted  
reduce the risk of an injury and enhance the chance of survival in a major accident  
⇒ page 169.  
Seat belts 169  
the greater the amount of energy which has to be absorbed in the event of an acci-  
The physical principle of a frontal collision  
dent.  
The speed of the vehicle is, nevertheless, the most important factor. Doubling the  
speed of the vehicle from 25 km/h up to 50 km/hour increases the kinetic energy  
four times.  
The common opinion that it is possible to support your body in a minor accident  
with your hands, is incorrect. Even in a collision at only a low speed, the forces  
acting on the body are such that it is no longer possible to support your body.  
Even if you only drive at a speed within the range from 30 km/hour to 50 km/hour,  
the forces which are produced on your body in the event of an accident can easily  
exceed 10.000 N (Newton). This equals a weight of one tonne (1 000 kg).  
In the event of a frontal collision, occupants of the car not wearing a seat belt, are  
thrown forward and strike in an uncontrolled way parts of the interior of the car,  
such as steering wheel, dash panel, windscreen,⇒ fig. 170. The occupants of a  
vehicle who have not fastened their seat belts may even be thrown out of the  
vehicle. This can result in fatal injuries.  
Fig. 170 The driver is thrown  
forward if not wearing a belt  
It is also important that rear seat occupants fasten their seat belts as they will other-  
wise be thrown through the vehicle in an uncontrolled manner in the event of an  
accident A rear seat passenger who has not fastened the seat belt is a danger not  
only to himself but also for those seated at the front ⇒ fig. 171.  
Important safety information regarding the use of  
seat belts  
The correct use of the seat belts considerably reduces the risk of  
injury!  
Fig. 171 The rear seat occu-  
pant is thrown forward if not  
wearing a belt  
WARNING  
The physical principle of a frontal accident can be explained quite simply:  
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The belt webbing must not be jammed in-between at any point or  
twisted, or chafe against any sharp edges.  
It is important that the belt webbing is properly routed if the seat belts  
are to offer their maximum protection ⇒ page 170.  
Motion energy, so-called kinetic energy, is produced as soon as the vehicle is  
moving, both for the vehicle and its occupants. The magnitude of this kinetic energy  
depends essentially on the speed at which the vehicle is travelling and on the  
weight of the vehicle and the occupants. The greater the speed and weight increase,  
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Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
170 Seat belts  
How are seat belts correctly fastened?  
WARNING (continued)  
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No two persons (also not children) should ever use a single seat belt  
together.  
Fastening three-point seat belts  
Fasten your seat belt before starting!  
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The maximum protection which seat belts can offer is only achieved if  
you are correctly seated ⇒ page 164, “Correct seated position”.  
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The belt webbing must not run across solid or fragile objects (e.g. spec-  
tacles, ball-point pens, keys etc.) as this may be a cause of injuries.  
Bulky, loose clothing (e.g. a winter coat over a jacket) does not allow you  
to be correctly seated and impairs proper operation of the seat belts.  
It is prohibited to use clamps or other objects to adjust seat belts (e.g. for  
shortening the belts for smaller persons).  
The lock tongue should only be inserted into the lock which is the correct  
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one for your seat. Wrong use of the safety belt will reduce its capacity to  
protect and the risk of injury increases.  
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The backrests of the front seats must not be tilted too far to the rear  
otherwise the seatbelts can lose their effectiveness.  
The belt webbing must always be kept clean. Soiled belt webbing may  
impair proper operation of the inertia reel ⇒ page 217, “Seat belts”.  
The slot of the belt tongue must not be blocked by paper or similar  
objects otherwise the belt tongue will not lock in place properly.  
Inspect the seat belts regularly to ensure they are in good condition. If  
Fig. 172 Routing of webbing  
over the shoulders and the  
lap belt  
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you find seat belts which have damage to the seat belt webbing, seat belt  
connections, to the inertia reels or to the lock, the relevant safety belt must  
be replaced by a specialist garage.  
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The seat belts must not be removed or changed in any way. Do not make  
an attempt to repair the seat belts yourself.  
Damaged seat belts which have been subjected to stress in an accident  
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and were therefore stretched, must be replaced - this is best done by a  
specialist garage. The anchorage points of the belts must also be inspected.  
The anchorage points for the belts should also be checked.  
Fig. 173 Routing of belt  
webbing for an expectant  
mother  
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In certain countries it is possible to use seat belts which differ in terms of  
their operation from the seat belts which are described on the pages which  
follow.  
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Correctly adjust the front seat and the head restraint before fastening  
your seat belt ⇒ page 79.  
Seat belts 171  
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Slowly pull the belt webbing at the tongue of the lock over your chest  
and pelvis ⇒  
Seat belt height adjuster  
.
Insert the tongue of the lock into the seat belt buckle belonging to the  
seat until it is heard to lock in place.  
Pull on the belt to check that it has also reliably engaged in the lock.  
Each three-point seat belt is equipped with an inertia reel. This inertia reel offers  
you complete freedom of movement if the belt is unreeled slowly. If the brakes are  
applied suddenly, the inertia reel will block. It also blocks the belts when the car  
accelerates, when driving uphill and when cornering.  
Fig. 174 Front seat: Seat belt  
height adjuster  
Expectant mothers must also wear the seat belt ⇒  
.
WARNING  
The seat belt height adjuster makes it possible for you to adapt the  
routing of the three-point seat belt in the area of the shoulder to match  
your body size.  
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The shoulder part of the seat belt must never run across your neck but  
must run approximately over the middle of the shoulder and fit snugly  
against the chest. The lap part of the belt must run across the hip and must  
never be routed across the stomach. It must always fit snugly ⇒ page 170,  
fig. 172. Adjust the belt webbing as required.  
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Move the height adjuster in the desired direction up or down  
⇒ fig. 174.  
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Then pull firmly on the belt to ensure that the seat belt height adjuster  
has correctly locked in place.  
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The lap part of the belt should be positioned as low as possible at the  
pelvis of an expectant mother in order to avoid exerting any pressure on the  
lower abdomen ⇒ page 170, fig. 173.  
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Always ensure that the webbing of the seat belts is properly routed. Seat  
belts which are not correctly adjusted can themselves cause injuries even in  
minor accidents.  
WARNING  
Adjust the height of the belt in such a way that the shoulder part of the belt  
is positioned approximately across the middle of your shoulder - on no  
account across your neck.  
