2001-2008 Skoda Superb SUV General Maintenance User Manual
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General Maintenance for Your Skoda Superb SUV First Generation (2001-2008)

Taking care of your vehicle and cleaning the vehicle 173  
General Maintenance  
Taking care of your vehicle and cleaning the vehicle  
General  
Care of the exterior of vehicle  
Proper care retains the value of your vehicle.  
Washing the vehicle  
Regular and proper care retains the value of your vehicle. It may also be one of the  
requirements for the acceptance of warranty claims relating to corrosion damage  
and paint defects on the bodywork.  
Frequent washing protects your vehicle.  
The best protection for your vehicle against harmful environmental influences is  
frequent washing and wax treatment. How often you should wash your vehicle  
depends on a wide range of factors, such as:  
We recommend using a preservative from Škoda genuine accessories offered by  
your Škoda dealer. Please follow the instructions for use on the package.  
•
•
•
•
•
Frequency of use,  
The parking situation (garage, below trees etc.),  
Season of the year,  
WARNING  
•
Care products may be harmful to your health if not used according to the  
instructions.  
Weather conditions,  
Environmental influences.  
•
Always store care products in a safe place, out of the reach of children -  
risk of poisoning!  
The longer insect residues, bird droppings, tree sap, road and industrial dust, tar,  
soot particles, road salt and other aggressive deposits remain adhering to the paint-  
work of your vehicle, the more detrimental their destructive effect can be. High  
temperatures, such as those caused by intensive sun's rays, accentuate this caustic  
effect.  
For the sake of the environment  
Always select environmentally-friendly products when purchasing vehicle care  
products.  
•
It may therefore be necessary, in certain circumstances, to wash the car once a  
week. It may also be sufficient, however, to wash the car once a month followed  
by appropriate wax treatment.  
•
Do not dispose of residues of care products in domestic waste.  
It is essential to also thoroughly wash the underside of your vehicle at the end of  
the winter road salting and gritting period.  
WARNING  
When washing your vehicle in the winter: Water and ice in the brake system  
can affect the braking efficiency - risk of accident!  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
174 Taking care of your vehicle and cleaning the vehicle  
Automatic vehicle wash systems  
Rinse off the vehicle well after giving it a wash and dry it off using a chamois leather.  
The paintwork of the vehicle is sufficiently resistant that the vehicle can be washed  
normally in automatic vehicle wash plants without any problem. The actual stress  
to which the paintwork is subjected, however, depends greatly on the design of the  
vehicle wash system, the filtering of the water and the type of washing and care  
products used. If the paintwork of your vehicle appears mat after being washed or  
even has scratches, point this out to the operator of the vehicle wash plant. Use a  
different vehicle wash plant, if necessary.  
WARNING  
•
The ignition should always be switched off when you wash your vehicle -  
risk of accident!  
Protect your hands and arms from sharp-edged metal parts when you  
are cleaning the underfloor, the inside of the wheel housings or the wheel  
trims - risk of cuts.  
•
There are no particular points to note before washing your vehicle in such a plant  
other than the usual precautionary measures (closing windows and sliding/tilting  
roof, moving any factory-fitted aerials down flat against the bodywork, etc.).  
Caution  
•
Do not wash your vehicle in bright sunlight - risk of paint damage.  
If you have any particular attached parts fitted to your car - such as spoiler, roof rack  
system, two-way radio aerial - it is best to first of all consult the operator of the car  
wash plant.  
•
Ensure that the jet of water is not aimed directly at the locks or at the door and  
panel joints if you spray your vehicle in winter down with a hose - risk of freezing.  
•
Do not use any insect sponges, rough kitchen sponges or similar cleaning prod-  
ucts - risk of damage to the surface of paintwork.  
It is important to degrease the lips of the windscreen wiper rubbers after passing  
through the automatic vehicle wash system.  
For the sake of the environment  
Caution  
Only wash your vehicle at washing bays specifically reserved for this purpose. This  
ensures that no water which may be contaminated by oil flows into the sewage  
system. It is not even permitted to wash your vehicle in certain areas except at such  
specific washing bays.  
Do not screw the swivelling down roof aerial tight before washing the vehicle in an  
automatic vehicle wash system - risk of damage!  
Washing vehicle by hand  
Washing with a high-pressure cleaner  
It is important to first soften the dirt with plenty of water and rinse it off as thor-  
oughly as possible before washing your vehicle by hand.  
When you wash your vehicle with a high-pressure cleaner, it is essential to comply  
with the instructions for use of the cleaning equipment. This applies in particular to  
the pressure used and to the spraying distance. Maintain a sufficiently large  
distance to soft materials such as rubber hoses or insulation material.  
One should then clean the vehicle using a soft washing sponge, washing glove or  
a washing brush and only slight pressure. Work from the top to the bottom -  
beginning with the roof. Only place slight pressure on the vehicle paintwork during  
cleaning Only use a car shampoo for stubborn dirt.  
On no account use circular spray nozzles or so-called dirt cutters!  
Wash out the sponge or washing glove thoroughly at short intervals.  
Clean wheels, door sills and similar parts last. Use a second sponge for such areas.  
Taking care of your vehicle and cleaning the vehicle 175  
WARNING  
Caution  
You must not treat mat painted parts or plastic with polishing products or hard  
wax.  
•
It is particularly important that you do not clean tyres with circular spray  
jets. Visible but also invisible damage to tyres may occur even at a relatively  
large spraying distance and if sprayed only for a short time - risk of accident!  
•
Do not polish the paintwork of the vehicle in a dusty environment, otherwise  
the paintwork can be scratched.  
Caution  
Chrome parts  
The water containing wax must be no hotter than 60°C, otherwise the vehicle can  
be damaged.  
First clean the chrome parts with a damp clotch and then polish them with a soft,  
dry cloth. If it does not prove to be adequate, use a chrome care product from  
Škoda original accessories.  
Wax treatment  
Good wax treatment is an effective way of protecting the paintwork from harmful  
environmental influences and minor mechanical damage.  
Caution  
Do not polish the chrome parts in a dusty environment, otherwise they can be  
scratched.  
The vehicle must be treated with a high-quality hard wax polish at the latest, when  
no more drops form on the clean paintwork.  
A new layer of a high-quality hard wax polish can be applied to the clean bodywork  
after it has dried thoroughly. Even if you use a wax preserver regularly we still  
recommend that you treat the paintwork of the vehicle at least twice a year with  
hard wax.  
Paint damage  
Slight damage to paintwork such as scratches, scuffs or traces of chip damage must  
be touched up immediately with paint (Škoda painting pen) before any corrosion  
can result. You can of course have this work carried out by a Škoda Service Partner.  
Caution  
Never apply wax to the windows.  
Škoda Service Partners have a range of matching touch-up pens or spray cans  
available in the colour of your vehicle.  
The paint number of the original paintwork of your vehicle is indicated on the  
vehicle data sticker ⇒ page 227.  
Polishing  
Any corrosion which has already have formed must be removed thoroughly. Apply  
a corrosion protection primer and then the paint to the affected point. You can of  
course have this work carried out by a Škoda Service Partner.  
Polishing is only necessary if the paintwork of your vehicle has become unattractive  
and if it is no longer possible to achieve a gloss with wax preservers.  
You must treat the paintwork with a wax preserver if the polish you use does not  
contain any preserving elements ⇒ page 175, “Wax treatment”.  
We recommend using a preservative from Škoda genuine accessories offered by  
your Škoda dealer.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
176 Taking care of your vehicle and cleaning the vehicle  
Plastic parts  
The headlight lenses  
External plastic parts are cleaned by normal washing. Plastic parts and synthetic  
leather can also be treated with special solvent-free plastic cleaning agents if a  
damp cloth is not sufficient. Paint care products are not suitable for plastic parts.  
Please do not use any aggressive cleaning or chemical solvent products - risk of  
damage to the plastic lenses Please use soap and clean warm water.  
Caution  
Caution  
Never wipe the headlights dry and do not use any sharp objects for cleaning the  
plastic lenses, this may result in damage to the protective paintwork and conse-  
quently in formation of cracks on the headlight lenses, e.g through effect of chem-  
ical products.  
Solvent-free cleaners attack the material and can damage it.  
Windows  
Door and window seals  
Only use a plastic ice scraper for removing snow and ice from the windows and  
mirrors. You should not move the ice scraper forward and backward but in one  
direction on the window which you are cleaning in order to avoid any damage to  
the surface of the glass.  
The rubber seals on the doors, boot lid, bonnet and windows remain supple and  
last longer if you treat them from time to time with a rubber care product (e.g. with  
a spray with silicone-free oil). You also avoid premature wear of the seals and  
prevent leakages in this way. It is also easier to open the doors. Rubber seals which  
are well cared for also do not stick together in cold winter weather.  
