2013-2020 Skoda Octavia 4 Door General Maintenance -> Inspecting and replenishing User Manual
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General Maintenance -> Inspecting and replenishing for Your Skoda Octavia 4 Door Third Generation (2013-2020)

Inspecting and replenishing
147
Inspecting and replenishing
Engine compartment
Opening and closing the bonnet.
Bonnet remote release
Fig. 143 Radiator grille: Locking
lever
Fig. 142 Bonnet release lever
Bonnet remote release
– Pull the unlocking lever below the dash panel on the driver's side  fig. 142.
The bonnet jumps out of its lock as a result of the spring force.
Note
Fig. 144 Securing the bonnet
Ensure that the windscreen wiper arms are not folded out before opening the bonnet
with the bonnet support
otherwise damage could occur to the paintwork.
Opening the bonnet
– Unlock the bonnet  fig. 142.
– Grip with the hand under the radiator grille and lift up the bonnet.
– Press the locking lever in direction of arrow  fig. 143 and lift up the bonnet.
– Take the bonnet support out of its holder and set it in the opening designed for it
 fig. 144.
Using the system
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General Maintenance
Breakdown assistance
Technical Data
148
Inspecting and replenishing
Closing the bonnet
WARNING (continued)
– Lift the bonnet slightly and unhook the bonnet support. Press the bonnet support
 On vehicles fitted with a manual gearbox, move the gearshift lever into
into the holder designed to hold it.
Neutral.
– Allow the bonnet to drop from a height of about 30 cm into the lock - bonnet do
 Allow the engine to cool down.
not press down on it!
 Keep children clear of the engine compartment.
 Never spill oil and other fluids over the hot engine. Such fluids (e.g. the anti-
WARNING
freeze contained in the coolant) may ignite!
 Never open the bonnet if you see that steam or coolant is flowing out of the
 Avoid short circuits in the electrical system - particularly on the battery.
engine compartment - risk of scalding! Wait long enough until the steam or
 Never place your hand into the radiator fan as long as the engine is still
coolant has stopped escaping.
warm. The fan might suddenly start running!
 For safety reasons, the bonnet must always be properly closed when
 Never open the cap of the coolant expansion bottle as long as the engine is
driving. One should therefore check that the lock has in fact engaged properly
still warm. The cooling system is pressurized!
after closing the bonnet.
 Cover over the cap of the coolant expansion reservoir with a large cloth
 Stop your vehicle immediately while driving if you notice that the lock is not
when opening it as protection for your face, hands and arms from hot steam or
properly engaged and close the bonnet properly - risk of an accident!
hot coolant.
 Do not let objects, such as e.g cleaning cloth or tools lie in the engine
Working in the engine compartment
compartment.
Particular care is required when carrying out any work in the engine
 If you wish to work under the vehicle, you must secure the vehicle from
compartment!
rolling away and support it with suitable supporting blocks; the lifting jack* is
not sufficient for this - risk of injury!
There is a risk of injuries, scalding, accidents and fire when working in the engine
 In cases where it be necessary to carry out inspection work when the engine
compartment, e.g. inspecting and replenishing oil and other fluids. For this
is running there is an additional risk from rotating parts (e.g. the V-ribbed belt,
reason, it is essential to comply with the warning instructions stated below and
alternator, radiator fan) and from the high-voltage ignition system. Please
with the general applicable rules of safety. The engine compartment of your car
observe in addition the following:
is a hazardous area 
.
 Never touch the electrical cables of the ignition system.
 Absolutely avoid any jewellery, loose items of clothing or long hair from
WARNING
getting into the rotating parts of the engine - Hazard! Therefore remove any
 Never open the bonnet if you see that steam or coolant is flowing out of the
jewellery beforehand, tie up your hair and wear tight fitting clothing.
engine compartment - risk of scalding! Wait long enough until the steam or
 Please also comply with the warning instructions stated below when
coolant has stopped escaping.
carrying out any essential work on the fuel system or on the electrical system:
 Switch off the engine and pull out the ignition key.
 Always separate the car battery from the electrical system.
 Apply the handbrake firmly.
 Do not smoke.
Inspecting and replenishing
149
A Windshield washer fluid reservoir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
159
WARNING (continued)
A Engine oil dipstick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
150
4
 Never carry out any work close to naked flames.