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A seat belt which is hanging too loose can result in injuries as your body  
is moved forward by the kinetic energy produced in an accident and is then  
suddenly held firm by the belt.  
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Only insert the lock tongue into the lock which is the correct one for your  
seat. This will affect the protection which the belt offers and increase the risk  
of an injury.  
Note  
It is also possible to adapt the routing of the belt webbing at the front seats by  
adjusting the height of the seat.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
172 Seat belts  
Taking seat belts off  
Belt tensioners  
Safety for the driver and front passenger wearing their seat belts is enhanced by  
the belt tensioners fitted to the inertia reels of the front three-point seat belts, in  
addition to the protection afforded by the airbag system.  
The three-point seat belts are automatically tensioned in the event of a frontal colli-  
sion of a certain severity. The belt tensioners can also be deployed if the seat belts  
are not fastened.  
The belt tensioner is deployed in the event of a frontal collision of major severity. A  
powder charge is ignited in the inertia reels during deployment. The belt webbing  
is pulled into the inertia reels by a mechanical system and the belt is tensioned.  
Fig. 175 Releasing lock  
tongue from belt lock  
The belt tensioners are not activated in case of minor frontal and rear-end colli-  
sions, in the case of vehicle rollover or accidents, through which no long delays are  
incurred to the vehicle. In the case of a side collision, only the belt tensioner of the  
front seat on the side on which the collision takes place is deployed.  
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Press the red button in the belt lock ⇒ fig. 175. The spring force causes  
the tongue of the lock to jump out.  
Guide the belt back with your hand to enable the inertia reel to wind  
up the belt webbing more easily.  
WARNING  
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Any work on the system including removal and installation of system  
components because of other repair work, must only be carried out by a  
specialist garage.  
A plastic knob in the belt webbing holds the belt tongue in a position which is easy  
to get hold of.  
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The protective function of the system is only adequate for a single acci-  
dent. If the belt tensioners have been deployed, it is then necessary to  
replace the entire system.  
Three-point safety belt for the middle rear seat  
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The Owner's Manual must also be handed over to the new owner if the  
vehicle is sold.  
Your car is equipped as standard with the three-point seat belt in the middle rear  
seat. It is used in the same way as the three-point seat belts on the left and right (at  
front and rear).  
Note  
WARNING  
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Smoke is generated when the belt tensioners are deployed. This is not an indi-  
cation of a fire in the vehicle.  
The three-point safety belt for the rear middle seat can only fulfil its function  
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It is essential to pay attention to relevant safety regulations if the vehicle or indi-  
vidual parts of the system are scrapped. Specialist garages are familiar with these  
regulations and will be able to provide you with detailed information in this respect.  
reliably when the backrests are correctly locked into position ⇒ page 81.  
Seat belts 173  
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When disposing of vehicle or parts of the system, it is important to comply with  
the national legal requirements.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
174 Airbag system  
Airbag system  
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the airbag indicator light comes on or flickers when driving,  
Description of the airbag system  
an airbag indicator light showing a switched-off front passenger airbag* in the  
middle of the dash panel flashes.  
General information on the airbag system  
The front airbag system is complementary to the three-point seat belts and offers  
additional protection for the head and chest area of the driver and passenger in the  
event of a frontal collision.  
WARNING  
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To enable the occupants of a vehicle to be protected with the greatest  
possible effect when the airbag is deployed, the front seats must be  
⇒ page 164, “Correct seated position” correctly adjusted to match the body  
size of the occupant.  
In the case of a violent side crash, the side* and head* airbags reduce the risk of  
injuries to the occupants on the part of the body facing the side of the accident  
⇒
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If you do not fasten the seat belts when driving, lean too far forward or  
adopt an incorrect seated position, you are exposing yourself to increased  
risk of injury in the event of an accident.  
The airbag system is only functional after the ignition has been switched on.  
The operational readiness of the airbag system is monitored electronically. The  
airbag warning light comes on for a few seconds each time the ignition is switched  
on.  
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Have the airbag system checked immediately by a specialist garage if a  
fault exists. Otherwise, there is a risk of the airbag not being activated in the  
event of an accident.  
The airbag system (according to vehicle equipment) essentially consists of:  
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No modifications of any kind may be made to parts of the airbag system.  
It is prohibited to manipulate individual parts of the airbag system as this  
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an electronic control unit,  
front airbag for the driver and the front seat passenger*,  
side airbags*,  
might result in the airbag being deployed.  
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The protective function of the airbag system is sufficient for only one  
head airbags*,  
accident. The airbag system must then be replaced if the airbag has been  
deployed.  
an airbag warning light in the instrument cluster,  
a front passenger airbag switch* ⇒ page 182,  
an indicator light for a switched off front seat passenger airbag* in the middle  
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The airbag system needs no maintenance during its working life.  
If you sell your car, please hand over the complete vehicle documenta-  
tion to the new owener. Please note that the documents relating to the  
possibility of deactivating the front passenger airbag are also part of the  
vehicle documents!  
of the dash panel ⇒ page 182.  
A fault in the airbag system exists if:  
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the airbag indicator light does not light up when the ignition is switched on,  
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If the vehicle or individual parts of the airbag system are scrapped, it is  
essential to observe the relevant safety precautions. The authorised Škoda  
Service Partners are familiar with these regulations.  
the warning light does not go out after about 4 seconds after the ignition is  
switched on,  
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When disposing of vehicle or parts of the airbag system, it is important  
to comply with the national legal requirements.  
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the airbag indicator light goes out and comes on again after the ignition is  
switched on,  
Airbag system 175  
When are the airbags deployed?  
Note  
A grey white, non harmful gas is released when airbag is inflated. This is  
perfectly normal and is not an indication of a fire in the vehicle.  
In the event of an accident in which the airbags are deployed:  
The interior lighting comes on (if the switch for the interior light is in the door  
contact position),  
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The airbag system is designed in such a way that the driver and front passenger  
airbag are deployed in the event of a frontal collision of major severity.  
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In the case of a violent side crash, the side airbag* on the side on which the colli-  
sion occurs, is deployed together with the head airbag*.  
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In certain accident situations, the front airbags, side airbags as well as the relevant  
head airbag may be deployed together.  