You can best remove residues of rubber, oil, grease, wax or silicone by using a  
special window cleaner or a special silicone remover.  
You should also clean the windows regularly from the inside.  
Do not use window leathers which you have used to polish the vehicle body to dry  
off the windows. Residues of preservatives in the window leather can dirty the  
window and reduce visibility.  
Locks  
We recommend that you use the spray from Škoda original accessories with  
regreasing and anticorrosive effect for de-icing locks.  
Do not affix any stickers over the inside of the rear window to avoid damage to the  
heating elements of the rear window heater.  
We recommend using a preservative from Škoda genuine accessories offered by  
your Škoda dealer.  
Note  
When washing your vehicle, ensure that as little water as possible gets into the  
locks.  
Caution  
Never remove snow or ice from the glass parts with warm or hot water - risk of  
formation of cracks in the glass!  
Taking care of your vehicle and cleaning the vehicle 177  
Underbody protection  
Wheels  
Steel wheels  
The underside of your vehicle is protected for life against chemical and mechanical  
influences.  
You should also thoroughly wash the wheels and wheel trims when giving your  
vehicle its regular wash. This prevents any brake dust, dirt and road salt from  
sticking to the wheel hubs. You can remove stubborn brake abrasion adhering to  
the wheels with an industrial cleaner. Touch up any damage to the paintwork on the  
wheels before rust is able to form.  
One cannot, however, completely rule out damage to the protective layer when  
driving so we recommend that you inspect the protective layer on the underside of  
your vehicle and on the chassis at certain intervals - this is best done at the begin-  
ning and end of the winter - and to touch up any damaged areas.  
Škoda Service Partners have suitable spray products available as well as the neces-  
sary equipment and are familiar with the instructions for use. It is therefore best to  
have such touch-up work or additional corrosion protection measures carried out  
by a Škoda Service Partner.  
Light alloy wheels  
Regular care of light alloy wheels is necessary in order to retain their decorative  
appearance over long periods. It is particularly important to remove any road salt  
and brake abrasion from light alloy wheels every two weeks, otherwise the surface  
will suffer. Wash thoroughly and then treat the wheels with a protective product for  
light alloy wheels which does not contain any acidic components. You should  
provide the wheel hubs with a hard wax layer every three months. You must not use  
any products which cause abrasion when treating the wheel hubs. Any damage to  
the paint layer on the wheel hubs must be touched up immediately.  
WARNING  
Never use additional underbody protection or corrosion-protection agents  
for the exhaust pipes, catalytic converters, diesel particle filter or heat  
shields. When the engine reaches its operating temperature, these  
substances might ignite - risk of fire!  
We recommend using a preservative from Škoda genuine accessories offered by  
your Škoda dealer.  
Protection of hollow spaces  
WARNING  
One should remember when cleaning the wheels that moisture, ice and road  
salt may adversely affect braking efficiency - risk of an accident!  
All the cavities of your vehicle which are at risk from corrosion are protected for life  
by a layer of protective wax applied in the factory.  
This wax protection does not require to be inspected or re-treated. Please remove  
any small amount of wax which flows out of the cavities at high temperatures with  
a plastic scraper and clean the spot using petroleum cleaner.  
Note  
Severe layers of dirt on the wheels can also result in wheel imbalance. This may  
show itself in the form of wheel vibration which is transmitted to the steering wheel  
which, in certain circumstances, can cause premature wear of the steering. It is  
therefore important to clean dirty wheels.  
WARNING  
Safety and environmental protection regulations should observed when  
using petroleum cleaner to remove wax - a risk of fire!  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
178 Taking care of your vehicle and cleaning the vehicle  
Engine compartment  
Upholstery cloth and cloth trim on the doors, luggage compartment cover, head-  
liner etc. are best treated with special cleaning products, using if necessary a dry  
foam and a soft sponge or brush.  
Good corrosion protection is very important, particularly in winter when one often  
drives over its salt-strewn roads. One should therefore clean the entire engine  
compartment before and after the salt spreading period, in order to prevent the salt  
from being destructive.  
We recommend using a cleaning product from Škoda genuine accessories offered  
by your Škoda dealer.  
Škoda Service Partners have the cleaning agents recommended by the manufac-  
turer and also the required equipment.  
Caution  
Solvent-free cleaners attack the material and can damage it.  
WARNING  
Fabric covers of electrically heated seats  
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It is necessary to observe the guidelines given in the chapter before  
working on the engine compartment ⇒ page 185.  
Do not clean the seat covers moist as this may result in damage to the seat heating  
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Let the engine cool down before cleaning the engine compartment.  
system.  
Clean such covers using special agents, for example dry foam.  
Caution  
•
Engine cleaning may be only be undertaken when the ignition is off.  
Natural leather  
•
It is recommended to cover the generator before washing the engine compart-  
Natural leather requires quite particular care and attention.  
ment.  
Leather should be treated from time to time according the following  
guidelines depending on how much it is used.  
For the sake of the environment  
The dirty water produced by washing the engine has washed away petrol, and resi-  
dues of grease and oil and should therefore be cleaned by an oil separator. This is  
why engine washing should only be undertaken in a garage or at a fueling station  
(when these are fitted with the required equipment).  
Normal cleaning  
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Clean soiled areas of the leather with slightly moistened cotton or  
woollen cloth.  
Severe soiling  
Care of the interior of vehicle  
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Clean severely soiled areas with a cloth dipped in a mild soapy solu-  
tion (2 spoonfuls of natural soap to 1 litre of water).  
Plastic parts, artificial leather and cloths  
Ensure that the leather is not soaked through at any point and that no  
water gets into the stitching of the seams.  
You can clean plastic parts and artificial leather with a moist cloth. You should only  
treat such parts with special solvent-free plastic cleaning and care products it  
does prove to be adequate.  
Dry off the leather with a soft, dry cloth.  
Taking care of your vehicle and cleaning the vehicle 179  
Removing stains  
Note  
Use a care cream with light blocker and impregnation effect regularly and each  
time after cleaning the leather. The cream nourishes the leather, allows it to breathe  
and keeps it supple and also provides moisture. It also creates surface protection.  
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Remove fresh stains which are water-based (e.g. coffee, tea, juices,  
blood etc.) with an absorbent cloth or household paper or use the  
cleaner from the care set for a stain which has already dried in.  
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Remove fresh stains on a fat base (e.g. butter, mayonnaise, chocolate  
etc.) with an absorbent cloth or household cleaning paper or with the  
cleaner from the care set if the stain has not yet penetrated into the  
surface.  
•
Clean the leather every 2 to 3 months, remove fresh soiling each time this  
occurs.  
•
Remove fresh stains such as those from ball-point pens, ink, lipstick, shoe  
cream etc., as quickly as possible.  
•
Care also for the leather dye. Refreshen areas which have lost their colour with  
a special coloured leather cream as required.  
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Use a grease dissolver for grease stains which have dried in.  
Eliminate special stains (e.g. ball-point pens, felt pen, nail varnish,  
dispersion paint, shoe cream etc.) with a special stain remover suit-  
able for leather.  
Alcantara upholstery  
Do not use any leather care products for cleaning Alcantara upholsteries.  
Leather care  
Eliminating dust and dirt  
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Treat the leather every six months with the leather care product avail-  
able from Škoda Service Partners.  
Wipe the Alcantara upholstery with a slightly moistened, soft cloth or clean the  
covers with a suitable shampoo.  
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Apply only a small amount of the care product.  
Dry the leather off with a soft cloth  
Removing stains  
Moisten a soft cloth with lukewarm water or diluted methylated spirits and dab the  
stain from the edges toward the middle.  
It is best to consult your Škoda Service Partner if you have any questions regarding  
cleaning and care of the leather interior.  
Caution  
Caution  
•
•
Do not use any leather care product on the Alcantara upholsteries.  
•
You must on no account treat the leather with solvents (e.g. gasoline, turpen-  
tine), floor wax, shoe cream or such like.  
Avoid leaving your vehicle for lengthy periods in bright sunlight in order to  
avoid bleaching the leather. If you leave your vehicle parked in the open for lengthy  
periods, protect the leather from the direct rays of the sun by covering it over.  
Avoid leaving your vehicle for lengthy periods in bright sunlight in order to  
avoid bleaching the Alcantara upholsteries. If you leave your vehicle parked in the  
open for lengthy periods, protect the Alcantara upholstery from the direct rays of  
the sun by covering it over.  
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•
Sharp-edged objects on items of clothing such as zip fasteners, rivets, sharp-  
edged belts may leave permanent scratches or signs of rubbing on the surface.  