A Engine oil filler opening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
151
5
 Always keep a working fire extinguisher at hand.
A Brake fluid reservoir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
154
6
A Battery (below a cover) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
155
7
Caution
Note
When replenishing fluids in the engine, always ensure that the fluids are on no account
mixed up. This may result in major operating problems and also vehicle damage!
The location of the inspection points in the engine compartment of petrol and diesel
engines is practically identical.
Overview of the engine compartment
The main inspection points
Engine oil
Engine oil specifications
The engine of your vehicle has been factory-filled with a high-grade oil which you can
use throughout the year - except in extreme climatic regions.
You can mix various oils together with each other when refilling with oil. This does not,
however, apply for models with flexible service intervals (QG1).
Engine oils are, of course, undergoing continuous further development. Thus the
information stated in this Owner's Manual is only correct at the time of publication.
Authorised Škoda Service Partners are informed by Škoda Auto about current changes.
This why you should always have engine oil changed by an authorised Škoda Service
Partner.
The specifications (VW standards) stated in the following must be indicated separately
or together with other specifications on the bottle.
Engine oil specifications for models with flexible service intervals (QG1)
Petrol engines
Specification
Content a)
Fig. 145 1.6 ltr./75 kW petrol engine
1.4 ltr./55 kW - EU4
VW 503 00, VW 504 00
3,2
1.6 ltr./75 kW petrol engine  fig. 145
1.6 ltr./75 kW - EU4/EU2 DDK
VW 503 00, VW 504 00
4,5
A Coolant expansion bottle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
153
1
1.8 ltr./110 kW - EU4/EU3D
VW 504 00
4,5
A Reservoir for hydraulic liquid of power steering
2
Using the system
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Technical Data
150
Inspecting and replenishing
a)
Note
Oil capacity with oil filter change. Inspect oil level when filling; do not fill up too much. The oil
level must be between the markings  page 150, fig. 146.
 Before a long drive we recommend that you purchase and carry with you engine
oil which complies with the specification for your vehicle. Consequently, you will
always have the correct engine oil for refilling.
Diesel engines
Specification
Content a)
 We recommend using a preservative from the Škoda original accessories offered
1.9 ltr./74 kW TDI PD - EU4
VW 506 01, VW 508 00
4,3
by your Škoda dealer.
 For further information - see Service shedule.
Engine oil specifications for vehicles with fixed service intervals (QG2)
Petrol engines
Specification
Content a)
Check engine oil level
1.4 ltr./55 kW - EU4
VW 501 01, VW 502 00
3,2
The dipstick indicates the level of oil in the engine.
1.6 ltr./75 kW - EU4/EU2 DDK
VW 501 01, VW 502 00
4,5
1.8 ltr./110 kW - EU4/EU3D
VW 502 00
4,5
a)
Oil capacity with oil filter change. Inspect oil level when filling; do not fill up too much. The oil
level must be between the markings  fig. 146.
If the oils specified above are not available, oils according to ACEA A2 or ACEA A3 can
be used once for refilling.
Diesel engines
Specification
Content a)
1.9 ltr./74 kW TDI PD - EU4
VW 506 01
4,3
Fig. 146 Dipstick
If the oils specified above are not available, oils according to ACEA B3 or ACEA B4 can
Checking the oil level
be used once for refilling.
– Ensure that the vehicle is positioned on a level surface.
– Switch the engine off.
Caution
– Open the bonnet 
in “Working in the engine compartment” on page 148.
Only the above-mentioned oils may be used on vehicles with flexible service intervals
(QG1). We recommend always refilling with oil of the same specification since this will
A .
– Wait a few minutes and pull out the oil dipstick 1
maintain the properties of the oil. In exceptional cases, you must top up only once
– Wipe off the dipstick with a clean cloth and insert it again fully.
engine oil complying with Specification VW 502 00 (only for petrol engines) or Specifi-
cation VW 505 01 (only for diesel engines) to maximum 0.5 litres. You must not use
– Then withdraw the dipstick again and read off the oil level.
other engine oils - risk of engine damage!
Oil level within range a
A
– You must not top up the oil.
Inspecting and replenishing
151
Oil level within range A
– Inspect the oil level  page 150.
b
– You may top up the oil. It is possible that the oil level may then be within range a
A
– Carefully screw on the cap of the filler opening and push the dipstick in fully.
after doing this.