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−
−
The hazard warning light is switched on,  
All the doors are unlocked,  
The airbags are not deployed in the case of minor frontal and side collisions, in the  
case of rear-end collisions and vehicle rollover.  
the fuel supply to the engine is interrupted.  
Deployment factors  
It is not possible to state globally which deployment conditions apply to the airbag  
system in every situation as the circumstances which exist in the case of accidents  
vary greatly. An important role in this case, for example, is played by factors such as  
the type of object (hard, soft) against which the vehicle impacts or the type of object  
against which the vehicle impacts, the angle of impact, the relative vehicle speed  
during the accident etc.  
Front airbag  
Description of the front airbags  
The airbag system is not a substitute for the seat belt!  
A decisive factor for the deployment of the airbags is the deceleration which occurs  
during a collision. The control unit analyses the nature of the collision and activates  
the relevant restraint system. If the vehicle deceleration which occurs and is meas-  
ured during the collision remains below the prescribed reference values specified  
in the control unit, the airbags are not deployed although the vehicle may well  
suffer severe damage to the bodywork as a consequence of the accident.  
The airbags are not deployed if:  
•
•
•
•
•
ignition off,  
Fig. 176 Driver airbag in the  
steering wheel  
a minor frontal collision,  
a minor side collision,  
a rear-end collision,  
Rollover of the vehicle.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
176 Airbag system  
Function of the front airbags  
Risk of injury to the head and chest area is reduced by fully inflated  
airbags.  
Fig. 177 Front passenger  
airbag in the dash panel  
The front airbag for the driver is housed in the steering wheel ⇒ page 175, fig. 176.  
The front airbag for the front passenger* is housed in the dash panel above the  
storage compartment ⇒ fig. 177. The installation positions are each marked with  
the “AIRBAG” logo.  
Fig. 178 Inflated airbags  
The front airbag system, in combination with three-point safety belts, offers addi-  
tional protection for the head and chest area of the driver and front passenger in  
the event of a frontal collision of major severity ⇒ page 177.  
The airbag system is designed in such a way that the driver and the front passenger  
airbag* are deployed in the event of a frontal collision of major severity.  
In certain accident situations, the front, side and head airbag are deployed  
together.  
The airbag is not a substitute for the seat belt, but is part of the complete passive  
vehicle safety concept. Please note that an airbag can only offer you optimal  
protection in combination with a seat belt which is fastened.  
If the airbags are deployed, the airbags are filled with a propellant gas and inflated  
in front of the driver and front passenger ⇒ fig. 178. The airbags inflate in fractions  
of a second and at a high speed in order to be able to offer that additional protec-  
tion in the event of an accident. The forward movement of the driver and of the  
front passenger is cushioned when they make contact with the fully inflated airbag  
and the risk of injury to head and chest is thus reduced.  
Apart from their normal protective function, a further task of the seat belts is to  
also hold the driver and front passenger in a correct seated position in the event of  
a frontal collision so as to enable the front airbags to offer the maximum protection.  
You should therefore always fasten the seat belts, not only because this is required  
by law, but also for safety reasons and for your own protection ⇒ page 168, “Why  
seat belts?”.  
The specially developed airbag allows the gas to flow out of the inflated airbag in a  
controlled manner (depending on the load of the particular car occupant) in order  
to cushion head and chest areas. The airbag then deflates subsequently to such an  
extent, after an accident, to again provide a clear view forward.  
Note  
A grey white, non harmful gas is released when airbag is inflated. This is perfectly  
normal and is not an indication of a fire in the vehicle.  
The dash panel must be replaced after the front passenger airbag has been  
deployed.  
The airbag develops enormous forces when triggered, which can lead to injuries if  
the seat adjustment or seated position is not correct ⇒ page 177.  
Airbag system 177  
Important safety information regarding the front airbag system  
WARNING (continued)  
Correct use of the airbag system considerably reduces the risk of  
injury!  
seat, please comply with the appropriate national regulations regarding the  
use of child safety seats.  
•
There must not by any further persons, animals or objects positioned  
between the front seated occupants and the deployment area of the airbag.  
The steering wheel and the surface of the airbag module in the dash  
•
panel on the passenger side must not be stuck onto, covered or modified in  
any other way. These parts should only be cleaned with a dry cloth or a cloth  
moistened with water. No objects such as cup holders, mobile phone  
mounts, etc. may be attached to the covers of the airbag modules or be  
located within the immediate area.  
•
No modifications of any kind may be made to parts of the airbag system.  
Fig. 179 Safe distance to  
steering wheel  
Any work on the airbag system including installing and removing system  
components because of other repair work (e.g. removing the steering  
wheel) must only be carried out by a specialist garage.  
•
•
Never carry out changes on the front bumper or on the body.  
WARNING  
Never place any objects on the surface of the front passenger airbag in  
the dash panel.  
•
Never transport children on the front seat of a vehicle without using a  
proper restraint system. If airbags are deployed in the event of an accident,  
the child might suffer severe or even fatal injuries!  
•
For the driver and front passenger it is important to maintain a distance  
of at least 25 cm from the steering wheel or dash panel ⇒ fig. 179. Not main-  
taining this minimum distance will mean that the airbag system will not be  
able to properly protect you - hazard! The front seats and the head restraints  
must always also be correctly adjusted to match the body size of the occu-  
pant.  
•
It is essential to always switch off ⇒ page 181, “Deactivating an airbag”  
the front passenger airbag when attaching a child safety seat on the front  
passenger seat where the child is seated with its back facing in direction of  
travel (in some countries also when the child is facing the direction of travel).  
If this is not done, there is a risk of the child suffering severe or even fatal  
injuries if the front passenger airbag is deployed. In certain countries  
national legal provisions also require that the side or head passenger  
airbags be deactivated. When transporting a child on the front passenger  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
178 Airbag system  
Function of the side airbags  
Side airbags*  
Risk of injury to the upper part of the body is reduced by fully inflated  
side airbags.  
Description of side airbags  
The side airbag together with the head airbag offers enhanced occu-  
pant protection in the event of a side collision.  
Fig. 181 Inflated side airbag  
Fig. 180 Installation position  
of side airbag in driver seat  
When the side airbags are deployed, the head airbag* and the belt tensioner are  
also automatically deployed on the relevant side ⇒ fig. 181.  