Seat belts  
–
Keep the seat belts clean.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
180 Taking care of your vehicle and cleaning the vehicle  
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Wash seat belts which have become soiled using a mild soapy solu-  
tion.  
Inspect the seat belts regularly to ensure they are in good condition.  
Belt webbing which has become severely soiled may prevent the inertia reel from  
reeling up the belt properly.  
WARNING  
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•
The seat belts must not be removed for cleaning.  
Never clean the seat belts chemically as dry cleaning may destroy the  
fabric. The seat belts must also not be allowed to come into contact with  
corrosive liquids (such as acids etc.).  
•
Seat belts which have damage to the webbing, the connections, the  
inertia reel or the lock should be replaced by a Škoda Service Partner.  
Inertia reel belts must be completely dried before being reeled up.  
•
Fuel 181  
Fuel  
The handling, performance and life of your engine are determined to a significant  
extent by the quality of the fuel. Do not use any petrol additives. Use a fuel  
Petrol  
complying with the standard.  
Grades of petrol  
You can find further information on refuelling ⇒ page 182, “Refuelling”.  
There are various grades of petrol. Please read ⇒ page 227 in order to know which  
grade of petrol your vehicle requires. You will also find the same information affixed  
to the inside of the fuel filler flap of your vehicle ⇒ page 182, fig. 170.  
Caution  
•
Filling the tank even only once with leaded petrol will result in the catalytic  
converter being destroyed.  
Operating the engine with petrol of a low octane number can result in engine  
A distinction is made between unleaded and leaded petrol. All Škoda vehicles with  
petrol engines are equipped with a catalytic converter and must therefore be only  
driven with unleaded petrol. Unleaded petrol complies with the standard  
DIN EN 228.  
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damage at high revolutions or severe engine loading.  
The individual grades of petrol are distinguished by their octane number (RON).  
Please adopt the following procedure if the grade of petrol which you normally use  
is not be available in exceptional circumstances:  
Diesel  
•
Engines which need unleaded premium petrol 95 RON can also be run on  
unleaded regular petrol 91 RON. This does, however, result in a slight loss in  
performance.  
Type of diesel  
Your vehicle can be operated with diesel fuel, which complies with the standard  
DIN EN 590.  
•
Engines which need unleaded premium plus petrol 98 RON can also be run  
on unleaded regular petrol 95 RON. This does, however, result in a slight loss in  
performance. You can in exceptional circumstances also use unleaded regular  
petrol of 91 RON in the event that neither unleaded premium petrol of 98 RON nor  
95 RON is available. Refuel as soon as possible with unleaded premium plus of 98  
RON or unleaded premium petrol of 95 RON.  
Fuel additives  
You must not use fuel additives, so-called “flow improvers” (petrol and similar  
products) in diesel fuel.  
If the quality of the diesel fuel is poor, it is then necessary to drain the fuel filter  
more often than stated in the Service schedule.  
If, in an emergency, the only fuel available is one which has a lower octane number  
than that required by the engine then only drive at medium engine speeds and  
lower engine loadings.  
You can find information on refuelling ⇒ page 182, “Refuelling”.  
You can make unlimited use of fuel which has a higher octane number than that  
required by the engine. There will, however, be no advantages gained by this in  
terms of engine performance and fuel consumption!  
Caution  
•
Use a fuel complying with the standard. Filling the tank even only once, which  
does not comply with the standard, can result in damage to the fuel system.  
Water which has collected in the fuel filter can result in engine problems.  
•
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
182 Fuel  
Operation in winter  
Refuelling  
Winter-grade diesel fuel  
Refuelling procedure  
A different grade of diesel fuel is available at filling stations in winter than during the  
summer. Using “summer-grade diesel fuel” at temperatures below 0°C can result in  
operational problems because the diesel becomes viscous as a result of paraffin  
separation.  
It is therefore the case that DIN EN 590 prescribes diesel fuel class for certain  
periods of the year which can also be purchased at the corresponding time during  
the year. “Winter-grade diesel fuel” will still operate properly even at a temperature  
of -20°C.  
It is often the case in countries with different climatic conditions that diesel fuels  
available have a different temperature characteristic. Škoda Service Partners and  
filling stations in the country concerned will be able to provide you with informa-  
tion regarding the diesel fuels available.  
Fig. 170 Filler flap with  
cap unscrewed  
Opening the fuel filler cap  
Prewarming fuel  
The vehicle is fitted with a fuel filter prewarming system. This secures operation of  
a vehicle using diesel fuel down to an environmental temperature of -25°C.  
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Unlock the fuel filler flap with the switch in the driver door ⇒ page 35.  
Open the fuel filler flap fully.  
Unscrew the cap by turning it to the left.  
Place the cap onto the top of the fuel filler flap ⇒ fig. 170.  
Caution  
It is not permitted to add the various fuel additives on the market, including petrol,  
to diesel fuel in order to improve its flow properties.  
Closing fuel filler cap  
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Screw on the cap by turning it to the right until it is heard to lock.  
Press the fuel tank flap closed.  
The correct grade of fuel for your vehicle as well as the tyre size and inflation pres-  
sures are stated on a sticker affixed to the inside of the fuel filler flap. Further infor-  
mation on fuel ⇒ page 181, “Fuel”.  
The fuel tank has a capacity of about 62 litres.  
Fuel 183  
Emergency release of fuel filler flap  
WARNING  
Pay attention to any legal requirements if you do carry a spare canister in the  
vehicle. We do not recommend carrying any fuel canisters in your vehicle for  
safety reasons. The canister can be damaged in the event of an accident and  
fuel may leak out.  
Caution  
•
Remove any fuel which has spilled onto the paintwork of your vehicle immedi-  
ately - risk of paint damage!  
Fig. 171 Luggage  
compartment: Emer-  
gency release of fuel filler  
flap  
•
Vehicles fitted with catalytic converter should never be allowed to let the fuel  
tank to run completely empty. An irregular supply of fuel to the engine can result in  
misfiring and unburnt fuel may get into the exhaust system, which may result in  
overheating and damage to the catalytic converter.  
If the electric lock is faulty, you can also unlock the fuel filler flap manually.  
•
Make sure that the valve is not pressed into the filler tube when inserting the  
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Open the boot lid/luggage compartment door.  
pump nozzle into the filler tube. Otherwise you are unintentionally filling up the  
volume, which in case of heat can cause an expansion of the fuel. This can lead to  
an overflow of fuel or damage to parts of the fuel reservoir.  
Unscrew the clip attaching the right-hand side trim panel and pull the  
trim panel off the body.  
•
The fuel tank is full just as soon as the pump nozzle switches off for the first time,  
provided the nozzle has been operated properly. Do not continue refuelling -  
otherwise the expansion volume is filled up.  
–
Pull on the loop in direction of arrow in order to unlock the fuel filler  
flap ⇒ fig. 171.  
WARNING  
When unlocking the fuel filler flap manually, pay attention to sharp edges of  
the body - risk of injury!  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
184 Inspecting and Replenishing  
Inspecting and Replenishing  
Opening and closing the bonnet.  
Engine compartment  
Bonnet remote release  
Fig. 173 Radiator grille:  
Fuse  
Fig. 172 Bonnet release  
lever  
Opening the bonnet  
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Unlock the bonnet ⇒ fig. 172.  
Bonnet remote release  
Ensure that the arms of the windscreen wipers are correctly in place  
against the windscreen before opening the bonnet otherwise  
damage could occur to the paintwork.  
–
Pull the unlocking lever below the dash panel on the driver's side  
⇒ fig. 172.  
The bonnet jumps out of its lock as a result of the spring force. A handle appears at  
the same time in the radiator grille.  
–
Press the locking button ⇒ fig. 173 and open the bonnet.  
Closing the bonnet  
–
Pull the bonnet down far enough to overcome the force of the pressu-  
rized gas spring.  
–
Allow the bonnet to drop from a height of about 30 cm into the lock -  
bonnet do not press down on it!  
The bonnet is held in the opened position by a pressurized gas spring.  
Inspecting and Replenishing 185  
WARNING (continued)  
WARNING  
•
If your vehicle is fitted with a manual gearbox, move the gearshift lever  
into Neutral, or if it is fitted with automatic gearbox, move the selector lever  
into position P.  
•
Never open the bonnet if you see that steam or coolant is flowing out of  
the engine compartment - risk of scalding! Wait long enough until the steam  
or coolant has stopped escaping.  
•
•
•
•
Allow the engine to cool down.  
•
For safety reasons, the bonnet must always be properly closed when  
driving. One should therefore check that the lock has in fact engaged prop-  
erly after closing the bonnet.  