WARNING
Oil level within range c
A
 Avoid dripping oil onto hot parts of the engine when topping up will oil - a
– You must top up the oil  page 151. It is sufficient, once this is done, to keep the
risk of fire!
A .
oil level within range b
 Read and observe the warning notes  page 148, “Working in the engine
compartment” before working in the engine compartment.
It is normal for the engine to consume oil. The oil consumption may be as much as 0.5
l/1 000 km depending on your style of driving and the conditions under which you
operate your vehicle. The oil consumption may be slightly higher than this during the
For the sake of the environment
first 5 000 kilometres.
The oil level must on no account be above the range a
A  page 150. Oil will otherwise
One should therefore check the oil level at regular intervals, preferably every time after
be drawn in through the crankcase ventilation and may pass through the exhaust
the fuel tank is filled or after driving for long stretches.
system to atmosphere. The oil may combust in the catalytic converter and damage it.
We recommend maintaining the oil level within the range a
A if the engine has been
operating at high loads, for example during a lengthy motorway trip during the
Changing engine oil
summer months, towing a trailer or negotiating a high mountain pass, but not above
this.
The engine oil must be changed at the intervals stated in the Service schedule or
according to the service interval indicator  page 18.
The warning light in the instrument cluster will indicate whether the oil level is too low
 page 29. In this case, check the oil level as soon as possible. Top up with an appro-
priate quantity of oil.
WARNING
 Only carry out the engine oil change, if you have the required professional
Caution
knowledge!
 The oil level must on no account extend beyond the range a
 Read and observe the warning notes  page 148, “Working in the engine
A . Danger of damaging
the catalytic converter.
compartment” before working in the engine compartment.
 Do not continue your journey if for some reason it is not possible under the
 Let the engine cool down - risk of burning from hot oil.
conditions prevailing to top up with oil. Switch the engine off and obtain professional
 Wear an eye protection - risk of caustic burns due to oil splashes.
assistance from a specialist garage, otherwise it could lead to severe engine damage.
 Oil is toxic! Store old oil in a safe place out of the reach of children and unau-
thorized persons until you dispose of it properly.
Replenishing engine oil
Caution
– Inspecting the engine oil level  page 150.
You must not pour any additives into the engine oil - risk of engine damage! Damage,
A  page 150, fig. 146.
– Unscrew the cap of the engine oil filler opening 2
which results from such product, are excluded from the warranty.
– Pour in a suitable grade of oil in portions of 0.5 litres  page 149.
Using the system
Safety
Driving Tips
General Maintenance
Breakdown assistance
Technical Data
152
Inspecting and replenishing
For the sake of the environment
Note
 You must on no account pour oil into the ground or into the sewage system.
If the engine is not running (when towing) or if the V-ribbed belt is torn, the power
 In view of the problems involved in properly disposing of old oil, the material,
steering does not operate. The vehicle is fully steerable however. There is however
increased force required to turn the steering wheel.
equipment and the knowledge required for such work, we recommend that you have
the oil and oil filter change carried out by a specialist garage.
Cooling system
Note
After your skin has come in contact with the oil, you must thoroughly wash your skin.
Coolant
The job of the coolant is to cool the engine.
Power steering
The cooling system does not require any maintenance under normal operating condi-
tions. The coolant consists of water with a concentration of coolant additive of 40 %.
This mixture not only provides antifreeze protection down to -25°C but also protects
the cooling and heating system from corrosion. It also prevents the formation of scale
and significantly increases the boiling point of the coolant.
You must therefore not reduce the concentration of antifreeze agent in the coolant by
adding water, also not during the summer months or in countries with a warm climate.
The concentration of coolant additive in the coolant must be at least 40%.
You can increase the amount of antifreeze in the coolant if a higher concentration of
antifreeze is necessary for climatic reasons but only up to 60% (antifreeze protection
Fig. 147 Hydraulic oil dipstick
down to approx. -40°C). The antifreeze protection tails off above that concentration.
Vehicles exported to countries with a cold climate (e.g. Sweden, Norway, Finland) are
The reservoir for hydraulic oil of power steering is located in the front right of the
already factory-filled with a coolant which offers antifreeze protection down to about
engine compartment  page 149, fig. 145.