The front side airbags are housed in the upholstery of the backrests of the front  
seats ⇒ fig. 180.  
If an airbag is deployed, the airbag is filled with propellant gas. The airbags inflate  
in fractions of a second and at a high speed in order to be able to offer that addi-  
tional protection in the event of an accident.  
The side airbag system in combination with the three-point seat belts, offers addi-  
tional protection for the upper area of the body (chest, stomach and pelvis) of the  
occupants of the car in the event of a side collision of major severity ⇒ page 179.  
A grey white, non harmful gas is released when airbag is inflated. This is perfectly  
normal and is not an indication of a fire in the vehicle.  
Apart from their normal protective function, a further task of the seat belts is to  
also hold the occupents of the front or rear exterior seats in a correct seated posi-  
tion in the event of a side collision so as to enable the side airbag to offer the  
maximum protection.  
The load of the occupants is cushioned when plunging into the fully inflated airbag  
and the risk of injury to the entire upper body (chest, stomach and pelvis) is  
reduced on the side facing the door.  
You should therefore always fasten the seat belts, not only because this is required  
by law, but also for safety reasons and for your own protection.  
Each time the side airbags are deployed, the head airbag* and the front belt  
tensioner on the side of the car on which the collision occures, are automatically  
deployed at the same time in order to provide the occupant with enhanced  
protection.  
Airbag system 179  
Important safety information on the side airbag  
WARNING (continued)  
Correct use of the airbag system considerably reduces the risk of  
injury!  
•
In the event of a side collision, the side airbags will not function properly,  
if the sensors cannot measure the increasing air pressure inside the doors,  
because the air can escape through large, non-sealed openings in the door  
panel.  
WARNING  
−
−
Never drive with removed inner door panels.  
•
It is essential to always switch off ⇒ page 181, “Deactivating an airbag”  
Never drive, if parts of the inner door panel have been removed and  
the front passenger airbag when attaching a child safety seat on the front  
passenger seat where the child is seated with its back facing in direction of  
travel (in some countries also when the child is facing the direction of travel).  
If this is not done, there is a risk of the child suffering severe or even fatal  
injuries if the front passenger airbag is deployed. In certain countries  
national legal provisions also require that the side or head passenger  
airbags be deactivated. When transporting a child on the front passenger  
seat, please comply with the appropriate national regulations regarding the  
use of child safety seats.  
the remaining openings have not been properly sealed.  
Never drive, if the loudspeakers in the doors have been removed, only  
if the loudspeaker openings have been properly sealed.  
Always make sure that the openings are covered or filled, if additional  
−
−
loudspeakers or other equipment parts are installed in the inner door  
panels.  
−
Always work with an authorised Škoda dealer or have it carried out by  
a competent specialist workshop.  
•
Your head should never be positioned in the deployment area of the side  
•
Only hang light items of clothing on the clothes hooks to the vehicle.  
airbag. You might suffer severe injuries in the event of an accident. This  
applies in particular to children who are transported without using a suit-  
able child safety seat ⇒ page 186, “Child safety and side airbag*”.  
Never leave any heavy or sharp-edged objects in the pockets of the items of  
clothing.  
•
Ensure that there are no excessive forces, such as violent knocks, kicks  
•
If children adopt an incorrect seated position when travelling, they may  
etc., impact on the backrests of the seats otherwise the system may be  
damaged. The side airbags would not be deployed in such a case!  
be exposed to an increased risk of injury in the event of an accident. This can  
result in serious injuries ⇒ page 184, “What you should know about trans-  
porting children!”.  
•
Any seat or protective covers which you fit to the driver or front  
passenger seats must only be of the type expressly authorised by Škoda  
Auto. In view of the fact that the airbag inflates out of the backrest of the  
seat, use of non-approved seat or protective covers would considerably  
impair the protective function of the side airbag.  
•
There must not be any further persons, animals as well as objects posi-  
tioned between the occupants and the deployment area of the airbag. There  
must also be no accessories such as cup holders, attached to the doors to  
enable the side airbags to activate properly.  
•
Any damage to the original seat covers in the area of the side airbag  
module must be repaired without delay by your specialist garage.  
The airbag modules in the front seats must not display any damage,  
•
The airbag control unit operates together with the pressure sensors,  
which are attached in the front doors. For this reason no adjustments must  
be carried out at the doors as well as at the door panels (for example addi-  
tional installation of loudspeakers). Resulting damages can have a negative  
affect on the operation of the airbag system. All work on the front doors and  
their panels must only be carried out by a specialist garage.  
•
cracks or deep scratches. It is not permissible to use force in order to open  
the modules.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
180 Airbag system  
law, but also for safety reasons and for your own protection ⇒ page 168, “Why seat  
belts?”.  
WARNING (continued)  
•
Any work on the side airbag system including removing and installing  
system components because of other repair work (e.g. removing seats) must  
only be carried out by a specialist garage.  
Together with other elements (such as cross bars in the seats, stable vehicle struc-  
ture) the head airbags are the consequent further development of occupant  
protection in the case of side collisions.  
Function of the head airbags  
Head airbags*  
The risk of injury to the head and neck area is reduced in the event of  
a side collision by fully inflated head airbags.  
Description of the head airbags  
The head airbag together with the side airbag offers enhanced occu-  
pant protection in the event of a side collision.  
Fig. 183 Inflated head airbag  
Fig. 182 Installation position  
of the head airbags  
In the case of a side collision the head airbag is deployed together with the rele-  
vant side airbag ⇒ fig. 183 and the belt tensioner on the side on which the accident  
occurs.  
The head airbags are positioned above the doors on both sides in the interior of the  
If the system is deployed, the airbags are filled with propellant gas and extend over  
car ⇒ fig. 182. The installation positions are each marked with the “AIRBAG” logo.  
the entire area of the side window including the door pillar ⇒ fig. 183.  
The head airbag together with the three-point seat belts and the side airbags, offers  
additional protection for the head and neck area of the occupants in the event of a  
side collision of major severity ⇒ page 181.  
The protection offered by the head airbags is thus available simultaneously both to  
the front occupants of the car seated on the side on which the accident occurs, as  
well as to the rear occupants. Any impact of the head against parts of the interior or  
objects outside of the car, is cushioned by the inflated head airbag. The reduction  
in any impact to the head and the resultant minimizing of any movements of the  
head additionally reduce the risk of injuries to the neck area. The head airbag also  
offers additional protection in the case of an offset impact by covering the front  
door pillar.  