Keep children clear of the engine compartment.  
Do not touch any hot engine parts - risk of burns!  
Never spill oil and other fluids over the hot engine. Such fluids (e.g. the  
•
Stop your vehicle immediately while driving if you notice that the lock is  
not properly engaged and close the bonnet properly - risk of an accident!  
antifreeze contained in the coolant) may ignite!  
•
•
Avoid short circuits in the electrical system - particularly on the battery.  
Caution  
Never place your hand into the radiator fan as long as the engine is still  
warm. The fan might suddenly start running!  
•
Before opening the bonnet, ensure that the arms of the windscreen wipers are  
correctly in place against the windscreen. Otherwise, there is a risk of damage to the  
paintwork.  
•
Never open the cap of the coolant expansion bottle as long as the engine  
is still warm. The cooling system is pressurized!  
Cover over the cap of the coolant expansion reservoir with a large cloth  
•
when opening it as protection for your face, hands and arms from hot steam  
or hot coolant.  
Working in the engine compartment  
Particular care is required when carrying out any work in the engine  
compartment!  
•
Do not let objects, such as e.g cleaning cloth or tools lie in the engine  
compartment.  
If you wish to work under the vehicle, you must secure the vehicle from  
•
There is a risk of injuries, scalding, accidents and fire when working in the  
engine compartment, e.g. inspecting and replenishing oil and other fluids. For  
this reason, it is essential to comply with the warning instructions stated  
below and with the general applicable rules of safety. The engine compart-  
rolling away and support it with suitable supporting blocks: the car jack is  
not sufficient for this - risk of injury!  
•
In cases where it be necessary to carry out inspection work when the  
ment of your car is a hazardous area ⇒  
.
engine is running there is an additional risk from rotating parts (e.g. the V-  
ribbed belt, alternator, radiator fan) and from the high-voltage ignition  
system. Please observe in addition the following:  
WARNING  
−
−
Never touch the electrical cables of the ignition system.  
•
Never open the bonnet if you see that steam or coolant is flowing out of  
the engine compartment - risk of scalding! Wait long enough until the steam  
or coolant has stopped escaping.  
Absolutely avoid any jewellery, loose items of clothing or long hair  
from getting into the rotating parts of the engine - Hazard! Therefore  
remove any jewellery beforehand, tie up your hair and wear tight fitting  
clothing.  
•
•
Switch off the engine and pull out the ignition key.  
Apply the handbrake firmly.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
186 Inspecting and Replenishing  
1
A Battery (below a cover) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
193  
187  
WARNING (continued)  
2
A Engine oil dipstick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
•
Please also comply with the warning instructions stated below when  
carrying out any essential work on the fuel system or on the electrical  
system:  
3
191  
190  
188  
197  
160  
A Brake fluid reservoir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
4
A Coolant expansion bottle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
5
A Engine oil filler opening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
−
−
−
−
Always separate the car battery from the electrical system.  
Do not smoke.  
6
A Windshield washer fluid reservoir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
7
A Power steering reservoir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  
Never carry out any work close to naked flames.  
Always keep a working fire extinguisher at hand.  
Note  
The location of the inspection points in the engine compartment of petrol and  
diesel engines is practically identical.  
Caution  
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!  
Engine oil  
Engine oil specifications  
Overview of the engine compartment  
The grade of engine oil should be selected in accordance with  
precise specifications.  
The main inspection points  
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.  
Škoda Service Partners are informed by Škoda Auto a.s. about current changes. This  
why you should always have engine oil changed by your Škoda Service Partner.  
The specifications (VW standards) stated in the following must be indicated sepa-  
rately or together with other specifications on the bottle.  
Fig. 174 6-cylinder 2.8 ltr./ 142 kW petrol engine  
Inspecting and Replenishing 187  
Engine oil specifications for vehicles with fixed service intervals (QG2)  
Note  
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.  
Specification  
•
Petrol engines  
Diesel engines  
VW 501 01  
VW 502 00  
VW 504 00  
•
We recommend using a preservative from the Škoda original accessories  
offered by your Škoda dealer.  
For further information - see Service shedule.  
a)  
VW 505 00  
VW 505 01  
•
b)  
c)  
VW 507 00  
Check engine oil level  
a)  
b)  
c)  
Not valid for PD engine (a unit injector engine) and engine with DPF (diesel particle  
filter).  
Not valid for engine with DPF (diesel particle filter). Further information ⇒ page 160,  
“Diesel particle filter* (diesel engine)”.  
The dipstick indicates the level of oil in the engine.  
This does not apply for PDi engines (a unit injection engine).  
Engine oil specifications for models with flexible service intervals (QG1)  
Specification  
Petrol engines  
Diesel engines  
VW 503 00  
VW 504 00  
a)  
VW 506 01  
VW 507 00  
Fig. 175 Dipstick  
a)  
Not valid for engine with DPF (diesel particle filter). Further information ⇒ page 160,  
“Diesel particle filter* (diesel engine)”.  
Checking the oil level  
–
–
–
Park the vehicle on a horizontal surface.  
Switch the engine off.  
Caution  
Only the above-mentioned oils may be used on vehicles with flexible service inter-  
vals (QG1). We recommend always refilling with oil of the same specification since  
this will maintain the properties of the oil. In exceptional cases, you must top up  
only once engine oil complying with Specification VW 502 00 (only for petrol  
engines) or Specification VW 505 01 (only for diesel engines) to maximum 0.5 litres.  
You must not use other engine oils - risk of engine damage!  
Open the bonnet ⇒  
in “Working in the engine compartment” on  
page 185.  
–
–
Wait a few minutes and pull out the oil dipstick.  
Wipe off the dipstick with a clean cloth and insert it again fully.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
188 Inspecting and Replenishing  
–
After this, once again withdraw the dipstick and read off the oil level  
⇒ page 187, fig. 175.  
Caution  
The oil level must on no account extend beyond the range A. Danger of  
damaging the catalytic converter.  
Do not continue your journey if for some reason it is not possible under the  
conditions prevailing to top up with oil. Switch the engine off and obtain profes-  
sional assistance from a specialist garage, otherwise it could lead to severe engine  
damage.  
a
•
a
Oil level within range A  
•
–
You must not top up the oil.  
b
Oil level within range A  
–
You may top up the oil. It is possible that the oil level may then be  
a
within range A after doing this.  
Replenishing engine oil  
c
Oil level within range A  
–
–
–
Inspect the oil level ⇒ page 187.  
–
You must top up the oil ⇒ page 188. It is sufficient, once this is done,  
b
to keep the oil level is within range A.  
Unscrew the cap of the engine oil filler opening.  
Pour in a suitable grade of oil in portions of 0.5 litres ⇒ page 186,  
“Engine oil specifications”.  
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 first 5 000 kilometres.  
–
–
Inspect the oil level ⇒ page 187.  
Carefully screw on the cap of the filler opening and push the dipstick  
in fully.  
One should therefore check the oil level at regular intervals, preferably every time  
after the fuel tank is filled or after driving for long stretches.  
a
We recommend maintaining the oil level within the range Aif the engine has been  
operating at high loads, for example during a lengthy motorway trip during the  
summer months, towing a trailer or negotiating a high mountain pass, but not  
above this.  
WARNING  
•
Avoid dripping oil onto hot parts of the engine when topping up will oil -  
a risk of fire!  
The warning light in the instrument cluster will indicate whether the oil level is too  
low ⇒ page 27, “Engine oil ”. In this case, check the oil level as soon as possible.  
Top up with an appropriate quantity of oil.  
•
Read and observe the warning notes ⇒ page 185, “Working in the engine  
compartment” before working in the engine compartment.  
For the sake of the environment  
The oil level must on no account be above the range A ⇒ page 187, fig. 175. Oil  
will otherwise be drawn in through the crankcase ventilation and may pass through  
the exhaust system to atmosphere. The oil may combust in the catalytic converter  
and damage it.  
WARNING  
a
Read and observe the warning notes ⇒ page 185, “Working in the engine  
compartment” before working in the engine compartment.  
Inspecting and Replenishing 189  
Changing engine oil  
Cooling system  
The engine oil must be changed at the intervals stated in the Service schedule or  
according to the service interval indicator ⇒ page 14.  
Coolant  
The job of the coolant is to cool the engine.  
The cooling system does not require any maintenance under normal operating  
conditions. 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.  
WARNING  
•
Only carry out the engine oil change, if you have the required profes-  
sional knowledge!  
Read and observe the warning notes ⇒ page 185, “Working in the engine  
compartment” before working in the engine compartment.  
•
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%.  
•
•
•
Let the engine cool down - risk of burning from hot oil.  
