Get Driving Tips Guide for Skoda Yeti 4 Door First Generation (2009-2013)

Intelligent Technology 177

Driving Tips

Intelligent Technology

Operating principle

Electronic stability programme (ESP)*

The ESP switches on automatically when the engine is started and then conducts a

self-test. The ESP control unit processes data from the individual systems. It also

processes additional measurement data which are supplied by highly sensitive

sensors: the rotational velocity of the vehicle about its vertical axis, the lateral accel-

eration of the vehicle, the braking pressure and the steering angle.

General

The direction which the driver wishes to take is determined based on the steering

angle and the speed of the vehicle and is constantly compared with the actual

behaviour of the vehicle. If differences exist, such as the vehicle beginning to skid,

the ESP will automatically brake the appropriate wheel.

The car is stabilised again by the forces which take effect when the wheel is braked.

Intervention into the brake system takes place primarily on the outer front wheel of

a vehicle which tends to oversteer (tendency for the rear of the vehicle to break

away) while occurs this is on the inner rear wheel of a vehicle which tends to under-

steer (tendency to shift out of the curve). This braking control cycle is accompanied

by noises.

Fig. 191 ESP switch

General

During an intervention of the system, the warning light  flashes quickly in the

instrument cluster ⇒ page 38.

The ESP aids you maintain control of your vehicle in situations in borderline driving

situations such as when negotiating a curve too fast. The risk of skidding is reduced

and your vehicle thus offers greater driving stability depending on the conditions of

the road surface. This occurs at all speeds.

The ESP operates in combination with the ABS ⇒ page 181, “Antilock brake system

(ABS)”. If there is a fault in the ABS system, the ESP also does not operate.

The ESP warning light lights up in the instrument cluster when there is a fault on the

ESP  ⇒ page 38.

The following systems are integrated into the electronic stability programme:

•

Electronic Differential Lock (EDL),

Traction control system (TCS),

Active driver-steering recommendation (DSR),

Antilock brake system (ABS),

Brake Assist,

WARNING

It is also not possible for the ESP to overcome the physical limits of the

vehicle. Even if a vehicle fitted with ESP you should still always adapt your

style of driving to the condition of the road surface and the traffic situation.

This particularly applies when driving on slippery and wet roads. The

Uphill-Start off-Assist.

Using the system

Safety

Driving Tips

General Maintenance

Breakdown assistance

Technical Data

178 Intelligent Technology

braked. The vehicle can continue to be driven and has the same characteristics as a

vehicle not fitted with EDL.

WARNING (continued)

increased safety offered must not tempt you to take greater risks than other-

wise - risk of an accident!

The EDL switches on again automatically as soon as the brake has cooled down.

EDL Off-road*

After switching on the Off-road mode ⇒ page 185, EDL Off-road is activated.

Note

EDL Off-road is matched in such a way that it assists the traction of the vehicle when

driving on an unfirm ground.

•

All four wheels must be fitted with the same tyres in order to achieve problem-

free operation of the ESP. Differing rolling circumferences of the tyres can lead to an

undesirable reduction in the engine output.

EDL is activated earlier in the Off-road mode than in the normal mode. The brake

pressure builts up more quickly on the slipping wheel, on one axle, as well as diag-

onally.

•

Changes to vehicle (e.g. on engine, on the brakes, on chassis or another combi-

nation of tyres and wheels) can influence the function of the ESP ⇒ page 238,

“Accessories, changes and replacement of parts”.

WARNING

Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)*

•

Carefully depress the accelerator when accelerating on uniformly slip-

pery road surfaces, such as ice and snow. The driven wheels might still spin

despite the EDL and affect the stability of the vehicle - risk of an accident!

The electronic differential lock prevents an individual wheel from

slipping.

•

You should always adapt your style of driving to the condition of road

Models fitted with ESP are equipped with electronic differential lock (EDL).

surface and to the traffic situation even when your vehicle is fitted with EDL.

The increased safety offered must not tempt you to take greater risks than

otherwise - risk of an accident!

General

The EDL makes it much easier, and sometimes at all possible, to start off, accelerate

and climb a steep hill when the conditions of the road surface are unfavourable.

Note

Operating principle

•

If the ABS or ESP warning light comes on, this may also indicate a fault in the

EDL. Please have the vehicle inspected as soon as possible by a specialist garage.

The EDL is activated automatically, that is without any action on the part of the

driver. It monitors the speeds of the driven wheels with the aid of the ABS sensors.

Should only one drive wheel begin spinning on a slippery surface there will be an

appreciable difference in the speed of the driven wheels. The EDL function brakes

the slipping wheel and the differential transmits a greater driving force to the other

driven wheel. This control process is also accompanied by noises.

•

Changes to vehicle (e.g. on engine, on the brakes, on chassis or another combi-

nation of tyres and wheels) can influence the function of the EDL ⇒ page 238,

“Accessories, changes and replacement of parts”.

Overheating of the brakes

The EDL switches off automatically if unusually severe stresses exist in order to

avoid excessive heat generation in the disc brake on the wheel which is being

Intelligent Technology 179

ESP*, you can switch off the TCS with the aid of the button ⇒ page 177, fig. 191. The

TCS warning light  lights up in the instrument cluster ⇒ page 38 if the system is

switched off.

Traction control system (TCS)

The traction control system prevents the driven wheels from spinning

when accelerating.

The TCS should normally always be switched on. It may be good practice in certain

exceptional cases, such as when you wish to have wheel slip, to switch off the

system.

Examples:

•

when driving with snow chains

when driving in deep snow or on a loose surface

when it is necessary to rock a vehicle when it has become stuck.

then you should switch on the TCS again.

Fig. 192 TCS switch

TCS Off-road*

After switching on the Off-road mode ⇒ page 185, TCS Off-road is activated.

General

TCS Off-road provides a more effective acceleration of the vehicle on an unfirm

ground, as it allows higher traction between the slipping wheels and the ground.

The TCS makes it much easier, and sometimes at all possible, to start off, accelerate

and climb a steep hill when the conditions of the road surface are unfavourable.

The system operates at speeds of up to 30 km/h.

Operating principle

The TCS switches on automatically when the engine is started and then conducts a

self-test. The system monitors the speeds of the driven wheels with the aid of the

ABS sensors. If the wheels are spinning, the force transmitted to the road surface is

automatically adapted by reducing the engine speed. This occurs at all speeds.

WARNING

You should always adjust your style of driving to the conditions of the road

surface and the traffic situation. The increased safety offered must not tempt

you to take greater risks than otherwise - risk of an accident!

The TCS operates in combination with the ABS ⇒ page 181, “Antilock brake system

(ABS)”. The TCS will not function if a fault exists in the ABS system.

The TCS warning light lights up in the instrument cluster when there is a fault on the

TCS  ⇒ page 38.

Note

•

All four wheels must be fitted with the same tyres in order to achieve problem-

free operation of the TCS. Differing rolling circumferences of the tyres can lead to

an undesirable reduction in the engine output.

During an intervention of the system, the TCS warning light  flashes in the instru-

ment cluster ⇒ page 38.

•

Changes to vehicle (e.g. on engine, on the brakes, on chassis or another combi-

nation of tyres and wheels) can influence the function of the TCS ⇒ page 238,

Switching off

You can switch the TCS off and on again as you wish. On vehicles fitted with ABS,

you can switch off the TCS by pressing the button ⇒ fig. 192, on vehicles fitted with

“Accessories, changes and replacement of parts”.

Using the system

Safety

Driving Tips

General Maintenance

Breakdown assistance

Technical Data

180 Intelligent Technology

Corrosion

Active driver-steering recommendation (DSR)*

Corrosion on the brake discs and dirt on the bake pads occur if the vehicle has been

parked for a long period and if you do not make much use of the braking system.

Vehicles with ESP are equipped with active driver-steering recommendation (DSR).

We recommend cleaning the brake discs by firmly applying the brakes at a fairly

high speed if you do not make much use of the braking system or if surface corro-

This function indicates to the driver in critical situations a steering recommendation

in order to stabilise the vehicle. The active driver-steering recommendation is acti-

vated, for example, on the right and left vehicle side when braking sharply on

different road surfaces.

sion is present ⇒

.

Faults in the brake surface

If you notice that the braking distance has suddenly become longer and that the

brake pedal can be depressed further, it is possible that a brake circuit of the dual-

circuit brake system has failed. Drive, in such cases, to the nearest specialist garage

without delay in order to have the problem rectified. Drive at a reduced speed while

on your way to the dealer and adapt your style of driving to the higher brake pedal

pressure required.

WARNING

Even with this function the vehicle cannot steer itself! The driver is further-

more responsible for the steering of the vehicle!

Brakes

Low brake fluid level

An insufficient level of brake fluid may result in problems in the brake system. The

level of the brake fluid is monitored electronically ⇒ page 40, “Brake system ”.

What has a negative effect on braking efficiency?