-35°C. In these countries the concentration of coolant additive should be at least 50%.
Check hydraulic oil
Coolant
The hydraulic system of the power steering is filled with the hydraulic oil designated in
The cooling system is factory-filled with coolant (purple in colour), which complies
the catalogue as G 002 000.
with the specification TL-VW 774 G.
Perform the inspection of the hydraulic oil level when the engine is cold and not
We recommend that you use the same coolant additive - G13 (purple in colour) - for
running.
topping up the system.
The hydraulic oil level must be between the “MIN” and “MAX” markings  fig. 147. If
Please contact a specialist garage if you have any questions regarding the coolant or if
the level drops below the marking “MIN”, it is necessary that the power steering is
you wish to fill up with a different coolant.
checked by a specialist garage. It is not sufficient to solely refill with hydraulic oil.
A specialist garage can also supply you with the correct coolant additives.
Inspecting and replenishing
153
Losses can only occur through the pressure relief in the cap of the coolant expansion
Caution
bottle which is completely free of leaks if the coolant boils as a result of overheating
 Other coolant additives may cause operational problems which, in partic-
and is forced out of the cooling system.
ular, involves significantly reducing the anticorrosion effect.
 Any faults or problems resulting from corrosion may cause a loss of coolant
WARNING
and, as a consequence of this, result in major engine damage.
Read and observe the warning notes  page 148, “Working in the engine
compartment” before working in the engine compartment.
Inspecting the coolant level
Caution
One should contact a specialist garage as soon as possible if the source of overheating
itself cannot be determined and removed, since there may be grave damage to the
engine.
Replenishing the coolant
– Switch the engine off.
– Allow the engine to cool down.
Fig. 148 Engine compartment:
Coolant expansion bottle
– Place a cloth over the cap of the coolant expansion reservoir  fig. 148 and
unscrew the cap carefully by turning it to the left 
.
The coolant expansion bottle is located in the engine compartment on the right.
– Top up the coolant.
– Switch the engine off.
– Screw the cap tight until it is heard to lock.
– Open the bonnet 
in “Working in the engine compartment” on page 148.
The coolant which you use for replenishing the system, must comply with one specific
– Check the level of coolant in the coolant expansion bottle  fig. 148. When the
specification  page 152, “Coolant”. Do not use an alternative additive if the coolant
engine is cold, the coolant level must lie between the A
a and b
A markings. When
additive G13 is not available in exceptional cases. Just top up the system with water
the engine is warm, the level may also lie slightly above the hatched part.
and as soon as possible arrange adjustment to correct the mixing ratio of water and
coolant additive again by a specialist garage.
If the coolant level in the reservoir is too low, this is indicated by the warning light in
the instrument cluster   page 28. We nevertheless recommend inspecting the
Only use fresh coolant for topping up the system.
coolant level directly at the reservoir from time to time.
Do not top up the fluid above the hatched part! Excess coolant which is heated up is
Loss of coolant
forced out of the cooling system through the pressure relief valve in the cap of the
coolant compensation bottle.
A loss of coolant is first and foremost an indication of a leak in the system. You should
not merely top up the coolant in the reservoir. It is also important to have the cooling
Wait until the engine has cooled down for a system which has suffered a major loss of
system inspected without delay by a specialist garage.
coolant before pouring in coolant. This is necessary to avoid engine damage.
Using the system
Safety
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General Maintenance
Breakdown assistance
Technical Data
154
Inspecting and replenishing
WARNING
WARNING
 The cooling system is pressurized! Do not open the cap of the coolant
You must therefore be aware when working in the engine compartment that
expansion bottle if the engine is still hot - risk of scalding!
the fan may switch on suddenly - risk of injury!
 The coolant additive and thus all of the coolant is harmful to your health.
Avoid contact with the coolant. Coolant vapours are also harmful to the health.
Brake fluid
It is important, therefore, to always safely store any coolant additive in its orig-
inal container out of the reach of children - risk of poisoning!
 If any splashes of coolant get into your eyes, rinse out your eyes immedi-
Inspecting the brake fluid level
ately with clear water and contact a doctor as soon as possible.
 You should also consult a doctor without delay if you have inadvertently
swallowed coolant.