Wear an eye protection - risk of caustic burns due to oil splashes.  
Oil is toxic! Store old oil in a safe place out of the reach of children and  
unauthorized persons until you dispose of it properly.  
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 down to approx. -40°C). The antifreeze protection tails off above that  
concentration.  
Caution  
You must not pour any additives into the engine oil - risk of engine damage!  
Damage, which results from such product, are excluded from the warranty.  
Vehicles exported to countries with a cold climate (e.g. Sweden, Norway, Finland)  
are already factory-filled with a coolant which offers antifreeze protection down to  
about -35°C. In these countries the concentration of coolant additive should be at  
least 50 %.  
For the sake of the environment  
•
•
You must on no account pour oil into the ground or into the sewage system.  
Coolant  
In view of the problems involved in properly disposing of old oil, the material,  
equipment and the knowledge required for such work, we recommend that you  
have the oil and oil filter change carried out by your Škoda Service Partner.  
The cooling system is filled at the works with coolant (purple in colour), which  
complies with the specification TL-VW 774 F.  
We recommend that you use the antifreeze agent - G12 PLUS (purple in colour).  
Please contact your Škoda Service Partner if you have any questions regarding the  
coolant or if you wish to fill up with a different coolant.  
Note  
After your skin has come in contact with the oil, you must thoroughly wash your  
skin.  
Your Škoda Service Partner can also supply you with the correct coolant additives.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
190 Inspecting and Replenishing  
Caution  
Loss of coolant  
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 system inspected without delay by a specialist garage.  
•
Other coolant additives may cause operational problems which, in partic-  
ular, involves significantly reducing the anticorrosion effect.  
Any faults or problems resulting from corrosion may cause a loss of  
•
Losses can only occur through the pressure relief in the cap of the coolant expan-  
sion bottle which is completely free of leaks if the coolant boils as a result of over-  
heating and is forced out of the cooling system.  
coolant and, as a consequence of this, result in major engine damage.  
Inspecting the coolant level  
WARNING  
Read and observe the warning notes ⇒ page 185, “Working in the engine  
compartment” before working in the engine compartment.  
Caution  
One should contact a specialist garage as soon as possible if the source of over-  
heating itself cannot be determined and removed, since there may be grave  
damage to the engine.  
Fig. 176 Engine  
compartment: Coolant  
expansion bottle  
Replenishing the coolant  
The coolant expansion bottle is located in the engine compartment on  
the left.  
–
–
–
Switch the engine off.  
Allow the engine to cool down.  
–
–
Switch the engine off.  
Place a cloth over the cap of the coolant expansion reservoir  
⇒ fig. 176 and unscrew the cap carefully by turning it to the left  
Open the bonnet ⇒  
in “Working in the engine compartment” on  
page 185.  
⇒
.
–
Check the level of coolant in the coolant expansion bottle ⇒ fig. 176.  
The coolant level when the engine is cold must lie between the “MIN”  
and “MAX” markings. The level may also rise slightly above the “MAX”  
marking when the engine is warm.  
–
–
Top up the coolant.  
Screw the cap tight until it is heard to lock.  
The coolant which you use for replenishing the system, must comply with one  
specific specification ⇒ page 189, “Coolant”. Do not use an alternative additive if  
the coolant additive G12 PLUS is not available in exceptional cases. Just top up the  
If the coolant level in the reservoir is too low, this is indicated by the warning light  
in the instrument cluster ⇒ page 22. We nevertheless recommend inspecting  
the coolant level directly at the reservoir from time to time.  
Inspecting and Replenishing 191  
system with water and as soon as possible arrange adjustment to correct the mixing  
ratio of water and coolant additive again by a specialist garage.  
Radiator fan  
The radiator fan may switch on suddenly.  
Only use fresh coolant for topping up the system.  
The radiator fan is driven by an electric motor and controlled by a thermostat  
according to the coolant temperature.  
Do not fill up over the “MAX” marking! Excess coolant which is heated up is forced  
out of the cooling system through the pressure relief valve in the cap of the coolant  
compensation bottle.  
The radiator fan may continue running for up to 10 minutes after the engine has  
been switched off - even if the ignition is also off. It may also switch on suddenly  
after a certain time, if  
Wait until the engine has cooled down for a system which has suffered a major loss  
of coolant before pouring in coolant. This is necessary to avoid engine damage.  
•
•
the coolant temperature has risen because of an accumulation of heat or  
the warm engine compartment is heated up additionally by strong sunlight.  
WARNING  
•
The cooling system is pressurized! Do not open the cap of the coolant  
expansion bottle if the engine is still hot - risk of scalding!  
The coolant additive and thus all of the coolant is harmful to your health.  
WARNING  
•
You must therefore be aware when working in the engine compartment that  
the fan may switch on suddenly - risk of injury!  
Avoid contact with the coolant. Coolant vapours are also harmful to the  
health. It is important, therefore, to always safely store any coolant additive  
in its original container out of the reach of children - risk of poisoning!  
Brake fluid  
•
If any splashes of coolant get into your eyes, rinse out your eyes immedi-  
ately with clear water and contact a doctor as soon as possible.  
You should also consult a doctor without delay if you have inadvertently  
Inspecting the brake fluid level  
•
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. 177 Engine  
compartment: Brake  
For the sake of the environment  
fluid reservoir  
Do not re-use coolant if it is necessary to drain the coolant in the system. It should  
be collected and disposed of in compliance with environmental protection  
regulations.  
You can also see the location of the brake fluid reservoir in the engine  
compartment from the general view of the engine compartment  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
192 Inspecting and Replenishing  
point of the brake fluid. This is why brake fluid must be replaced every two  
years.  
⇒ page 186. The brake fluid reservoir on right-hand steering models is  
positioned on the other side of the engine compartment.  
One may only use new genuine brake fluid from Škoda Auto a.s. The specification  
for the brake fluid is “FMVSS 116 DOT 4”.  
–
–
Switch the engine off.  
Open the bonnet ⇒  
page 185.  
in “Working in the engine compartment” on  
We recommend that you have the brake fluid replaced by a Škoda Service Partner  
as part of an Inspection Service.  
B
–
–
Pull off the rubber seal A ⇒ page 191, fig. 177 partially away and lift  
C
the cover A slightly.  
WARNING  
A
Inspect the brake fluid level at the reservoir A. The level must be  
•
Using old brake fluid can result in severe stress on the brakes because of  
the formation of vapour bubbles in the brake system. This greatly impairs  
the braking efficiency and thus also the safety of your vehicle.  
between the “MIN” and “MAX” markings. The markings are indicated  
on the side of the reservoir.  
•
Brake fluid is toxic! It must therefore be kept safely in closed original  
containers and well away from children and unauthorized persons.  
A slight drop in the fluid level results when driving due to normal wear-and-tear  
and automatic adjustment of the brake pads, and is perfectly normal.  
There may be an indication of a leak in the brake system, however, if the fluid level  
drops significantly within a short time or if it drops below the “MIN” marking. A situ-  
ation where the brake fluid level is too low is indicated by the warning light  
lighting up in the instrument cluster ⇒ page 29. In this case stop the car immedi-  
ately and do not drive any further! Contact a Škoda Dealer to obtain profes-  
sional assistance.  
Caution  
Brake fluid damages the paintwork of the vehicle.  
For the sake of the environment  
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 a Škoda Service Partner.  
WARNING  
•
Read and observe the warning notes ⇒ page 185, “Working in the engine  
compartment” before working in the engine compartment.  
If the fluid level has dropped below the MIN marking, do not drive any  
•
further - risk of accident! Contact a Škoda dealer to obtain professional  
assistance.  
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  
Inspecting and Replenishing 193  
Battery  
WARNING (continued)  
in the lungs. Battery acid corrodes dental enamel and creates deep wounds  
after contact with the skin which take a long time to heal. Repeated contact  
with diluted acids causes skin diseases (inflammations, ulcers, slin cracks).  
Acids coming into contact with water are diluted accompanied by significant  
development of heat.  
Working on the battery  
Particular care is required when carrying out any work on the  
battery!  
•
Do not tilt the battery otherwise battery electrolyte may flow out of the  
battery vent openings. Protect the eyes with safety glasses or a shield! There  
is the danger of suffering blindness! If any battery electrolyte gets into your  
eye, rinse out your eye immediately with clear water for several minutes.  
Contact a doctor without delay.  
•
Splashes of acid on your skin or clothes should be neutralised as soon as  
possible using soap suds and then rinsed with plenty of water. Contact a  
doctor immediately if you swallow battery electrolyte.  
Fig. 178 Engine  
compartment: plenum  
chamber - battery cover  
•
•
Keep batteries out of the reach of children.  