Wear-and-tear

Wear-and-tear to the brake pads is greatly dependent on the operating conditions

of the vehicle and your style of driving. Particularly if you drive a great deal in towns

and over short distances or if you adopt a sporty style of driving, it may be neces-

sary to have the thickness of the brake pads inspected at a specialist garage

between the service inspections.

WARNING

•

Only apply the brakes for the purpose of drying and cleaning the brake

discs if the traffic conditions permit this. Do not place any other road users

in jeopardy.

•

When retrospectively mounting a front spoiler, solid wheel hubs etc. one

must ensure that the air supply to the front wheel brakes is not reduced

otherwise the braking system could run too hot.

Wet roads or road salt

There may be a certain delay before the brakes take full effect under certain condi-

tions such as when driving through water, during heavy rain showers or after the

vehicle has been washed in an automatic vehicle wash, since the brake discs and

brake pads may be moist or even have a coating of ice on them in winter. You

should dry the brakes as soon as possible by applying and releasing the brakes

several times.

•

Allow for the fact that new brake pads do not achieve their full braking

efficiency until approximately 200 kilometres. New brake pads must be first

“run in” before they develop their optimal friction force. You can, however,

compensate for this slightly reduced braking force by increasing the pres-

sure on the brake pedal. This guideline also applies to any new brake pads

installed at a future date.

There also may be a certain delay before the full braking efficiency is available when

driving on roads which have been treated with road salt if you have not used the

brakes for some considerable time beforehand. The layer of salt on the brake discs

and brake pads must first be rubbed off when you apply the brakes.

Intelligent Technology 181

Antilock brake system (ABS)

Caution

ABS prevents the wheels locking when braking.

•

Never allow the brakes to rub by applying slight pressure if you do not wish to

brake the vehicle. This causes the brakes to overheat and can also result in a longer

braking distance and excessive wear.

General

The ABS contributes significantly to enhancing the active safety of your vehicle.

Compared to a vehicle not fitted with the ABS brake system, you are able to retain

optimal steering ability even during a full brake application on a slippery road

surface because the wheels do not lock up.

•

Before negotiating a steep downhill section, reduce your speed, shift down into

the next lower gear. This enables you to make full use of the braking power of the

vehicle and reduces the strain on the brakes. Any additional braking should be done

intermittently, not continuously.

You must not expect, however, that the braking distance will be shorter under all

circumstances as a result of the ABS. The braking distance for example on gravel

and fresh snow, when you should anyway be driving slowly and cautiously, will be

longer.

Note

The brake light flashes automatically in case of an emergency braking at speeds

greater than 60 km/h or with the intervention of the ABS, which lasts longer than 1.5

seconds. After the speed was reduced below 10 km/h or the vehicle was stopped,

the brake light stops flashing and the hazard warning light system switches on. The

hazard warning light system is switched off automatically after accelerating or

driving off again.

Operating principle

The brake pressure will be reduced on a wheel which is rotating at a speed which is

too low for the speed of the vehicle and tending to lock. This control cycle is notice-

able from a pulsating movement of the brake pedal which is accompanied by

noises. This is consciously intended to provide the driver with the information that

the wheels are tending to lock (ABS control range). You must always keep the brake

pedal depressed to enable the ABS to optimally control the brake application in this

braking range. Never interrupt the application of the brakes!

Brake booster

The brake booster boosts the pressure which you generate with the brake pedal.

The necessary pressure is only generated when the engine is running.

ABS Off-road*

After switching on the Off-road mode ⇒ page 185, ABS Off-road is activated.

ABS Off-road increases the braking power of the vehicle on an unfirm ground, as it

keeps the wheels blocked for a longer period of time when the brake is applied

while sliding. The system is only available, if the front wheels are in the straight-

ahead position.

WARNING

•

Never switch off the engine before the vehicle is stationary.

The brake booster only operates when the engine is running. Greater

physical effort for braking is required when engine is switched off. Because

if you do not stop as normal, this can cause an accident and severe injuries.

The system operates at speeds of up to 50 km/h.

WARNING

•

The ABS can also not overcome the physical limits of your vehicle. Please

do not forget this, particularly when driving on icy or wet road surfaces. If the

ABS is operating within the control range, adapt your speed immediately to

Using the system

Safety

Driving Tips

General Maintenance

Breakdown assistance

Technical Data

182 Intelligent Technology

The Brake Assist is able to help you achieve a shorter braking distance in emergency

situations by rapidly producing the pressure required in the brake system. It fully

exploits the attributes of the ABS. After you release the brake pedal, the function of

the Brake Assist is automatically switched off and the brakes operate in the normal

way.

WARNING (continued)

the conditions of the road surface and the traffic situation. The increased

safety offered by the ABS must not tempt you to take greater risks than

otherwise - risk of an accident!

•

The normal braking system is still fully functional if there is an ABS fault.

The Brake Assist is part of the ESP system. If a fault occurs in the ESP, the Brake Assist

function is also not available. Further information on the ESP ⇒ page 177.

Visit a specialist garage as quickly as possible and adjust your style of driving

to take account of the ABS fault in the meantime since you will not know the

extent of the fault and in how far the braking efficiency is affected.

WARNING

•

The Brake Assist is also not able to overcome the physical limits of your

vehicle in terms of the braking distance required.

Adapt your speed to the conditions of the road surface and to the traffic

situation.

Note

•

A warning light comes on if a fault occurs in the ABS system  ⇒ page 39.

•

Changes to vehicle (e.g. on engine, on the brakes, on chassis or another combi-

nation of tyres and wheels) can influence the function of the ABS ⇒ page 238,

“Accessories, changes and replacement of parts”.

•

The increased safety offered by the Brake Assist must not tempt you to

take a greater safety risk than otherwise.

Brake Assist*

Uphill-Start off-Assist*

During a severe brake application (e.g. if a hazard exists), the Brake Assist increases

the braking force and thus makes it possible to rapidly produce the pressure

required in the brake system.

The uphill-start off-assist makes it much easier to start off on steep hills. The system

assists a start off by holding the brake pressure produced by the brake pedal actu-

ation for approx. 2 seconds after releasing the brake pedal. The driver can therefore

move his foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal and start off on the

slope, without having to actuate the handbrake. The brake pressure drops gradually

the more you operate the accelerator pedal. If the vehicle does not start off within

2 seconds, it starts to roll back.

The majority of drivers do apply the brakes in good time in dangerous situations,

but do not depress the brake pedal with sufficient pressure. Consequently, it is not

possible for the vehicle to achieve its maximum deceleration and the vehicle covers

a greater distance than necessary.

The Brake Assist is activated by the very quick operation of the brake pedal. In such

cases, a much greater braking pressure exists than during a normal brake applica-

tion. This makes it possible, even with a relatively low resistance of the brake pedal,

to produce an adequate pressure in the brake system in the shortest possible time,

which is required for maximum deceleration of the vehicle. You must apply the

brake pedal firmly and hold it in this position in order to achieve the shortest

possible braking distance.

The uphill-start off-assist is active in the event of a 3 % slope, if the vehicle door is

closed. It is always active on slopes when in forward or reverse start off. When

driving downhill, it is inactive.

Electromechanical power steering

The power steering enables you to steer the vehicle with less physical force.

Intelligent Technology 183

With the electromechanical power steering, the steering assist is automatically

adapted to the speed and to the steering angle.

•

the wheels of an axle are loaded heavily (e.g. when towing a trailer or when

driving uphill or downhill),

•

snow chains are mounted,

It is still possible to fully steer the vehicle if the power steering fails or if the engine

is not running (vehicle being towed in). The only difference is that greater physical

effort is required.

the temporary spare wheel is mounted,

one wheel per axle was changed.

If there is a fault in the power steering, the warning light  or  lights up in the

instrument cluster ⇒ page 35.

Basic setting of tyre inflation pressure-control system

After changing the tyre inflation pressures or after changing one or several wheels,

a basic setting of the system must be carried out as follows.

WARNING

•

Inflate all tyres to the specified inflation pressure ⇒ page 232.

Contact your specialist garage if the power steering is defective.

Switch on the ignition.

 

Press button

⇒ fig. 193 for more than 2 seconds. While pressing the

button, the warning light  lights up. At the same time the memory of the system

is erased and the new calibration is started, which is confirmed with an audible

signal and then the warning light  goes out.

Tyre inflation pressure-control system*

•

If the warning light  does not go out after the basic setting, there is a fault in

the system. Have the vehicle inspected by your nearest specialist garage.

Warning light  lights up

If the tyre inflation pressure of at least one wheel is insufficiently inflated in compar-

ison to the stored basic value, the warning light  ⇒

lights up.

Warning light  flashes

Fig. 193 Button for setting

the tyre inflation pressure

control value

If the warning light flashes, there is a system fault. Have the vehicle inspected by

your nearest specialist garage.