Caution
Do not continue your journey if for some reason it is not possible under the
conditions prevailing to top up with coolant. Switch the engine off and obtain
professional assistance from a specialist garage, otherwise it could lead to severe
engine damage.
Fig. 149 Engine compartment:
Brake fluid reservoir
For the sake of the environment
Do not re-use coolant if it is necessary to drain the coolant in the system. It should be
The brake fluid reservoir is located on the left of the engine compartment. The brake
collected and disposed of in compliance with environmental protection regulations.
fluid reservoir on right-hand steering models is positioned on the other side of the
engine compartment.
Radiator fan
– Switch the engine off.
The radiator fan may switch on suddenly.
– Open the bonnet 
in “Working in the engine compartment” on page 148.
– Inspect the brake fluid level in the reservoir  fig. 149. The level must be between
The radiator fan is driven by an electric motor and controlled according to the coolant
the “MIN” and “MAX” markings.
temperature.
The radiator fan may continue running for up to 10 minutes after the engine has been
A slight drop in the fluid level results when driving due to normal wear-and-tear and
switched off - even if the ignition is also off. It may also switch on suddenly after a
automatic adjustment of the brake pads, and is perfectly normal.
certain time, if
There may be an indication of a leak in the brake system, however, if the fluid level
 the coolant temperature has risen because of an accumulation of heat or
drops significantly within a short time or if it drops below the “MIN” marking. If the
 the warm engine compartment is heated up additionally by strong sunlight.
brake fluid level is too low, this is indicated by the warning light  lighting up in the
Inspecting and replenishing
155
instrument cluster  page 31. In this case stop immediately and do not drive any
For the sake of the environment
further! Obtain professional assistance.
In view of the problems involved with proper disposal of brake fluid, the special tools
and the professional knowledge required, you should have the brake fluid replaced by
WARNING
authorised Škoda Service Partners.
 Read and observe the warning notes  page 148, “Working in the engine
compartment” before working in the engine compartment.
Battery
 If the fluid level has dropped below the “MIN” marking, do not drive any
further - risk of accident! Obtain professional assistance.
Working on the battery
Replacing brake fluid
Brake fluid absorbs moisture. This causes the fluid to absorb moisture from the
surrounding air over a period of time. Excessive water in the brake fluid may be the
cause of corrosion in the brake system. The water content also lowers the boiling point
of the brake fluid.
One may only use new genuine brake fluid from Škoda Auto. The brake fluid must
comply with one of the following standards or specifications:
 VW 50114
Fig. 150 Engine compartment:
 FMVSS 116 DOT4
The battery
 DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4
The battery is located in the engine compartment below a plastic cover*.
We recommend that you have the brake fluid replaced by an authorised Škoda
Service Partner as part of an Inspection Service.
– Press the interlocks on the sides of the battery cover  fig. 150 and pull the cover
A .
upwards see arrow A
WARNING
– The installation of the battery cover takes place in the reverse order.
Using old brake fluid can result in severe stress on the brakes because of the
Removal and installation of the battery is not recommended since it can, under certain
formation of vapour bubbles in the brake system. This greatly impairs the
circumstances, lead to major damage. Contact a specialist garage.
braking efficiency and thus also the safety of your vehicle.
There is a risk of injuries, scalding, accidents and burns when carrying out any work on
the battery and on the electrical system. For this reason, it is essential to comply with
Caution
the warning instructions 
stated below and with the general applicable rules of
Brake fluid damages the paintwork of the vehicle.
safety.
Using the system
Safety
Driving Tips
General Maintenance
Breakdown assistance
Technical Data
156
Inspecting and replenishing
WARNING
WARNING (continued)
 The battery acid is strongly corrosive and must, therefore, be handled with
 Never use a battery which is damaged - risk of explosion! Immediately
the greatest of care. Always wear protective gloves, eye and skin protection
replace a damaged battery.
when handling batteries. Corrosive fumes in the air irritate the air passages and
lead to conjunctivitis and inflammation of the air passages in the lungs. Battery
Caution
acid corrodes dental enamel and creates deep wounds after contact with the
 You must only disconnect the battery if the ignition is switched off, otherwise the
skin which take a long time to heal. Repeated contact with diluted acids causes
electrical system (electronic components) of the vehicle may be damaged. When
skin diseases (inflammations, ulcers, slin cracks). Acids coming into contact
disconnecting the battery from the electrical system of the vehicle, first disconnect the
with water are diluted accompanied by significant development of heat.
negative terminal (-) of the battery. Then disconnect the positive terminal (+).