Apart from their normal protective function, a further task of the seat belts is to  
also hold the driver and the occupants in a correct seated position in the event of a  
side collision so as to enable the head airbags to offer the maximum protection. You  
should therefore always fasten the seat belts, not only because this is required by  
Airbag system 181  
In certain accident situations, the front, side and head airbag are simultaneously  
deployed.  
WARNING (continued)  
•
There must not be any other persons (e.g. children) or animals between  
The airbags inflate in fractions of a second and at a high speed in order to be able  
to offer that additional protection in the event of an accident. A grey white, non  
harmful gas is released when airbag is inflated. This is perfectly normal and is not  
an indication of a fire in the vehicle.  
the car occupant and the deployment area of the head airbag. In addition,  
none of the occupants should lean their head out of the window when  
driving, or extend their arms and hands out of the window.  
•
The sun visors must not be swivelled to the side windows into the  
deployment area of the head airbags if any objects, such as ball-point pens  
etc. are attached to them. This might result in injuries to the occupants if the  
head airbag is deployed.  
Important safety information on the head airbag  
Correct use of the airbag system considerably reduces the risk of  
injury!  
•
Installing impermissible accessories in the area of the head airbags may  
considerably impair the protection offered by the head airbag in the event of  
it being deployed. When the deployed head airbag is inflated, parts of the  
accessories fitted may in certain circumstances be thrown into the interior  
of the car and cause injuries to the occupants ⇒ page 244, “Accessories,  
changes and replacement of parts”.  
WARNING  
•
It is essential to always switch off ⇒ page 181, “Deactivating an airbag”  
the front passenger airbag when attaching a child safety seat on the front  
passenger seat where the child is seated with its back facing in direction of  
travel (in some countries also when the child is facing the direction of travel).  
If this is not done, there is a risk of the child suffering severe or even fatal  
injuries if the front passenger airbag is deployed. In certain countries  
national legal provisions also require that the side or head passenger  
airbags be deactivated. When transporting a child on the front passenger  
seat, please comply with the appropriate national regulations regarding the  
use of child safety seats.  
•
Any work on the head airbag system including installing and removing  
system components because of other repair work (e.g. removing headliner)  
must only be carried out by a specialist garage.  
Deactivating an airbag  
Deactivating airbags  
•
There must not be any objects in the deployment area of the head  
airbags which might prevent the airbags from inflating properly.  
Only hang light items of clothing on the clothes hooks to the vehicle.  
If any airbags have been deactivated, switch them on again as soon  
as possible so that they are able to again provide their proper protec-  
tion.  
•
Never leave any heavy or sharp-edged objects in the pockets of the items of  
clothing. In addition, it is not permitted to use clothes hangers for hanging  
up items of clothing.  
There is the technical means installed within your vehicle to switch off the front,  
side* or head* airbag (take out of commission).  
•
The airbag control unit operates together with the sensors, which are  
This is why you should have the deactivation of the airbags carried out by a  
specialist garage.  
attached in the front doors. For this reason no adjustments must be carried  
out at the doors as well as at the door panels (for example additional instal-  
lation of loudspeakers). Resulting damages can have a negative affect on the  
operation of the airbag system. All work on the front doors and their panels  
must only be carried out by a specialist garage.  
On vehicles equipped with the switch for deactivation of the airbags, you can deac-  
tivate the front and side passenger airbag by means of this switch ⇒ page 182.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
182 Airbag system  
Deactivation of airbags is envisaged only for particular instances, such as if:  
Switch for the front passenger airbag*  
•
you must in exceptional cases use a child seat on the front passenger seat  
where the child has its back to the direction of travel of the vehicle (in some coun-  
tries this must be in the direction of travel due to other legal regulations applying)  
⇒ page 184, “Important safety information regarding the use of child safety seats”,  
•
you are not able to maintain the distance of at least 25 cm between middle of  
steering wheel and chest, despite the driver seat being correctly adjusted,  
special attachments are required in the area of the steering wheel because of a  
physical disability,  
you have installed other seats (e.g. orthopaedic seats without side airbags).  
•
•
Fig. 184 Storage compart-  
ment: Switch for the front  
passenger airbag  
Monitoring the airbag system  
The functionality of the airbag system is also monitored electronically, when one  
airbag has been switched off  
If the airbag was switched off using diagnostic equipment:  
•
The warning light for the airbag system lights up for 4 seconds after switching  
on the ignition and then flashes for 12 seconds afterwards in 2 second intervals.  
Front passenger airbags switched off using the switch for front passenger  
airbags* in storage compartment on the front passenger side:  
•
the airbag indicator light in the instrument cluster comes on for about 4  
seconds each time the ignition is switched on,  
switching off the airbag is indicated in the middle of the dash panel by the  
Fig. 185 Indicator light for  
the front passenger airbag  
•
lighting up of the indicator light   ⇒ fig. 185.  
The front passenger airbag is deactivated with the switch.  
Note  
Deactivating an airbag  
Your authorised Škoda Service Partner will be able to advise you whether national  
legislation in your country allows airbags in your vehicle to be deactivated, and  
which ones.  
–
–
Switch off the ignition.  
2
Turn the slot of the airbag switch using the key in the position A(OFF)  
⇒ fig. 184.  
–
Check whether the airbag indicator light   in the middle of  
the dash panel lights up when the ignition is switched on ⇒ fig. 185.  
Airbag system 183  
Switching on an airbag  
–
–
Switch off the ignition.  
1
Turn the slot of the airbag switch using the key in the position A(ON)  
⇒ page 182, fig. 184.  
–
Check whether the airbag indicator light   in the middle of  
the dash panel does not light up when the ignition is switched on  
⇒ page 182, fig. 185.  
The airbags should only be switched off under exceptional circumstances  
⇒ page 181.  
Indicator light   (airbag switched off)  
The airbag indicator light is located in the middle of the dash panel ⇒ page 182,  
fig. 185.  
If the front passenger airbag is switched off, the warning light comes on about 4  
seconds after the ignition is switched on.  
There is a system fault present in the airbag switch off ⇒  
if the indicator light  
flashes. Please have the car inspected immediately by a specialist garage.  