Hydrogen is released when you charge a battery and a highly explosive  
gas mixture is produced. An explosion can be caused through sparkling over  
during unclamping or loosening of the cable plug while the ignition is on.  
The battery is located in the engine compartment in the plenum chamber  
below a cover.  
•
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, explosion and burning of the battery, jets of acid spurting out.  
Taking off cover  
•
It is prohibited to work with a naked flame and light, to smoke or to carry  
–
Press the cover in direction of arrow ⇒ fig. 178.  
out any activities which produce sparks. Avoid creating sparks when  
working with cables and electrical devices. Strong sparking represents a risk  
of injury.  
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 the warning instructions ⇒  
rules of safety.  
stated below and with the general applicable  
•
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.  
WARNING  
•
Never charge a frozen or thawed battery - risk of explosion and caustic  
burns! Replace a frozen battery.  
Never use a battery which is damaged - risk of explosion! Immediately  
replace a damaged battery.  
•
The battery acid is strongly corrosive and must, therefore, be handled  
with the greatest of care. Always wear protective gloves, eye and skin  
protection when handling batteries. Corrosive fumes in the air irritate the  
air passages and lead to conjunctivitis and inflammation of the air passages  
•
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
194 Inspecting and Replenishing  
Caution  
Battery with a charge level indicator, the so-called magic eye  
•
You must only disconnect the battery if the ignition is switched off, otherwise  
the electrical system (electronic components) of the vehicle may be damaged.  
When disconnecting the battery from the electrical system of the vehicle, first  
disconnect the negative terminal (-) of the battery. Then disconnect the positive  
terminal (+).  
•
When reconnecting the battery, first connect the positive terminal (+) and only  
then the negative terminal (-) of the battery. You must on no account connect the  
cables wrongly - risk of a cable fire!  
Fig. 179 Engine  
compartment: Battery  
with magic eye  
•
Ensure that battery acid does not come into contact with the vehicle body  
otherwise damage could occur to the paintwork.  
Do not place the battery in direct daylight in order to protect the battery  
•
housing from the effects of ultra-violet light.  
There is a so-called magic eye ⇒ fig. 179 located on the top of the battery. The  
“magic eye” changes its colour in line with the charge state of and electrolyte level  
in the battery.  
For the sake of the environment  
A removed battery is a special type of waste which is harmful to the environment -  
contact your specialist garage regarding disposing of the battery.  
Air bubbles can influence the colour of the “magic eye”. For this reason carefully  
knock on the “magic eye” before carrying out the check.  
•
•
•
Green colour - the battery is adequately charged  
Note  
Dark colour - the battery has to be charged  
Please also refer to the guidelines ⇒ page 196, “Disconnecting and reconnecting  
the battery”, also after connecting the battery.  
Colourless or yellow colour. Have the battery checked by a specialist garage  
Batteries, which are more than 5 years old, must be replaced. We recommend you  
have the electrolyte level inspected and adjusted to the correct level or the battery  
replaced if necessary by a specialist garage.  
Caution  
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 discon-  
necting the negative terminal or charging the battery constantly with a very low  
charging current. Please also refer to the notes when working on the battery  
⇒ page 193, “Working on the battery”.  
Inspecting and Replenishing 195  
–
–
–
–
Only for “quick-charging”: Disconnect both battery cables (first of all  
“negative”, then “positive”).  
Inspecting the electrolyte level  
The battery is practically maintenance-free under normal operating conditions.  
We 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 long trips. You should also check the electrolyte level ⇒ page 195 each  
time the battery is charged.  
Carefully attach the terminal clamps of the charger to the battery  
terminals (red = “positive”, black = “negative”).  
You can now plug the mains cable of the charger into the power socket  
and switch on the charger.  
The battery acid level will also be checked as part of the Inspection Service.  
When charging is completed: switch the charger off and unplug the  
mains cable from the power socket.  
Operation in winter  
–
–
Only then should you disconnect the terminal clamps of the charger.  
The battery has to provide greater amounts of electricity during the winter. It also  
has only part of the initial power output at low temperatures that it has at normal  
temperatures.  
Reconnect the cables to the battery (first of all “positive”, then “nega-  
tive”).  
It is not normally necessary to disconnect the cables of the battery if you recharge  
the battery using low amperages (as for example from a mini-charger). Please also  
refer to the instructions from the charger manufacturer.  
A discharged battery may already freeze at temperatures just below 0°C.  
We therefore recommend that you have the battery checked by a specialist garage  
before the start of the winter, and recharged if necessary.  
A charging current of 0.1 of the total battery capacity (or lower) is that which should  
be used until full charging is achieved.  
Note  
It is, however, necessary to disconnect both cables before charging the battery with  
If the vehicle is not going to be driven for a period of some weeks when there is very  
severe frost one should remove ⇒ page 196 the battery and store it in a place  
which is protected from frost. This prevents the battery from freezing up and  
thereby being destroyed.  
high amperages, so-called “quick-charging”.  
“Quick-charging” a battery is dangerous ⇒  
in “Working on the battery” on  
page 193. It requires a special charger and appropriate knowledge. We therefore  
recommend that you have your battery quick-charged only by your specialist  
garage.  
Charging the battery  
A discharged battery may already freeze at temperatures just below 0°C. ⇒  
recommend that you no longer use a battery which has thawed out because the  
casing of the battery may be cracked through the formation of ice and this would  
allow battery electrolyte to flow out.  
. We  
A properly charged battery is essential for reliably starting the  
engine.  
–
Read the warning notes ⇒  
page 193 and ⇒  
in “Working on the battery” on  
The vent plugs of the battery should not be opened for charging.  
.
–
Switch the ignition and all electrical components off.  
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Technical Data  
196 Inspecting and Replenishing  
WARNING  
A
B
–
Pull off gasket A and take out the cover of the plenum chamber A  
in the direction of the arrow ⇒ fig. 180.  
Never charge a frozen or thawed battery - risk of explosion and caustic  
burns. Replace a frozen battery.  
–
–
–
Unclamp the battery negative terminal (-).  
Unclamp the battery positive terminal (+).  
C
Unscrew the screw A⇒ fig. 181 completely and remove the locking  
Removing and installing the battery  
plate.  
–
–
Move the battery in the direction of the arrow and pull it out in an  
upward direction.  
Installation takes place in the reverse order.  
Please also refer to the following notes when connecting up the battery  
⇒ page 196.  
Fig. 180 Engine  
compartment: plenum  
chamber - cover  
Note  
We do not recommend that you remove and install the battery yourself (even when  
you are following the instructions given in this Owner's manual) since a battery can  
be heavily damaged in the process under certain circumstances. Contact a  
specialist garage.  
Disconnecting and reconnecting the battery  
On disconnecting and reconnecting the battery the following functions are initially  
deactivated or are no longer able to operate fault-free.  
Fig. 181 Engine  
compartment: The  
battery  
Removing and installing the battery  
–
Please also refer to the notes when working on the battery  
⇒ page 193.  
–
Switched off all electrical components and remove the ignition key.  
Inspecting and Replenishing 197  
Windshield washer system  
Operation  
Operating measure  
Electrical power window (operational  
faults)  
⇒ page 42  
Enter radio code number  
see Radio Operating Instruc-  
tions  
Set hours  
⇒ page 13  
⇒ page 15  
Data in the multi-functional indicator are  
deleted.  
Fig. 182 Engine  
compartment: Wind-  
shield washer fluid reser-  
voir  
We recommend having the vehicle checked by a specialist garage to ensure full  
functionality of all electrical systems.  
The windshield washer reservoir contains the cleaning fluid for the windscreen and  
for the headlamp cleaning system*. The reservoir is located in the front left of the  
engine compartment ⇒ fig. 182.  
Replacing the battery  
You should only replace a battery with a new battery of the same capacity, voltage  
(12 V), amperage and of the same size. Specialist garages have a range of suitable  
batteries available.  
The reservoir has a capacity of 4 liters.  
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.  
We recommend that you only have an old battery disposed of by a specialist garage  
since it does require special disposal.  
For the sake of the environment  
You should always add antifreeze to the cleaning water in winter even if your  
vehicle is fitted with heated windscreen washer nozzles*.  
Batteries contain poisonous substances such as sulphuric acid and lead. They must  
be disposed of in accordance with local environmental protection regulations and  
on no account as domestic waste.  
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 185, “Working in the engine  
compartment” before working in the engine compartment.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
198 Inspecting and Replenishing  
Caution  
•
On no account should you add radiator antifreeze or other additives to the  
windscreen washer fluid.  
If the vehicle is fitted with 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 Škoda Service Partner, who will  
tell you which cleaning agent you can use.  