 Do not tilt the battery otherwise battery electrolyte may flow out of the
 When reconnecting the battery, first connect the positive terminal (+) and only
battery vent openings. Protect the eyes with safety glasses or a shield! There is
then the negative terminal (-) of the battery. You must on no account connect the
the danger of suffering blindness! If any battery electrolyte gets into your eye,
cables wrongly - risk of a cable fire.
rinse out your eye immediately with clear water for several minutes. Contact a
 Ensure that battery acid does not come into contact with the vehicle body other-
doctor without delay.
 Splashes of acid on your skin or clothes should be neutralised as soon as
wise damage could occur to the paintwork.
 Do not place the battery in direct daylight in order to protect the battery housing
possible using soap suds and then rinsed with plenty of water. Contact a doctor
immediately if you swallow battery electrolyte.
from the effects of ultra-violet light.
 Keep batteries out of the reach of children.
 Hydrogen is released when you charge a battery and a highly explosive gas
For the sake of the environment
mixture is produced. An explosion can be caused through sparkling over during
A removed battery is a special type of waste which is harmful to the environment -
unclamping or loosening of the cable plug while the ignition is on.
contact your specialist garage regarding disposing of the battery.
 Bridging of the poles will create a short circuit (e.g. through metal objects,
cables). Possible consequences of a short circuit: Melting of lead struts, explo-
Note
sion and burning of the battery, jets of acid spurting out.
Please also refer to the guidelines  page 158, “Disconnecting and reconnecting the
 It is prohibited to work with a naked flame and light, to smoke or to carry out
battery”, also after connecting the battery.
any activities which produce sparks. Avoid creating sparks when working with
cables and electrical devices. Strong sparking represents a risk of injury.
 Before carrying out any work on the electrical system, switch off the engine,
the ignition as well as all electrical components and disconnect the negative
cable (-) on the battery. If you wish to replace a bulb it is sufficient to switch off
the appropriate light.
 Never charge a frozen or thawed battery - risk of explosion and caustic
burns! Replace a frozen battery.
Inspecting and replenishing
157
Battery with a two-tone indicator
Note
 Batteries with two-tone indicator, which are mounted as of factory, are marked
with a code which always begins with 5K0. The exact marking can be e.g.
5K0 915 105 D.
 Replacement batteries with two-tone indicator, which were obtained from Škoda
original accessories, are marked with the code 000 915 105 Dx, whereby “x” stands for
a variable. The exact marking can be e.g. 000 915 105 DB.
Inspecting the electrolyte level
The battery is practically maintenance-free under normal operating conditions. We
Fig. 151 The battery: Show
do, however, recommend that you have the electrolyte level inspected from time to
time by a specialist garage when outside temperatures are high or when driving on
An indicator for the electrolyte level, the so-called magic eye  fig. 151, is located on
long trips. You should also have the electrolyte level  page 158 checked each time
the top of the battery. The indicator changes its colour in line with the electrolyte level
the battery is charged.
in the battery.
The electrolyte level of the battery will also be checked as part of the Inspection
Air bubbles can influence the colour of the indicator. For this reason carefully knock on
Service.
the indicator before carrying out the check.
 Black colour - electrolyte level is correct.
Operation in winter
 Colourless or light yellow colour - electrolyte level too low, the battery must be
The battery has to provide greater amounts of electricity during the winter. It also has
replaced.
only part of the initial power output at low temperatures that it has at normal temper-
Batteries, which are more than 5 years old, must be replaced. We recommend you
atures.
have the battery checked or replaced by a specialist garage.
A discharged battery may already freeze at temperatures just below 0°C.
Caution
We therefore recommend that you have the battery checked by a specialist garage
before the start of the winter and recharged if necessary.
If the vehicle has not been driven for more than 3 to 4 weeks, the battery will discharge
because certain electrical components consume electricity (e.g. control units) also in
idle state. You can prevent the discharging of the battery by disconnecting the negative
WARNING
terminal or charging the battery constantly with a very low charging current. Please
Never charge a frozen or thawed battery - risk of explosion and caustic burns.
also refer to the notes when working on the battery 
in “Working on the battery”
Replace a frozen battery.
on page 155.