WARNING

The tyre inflation pressure-control system compares with the aid of the ABS sensors

the speed and also the rolling circumference of the individual wheels. If the rolling

circumference of a wheel is changed, the warning light  lights up in the instru-

ment cluster ⇒ page 38 and an audible signal sounds. The rolling circumference of

the tyre can change if:

•

When the warning light  lights up, immediately reduce the speed and

avoid sudden steering and brake manoeuvres. Please stop the vehicle

without delay at the nearest possible stop and inspect the tyres and their

inflation pressures.

•

the tyre inflation pressure is too low,

the structure of the tyre is damaged,

the vehicle is loaded on one side,

•

The driver is responsible for the correct tyre inflation pressures. For this

reason, the tyre inflation pressures must be checked regularly.

Using the system

Safety

Driving Tips

General Maintenance

Breakdown assistance

Technical Data

184 Intelligent Technology

Code 7GG, 7MB or 7MG on the vehicle data sticker, see ⇒ fig. 194, indi-

cates that your vehicle is equipped with a diesel particle filter. The vehicle

data sticker is located on the floor of the luggage compartment and is

also stated in the Service schedule.

WARNING (continued)

•

Under certain circumstances (e.g. sporty style of driving, wintry or

unpaved roads) the warning light  can be delayed or does not light up at

all.

The diesel particle filter filters the soot particles completely from the exhaust. The

soot is collected in the diesel particle filter and burnt regularly. To assist this proce-

dure, we recommend not to drive regularly over short distances.

•

The tyre inflation pressure-control system does not take away the

responsability from the driver for the correct tyre inflation pressure.

If the diesel particle filter is clogged or there is a fault, it is indicated by the warning

light .

Note

The tyre inflation pressure-control system:

•

does not replace the regular tyre inflation pressure control, because the system

cannot detect an even pressure loss;

cannot warn in case of very rapid tyre inflation pressure loss, e.g. in case of

WARNING

•

The diesel particle filter achieves very high temperatures. Therefore do

not park at points where the hot filter comes into direct contact with dry

grass or other combustible materials - risk of fire!

•

sudden tyre damage. In this case carefully bring the vehicle to a standstill without

sudden steering movements and without sharp braking.

•

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.

Diesel particle filter* (diesel engine)

In the diesel particle filter the resulting soot particles are collected

and burnt during the combustion of diesel fuel.

Note

• When using diesel fuel with high sulphur content the life of the diesel particle

filter is clearly reduced. A specialist garage will be able to tell you which countries

use only diesel fuel with high sulphur content.

Fig. 194 Vehicle data sticker

Intelligent Technology 185

All four wheels must be fitted with the same tyres in order to achieve proper oper-

ation of the Off-road mode. Differing rolling circumferences of the tyres can lead to

an undesirable reduction in the engine output.

Off-road*

General

WARNING

•

Always adjust your speed to suit weather, road and traffic conditions.

The increased safety must not tempt you to take a greater safety risk than

otherwise - risk of accident!

•

The Off-road equipment can also not overcome the physical limits of

your vehicle.

•

The effect of the Off-road equipment depends as well on the tyres.

The Off-road equipment is not designed for the use on common roads.

Fig. 195 Off-road switch

Start-Off Assist*

The Off-road mode comprises functions which assist off-road driving.

The following functions are integrated in the Off-road mode:

The Start-Off Assist enhances the driving comfort and can be used when starting

off, in particular on a slope. When the vehicle is stationary, the Start-Off Assist is

activated after switching it on using the button for the Off-road mode ⇒ fig. 195.

•

Start-Off Assist ⇒ page 185,

Downhill Drive Support ⇒ page 185,

EDL Off-road ⇒ page 178,

TCS Off-road ⇒ page 179,

Operating principle

When depressing the accelerator pedal fully, the engine speed required for the

start-up procedure of the stationary vehicle is restricted. The overspeed trip unit is

automatically deactivated after terminating the start-up procedure. As part of the

Assist System, the accelerator pedal is adapted in its characteristics for an easier

start-off on slippery and loose soil.

ABS Off-road ⇒ page 181.

Switch on Off-road

The Off-road mode is switched on by pressing the button ⇒ fig. 195. The warning

light in the button lights up. The warning light lights up in the instrument cluster if

the system is switched on  ⇒ page 41.

Downhill Drive Support*

Switch off Off-road

Operating principle

The Off-road mode is switched off by repeated pressing of the button. The warning

light in the button goes out. When switching off the ignition, the Off-road mode is

also switched off and can be switched on again, if necessary, after switching on the

ignition. If the engine is switched off by accident and restarted within 30 seconds,

the Off-road mode remains switched on.

The Downhill Drive Support maintains a constant speed on a steep downhill

section when driving forwards and backwards by automatically intervening in the

brake system of all wheels. It prevents the wheels locking because the ABS remains

Using the system

Safety

Driving Tips

General Maintenance

Breakdown assistance

Technical Data

186 Intelligent Technology

active. The warning light  in the information display of the instrument cluster

indicates that the Downhill Drive Support is available ⇒ page 41.

Note

•

During an intervention of the Downhill Drive Support, the brake lights do not

light up.

The vehicle speed, which is maintained by the Assist System, is selected by the

driver while driving on a downhill section as of the moment the first intervention of

the Assist System is performed or else, while driving on a downhill section, the

driver must control the vehicle speed until the Assist System intervenes for the first

time. When the Assist System actively intervenes, this is indicated by the warning

light flashing or by a pulsating movement of the brake pedal, similar to the interven-

tion of the ABS.

•

Do not switch off the Off-road mode during an intervention of the Assist

System.

The Downhill Drive Support is available in the speed range of 2 km/h up to 30 km/h.

If the gear is engaged and the clutch pedal is not pressed, the lower limit of the

idling speed corresponds to the respective gear which is engaged.

You can increase or reduce the speed, even when no gear is engaged, by operating

the accelerator or brake pedal. Thus the function is always interrupted and is reac-

tivated afterwards.

The Downhill Drive Support is activated automatically if the following conditions

are met:

•

the Off-road mode is switched on and the warning light  lights up in the

instrument cluster,

the engine of the vehicle is running and either the 1st, 2nd, 3rd gear, the reverse

gear or no gear is engaged,

•

the speed is less than 30 km/h,

the downhill gradient is at least 10% (when driving over sleepers the limit can

briefly drop to 8%),

•

neither the accelerator nor the brake pedal is operated.

It is however a requirement that the vehicle has sufficient grip on the soil. The

Downhill Drive Support cannot properly fulfil its function on slushy soil due to

physical reasons (ice or mud).

The Downhill Drive Support is deactivated when braking or accelerating or if the

downhill gradient is less than 10%.

Driving and the Environment 187

Driving and the Environment

The first 1 500 kilometres and then afterwards

Caution

All the speed and engine revolution figures apply only when the engine is at its

normal operating temperature. Never rev up an engine which is cold, neither when

the vehicle is stationary nor when driving in individual gears.

A new engine

The engine has to be run in during the first 1 500 kilometres.

Up to 1 000 kilometres

For the sake of the environment

–

Do not drive faster than 3/4 of the maximum speed of the gear in use,

that is 3/4 of the maximum permissible engine speed.

Not driving at unnecessarily high engine revolutions and shifting to a higher gear as

early as possible are ways to minimise fuel consumption and operating noise levels

and protects the environment.

–

Do not use full throttle.

Avoid high engine revolutions.

Do not tow a trailer.

New tyres

New tyres have to be “run in” since they do not offer optimal grip at first. You should

take account of this fact for the first 500 kilometres and drive particularly carefully.

From 1 000 up to 1 500 kilometres

–

Increase the power output of the engine gradually up to the full

speed of the gear engaged, that is up to the maximum permissible

engine revolutions.

New brake pads

During the first operating hours the engine has higher internal friction than later

until all of the moving parts have harmonized. The driving style which you adopt

during the first approx.1 500 kilometres plays a decisive part in the success of

running in your vehicle.

Allow for the fact that new brake pads do not achieve their full braking efficiency

until approximately 200 kilometres. New brake pads must be first “run in” before

they develop their optimal friction force. You can, however, compensate for this

slightly reduced braking force by increasing the pressure on the brake pedal.

You should not drive at unnecessarily high engine revolutions even after the

running-in period is complete. The maximum permissible engine speed is marked

by the beginning of the red zone on the scale of the revolutions counter. Shift up

into the next higher gear on a vehicle fitted with manual gearbox before the red

zone is reached. Extremely high engine revolutions are automatically governed, by

the way.

This guideline also applies to any new brake pads installed at a future date.

During the running-in period, you should avoid excessive stresses on the brakes.

This includes, for example, violent braking, particularly from very high speeds, and

also when crossing mountain passes.

For a vehicle fitted with a manual gearbox the converse situation also applies: Do

not drive at engine revolutions which are too low. Shift down as soon as the engine

is no longer running smoothly.

Using the system

Safety

Driving Tips

General Maintenance

Breakdown assistance

Technical Data

188 Driving and the Environment

Catalytic converter

Caution

Proper operation of the emission control system (catalytic converter)

is of major significance for driving your vehicle in an environmen-

tally conscious way.