Note  
Do not take the filter out of the windscreen wash container when filling it up again  
with liquid otherwise dirt can get into the liquid transportation system and can lead  
to faults in operation of the windscreen wash system.  
Wheels and Tyres 199  
Wheels and Tyres  
Further information concerning the use of unidirectional tyres ⇒ page 204.  
Wheels  
General comments  
WARNING  
•
New tyres during the first 500 km do not offer optimal grip and should  
therefore be run appropriately - risk of accident!  
•
New tyres do not offer optimal grip at first and should therefore be run in for  
about 500 km at a moderate speed and an appropriately cautious style of driving.  
You will also profit from longer tyre life.  
•
Never drive with damaged tyres - risk of accident!  
•
The tread depth of new tyres may differ because of design features and the  
configuration of the tread (depending on the type of tyre and the manufacturer).  
Drive over curbs on the side of the road and other such obstacles slowly and,  
where possible, at a right angles in order to avoid damage to tyres and wheel trims.  
Inspect your tyres from time to time for damage (punctures, cuts, splits and  
bulges). Remove foreign bodies from the tyre profile.  
Damage to tyres and wheels is frequently not visible. Unusual vibrations or  
Note  
•
Please observe the various differing legal requirements regarding tyres.  
•
•
pulling of the vehicle to one side could be a sign of tyre damage. Please reduce  
your speed immediately and stop if you suspect that a wheel is damaged.  
Inspect the tyres for signs of damage (bulges, splits, etc.) If no visible damage is  
present, please drive at an appropriately slow speed and carefully to the nearest  
specialist garage in order to have your vehicle inspected.  
•
•
•
Also protect your tyres from contact with oil, grease and fuel.  
Immediately replace any dust caps of the valves which have got lost.  
Mark wheels before removing them so that their previous direction of running  
can be maintained when mounted them again.  
•
Always store wheels or tyres which been removed in a cool, dry and, where  
possible, dark place. Tyres which are not fixed to a wheel trim should be stored  
upright.  
Unidirectional tyres*  
The direction of rotation of the tyres is marked by arrows on the wall of the tyre. This  
indicates the direction of rotation of the tyre, and it is essential that the tyres are  
fitted on to run in this direction. Only then are the tyres able to provide the optimal  
properties in terms of grip, low noise, wear-and-tear and aquaplaning.  
Using the system  
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200 Wheels and Tyres  
Tyre life  
The tyre inflation pressures for summer tyres are indicated on the inside of the fuel  
filler flap ⇒ fig. 183. The inflation pressures for winter tyres are 20 kPa (0.2 bar)  
higher than those for summer tyres ⇒ page 203.  
The tyre pressure should be at the highest pressure specified for your vehicle at all  
times.  
On cars with full wheel trim, valve extensions are fitted in place of dust caps  
⇒ fig. 184. It is not necessary to unscrew the valve extensions in order to check and  
alter the inflation pressure of the tyre.  
Always check the inflation pressure of tyres when cold. Do not reduce the higher  
pressure of warm tyres. Adapt the inflation pressure of the tyres accordingly if your  
vehicle is carrying a significantly higher payload.  
Fig. 183 An opened fuel  
filler flap with the tyre  
inflation pressure table  
Driving style  
Fast cornering, sharp acceleration and braking (squealing tyres) increase wear-and-  
tear on your tyres.  
Balancing wheels  
The wheels of a new vehicle are balanced. There are a wide range of influences  
when driving which may result in an imbalance and which makes themselves felt  
through vibration in the steering.  
You should have the wheels rebalanced since any imbalance increases wear-and-  
tear on the steering, the suspension and tyres. A wheel must also be rebalanced  
when a new tyre is fitted and each time a tyre is repaired.  
Fig. 184 Wheel with full  
trim and extended valve  
Wheel alignment errors  
The life of your tyres very much depends on the following points:  
Tyre pressure  
Incorrect wheel alignment at the front and rear will not only increase wear-and-tear  
on the tyres but will also has an adverse effect on vehicle safety. Contact your  
specialist garage if you notice any unusual tyre wear.  
The working life of tyres will be shortened considerably if the tyres are insufficiently  
or over-inflated and this will have an adverse effect on the handling of your vehicle.  
WARNING  
Correctly inflated tyres are of particular importance when travelling at high speeds.  
It is therefore good to check the pressure at least once a month and also before  
setting off on a long trip. Please do not forget the spare wheel when checking the  
tyres.  
•
If the inflation pressure is too low, the tyre must perform a greater flexing  
work. At higher speeds the tyre will warm up as a result of this. This can  
result in tread separation and even a tyre blowout.  
•
Immediately replace the damaged rims or tyres.  
Wheels and Tyres 201  
Changing wheels around  
For the sake of the environment  
Tyres which are insufficiently inflated increase your fuel consumption.  
Wear indicators  
Fig. 186 Changing  
wheels around  
If significantly greater wear is present on the front tyres, we recommend changing  
the front wheels around with the rear wheels as shown in the diagram ⇒ fig. 186.  
You will then obtain approximately the same life for all the tyres.  
Fig. 185 Tyre tread with  
wear indicators  
It may be advantageous to swap the tyres over “crosswise” when certain types of  
wear characteristic arise on the running surface of the tyres (but not in the case of  
unidirectional tyres). Škoda Service Partners can provide you with details.  
The base of the tread of the original tyres has wear indicators 1.6 mm high, installed  
at right angles to the direction of travel. These wear indicators are located at 6 - 8  
points depending on the make and are evenly spaced around the circumference of  
the tyre ⇒ fig. 185. Markings on the walls of the tyres through the letters “TWI”,  
triangular symbols or other symbols identify the position of the wear indicators.  
We recommend that you change the wheels around every 10 000 km in order to  
achieve even wear on all wheels and to obtain optimal tyre life.  
A remaining tread of just 1.6 mm, measured in the grooves of the tread next to the  
wear indicators, means that your tyres have reached their legally permissible  
minimum tread depth.  
New tyres and wheels  
Tyres and wheel rims are important design elements. One should therefore use the  
tyres and wheel rims which have been released for use by Škoda Auto. They are  
exactly matched to the vehicle type and therefore contribute significantly to good  
WARNING  
road holding and safe driving characteristics ⇒  
.
•
You must have your tyres replaced with new ones at the latest when the  
wear indicators have been worn down. The legally permissible minimum  
tread depth should be observed.  
Only fit radial tyres of the same type on all 4 wheels, size (rolling circumference)  
and, if possible, the same tread pattern on one axle.  
•
Worn tyres do not provide the necessary adhesion to the road surface at  
high speeds on wet roads. One could experience “aquaplaning” (uncon-  
trolled movements of the vehicle - “swimming” on a wet road surface).  
The Škoda Service Partners have access to the most current information about  
which tyres we have released for use on your vehicle.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
202 Wheels and Tyres  
We recommend that you have any work relating to tyres or wheels carried out by  
your Škoda Service Partner. Your dealer has all of the necessary special tools and  
replacement parts available plus the required specialist knowledge and is also in a  
position to properly dispose of the old tyres. A large number of Škoda Service Part-  
ners also have an attractive range of tyres and wheels available.  
The date of manufacture is also stated on the tyre wall (possibly only on the inside  
of wheel):  
DOT ... 20 04...  
means, for example, that the tyre was manufactured in the 20th week of the year  
2004.  
The tyre/wheel combinations which are approved for your vehicle are indicated in  
your vehicle documents. Approval and licensing may differ according to the legis-  
lation prevailing in individual countries.  
Any spare wheel which differs from the tyres fitted to the vehicle (e.g. winter tyres  
or low-profile tyres) should only be used only for a short time in the event of a  
puncture and when adopting an appropriately cautious style of driving. It should be  
replaced as quickly as possible by a normal wheel.  
Proper knowledge of the tyre data makes it easier for you to select the correct type  
of tyre. Tyres do, for example, have the following inscription on their walls:  
205 / 60 R 15 91 V  
WARNING  
What this means is:  
•
Only use those tyres or wheel rims which have been approved for your  
model of Škoda Auto a.s. vehicle. Failure to observe this instruction will  
adversely affect the road safety of your vehicle - risk of accident! Approval  
and licencing of your vehicle on public roads may also become void as a  
result.  
205  
60  
R
Tyre width in mm  
Height/width ratio in %  
Code letter for the type of tyre - Radial  
Diameter of wheel in inches  
Load index  
•
You must on no account drive at a higher speed than is permissible for  
your tyres - risk of an accident resulting from tyre damage and loss of control  
over your vehicle.  
15  
91  
V
Speed symbol  
•
Tyres which are 6 years old or more should only be fitted in exceptional  
cases and when adopting an appropriately cautious style of driving.  