Using the system
Safety
Driving Tips
General Maintenance
Breakdown assistance
Technical Data
158
Inspecting and replenishing
Charging the battery
WARNING
A properly charged battery is essential for reliably starting the engine.
Never charge a frozen or thawed battery - risk of explosion and caustic burns.
Replace a frozen battery.
– Read the warning notes 
in “Working on the battery” on page 155 and 
.
– Switch the ignition and all electrical components off.
Disconnecting and reconnecting the battery
– Only for “quick-charging”: Disconnect both battery cables (first of all “negative”,
then “positive”).
On disconnecting and reconnecting the battery the following functions are initially
deactivated or are no longer able to operate fault-free.
– Carefully attach the terminal clamps of the charger to the battery terminals (red =
“positive”, black = “negative”).
Operation
Operating measure
– You can now plug the mains cable of the charger into the power socket and switch
 page 43
Electrical power window (operational faults)
on the charger.
Enter radio code number
see Radio Operating Instructions
– When charging is completed: switch the charger off and unplug the mains cable
from the power socket.
 page 19
Set hours
– Only then should you disconnect the terminal clamps of the charger.
 page 19
Data in the multi-functional indicator* are
deleted.
– Reconnect the cables to the battery (first of all “positive”, then “negative”).
We recommend having the vehicle checked by a specialist garage to ensure full func-
It is not normally necessary to disconnect the cables of the battery if you recharge the
tionality of all electrical systems.
battery using low amperages (as for example from a mini-charger). Please also refer
to the instructions from the charger manufacturer.
Replacing the battery
A charging current of 0.1 of the total battery capacity (or lower) is that which should be
used until full charging is achieved.
You should only replace a battery with a new battery of the same capacity, voltage (12
It is, however, necessary to disconnect both cables before charging the battery with
V), amperage and of the same size. Specialist garages have a range of suitable batteries
high amperages, so-called “quick-charging”.
available.
“Quick-charging” a battery is dangerous 
in “Working on the battery” on
In view of the problems involved with its proper disposal, we recommend having the
page 155. It requires a special charger and appropriate knowledge. We therefore
battery replaced by a specialist garage.
recommend that you have your battery quick-charged only by your specialist garage.
A discharged battery may already freeze at temperatures just below 0°C 
. We
For the sake of the environment
recommend that you no longer use a battery which has thawed out because the casing
Batteries contain poisonous substances such as sulphuric acid and lead. They must be
of the battery may be cracked through the formation of ice and this would allow
disposed of in accordance with local environmental protection regulations and on no
battery electrolyte to flow out.
account as domestic waste.
The vent plugs of the battery should not be opened for charging.
Inspecting and replenishing
159
Windshield washer system
Caution
 On no account should you add radiator antifreeze or other additives to the wind-
screen washer fluid.
 If the vehicle is fitted with a headlight cleaning system, you should only add
cleaning products which do not attack the polycarbonate coating of the headlights to
the windscreen washer fluid. Please contact your specialist garage, who will tell you
which cleaning agent you can use.
Fig. 152 Engine compartment:
Windshield washer fluid reser-
voir
The windshield washer reservoir contains the cleaning fluid for the windscreen or rear
window. The reservoir is located at the front right of the engine compartment
 fig. 152.
The filling level of the container is about 3 litres and about 5,5 litres on vehicles which
have a headlight washing system.
Clear water is not sufficient to intensively clean the windscreen and headlights. We
therefore recommend using clean washing water together with the screen cleaner
from Škoda genuine accessories (in winter additionally with antifreeze) which is
capable of removing stubborn dirt. Follow the instructions for use on the packaging
when using screen cleaning products.
You should always add antifreeze to the cleaning water in winter even if your vehicle
is fitted with heated windscreen washer nozzles*.
It is also possible in exceptional cases to use methylated spirits when no screen cleaner
with antifreeze is available. The concentration of methylated spirits must not be more
than 15 %. Please note, however, that the antifreeze protection at this concentration is
only adequate down to -5°C.
WARNING
Read and observe the warning notes  page 148, “Working in the engine
compartment” before working in the engine compartment.
Using the system
Safety
Driving Tips
General Maintenance
Breakdown assistance
Technical Data

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