•

On vehicles fitted with a catalytic converter, never let the fuel tank run

completely empty. An irregular fuel supply can result in poor ignition or misfiring.

Unburnt fuel may get into the exhaust system and damage the catalytic converter.

•

Filling the tank even only once with leaded petrol will result in the catalytic

converter being destroyed.

If you detect misfiring, a drop in performance or irregular engine running when

Please refer to the following guidelines:

•

–

For vehicles with petrol engine only refuel with unleaded petrol

driving, reduce your speed immediately and have the vehicle inspected by the

nearest specialist garage. The symptoms described may be caused by a fault in the

ignition system. Unburnt fuel may get into the exhaust system and damage the

catalytic converter.

⇒ page 215, “Grades of petrol”.

–

Never run the fuel tank completely empty.

Do not switch off the ignition while you are driving the vehicle.

Do not pour too much oil into the engine ⇒ page 222, “Replenishing

For the sake of the environment

engine oil”.

Even if the exhaust system is operating properly, a sulphur-like exhaust odour may

be produced under certain operating conditions of the engine. This depends on the

sulphur content of the fuel. It is often sufficient to refuel with unleaded premium-

grade petrol of a different brand or at a different filling station.

–

Do not tow-start the vehicle over a distance of more than 50 metres

⇒ page 249, “Tow-starting and towing vehicle”.

If you drive your vehicle in a country in which unleaded petrol is not available, you

must have the catalytic converter replaced later when driving the vehicle into a

country in which use of a catalytic converter is mandatory.

Driving in an economical and environmentally

conscious manner

WARNING

General

•

In view of the high temperatures which may be produced in the catalytic

converter, one should always park a vehicle in such a way that the catalytic

converter cannot come into contact with easily flammable materials below

the vehicle - a risk of fire!

Your personal style of driving is a major factor.

Your fuel consumption, any pollution of the environmental and the wear-and-tear

to the engine, brakes and tyres, depend essentially on three factors:

•

Never use additional underbody protection or corrosion-protection

agents for the exhaust pipes, catalytic converters or heat shields. Such

substances might ignite when driving - risk of fire!

•

your personal style of driving,

the conditions under which your vehicle is operated,

technical aspects.

You can easily improve your fuel economy by 10 - 15 percent by driving in an

economical way with foresight. This section is intended to provide you with a

Driving and the Environment 189

number of tips on how to protect the environment and at the same time save

money.

Shifting gears and saving energy

Shifting up early saves on fuel.

The fuel consumption can naturally also be influenced by factors which are beyond

the driver's control. It is, for example, normal for the fuel consumption to increase

in winter and under worsened conditions such as poor road conditions, towing a

trailer, etc.

The technical requirements for low fuel usage and economic efficiency of the

vehicle have already been built into the vehicle at the works. Special attention has

been given to minimising negative effects on the environment. It is necessary to

take note of the guidelines given in this chapter in order to make best use of these

characteristics and to maintain their effectiveness.

Fig. 196 Fuel consumption

in litres/100 km. and speed in

km/h.

The optimal engine speed should be obtained when accelerating, in order to avoid

a high fuel consumption and resonance of the vehicle.

Manual gearbox

Looking ahead when driving

–

Drive no more than about one length of your vehicle in first gear.

Always shift up into the next higher gear at approx. 2 000 to 2 500 revs.

A vehicle's highest fuel consumption occurs it accelerates.

Avoid accelerating and braking unnecessarily. If you drive with forsight you will not

need to brake so often and will also then not have to accelerate so much. Let your

vehicle coast to a stop, for example, if this is possible, when you see that the next

set of traffic lights is at red.

An effective way of achieving good fuel economy is to shift up early. You will

consume more fuel if you drive at unnecessarily high revolutions in any given gear.

The ⇒ fig. 196 shows the ratio of fuel consumption to the speed of your vehicle in

the relevant gears. Fuel consumption in 1st gear is the highest, while that in 5th or

the 6th gear is the lowest.

You will achieve good fuel economy by shifting up early and shifting down late.

Note

Also use the information supplied by the multi-functional indicator* ⇒ page 21.

Using the system

Safety

Driving Tips

General Maintenance

Breakdown assistance

Technical Data

190 Driving and the Environment

in the warming-up phase. This is why you should drive off right after starting the

engine. Do avoid high engine revolutions at this time, however.

Avoiding full throttle

Driving more slowly means saving fuel.

Regular servicing

A poorly tuned engine consumes an unnecessarily high amount of

fuel.

Having your vehicle serviced regularly at a specialist garge enables you to satisfy

one of the requirements for economical motoring even before you set off on your

journey. Keeping your vehicle properly serviced not only has a positive effect on the

safety of your vehicle and maintaining its value, but also saves on fuel.

Fig. 197 Fuel consumption

in litres/100 km. and speed in

km/h.

A poorly tuned engine can result in a fuel consumption which is 10% higher than

normal.

The foreseen maintenance work should be undertaken exactly according to the

Service schedule by a specialist garage.

Sensitive use of the accelerator will not only significantly reduce fuel consumption

but also positively influence environmental pollution and wear of your vehicle.

Also check the oil level after refueling. Oil consumption is dependent to a consid-

erable extent on the load and speed of the engine. Oil consumption could be as

high as 0.5 litres/1 000 km depending on your style of driving.

You should avoid exploiting the top speed of your vehicle wherever possible. Fuel

consumption, pollutant emissions and vehicle noises increase disproportionally at

high speeds.

It is quite normal that a new engine has a higher oil consumption at first, and

reaches its lowest level only after a certain running in time. It is therefore not

possible to correctly assess the oil consumption of a new vehicle until after you

have driven about 5 000 km.

The ⇒ fig. 197 shows the ratio between the fuel consumption and the speed of

your vehicle. You will cut your fuel consumption by half if you only make use three-

quarters of the possible top speed of your vehicle.

Reducing idling

For the sake of the environment

•

You can achieve additional improvements in your fuel economy by using high-

lubricity oils.

Idling also costs fuel.

It is worthwhile switching off the engine in a traffic jam or when waiting at a level

crossing or at traffic lights with a lengthy red phase. Even after just 30 - 40 seconds

you will have saved more fuel than that is needed when you start the engine up

again.

•

Check the ground below your vehicle at regular intervals to detect any leakages

in good time. Please have your vehicle inspected by a specialist garge if you find any

stains caused by oil or other fluids on the floor.

If an engine is only idling it takes much longer for it to reach its normal operating

temperature. Wear-and-tear and pollutant emissions, though, are particularly high

Driving and the Environment 191

only increase fuel consumption but also tyre wear and the driving behaviour will

worsen.

Avoid driving short distances

Short distances result in an above-average high fuel consumption.

Always check the inflation pressure of the tyres when cold.

Do not drive with winter tyres all year round for this costs about 10 % more fuel.

Winter tyres are also louder.

No unnecessary ballast

Transporting ballast costs fuel.

The fact that every kilogram of extra weight increases your fuel consumption

means that it is worth taking a look in the luggage compartment to avoid trans-

porting any unnecessary ballast.

Fig. 198 Fuel consumption

in litres/100 km at different

temperatures

It is particularly in town traffic, when one is accelerating quite often, that the vehicle

weight will have a significant effect upon the fuel consumption. A rule of thumb

here is that an increase in weight of 100 kilograms will cause an increase in fuel

consumption of about 1 litre/100 kilometres.

–

Avoid driving a distance of no more than 4 km if the engine is cold.

The engine and catalytic converter must first have reached their optimal operating

temperature in order to effectively reduce fuel consumption and pollutant emis-

sions.

You may frequently also leave a roof rack fitted on just out of convenience,

although you no longer need it. The increased aerodynamic drag of your vehicle

causes it to use about 10% more fuel than normal at a speed of 100 - 120 km/h,

even when you are not carrying a load on the roof.

The cold engine vehicle consumes approx. 15 - 20 litres/100 km of fuel immediately

after starting. Fuel consumption drops to 10 litres/100 km after just 1 kilometre. The

engine reaches its operating temperature (outside temperature and engine

dependent) only after about 4 to 10 kilometres and the fuel consumption then

stabilizes. You should therefore avoid driving short distances whenever possible.

Saving electricity

Generating electricity costs fuel.

An important factor in this connection is also theambient temperature ⇒ fig. 198.

It shows the fuel consumption after driving a certain distance, on the one hand at a

temperature of +20°C and on the other hand at a temperature of -10°C. Your

vehicle has a higher fuel consumption in winter than in summer.

–

Switch off electrical components as soon as you no longer need them.

When the engine is running, the alternator generates and supplies electrical power.

The greater the load on the alternator as a result of having a large number of elec-

trical components switched on, the more fuel will be consumed for operating the

alternator.

Checking tyre inflation pressures

Tyres which are correctly inflated save fuel.

Always ensure that your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure at all times. The

rolling resistance will be increased if the tyre filling pressure is too low. This will not

Using the system

Safety

Driving Tips

General Maintenance

Breakdown assistance

Technical Data

192 Driving and the Environment

•

Solvent-free protection of the vehicle for transportation from the production

plant to the customer.