WARNING  
•
The driver is responsible for whether the airbag is switched on or  
switched off.  
•
Only switch off the airbag when the ignition is switched off! Otherwise a  
fault can occur in the system for the airbag deactivation.  
•
If the warning light   (airbag switched off) flashes:  
−
−
Front passenger airbag is not deployed in the event of an accident!  
It is also important to have the system inspected without delay by a  
specialist garage.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
184 Transporting children safely  
Transporting children safely  
What you should know about transporting children!  
Note  
Any varying national legal regulations take priority over the information provided in  
these instructions for use, or stated in this chapter.  
An introduction to the subject  
Accident statistics have revealed that children are generally more  
safely transported on the rear seats than on the front passenger seat.  
Important safety information regarding the use of child safety  
seats  
Children younger than 12 years of age should normally travel on the rear seat of the  
vehicle (take note of any national legal provisions which differ from this). They  
should be secured there by means of a child restraint system or by using the existing  
seat belts depending on their age, body size and weight. The child seat should be  
mounted behind the front passenger seat for safety reasons.  
Correct use of child safety seats considerably reduces the risk of  
injury!  
The physical principle of an accident does, of course, also apply to children  
⇒ page 169, “The physical principle of a frontal collision”. They differ from adults in  
that their muscles and bone structure of children are not yet fully developed. Thus  
children are exposed to increased risk of injury.  
WARNING  
•
All the occupants of the car - in particular children - must wear a seat belt  
when the car is moving.  
Children who are less than 1.50 m in height and who weigh less than 36  
kg must not use a normal seat belt without a child restraint system other-  
wise this may result in injuries to the stomach and neck areas. Comply with  
the national legal requirements.  
•
Children should be transported by using special child safety seats in order to  
reduce this risk of injury.  
Use only child safety seats which are officially approved and are suitable for chil-  
dren and which comply with the ECE-R 44 standard, which classifies child safety  
seats into 5 groups ⇒ page 187. Child restraint systems which have been tested for  
conformity to ECE-R 44 standard have a non-detachable test seal (a large E within  
a circle and below this the test number) attached to the seat.  
•
•
One should never carry children, and also not babies! - on one's lap.  
You can transport a child safely in a suitable child safety seat ⇒ page 187,  
“Child seat”!  
•
•
•
Only one child may be fastened with a seat belt into a child safety seat.  
We recommend that you use child safety seats from the Škoda genuine accessories.  
These child seats were developed and also tested for use in Škoda vehicles. They  
fulfil the ECE-R 44 standard.  
Never leave the child sitting unattended in the seat.  
Certain outside climatic conditions can cause life-threatening tempera-  
tures in the vehicle.  
•
Never allow your child to be transported in a vehicle without the use of a  
suitable restraint system.  
Children should also never stand up in a vehicle or kneel on the seats  
WARNING  
Always comply with legal provisions and instructions from the relevant child  
safety seat manufacturer when installing and using the child seat  
⇒ page 184.  
•
when the vehicle is moving. In the event of an accident the child will be  
thrown through the vehicle and may as a result suffer fatal injuries, and also  
injure other occupants.  
Transporting children safely 185  
Use of child safety seats on the front passenger seat  
Child safety seats should always be attached to the rear seats.  
WARNING (continued)  
•
Children are exposed to an increased risk of injury in the event of an acci-  
dent if they lean forward or adopt an incorrect seated position when the  
vehicle is moving. This particularly applies to children who are transported  
on the front passenger seat if the airbag system deploys in the event of an  
accident. This can result in severe or even fatal injuries.  
•
It is important that the belt webbing is properly routed if the seat belts  
are to offer their maximum protection ⇒ page 170, “How are seat belts  
correctly fastened?”. Pay particular attention to the information provided by  
the manufacturer of the child safety seat regarding correct routing of the  
belt. Seat belts which are not correctly adjusted can themselves cause inju-  
ries even in minor accidents.  
Fig. 186 Sticker on the centre  
column of the body on the  
front passenger side.  
•
Safety belts must be checked to ensure that they are running properly.  
One should also ensure that the belt is not damaged by sharp-edged fittings.  
It is essential to always switch off ⇒ page 182 the front passenger airbag  
We recommend, for safety reasons, that you always mount a child restraint systems  
on the rear seats whenever possible. If you still decide, however, to use a child  
safety seat on the front passenger seat then you must pay attention to the following  
warnings in connection with the use of the airbag system on the front passenger  
seat.  
•
when attaching a child safety seat on the front passenger seat where the  
child is seated with its back facing in direction of travel (in some countries  
also when the child is facing the direction of travel). If this is not done, there  
is a risk of the child suffering severe or even fatal injuries if the front  
passenger airbag is deployed. In certain countries national legal provisions  
also require that the side and head airbags be deactivated. When trans-  
porting a child on the front passenger seat, please comply with the appro-  
priate national regulations regarding the use of child safety seats.  
WARNING  
•
Warning - particular hazard! Never use a child safety seat on the front  
passenger seat in which the child is seated with its back facing the direction  
of travel. This child safety seat is positioned in the deployment area of the  
front passenger airbag. The airbag may cause the child severe, or even fatal  
injuries, in the event of it being deployed.  
•
This is also clearly stated on the sticker which is located on the centre  
column of the body on the front passenger side ⇒ fig. 186. The sticker is  
visible upon opening the front passenger door. For some countries, the  
sticker is also affixed to the sun visor of the front passenger.  
•
It is essential to always switch off ⇒ page 181, “Deactivating an airbag”  
the front passenger airbag when attaching a child safety seat on the front  
passenger seat where the child is seated with its back facing in direction of  
travel (in some countries also when the child is facing the direction of travel).  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
186 Transporting children safely  
Child safety and side airbag*  
WARNING (continued)  
Children must never be seated in the deployment area of the side  
airbags and head airbags.  
If this is not done, there is a risk of the child suffering severe or even fatal  
injuries if the front passenger airbag is deployed. In certain countries  
national legal provisions also require that the side or head passenger  
airbags be deactivated. When transporting a child on the front passenger  
seat, please comply with the appropriate national regulations regarding the  
use of child safety seats.  
•
If the front passenger airbag has been switched off by a specialist garage  
using the vehicle system tester, the side airbag and the head passenger  
airbag* remain switched on. In certain countries national legal provisions  
require that besides the front passenger airbag also the side or head  
passenger airbags are deactivated. Please comply with any differing  
national legal regulations regarding the use of child safety seats.  