Never fit tyres which have already been used without having adequate  
knowledge of their previous history. Tyres age even if they have not been  
used at all or only very little. A spare tyre must only be used in exceptional  
cases and only then when adopting an appropriately cautious style of  
driving.  
The following speed restrictions apply to tyres.  
•
Speed symbol  
Permissible maximum speed  
S
T
180 km/h  
190 km/h  
210 km/h  
240 km/h  
270 km/h  
300 km/h  
•
Do not, where possible, replace individual tyres but at least replace them  
on both wheels of a given axle at the same time. Always fit the tyres with the  
deeper tread depth to the front wheels.  
H
V
W
Y
For the sake of the environment  
Old tyres must be disposed of in conformity with the appropriate regulations.  
Wheels and Tyres 203  
Winter tyres  
Note  
It is not normally possible to fit wheels from other models of cars for technical  
reasons. This may also apply in certain circumstances to the wheels of the same  
type of vehicle.  
The handling of your vehicle will be significantly improved when driving on wintry  
roads if you fit winter tyres. Summer tyres do not offer the same grip on ice, snow  
and at temperatures below 7 °C because of their construction (width, rubber blend,  
tread pattern). This applies in particular to vehicles which are equipped with low-  
profile tyres or high-speed tyres (code index V, W or Y on wall of tyre).  
Wheel bolts  
Winter tyres must be mounted on all four wheels to obtain the best handling char-  
acteristics.  
Wheels and wheel bolts are matched to each other in terms of design. Each time  
you fit other wheels - e.g. light alloy wheels or wheels with winter tyres - you must  
therefore also use the matching wheel bolts of the correct length and shape of  
spherical cap. This is essential to ensure that the wheels are tightly fitted and that  
the brake system operates properly.  
You must only fit those types of winter tyre which are approved for your vehicle. The  
permissible sizes of winter tyres are stated in your vehicle documents. Approvals  
may differ because of national legislation.  
Please remember that the tyres should be inflated to 20 kPa (0.2 bar) more than is  
If you retrofit wheel trims (or have this done), please also ensure that an adequate  
the case for summer tyres ⇒ page 200.  
flow of air remains assured for cooling the brake system.  
Winter tyres no longer offer the same winter performance once the tyre tread has  
The Škoda Service Partners are instructed in the technical possibilities which exist  
regarding converting or retrofitting wheels, tyres and wheel trim.  
worn down to a depth of about 4 mm.  
Ageing also causes winter tyres to lose most of their winter performance properties  
- even in cases where the remaining tread depth is still clearly more than 4 mm.  
WARNING  
Speed restrictions apply to winter tyres as well as to summer tyres ⇒ page 201,  
⇒
.
•
In case of incorrect treatment of the wheel bolts, the wheel can loosen  
when the car is moving - risk of accident!  
The wheel bolts must be clean and must turn easily. However, they must  
never be treated with grease or oil.  
If the wheel bolts are tightened to a too low tightening torque, the rim  
You can fit winter tyres of a lower speed category to your vehicle provided that you  
also do not drive faster than the permissible maximum speed for such tyres, even  
if the possible maximum speed of your vehicle is higher. The corresponding tyre  
category can damage the tyres when exceeding the permissible maximum speed.  
•
•
can lossen when the car is moving - risk of accident! A tightening torque  
which is too high can damage the bolts and threads and this can result in  
permanent deformation of the contact surfaces on the rims.  
Please pay attention to the notes if you decide to fit winter tyres ⇒ page 199.  
You can also fit so-called “all-year tyres” instead of winter tyres.  
Please contact your specialist garage if there are any points which are not clear who  
will be able to provide you with information regarding the maximum speed for your  
tyres.  
Caution  
The prescribed tightening torque of the wheel bolts for steel and light alloy wheels  
is 120 Nm.  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
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Technical Data  
204 Wheels and Tyres  
WARNING  
Snow chains must only be mounted on the front wheels.  
When driving on wintry roads, snow chains improve not only traction, but also the  
braking performance.  
You must on no account drive your car at more than the permissible  
maximum speed for your winter tyres - risk of an accident resulting from  
tyre damage and loss of control over your car.  
Only use fine-link snow chains. They must not project more than 15 mm -  
including the chain lock.  
Remove the full wheel trims if you wish to fit snow chains to the wheels.  
For the sake of the environment  
Observe the national legal requirements relating to the maximum vehicle speed  
with snow chains.  
Fit your summer tyres on again in good time since summer tyres offer you better  
grip and handling on roads which are free of snow and ice as well as ar tempera-  
tures below 7 °C - the braking distance is shorter, there is less tyre noise, tyre wear  
is reduced and fuel consumption is reduced.  
WARNING  
Please pay attention to the information in the supplied fitting instructions of  
the snow chain manufacturer.  
Note  
Please observe the various differing legal requirements regarding tyres.  
Caution  
You must take the chains off as soon as you drive on roads which are free of snow.  
They adversely affect the handling of your vehicle, damage the tyres and are rapidly  
destroyed.  
Unidirectional tyres*  
The direction of rotation of the tyres is marked by arrows on the wall of the tyre.  
This indicates the direction of rotation of the tyre, and it is essential that the tyres  
are fitted on to run in this direction. Only then are the tyres able to provide the  
optimal properties in terms of grip, low noise, wear-and-tear and aquaplaning.  
Note  
We recommend that you use snow chains from the Škoda genuine accessories.  
Should it be necessary to fit on a spare wheel in exceptional cases with a tyre not  
dedicated to the running direction or in opposite running direction, please adopt a  
cautious style of driving as the tyre is no longer able to provide optimal grip and  
handling in such a situation. This particularly important on wet roads. Please refer  
to the notes ⇒ page 209, “Spare wheel”.  
You should have the defective tyre replaced as soon as possible and restore the  
correct direction of rotation on all tyres  
Snow chains  
Snow chains can be used only for wheel sizes 6J x 16 ET 40 or 6J x 16 ET 37. Your  
Škoda Service Partner can provide you with more detailed information.  
Accessories, changes and replacement of parts 205  
Accessories, changes and replacement of parts  
Accessories and replacement parts  
WARNING (continued)  
your Škoda. Reliability, safety and suitabiliity have been established for  
these Škoda original parts.  
Škoda vehicles have been built according to the latest discoveries in safety engi-  
neering. Thus one should not change the condition in which the vehicle was deliv-  
ered from the manufacturer without some thought.  
•
We cannot guarantee suitability of installation into your vehicle of other  
products despite keeping a constant eye on market developments (also not  
in the case where there is an attestation or permission can be produced).  
The following guidelines should be observed when a vehicle is to be retrofitted with  
accessories, have technical changes made to it or a part has to be replaced at some  
time in the future.  
•
Advise should always be obtained from a Škoda Service Partner before buying  
Technical changes  
any accessories and before making any technical changes ⇒  
.
•
•
This is particularly the case when accessories are bought in a foreign country.  
Škoda Genuine Accessories which have been released for use and Skoda orig-  
inal parts can be obtained from Škoda Service Partners. They will install them  
professionally and correctly.  
Interference on the electronic components and their software can lead to opera-  
tional faults. This interference can also impair not directly affected systems because  
of the networking of the electronic components. This means that the operating  
safety of your vehicle can be considerably jeopardized, a greater wear of vehicle  
parts can occur and finally the vehicle registration documents expire.  
•
All Škoda original accessory which is listed in the catalogue such as tilting roofs,  
spoilers, wheels etc. must have an official stamp of approval.  
Radios, aerials and other electrical accessories should only be installed by an  
authorised workshop.  
The guidelines issued by Škoda Auto a.s. must be observed when making tech-  
nical changes.  
We trust that you will understand that your Škoda Service Partner cannot be liable  
for damage resulting from unprofessional work.  
•
We therefore recommend that you have all work carried out with Škoda original  
parts at your authorised Škoda Service Partners.  
•
•
This is to ensure that no technical damage occurs to the vehicle, that travelling  
WARNING  
and operating safety are maintained and that the chnages are permissible. Škoda  
Service Partners undertake this work professionally or refer it to an specialist  
company in special cases.  
Work or modifications on your vehicle, which have been carried out unpro-  
fessionally, can cause operational faults - risk of accident!  
Any damage which is done caused by technical changes made without  
consulting a Skoda a.s. dealer is excluded from the guarantee.  
WARNING  
•
We advise you, in your own interest, to only use Škoda Genuine Accesso-  
ries and Škoda original parts which have been expressly approved for use on  
Using the system  
Safety  
Driving Tips  
General Maintenance  
Breakdown assistance  
Technical Data  
206 Accessories, changes and replacement of parts  

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