Keeping a log of your fuel consumption

If you really wish to keep a close check on your fuel consumption, it is best to enter

the figures in a logbook. This does not take much time but is a very worthwhile exer-

cise. It enables you to detect any change (positive and negative) at an early stage

and to take any appropriate action.

•

The use of solvent-free adhesives.

No CFCs used in the production process.

Without use of mercury.

Use of water-soluble paints.

If you find that your fuel consumption is too high, you should reflect on how, where

and in what conditions you have driven the vehicle since you last refuelled.

Motoring abroad

Environmental compatibility

General

Environmental protection has played a major role in the design, selection of mate-

rials and manufacture of your new Škoda. Particular emphasis has been paid to a

number of aspects, including:

Other circumstances may exist abroad.

It is also possible, in certain countries, that the Škoda Service Partner network is

limited or has not been established yet. This is the reason why obtaining certain

spare parts may be somewhat complicated and specialist garage personnel may

only be able to make limited repairs. Škoda Auto in the Czech Republic and relevant

importers are happy to provide information about technical aspects of the vehicle,

required maintenance work and possibilities for getting repairs done.

Design measures

•

Joints designed to be easily detached.

Simplified disassembly due to the modular structure system.

Improved purity of different classes of materials.

Identification of all plastic parts in accordance with VDA Recommendation°260.

Unleaded petrol

Reduced fuel consumption and exhaust emission CO .

2

Minimum fuel leakage during accidents.

Reduced noise.

A vehicle fitted with a petrol engine must always be refuelled with unleaded petrol

⇒ page 188. The automobile associations can provide you with information

regarding the locations of filling stations which offer unleaded petrol.

Choice of materials

•

Extensive use of recyclable material.

Air conditioning filled with CFC-free refrigerant.

No cadmium.

Headlight

The low beam of your headlights is set asymmetrically. It illuminates the side of the

road on which you are driving to a greater extent. If you drive abroad on the other

side of the road, you will dazzle oncoming traffic.

No asbestos.

Reduction in the “vaporisation” of plastics.

In order to prevent the dazzling of oncoming traffic, it is necessary that an adjust-

ment of the headlights is carried out by a specialist garage.

Manufacture

Solvent-free cavity protection.

•

Driving and the Environment 193

The adaptation of the headlights with Xenon lights* (applies to vehicles which are

designed for driving on the left and on the right) is performed in the menu Setup

Travel mode in the main menu of the Information display* ⇒ page 26.

•

Luggage or other items, which are transported on the roof of the vehicle, addi-

tionally raise the centre of gravity and increase the risk of a rollover.

•

Avoid driving at an angle on a hillside.

In case the vehicle is stationary on a hillside with a too great angle of lateral incli-

nation, never exit the vehicle on the downhill side. The overall centre of gravity can

shift in such a way that the vehicle tilts and rolls down the hillside - risk of injury.

Always carefully exit your vehicle on the side facing uphill.

Note

You can obtain further information regarding masking over or converting the head-

lights from your specialist garage.

Important information

Avoiding damage to your vehicle

An off-road journey is not suitable for children, expectant mothers, physically disa-

bled persons and elderly persons.

When driving on poor roads and lanes or when driving over kerbstones, steep

ramps etc., you must pay particular attention to ensuring that any low-slung parts

of the vehicle, such as spoiler and exhaust, do not touch the ground and get

damaged.

Safety should always be the first priority.

Never overestimate your own capabilities and never underestimate the difficulties

of driving off-road.

This particularly applies to models with a lowered suspension (sport suspension)

and also when your vehicle is fully laden.

We cannot discuss at this point all the possible driving situations, because there are

so many types of terrains which may hide different risks and dangers. The examples

listed here are general guidelines for safe off-road driving. It is however not possible

to predict if these guidelines are valid for all the situations which may occur. Before

driving through unknown terrain, it is therefore crucial that you know what lies

ahead of you, so that you can estimate any possible danger in advance.

Off-road driving

Note

For the sake of the environment

When driving off-road, show respect and appreciation for the environment and its

preservation for future generations.

Caution

•

Vehicles of this type have a higher centre of gravity than ordinary vehicles. This

increases the risk of vehicle rollover when driving on-road and off-road.

In the event of a vehicle rollover accident, an occupant of the vehicle who is not

wearing a seat belt is exposed to a clearly higher risk of injury compared to an occu-

pant who is wearing a seat belt.

•

Before driving off-road for the first time

Before driving off-road, we recommend that you take part in an Off-road driver

training course. This is especially important if you have little or no experience of

driving off-road. In a good driver training course, you learn how to use the vehicle

in many different off-road situations and how to handle the vehicle safely when

driving through rough terrain.

•

Never drive too fast, particularly not around curves, and never undertake

extreme driving manoeuvres.

Always adjust your speed and adapt your style of driving to suit road, off-road,

traffic and weather conditions.

•

Using the system

Safety

Driving Tips

General Maintenance

Breakdown assistance

Technical Data

194 Driving and the Environment

Driving off-road requires entirely different skills and a very different behaviour than

driving on the road. Your personal safety and that of your passengers depend on

you. Do not drive your vehicle off-road where it is not suitable for this vehicle or

where the demands on you as the driver are too high. Although your vehicle can

handle off-road driving, it is not designed for travels with expedition characteristics.

Explanation of technical terms

Before a journey, make sure that the vehicle is appropriately equipped for the

planned journey. The standard equipment of your vehicle may not be sufficient for

your journey. With the standard tyres you can even drive with your off-road vehicle

through easy terrain, such as flat forest roads, meadows and fields. Please note

however, that driving the vehicle on a difficult, muddy and sandy ground is

restricted and that the traction of the standard tyres is reduced when driving off-

road. If you have planned prolonged or difficult off-road trips, we recommend that

you equip your vehicle with suitable off-road tyres.

A

B

Fig. 199 A - Embankment angle, A - Slope angle

WARNING

A lack of experience and knowledge about the demands required for driving

off-road can lead to critical situations and serious injuries. Never choose a

dangerous route and never take a risk which could jeopardize your safety

and that of your passengers. If you cannot go on or if you doubt the safety of

the route, turn back and choose another way. Even a terrain, which looks

harmless, can be difficult and dangerous, and may bring you and your

passengers into a critical situation.

Rules of conduct for responsible off-road driving

C

D

Fig. 200 A - Ground clearance, A - Ramp angle

•

A responsable driver should protect nature, but also when driving off-road.

Drive only where it is allowed.

The technical data in the table refer to ideal conditions. These values may differ

depending on the load and composition of the soil and the environment. The driver

is responsible to decide whether a vehicle can overcome a certain situation.

Give priority to drivers who drive uphill or overtake you.

Make no unnecessary noise and dust.

A

Embankment angle (front and rear) A

Alway stay on the trails and paths.

Transition from the horizontal plane to an upward slope or from a downward slope

back to the plane. The angle indication determines the angle at which you can drive

the vehicle down the embankment, at a slow speed, without the bumper or the

underbody of the vehicle touching the ground.

Avoid wildlife habitats.

Driving through undergrowth or over grazing lands can destroy the habitats of

animals.

Driving and the Environment 195

B

Slope angle A

•

a timber plank which is approximately 4 cm thick and about 1 metre long can

be used as a traction aid when the vehicle is stuck or as a base for the lifting jack,

The difference of altitude (upward slope) which is overcome on a stretch of road of

100 m, is indicated in percentage or degrees. It specifies the gradiant at which the

vehicle can climb a hill on its own (among other things, depending on the road

surface and the engine power).

•

additional tools and a folding yardstick or a measuring tape,

spare wheel and tyre repair kit,

shovel.

C

Ground clearance A

The distance between the road surface and the deepest point of the vehicle under-

body between the axles.

Safe off-road driving

Adopt a correct seated position and always fasten the seat belt correctly. Make sure

that your front passenger and your passengers seated on the rear seats always

fasten their seat belts correctly.

D

Ramp angle A

The angle indication determines the angle at which you can drive the vehicle over

a ramp, at a slow speed, without the underbody of the vehicle touching the ramp

edge.

When driving off-road, it is perhaps more useful to adopt a slightly different seated

position. Depending on the terrain, an increased force may be required to turn the

steering wheel because the force is transferred from the front wheels to the steering

wheel. You must be seated in such a way that you have good front visibility, espe-

cially when driving uphill or downhill. You must never be seated in such a way that

the distance between your chest and the middle of the airbag cover is less than 25

cm.

WARNING

When exceeding the maximum value given in the table, this can result in

serious injuries and/or vehicle damage. All of the data was determined on

flat, firm and non-slip road surfaces as well as under dry weather condi-

tions. There are no ideal off-road conditions. Therefore, never completely go

according to the maximum values, but always leave a safety margin.

Under no circumstances must you drive off-road with high heels, slippery or open

shoes. You should wear shoes which give your feet a proper support and allow you

to get a good feel for the pedals.