Fig. 187 Seated position of  
an unprotected child at risk  
from side airbag  
•
If a child safety seat in which the child faces in the direction of travel is  
used on the front passenger seat, the front passenger seat must be moved  
back fully. For vehicles with height adjustable front passenger seat, the seat  
must be put in the highest position.  
•
If this is not done, a child seated on the front passenger seat may suffer  
severe or even fatal injuries if the front passenger airbag or airbags are  
deployed. Have the airbag (or airbags) deactivated if necessary ⇒ page 181,  
“Deactivating an airbag”.  
•
You should have the front passenger airbag (or airbags) reactivated just  
as soon as you no longer use a child safety seat on the front passenger seat.  
Fig. 188 Child properly  
protected by safety seat  
In the event of a side collision, the side airbags offer the vehicle occupants  
enhanced protection.  
The side airbags are inflated in fractions of a second in order to be able to provide  
this protection ⇒ page 178, “Function of the side airbags”.  
An airbag inflating develops such a strong force that an occupant who has not  
adopted an upright seated position may suffer injuries from the airbag or as a result  
of objects which are located within the deployment area of the side airbag.  
Transporting children safely 187  
This applies particularly to children if they are not transported in accordance  
with legal requirements.  
Child safety seats which have been tested for conformity to ECE-R 44 standard have  
a non-detachable test seal (a large E within a circle and below this the test number)  
attached to the seat.  
The child is protected when seated in a child safety seat matching its age. Adequate  
room is available between the child and the deployment area of the side airbag and  
head airbag. The airbag offers optimal protection.  
Child safety seats are classified in 5 groups:  
Group  
Weight  
0 - 10 kg  
0
0+  
1
⇒ page 188  
⇒ page 188  
⇒ page 188  
⇒ page 189  
⇒ page 189  
WARNING  
up to 13 kg  
9 - 18 kg  
•
It is essential to always switch off ⇒ page 181 the front passenger airbag  
when attaching a child safety seat on the front passenger seat where the  
child is seated with its back facing in direction of travel (in some countries  
also when the child is facing the direction of travel). If this is not done, there  
is a risk of the child suffering severe or even fatal injuries if the front  
passenger airbag is deployed. In certain countries national legal provisions  
also require that the side and head airbags be deactivated. When trans-  
porting a child on the front passenger seat, please comply with the appro-  
priate national regulations regarding the use of child safety seats.  
2
15 - 25 kg  
22 - 36 kg  
3
Children of more than 150 cm in height may use the seat belts fitted to the vehicle  
without a seat bolster.  
•
When transporting a child on the front passenger seat, please comply  
with the appropriate national regulations regarding the use of child safety  
seats.  
Use of child safety seats  
An overview of the usefulness of child seats on each of the seats according to the  
ECE-R 44 standard:  
•
Children must never be seated with their head in the deployment area of  
the side airbag - risk of injury!  
Do not place any objects within the deployment area of the side airbag -  
•
Child seat  
groups  
Front passenger  
seat  
Rear seat  
outside  
Rear seat  
middle  
risk of injury!  
0
0+  
U
+
U
+
T
U
A A  
A A A  
A
Child seat  
U
+
U
+
T
U
A
A A  
A A A  
1
U
+
U
+
T
U
A A  
A A A  
A
Classification of child seats into groups  
2 and 3  
U
U
A
U
A
A
Only child safety seats which have an official approval and are suit-  
able for the child, may be used.  
U
A Universal category - seat is suitable for all approved types of child safety seats.  
+
A The seat can be fitted with fixing eyes for the “ISOFIX*”system.  
A The divided rear seat - seat can be fitted with fixing eyes for the system “Top  
ECE-R 44 standard applies to child safety seats. ECE-R means: Economic Commis-  
sion of Europe - Regulation.  
T
Tether*” ⇒ page 191.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
188 Transporting children safely  
Child seats of group 0/0+  
WARNING (continued)  
•
If this is not done, a child seated on the front passenger seat may suffer  
severe or even fatal injuries if the front passenger airbag or airbags are  
deployed.  
•
You should have the front passenger airbag (or airbags) reactivated just  
as soon as you no longer use a child safety seat on the front passenger seat.  
Child safety seats in Group 1  
Fig. 189 Child seats of group  
0/0+  
The optimal solution for babies of up to about 9 months old weighing up to 10 kg  
or babies up to about 18 months old weighing up to 13 kg is a child safety seat  
which can be adjusted into the reclining position ⇒ fig. 189.  
In view of the fact that such child seats are installed that the child is seated with its  
back facing the direction of travel, they must not be used on the front passenger  
seat⇒ page 185, “Use of child safety seats on the front passenger seat”.  
Fig. 190 Child seat with  
padded table in Group 1  
installed on rear seat bench  
facing the direction of travel  
WARNING  
Child seats in Group 1 are for babies and small children up to 4 years of age with a  
weight of between 9 and 18 kilograms. It is best for children in the lower range of  
this group, to use a child seat which allows the child to sit with its back to the direc-  
tion of travel. It is best for children in the upper range of the Group 0+, to use a child  
seat which allows the child to sit ⇒ fig. 190 in the direction of travel.  
•
It is essential to always switch off the front passenger airbag (airbags)  
when attaching in exceptional circumstances a child safety seat on the front  
passenger seat where the child is seated with its back facing in direction of  
travel (in some countries also when the child is facing the direction of travel).  
−
−
in a specialist garage  
Child safety seats in which the child is seated with its back facing the direction of  
travel, must not be used on the front passenger seat ⇒ page 185, “Use of child  
safety seats on the front passenger seat”.  
or by using the switch for the front passenger airbag* ⇒ page 182,  
“Switch for the front passenger airbag*”.  
•
In certain countries national legal provisions require that besides the  
front airbag also the side or head airbags are deactivated. Please comply  
with any differing national legal regulations regarding the use of child safety  
seats.  
WARNING  
•
It is essential to always switch off the front passenger airbag (airbags)  
when attaching in exceptional circumstances a child safety seat on the front  
Transporting children safely 189  
WARNING (continued)  
WARNING  
passenger seat where the child is seated with its back facing in direction of  
travel (in some countries also when the child is facing the direction of travel).  