Useful utensils

WARNING

Many items can be very useful when driving off-road, for example:

If you have not fastened your seat belt correctly or you are not wearing your

seat belt at all, or you are holding the steering wheel incorrectly when

driving off-road, the risk of severe or even fatal injuries increases. Correctly

fastened seat belts reduce serious injuries in case of sudden braking

manoeuvers and accidents. As long as the vehicle is in motion, always have

your seat belt and those of your passengers correctly fastened. Take your

thumbs off the steering wheel when driving off-road. Should resistance

build up in front of the wheels, the steering wheel may suddenly and unex-

pectedly spin and hurt you. Hold the steering wheel with both hands firmly

on the outer edge in the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock position.

•

compass and map,

torch and spare batteries,

mobile phone or CB radio,

tow bar or tow rope with sufficient tear strength,

electrically driven tyre pump for connecting to the 12-volt power outlet of the

vehicle,

•

a blanket and rubber boots,

snow chains for two wheels,

Using the system

Safety

Driving Tips

General Maintenance

Breakdown assistance

Technical Data

196 Driving and the Environment

Before driving off-road

•

If there is a risk of your vehicle getting stuck in sand, snow or mud, it may be

more effective to reverse the vehicle than trying to drive forwards.

Place stones or pieces of wood under the spinning wheels in order to achieve

traction on a sandy or slippery ground.

•

Make sure the tyres are suitable for the planned off-road journey. Before you

drive through difficult terrain, equip your vehicle with off-road tyres.

Fill up your tank. The fuel consumption is much higher when driving off-road

than when driving on the road.

Install the towing eye at the front or at the rear before driving off-road. It is not

always possible to install the towing eye if your vehicle got stuck.

Always check the inflation pressure of all the tyres and correct the inflation pres-

sure if necessary.

•

Do no drive through water before inquiring what you must take into account.

Keep sufficient safety distance from other vehicles even at low speeds. When

•

the first vehicle suddenly gets stuck, the following vehicle can still stop in time

without getting stuck itself.

•

Do not plan day trips which are too far in distance.

•

Check the vehicle tool kit and supplement it according to your needs.

Fill with engine oil up to the MAX marking, so that the engine is sufficiently

supplied with engine oil when the vehicle is in a tilted position.

WARNING

•

A lack of experience and knowledge about the demands required for

driving off-road can lead to critical situations and serious injuries.

•

Top up the windshield washer fluid reservoir completely.

•

Never choose a dangerous route and never take a risk which could jeop-

Stow your luggage as low and as firmly as possible in the vehicle; attach all the

ardize your safety and that of your passengers. If you cannot go on or if you

have any doubts, turn back and choose another way. The intelligent engi-

neering of your vehicle cannot overcome the physical limits of your vehicle.

items which are loose.

•

Adverse soil conditions may contribute to instability through a blocking

Off-road driving

of the wheels despite the ABS system - e.g. during full braking on a road with

loose gravel. Under these conditions, stabilising the vehicle by activating the

ESP system is only possible within certain limits.

•

Use the Off-road mode when driving off-road.

Never be alone when driving off-road. Travel together with at least two off-road

vehicles. Equipment with which you can call for help in an emergency is particularly

useful.

•

Never use the cruise control system when driving off-road. The use of the

cruise control system when driving off-road is unsuitable and can even be

dangerous.

•

Drive slowly through unclear terrain.

•

Be very alert and look ahead when driving off-road. Excessive speed or

You must stop when encountering difficult passages and explore first the route

on foot. If you cannot go on or if you doubt the safety of the route, turn back and

choose another way.

incorrect driving manoeuvres can cause damage to the vehicle and lead to

injuries. Always adjust your speed and adapt your style of driving to suit

road, off-road, traffic and weather conditions.

•

Drive slowly over hilltops. Make sure that the wheels of the vehicle do not lift off

the ground, as this could severely damage the vehicle and it may become disabled.

Drive slowly on difficult stretches of the route. When driving on a slippery

•

Do not drive over embankments, ramps or hillsides at too high a speed.

This can lead to the wheels of the vehicle lifting off the ground so that you

can no longer steer and control the vehicle. If the wheels of the vehicle are

clear of the ground, steer straight ahead. If the wheels are turned when

making contact with the ground, the vehicle can roll over.

•

ground, shift up into the next higher gear and make sure that the vehicle always

stays in motion. However do not drive too fast, otherwise you lose control over

your vehicle.

Driving and the Environment 197

too great acceleration may lead to the wheels spinning and thus results in the loss

over the control of the vehicle.

WARNING (continued)

•

There should never be any person in front or behind the vehicle when

Manual gearbox

rocks, scrub, wood pieces or other objects are under the wheels, i.e in order

to achieve traction. These objects can be dangerously catapulted through

the air by the spinning of the wheels - hazard.

If you are driving through difficult terrain, on no account use the clutch or change

the gear. When the clutch is depressed, the vehicle may come to a standstill

because of the increased grip of all the tyres of the vehicle (e.g. in the mud, in deep

sand or on a slope). Once the vehicle has come to a standstill, it may be difficult or

even impossible to start off under these conditions.

•

Never drive off-road with an almost empty fuel tank. When driving over

corrugations in the road surface or when your vehicle is positioned at an

angle or you are driving downhill or uphill, the fuel supply to the engine can

be interrupted. The engine could cut out and you may lose control over the

vehicle during difficult driving manoeuvers.

When negotiating a steep downhill section or a steep uphill section, always shift

into the 1st or 2nd gear. On a soft or slippery ground, you must drive at the appro-

priate speed and you must select the highest possible gear for this.

•

Always pay attention to the ground clearance of the vehicle. The vehicle

can be severely damaged and become disabled once it touches the ground.

Do not leave your foot on the clutch pedal when driving off-road. Over-

•

Information for off-road situations

wise you may unintentionally depress the clutch pedal on uneven ground

leading to a loss of control over the vehicle. In addition, the force for

connecting the engine and the gearbox is lost. Moreover, this causes a faster

wear of the clutch linings.

Drive slowly over rough and smooth.

Switch on the Off-road mode. Even if your vehicle is fitted with an underride guard,

drive no more than at walking speed over rocky passages. If it is not possible to

drive around a stone, gently drive onto the stone with one of the front wheels and

then drive over it slowly.

•

The fuel consumption is higher when driving off-road than when driving

on conventional roads, especially through difficult terrain. When you

prepare for your journey, be aware of an increase in fuel consumption; the

nearest filling station may be far away.

WARNING

Never choose a dangerous route and never take a risk which could jeop-

ardize your safety and that of your passengers. If you cannot go on or if you

doubt the safety of the route, turn back and choose another way.

Shifting gears correctly

The gear you must shift into depends on the terrain. Choosing the correct gear

helps you drive safely.

If you do not have much experience driving off-road, it is always better, before

negotiating a difficult stretch of the road, to pause and reflect on which gear to

engage. Ultimately, however, your experience will tell you which gear is the best for

certain sections of the terrain.

Caution

•

On no account drive over large objects (such as pieces of rock or tree stumps)

with your vehicle, neither in the middle nor on one side. When driving over objects

that are larger than the ground clearance, the vehicle components will get damaged

and the objects will scratch along the underbody of the vehicle.

When the gear has been properly selected, it is unnecessary to slow down the

vehicle on a downhill section using the footbrake as in most cases the engine

braking power is sufficient. Depress the accelerator only as much as is necessary. A

•

Even objects that are smaller than the existing ground clearance can come into

contact with the underbody of the vehicle and can lead to damage or failure of the

Using the system

Safety

Driving Tips

General Maintenance

Breakdown assistance

Technical Data

198 Driving and the Environment

vehicle. This applies especially when there is a hollow or soft ground in front or

behind the object or if you drive too fast over the object and thus the vehicle is

deflected.

Driving through snow-covered terrain

Before you drive off-road, mount snow chains on the front wheels to achieve the

best possible traction.

Switch on the Off-road mode.

For the sake of the environment

Leaking engine oil and brake fluid pollute the environment and contaminate the

bodies of water. The disposal of contaminated soil can be costly.

WARNING

•

Driving through snow-covered terrain poses special dangers. Never

Crossing bodies of water

choose a dangerous route and never take a risk which could jeopardize your

safety and that of your passengers. If you cannot go on or if you doubt the

safety of the route, turn back and choose another way. Potholes, troughs,

trenches, precipices, sheets of ice or other obstructions are often completely

or partially obscured by snow.

Particular attention is required when driving through bodies of water. Wet terrain,

e.g. through rainfall, is basically no problem for your vehicle. Driving through

flooded sections of terrain may damage your vehicle. For this reason, before the

journey begins, check the route to be driven for any possible deep water accumu-

lations.

•

The hidden dangers of snow can cause an accident, serious injuries or

your vehicle to break down under extreme weather conditions. You must

always adapt your style of driving and adjust your speed to suit off-road and

weather conditions.

You should drive through water that reaches up to the bottom edge of your vehicle,

such as puddles or shallow still waters, with great care. Drive at walking speed in

order to avoid the water from splashing up. Do not let the vehicle stand in the water,

do not drive backwards and never turn the engine off. Higher levels of water

beyond the lower edge of the body can damage the vehicle and must be avoided.

If you cannot avoid driving through a body of water, then the vehicle must be

checked by a specialist garage as soon as possible.

Driving over steep terrain

Driving uphill and downhill

Switch on the Off-road mode.

Stop the vehicle before the journey begins, exit the vehicle and explore the situa-

tion.

WARNING

Never choose a dangerous route and never take a risk which could jeop-

ardize your safety and that of your passengers. If you cannot go on or if you

doubt the safety of the route, turn back and choose another way. You must

always adapt your style of driving and adjust your speed to suit off-road and

weather conditions.

Walk a stretch and check the firmness of the soil and look for obstructions or other

hidden dangers.

Check how the route continues beyond the slope. Drive slowly and steadily straight

uphill or downhill. Never stop or turn around on a hillside. Avoid a stalling of the

engine.

Note

Driving uphill

When driving through bodies of water, parts of the vehicle such as the engine,

chassis or electrics can be severely damaged.

If you depress the accelerator too much, the wheels can spin. If you do not accel-

erate enough, the engine can stall.

Driving and the Environment 199

•

Switch on the Off-road mode.

WARNING (continued)

Before the journey begins, check how the route continues. If you drive up a

steep hill, the vehicle faces the sky and you cannot see what is in front of the vehicle.

restart the engine. Engage the reverse gear and carefully drive backwards.

Use the engine braking power and press the foot brake in order to maintain

a slow and constant speed.

•

Do not shift gears during the climbing phase. Depress the accelerator only as

much as is necessary in order to handle the slope.

•

If the engine does not start, let the vehicle roll back in its own track. Press

the foot brake in order to maintain a slow and constant speed.

Never let the vehicle roll down the hillside at idling speed. You can lose

If you can go no further on a slope:

•

never turn the vehicle,

•

the control over your vehicle.

if the engine cuts out, press the foot brake and restart the engine,

engage the reverse gear and carefully drive backwards,

press the foot brake in order to maintain a constant speed.

Driving at an angle on a hillside

Driving downhill

Driving at an angle on a hillside is one of the most dangerous situations while

driving off-road. It may look harmless, but you must never underestimate such a

trip. Basically you should avoid moving your vehicle into a sideways position on a

hillside. The vehicle can slide away uncontrollably or roll over.

If for compelling reasons, you must drive at an angle on a hillside and there is a risk

your vehicle may tilt, drive immediately straight down. Concentrate on steering

your vehicle.

•

Switch on the Off-road mode.

Check before driving in a tilted position, whether there is a different and safer route.

If you have to drive in a tilted position, then the ground should be as firm and even

as possible. On soft or slippery ground, the vehicle may slide sideways or roll over.

Make sure that the inclination is not too steep because of surface irregularities.

Otherwise, the vehicle can roll over and then roll down the hillside.

Shift into first gear to drive downhill on steep hillsides, in order to use the

Downhill Drive Support to its maximum.

•

Press the foot brake gently, so you do not lose the control over your vehicle.

If it is feasible and safe, drive straight down (maximum gradient).

Do not move the gearshift lever into Neutral.

If the vehicle is at a steep angle, the wheels on the low side must not sink deeply

into the ground or into troughs and you must not drive over stones, tree stumps or

other obstructions with the alternate raised wheels.

WARNING

If there is a risk your vehicle may tilt, drive immediately downhill and lightly depress

the accelerator. The centre of gravity of the vehicle should be as low as possible. The

weight of all the occupants of the vehicle should be evenly distributed. Taller and

heavier people should be seated on the raised side of the vehicle. The luggage on

the roof should be removed and secured, as the vehicle could tilt by a sudden

shifting of the luggage.

•

Never attempt to drive uphill or downhill if it is too steep for your vehicle.

The vehicle could slip or roll over - risk of accident!

•

Never choose a dangerous route and never take a risk which could jeop-

ardize your safety and that of your passengers. If you cannot go on or if you

doubt the safety of the route, turn back and choose another way.

A passenger, seated at the rear, should always remain seated on the seat facing up

the hill during such a journey. In an extreme case, the passenger must exit the

vehicle until the hillside is safely crossed.

•

Never attempt to make a turn on a hillside. The vehicle can roll over and

then roll down the hillside. This can lead to serious damage and injuries.

If the engine cuts out on a slope or you can no longer go on for whatever

other reason, then stop. If the engine cuts out, press the foot brake and

•

Using the system

Safety

Driving Tips

General Maintenance

Breakdown assistance

Technical Data

200 Driving and the Environment

Exiting the vehicle on a hillside

WARNING (continued)

•

When you exit the vehicle, make sure that the door which faces uphill

does not close by its own weight or by carelessness - risk of injury!

If the vehicle comes to a standstill at an extreme angle on a hillside and you and

your passengers must exit the vehicle, then all the occupants should exit on the side

facing up the hill. This applies even if the corresponding door is difficult to open.

Crossing a trench

WARNING

If possible, drive through the trench at an acute angle. Make sure when driving

through the trench that the tilt angle is not too steep.

•

Never attempt to drive uphill or downhill if it is too steep for your vehicle.

The vehicle could slip or roll over - risk of accident!

Never choose a dangerous route and never take a risk which could jeop-

•

ardize your safety and that of your passengers. If you cannot go on or if you

doubt the safety of the route, turn back and choose another way.

WARNING

Never attempt to drive through a trench if its embankment is too steep for

your vehicle. The vehicle could slip or roll over - risk of accident!

•

When driving at an angle on a hillside, the vehicle can lose its grip and

slide sideways or roll down the hillside. This can lead to serious injuries.

Always make sure that when the vehicle is at an angle, the wheels on the

•

Note

low side do not sink deeply into the ground or into troughs and do not drive

over stones, tree stumps or other obstructions with the alternate raised

wheels - risk of accident!

If you drive into the trench at a right angle, the front wheels will sink into the trench.

There is also the danger that the underbody of the vehicle touches the ground and

is damaged. For these reasons (even with four-wheel drive) it is rarely possible to

get out of the trench.

•

Before you drive at an angle on a hillside, make sure that you can steer

and maintain your trajectory on the route. If this is not possible, choose a

different path. If you drive at an angle on a hillside and there is a risk your

vehicle may tilt, steer immediately downhill on your trajectory and lightly

depress the accelerator.

Driving in sand and mud

•

If the vehicle is stationary on a hillside with a too great angle of lateral

–

Switch on the Off-road mode.

inclination, avoid sudden and uncontrolled movements in the vehicle. The

vehicle can roll over and then roll down the hillside. This can lead to serious

injuries.

Select a suitable gear and do not change it.

Keep your vehicle in constant motion and do not stop until you have

reached firm ground.

•

If the vehicle is stationary on a hillside with a too great angle of lateral

inclination, neither you nor your occupants must exit the vehicle through

the doors facing downhill. This can lead to a shift of the overall centre of

gravity. Otherwise, the vehicle can roll over and then roll down the hillside.

This can lead to serious injuries. To avoid this, you and your occupants must

exit the vehicle only on the side facing uphill.

Do not drive too fast, otherwise the wheels may spin and the vehicle can get stuck.

If you feel that the tyres do no longer grip, then turn the steering wheel quickly back

and forth. This leads to an improved adhesion of the front tyres of the vehicle for a

short period of time.

Driving and the Environment 201

Driving through sand

Rocking out vehicle

Do no reduce the tyre inflation pressure in order to drive through sand. If you

nevertheless reduce the tyre inflation pressure, remember to correct it again before

you continue driving. Driving with a reduced tyre inflation pressure increases the

risk that you lose control over your vehicle and that the vehicle rolls over.

–

Switch off the TCS.

Set the steering wheel straight.

Drive so far back until the wheels just begin to spin.

Driving through mud

Quickly shift into first gear and drive forwards until the wheels begin

to spin.

Do not change speed or direction when you drive through the mud. The tyres can

lose their grip in the mud. If the vehicle slides, you must steer in the appropriate

direction in order to regain control over the vehicle.

–

Drive back and forth repeatedly until the momentum is sufficient to

free the vehicle.

Switch on the TCS again.

WARNING

•

Never choose a dangerous route and never take a risk which could jeop-

ardize your safety and that of your passengers. If you cannot go on or if you

doubt the safety of the route, turn back and choose another way.

A few tips

–

Ensure that the Off-road mode is switched on.

•

Driving through mud can be dangerous. The vehicle can slide uncontrol-

Avoid prolonged spinning of the wheels, otherwise the vehicle would

still sink deeper into the ground.

lably which causes an increased risk of injury. Adopt a particularly cautious

style of driving. Pay attention to the information and warning notes.

–

Remove mud, dirt and stones from the tyre tread.