•
When transporting a child on the front passenger seat, please comply  
with the appropriate national regulations regarding the use of child safety  
seats. If required, the airbag has to be deactivated,  
−
−
in a specialist garage  
or by using the switch for the front passenger airbag* ⇒ page 182,  
−
−
in a specialist garage  
“Switch for the front passenger airbag*”.  
or by using the switch for the front passenger airbag* ⇒ page 182,  
•
In certain countries national legal provisions require that besides the  
“Switch for the front passenger airbag*”.  
front airbag also the side or head airbags are deactivated. Please comply  
with any differing national legal regulations regarding the use of child safety  
seats.  
•
The shoulder part of the seat belt must run approximately across the  
middle of the shoulder and fit snugly against the chest. It must on no account  
run across the neck. The lap part of the seat belt must run across the pelvis  
and fits snugly; it must not run over the belly. Tighten the belt webbing over  
your hip if necessary.  
•
If this is not done, a child seated on the front passenger seat may suffer  
severe or even fatal injuries if the front passenger airbag or airbags are  
deployed.  
•
Please comply with any differing national legal regulations regarding the  
•
You should have the front passenger airbag (or airbags) reactivated just  
as soon as you no longer use a child safety seat on the front passenger seat.  
use of child safety seats.  
Child safety seats in Group 3  
Child safety seats in Group 2  
Fig. 192 Child seat in Group  
3 installed on the rear seat  
facing the direction of travel  
Fig. 191 Child seat in Group  
2 installed on the rear seat  
facing the direction of travel  
For children of about 7 years of age weighing between 22 and 36 kg and of a height  
of less than 150 cm, the optimal solution is a child safety seat (seat bolster) in  
combination with the three-point seat belt ⇒ fig. 192.  
For children up to about 7 years of age weighing between 15 and 25 kg the optimal  
solution is a child safety seat in combination with the three-point seat belt  
⇒ fig. 191.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
190 Transporting children safely  
Children of more than 150 cm in height may use the seat belts fitted to the vehicle  
without a seat bolster.  
WARNING  
•
When transporting a child on the front passenger seat, please comply  
with the appropriate national regulations regarding the use of child safety  
seats. If required, the airbag has to be deactivated,  
Fig. 194 The ISOFIX child  
seat is pushed into the  
mounting funnels  
−
−
in a specialist garage  
or by using the switch for the front passenger airbag* ⇒ page 182,  
“Switch for the front passenger airbag*”.  
•
The shoulder part of the seat belt must run approximately across the  
There are two fixing eyes* between the seat backrest and the seat cushion  
of the front passenger seat for fixing the “ISOFIX” system child seat in  
place. The locking eyes on the rear outside seats are located below the  
upholstery. The places are marked with signs with the “ISOFIX” logo  
⇒ fig. 193.  
middle of the shoulder and fit snugly against the chest. It must on no account  
run across the neck. The lap part of the seat belt must run across the pelvis  
and fits snugly; it must not run over the belly. Tighten the belt webbing over  
your hip if necessary.  
•
Please comply with any differing national legal regulations regarding the  
use of child safety seats.  
Install child seat  
–
–
–
–
Open the zip fasteners between the seat cushion and the seat backrest  
of the rear exterior seat.  
Attaching a child seat using the “ISOFIX” system  
A
B
Insert the mounting funnels Aonto the locking eyes Abetween the  
seat backrest and the seat cushion ⇒ fig. 193.  
Push the notched arms of the child seat over the mounting funnels  
into the locking eyes, until it is heard to lock ⇒ fig. 194.  
Pull on both sides of the child seat!  
One can mount a child safety seat using the “ISOFIX” system quickly, easily and reli-  
ably. Please pay close attention to instructions from the manufacturer of the child  
safety seat when installing and removing the seat.  
Fig. 193 Locking eyes  
(ISOFIX system)  
Child seats fitted with the “ISOFIX” system can only be mounted and fixed in a  
vehicle fitted with an “ISOFIX” system when these child seats have been released for  
this type of vehicle according to the ECE-R 44 standard.  
Transporting children safely 191  
You can obtain child seats with the “ISOFIX” attachment system from specialist  
garages who will also installed it as well.  
Attaching child seat using the “Top Tether” system  
Complete installation instructions are enclosed with the child safety seat.  
WARNING  
•
The locking eyes have just been developed for child safety seats which  
use the “ISOFIX” system. You should therefore never attach other child  
safety seats, seat belts or objects to the locking eyes - hazard!  
•
Ask an authorised Škoda Service Partner whether a child seat which you  
bought for another vehicle is recommended for use in a Škoda before using  
an “ISOFIX” system.  
Fig. 195 Rear seat: Top  
Tether  
•
Certain child seats which use the “ISOFIX” system can be attached with  
standard three-point seat belts. Please pay close attention to instructions  
from the manufacturer of the child safety seat when installing and removing  
the seat.  
IIn certain countries national legal provisions also require the equipment of the rear  
seat with fixing eyes for child seat using the “Top Tether” system ⇒ fig. 195.  
Always perform the installation and removal of the child seat using the “Top Tether”  
system as stated in the instructions from the manufacturer of the child seat.  
Note  
•
Child seats which use the “ISOFIX” system are currently available for children  
weighing from 9 up to 18 kg. This corresponds to an age range of from 9 months to  
4 years.  
WARNING  
•
Attach the child seats with the “Top Tether” system only to the points  
provided for this purpose ⇒ fig. 195.  
On no account should you equip your vehicle, e.g. mount screws or other  
anchorage points.  
Pay attention to the important safety information regarding the use of  
•
The child seats can also be fitted with the “Top Tether” system ⇒ page 191.  
•
•
child seats.  
Note  
Store the remaining part of the belt for the “Top Tether” system in a textile pocket,  
which is located at the child seat.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
192 Transporting children safely  

Related Topics

Passive Safety Basic information Correct seated position Seat belts Why seat belts? The physical principle of a frontal collision Important safety information regarding the use of seat belts How are seat belts correctly fastened? Airbag system Description of the airbag system Front airbag Side airbags* Head airbags* Deactivating an airbag Transporting children safely What you should know about transporting children! Child seat Attaching a child seat using the ?ISOFIX? system Attaching child seat using the ?Top Tether? system

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