•

An incorrect tyre inflation pressure may result in bursting of the tyres,

which causes the vehicle to get out of control - risk of accident!

You need training and experience if you wish to rock out a vehicle. If you make a

mistake, the vehicle can still sink in further and you can only free it with the help of

others.

Stuck vehicle

If you can no longer drive on.

WARNING

–

Carefully dig out all the wheels and make sure that no other parts of

the vehicle are stuck in the sand before you try to drive out.

There should never be any person in front or behind the vehicle when rocks,

scrub, wood pieces or other objects are under the wheels, i.e if the vehicle

regains traction on a sandy or slippery ground. These objects can be danger-

ously catapulted through the air by the spinning of the wheels - risk of

accident!

–

Engage the reverse gear.

Cautiously depress the accelerator and try to remain in your own

track.

–

Place scrub, footmats or a sackcloth directly in front of the tyres in

order to improve your chances to drive out.

After driving off-road

After driving off-road, the vehicle must be checked for possible damage.

Using the system

Safety

Driving Tips

General Maintenance

Breakdown assistance

Technical Data

202 Driving and the Environment

–

Switch off the Off-road mode.

Check the tyres and the axles and remove coarse dirt, stones and

foreign bodies from the tyre tread.

–

Clean the turn signal lights, the headlights, the number plate and the

windows.

Check the underbody of the vehicle and remove trapped objects, such

as scrub or wood pieces.

–

Contact your specialist garage if you detect any damage or leaks.

In case of thick layers of dirt, clean the radiator grille, the engine

compartment and the underbody of the vehicle.

WARNING

•

Combustible materials which are trapped under the vehicle floor may

pose a risk. After driving off-road, always check the underside of the vehicle

and remove trapped objects.

•

Combustible materials such as dry leaves or twigs could ignite on hot

vehicle parts. A vehicle fire can also lead to serious injuries.

Never drive when objects are trapped under the vehicle. This can

damage the fuel lines, the brake system, the seals and the chassis parts.

Materials that are trapped can impair the driving safety of the vehicle

and the safety of all its occupants.

•

Towing a trailer 203

Towing a trailer

General Maintenance

There are a number of points to pay attention to when towing a

trailer.

Technical requirements

The towing device must satisfy certain technical requirements.

Trailer load

The permissible trailer load must on no account be exceeded.

Your vehicle is designed primarily for transporting persons and luggage. It can,

however, also be used for towing a trailer - provided certain technical equipment is

fitted.

You can negotiate appropriately steeper inclines and descents if you do not make

full use of the permissible trailer load.

If your vehicle has already been supplied with a factory-fitted towing device then

everything that is necessary for towing a trailer in technical terms, and in terms of

the law, has already been taken into account.

The trailer loads specified only apply for altitudes up to 1 000 metres above mean

sea level. The fact that the engine power output drops with increasing height due to

a lowering of air pressure and thus the ability to climb, means that the towed weight

must be reduced by 10% for every further increase of 1 000 metres in height above

sea level. The towed weight is the weight of the (laden) vehicle and the (laden)

trailer together. One should take this into account before driving up to higher alti-

tudes.

Your vehicle is fitted with a 13-pin power socket for the electrical connection

between the vehicle and trailer. If the trailer which you wish to tow has a 7-pin

13)

connector, you can use a suitable adapter

from Škoda original accessories.

This work must be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications

if a towing device is retrofitted.

The trailer and drawbar load information on the type plate of the towing

device are merely test data for the towing device The data relating to your

vehicle, which is often less than this test data, can be found in your vehicle

registration documents.

Specialist garages are familiar with details relating to retrofitting a towing device

and for any necessary modifications to the cooling system.

Distribution of the load

WARNING

Distribute the load in the trailer in such a way that any heavy items are located as

close as possible to the axle. Secure the items to prevent them slipping.

We recommend that you have the towing device from Škoda original acces-

sories installed by a specialist garage. He is familiar with all the relevant

details relating to retrofitting such equipment. There is a risk of an accident

if the towing device is not properly fitted!

Tyre pressure

Correct the tyre inflation pressure on your vehicle for that of “fully laden”,

⇒ page 232. The inflation pressure of the tyres fitted to the trailer adjust in accord-

ance with the manufacturer's recommendation.

Exterior mirrors

You have to have additional exterior mirrors fitted if you are not able to see the

traffic behind the trailer with the standard rear-view mirrors. Both exterior mirrors

13)

In some countries the adapter is supplied with the towing device.

Using the system

Safety

Driving Tips

General Maintenance

Breakdown assistance

Technical Data

204 Towing a trailer

should be attached to folding arms. Adjust the mirrors so that they provide you with

an adequate field of view to the rear.

Distribution of weight

The distribution of the weight is very poor if your vehicle is unladen and the trailer

is laden. Maintain a particularly low speed if you cannot avoid driving with this

combination.

Headlights

Before starting off with a hitched trailer, also check the setting of the headlights.

Alter the setting as necessary with the aid of the headlight beam adjuster

⇒ page 63.

Driving speed

Do not drive faster than 80 km/hour for safety reasons. This also applies for coun-

tries in which higher speeds are allowed.

Detachable ball head

The fact that the driving stability of the vehicle + trailer combination reduces with

increasing speed means that the legally allowed speed should not be used when

there are unfavourable road, weather or wind conditions, particularly near accident

black spots.

The ball rod is detachable on vehicles which feature a factory-fitted towing device.

It is stowed together with separate fitting instructions in the spare wheel well in the

luggage compartment of the vehicle.

Further information on the towing device ⇒ page 205.

You must always reduce your speed immediately as soon as you detect even just

the slightest swaying of the trailer. On no account attempt to stop the trailer from

“swaying” by accelerating.

Note

•

We recommend that you also have your vehicle inspected between service

intervals if you tow a trailer frequently.

The handbrake on the towing vehicle must be put on when coupling and

Apply the brakes in good time! If the trailer is fitted with a trailer brake, apply the

brakes gently at first and then brake firmly. This will avoid brake jolts resulting from

the trailer wheels locking. Shift down gears in good time before negotiating a down-

hill section to allow the engine to also act as a brake.

•

decoupling the trailer.

Engine overheating

Driving Tips

Please keep a check on the coolant temperature gauge if you have to negotiate a

lengthy slope in a low gear at a high engine speed when the outside temperature is

very high ⇒ page 18, “Coolant temperature gauge”.

Particular caution is required when towing a trailer.

–

Do not, as far as possible, drive with your vehicle unladen and the

trailer laden.

If the needle of the coolant temperature gauge moves into the right-hand area or

even the red area of the scale, reduce your speed immediately. Stop and switch off

the engine if the warning light  in the instrument cluster begins flashing. Wait a

few minutes and check the level of coolant in the coolant expansion bottle

⇒ page 223, “Inspecting the coolant level”.

–

Do not make full use of the legal maximum speeds. This applies in

particular to downhill sections.

–

Apply the brakes in good time.

Please refer to the following guidelines ⇒ page 37, “Coolant temperature/ Coolant

quantity ”.

Keep a check on the coolant temperature gauge if the outside temper-

ature is high.

The coolant temperature can be reduced by switching on the heating.

Any increase in the cooling effect of the coolant fan through shifting down a gear

and increasing the engine speed is not possible since the fan speed is independent

Towing a trailer 205

of the engine speed. One should also not drop a gear for this reason when towing

a trailer as long as the engine can manage the slope without any drop in speed.

Note

Do not carry out any modifications or repairs to the ball head or to any other

components on the towing device.

•

Detachable towing device*

•

Contact a specialist garage if you encounter any problems using the device.

Never unlock the ball head with a trailer coupled to it.

You should take off the ball head if you drive without towing a trailer. Inspect

whether the end cover properly seals off the mounting shaft.

•

Remove the ball head beforehand if you wish to clean your vehicle using a

steam jet. Ensure that the end cover properly seals the mounting shaft.

It is recommended to wear gloves when installing and removing.

•

Fig. 201 Detachable ball

head

The detachable ball head of the towing device is stowed in a box for the car tool kit

in the luggage compartment.

An instruction for correct installation and removal of the ball head of the towing

device is supplied with the ball head

Inspect the ball head to ensure that it is properly locked each time before setting off.

The inspection is performed by turning the closed locking lever downwards. If the

locking lever can only be turned around a small angle (approx. 5°), the locking

mechanism is O.K. After the inspection pull the locking lever back again to its stop.

The towing device must not be used, if it does not wish to close or if it can be turned

freely in the closed position.

WARNING

Do not use any aids or tools for installing or removing the ball head. This

might result in damage to the locking mechanism to the extent that the

safety of the towing device is no longer assured - risk of an accident.

Using the system

Safety

Driving Tips

General Maintenance

Breakdown assistance

Technical Data

206 Towing a trailer

Driving Tips for Your Skoda Yeti 4 Door First Generation (2009-2013)

Related Topics

Popular Owner Manuals

Latest Owner Manuals