abs SKODA FABIA 2009 2.G / 5J Owner's Manual

Contents 4Important safety information regarding the use of seat
belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How are seat belts correctly fastened? . . . . . . . . . .
Belt tensioner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Airbag system
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Description of the airbag system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Side airbags* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Head airbags* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deactivating airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transporting children safely
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What you should know about transporting children!
Child seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Attaching a child seat using the “ISOFIX” system*
Attaching child seat using the “Top Tether” system
Driving Tips
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intelligent Technology
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electronic stability programme (ESP)* . . . . . . . . . .
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake booster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Antilock brake system (ABS)* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake Assist* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electrohydraulic power steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tyre inflation pressure-control system* . . . . . . . . .
Diesel particle filter* (diesel engine) . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving and the Environment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The first 1 500 kilometres and then afterwards . .
Catalytic converter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving in an economical and environmentally
conscious manner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Environmental compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Motoring abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Avoiding damage to your vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
To w i n g a t r a i l e r
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing a trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General Maintenance
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Taking care of your vehicle and cleaning the
vehicle
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Care of the exterior of vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Care of the interior of vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Refuelling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inspecting and replenishing
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cooling system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windshield washer system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheels and Tyres
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessories, changes and replacement of partsAccessories and replacement parts . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Technical changes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicles of the group N1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Breakdown assistance
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Breakdown assistance
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
First-aid box* and Warning triangle* . . . . . . . . . . .
Fire extinguisher* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle tool kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tyre repair kit* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Spare wheel* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changing a wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Jump-starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tow-starting and towing vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuses and light bulbs
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electric fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Technical Data
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Technical Data
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Used abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Performances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Identification details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel consumption according to the regulations
(99/100/EU) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine oil specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2 ltr./44 kW - EU 4/EU 2DDK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.2 ltr./51 kW - EU 4/EU 2DDK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.4 ltr./63 kW - EU 4/EU 2DDK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.6 ltr./77 kW - EU 4/EU 2DDK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.4 ltr./51 kW TDI PD - EU 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.4 ltr./59 kW TDI PD - EU 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.9 ltr./77 kW TDI°PD - EU°4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fabia - Vehicles of the group N1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fabia Combi - Vehicles of the group N1 . . . . . . . . .
Index
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
134
136
138
138
139
142
143
145
147
147
150
153
154
155
155
155
158
158
159
159
160
160
162
163
163
164
164
167
168
169
170
170173
173
173
173
178
181
181
181
182
184
184
187
189
191
192
197
198
198
204
204
204
204
205
205
205
205
206
206
206
207
211
213216
216
221
227
227
227
227
227
227
227
228
229
230
231
233
235
237
239
241
243
245
246
247
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Layout of this Owner's Manual (explanations) 6Layout of this Owner's Manual (explanations)The Owner's Manual has been systematically designed, in order to make it easy for
you to find and absorb the information you require.Chapters, table of contents and subject indexThe text of the Owner's manual is divided into relatively short sections which are
combined into easy-to-read chapters. The chapter you are reading at any partic-
ular moment is highlighted at the bottom right of the page.
The Table of contents is arranged according to the chapters and the detailed
Subject index at the end of the Owner's Manual helps you to rapidly find the infor-
mation you are looking for.SectionsThe majority of Sections apply to all models.
Since there is a wide range of different equipment and options available it is clearly
unavoidable, despite dividing the contents into sections, that mention may be
made of equipment which is not fitted to your vehicle.Brief information and instructionsEach section has a Heading.
This is followed by Brief information (in large italic lettering), which tells you the
subject which is dealt with in this section.
Most of the illustrations are accompanied by an Instruction (in relatively large
letters) which explains to you in a straightforward way the action you have to take.
Work steps which have to be carried out are illustrated with a hyphen.Direction indicationsAll direction indications such as “left”, “right”, “front”, “rear” relate to the direction
of travel of the vehicle.Explanation of symbols* Equipment which is marked in such a way is only standard on certain vehicle
model versions or only suppliable as optional equipment for certain models. End of a section.
 The section is continued on the next page.NotesAll four kinds of notes, which are used in the text, are always stated at the end of the
respective section.
WARNING
The most important notes are marked with the heading WARNING. These
WARNING notes draw your attention to a serious risk of accident or injury.
While reading the text you will frequently encounter a double arrow
followed by a small warning symbol. This symbol is intended to draw your
attention to a WARNING note at the end of the section to which you must pay
careful attention.
Caution
A Caution note draws your attention to the possibility of damage to your vehicle
(e.g. damage to gearbox), or points out general risks of an accident.
For the sake of the environment
An Environmental note draws your attention to environmental protection aspects.
This is where you will, for example, find tips aimed at reducing your fuel consump-
tion.
Note
A normal Note draws your attention in a general way to important information.
s3f4.1.book Page 6 Thursday, June 18, 2009 11:07 AM

Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights27
Using the system
Safety
Driving Tips
General Maintenance
Breakdown assistance
Technical Data
WARNING
•
If you do not pay attention to the warning lights coming on and the corre-
sponding descriptions and warning notes, this may result in severe body
injuries or major vehicle damage.
•
The engine compartment of your car is a hazardous area. There is a risk
of injuries, scalding, accidents and fire when working in the engine
compartment, e.g. inspecting and replenishing oil and other fluids. It is also
essential to observe all warnings ⇒page 185.Note
•
Arrangement of the indicator lights depends on the model and model version.
The symbols shown in the following functional description are to be found as indi-
cator lights in the instrument cluster.
•
Operational faults are shown in the instrument cluster as red symbols (priority
1 - danger) or yellow symbols (priority 2 - warning).
Turn signal system

Either the left
 or right
 indicator light flashes depending on the position of the
turn signal lever.
The indicator light flashes at twice its normal rate if a turn signal light fails. This does
not apply when towing a trailer.
Switching off the hazard warning light system is switched on will cause all of the
turn signal lights as well as both indicator lights to flash.
Further information about the turn signal system ⇒page 54.
Main beam

The indicator light
 comes on when the main beam is selected or also when the
headlight flasher is operated.
Further information about the main beam ⇒page 54.

Coolant temperature/coolant level
⇒page 29

Electronic immobiliser
⇒page 30

Fuel reserve
⇒page 30

Engine oil pressure
⇒page 30

Engine oil level
⇒page 30

Open door*
⇒page 31

Fluid level in windshield washer system*
⇒page 31

Control system for exhaust
⇒page 31

Traction control system (TCS)*
⇒page 31

Tyre pressure*
⇒page 32

Selector lever lock* (automatic gearbox)
⇒page 32

Electronic stability programme (ESP)*
⇒page 32

Antilock brake system (ABS)*
⇒page 32

Brake system
⇒page 33

Airbag system
⇒page 33

Diesel particle filter* (diesel engine)
⇒page 34

Seat belt warning light*
⇒page 35
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Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights31
Using the system
Safety
Driving Tips
General Maintenance
Breakdown assistance
Technical Data The warning light

flashes yellow* (engine oil level sensor faulty)
A fault on the engine oil level sensor is indicated additionally by an audible signal
and the warning light coming on several times after the ignition has been switched
on.
In this case have the engine inspected without delay by a specialist garage.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
OIL SENSOR WORKSHOP!
WARNING
•
If you must stop for technical reasons, then park the vehicle at a safe
distance from the traffic and switch off the engine and switch on the hazard
warning light system ⇒page 54.
•
The red oil pressure light

is not an oil level indicator! One should
therefore check the oil level at regular intervals, preferably after every refu-
eling stop.
•
Pay attention to the following instructions ⇒page 185, “Working in the
engine compartment” before checking the coolant fluid level and opening
the bonnet.
Open door*

The warning light
 comes on if one or several doors, the bonnet or boot lid is
opened.
The warning light comes on even when the ignition is switched off. The warning
light goes out 5 minutes after switching off the ignition if one or several doors, the
bonnet or boot lid is opened. The warning light goes out after closing the doors.
Windshield washer fluid level*

The warning light
 comes on when the ignition is switched on if there is insuffi-
cient fluid in the windshield washer system. Top up with liquid ⇒page 197.
A peep sounds as an additional warning signal.The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
REFILL WASHER LIQUID
Control system for exhaust

The warning light
 comes on after the ignition has been switched on.
If the warning light does not go out after starting the engine or it lights up when
driving, a fault exists in an exhaust relevant component. The engine management
system selects an emergency programme which enables you to drive to the nearest
specialist garage by adopting a gentle style of driving.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
EXHAUST WORKSHOP!
Traction control system (TCS) *

The warning light
 comes on for a few seconds when the ignition is switched on.
The warning light flashes when a control cycle is activated while driving.
The warning light will come on and remains on if the TCS is switched off or if there
is a fault in the system.
The fact that the TCS system operates together with the ABS means that the TCS
warning light will also come on if the ABS system is not operating properly.
If the warning light  comes on immediately after starting the engine, the TCS
system can be switched off for technical reasons. In this case, the TCS system can
be switched on again by switching the ignition on and off. If the warning light goes
out, the TCS system is fully functional again.
Further information about the TCS ⇒page 156.
Note
If the battery has been disconnected and reconnected, the warning light
 comes
on after switching on the ignition. The warning light must go out after driving a short
distance.
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Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights 32Tyre inflation pressure*

The warning light
 lights up, if there is a substantial drop in inflation pressure in
one of the tyres. Reduce the speed and check or correct as soon as possible the
inflation pressure in the tyres ⇒page 198.
A peep sounds as an additional warning signal.
If the warning light flashes
, there is a system fault. Visit the nearest specialist
garage and have the fault rectified.
Further information about tyre pressure-control system ⇒page 160.
WARNING
•
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.
•
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 tyre inflation pressure-control system does not take away the
responsability from the driver for the correct tyre inflation pressure.Note
If the battery has been disconnected, the warning light
 comes on after switching
on the ignition. The warning light must go out after driving a short distance.
Selector lever lock*

(automatic gearbox)
If the warning light
 lights up, operate the brake pedal. This is necessary, in order
to be able to move the selector lever out of the position P or N.
Electronic stability programme (ESP)*

The warning light
 comes on for a few seconds when the ignition is switched on.
Components of the ESP system also include the Traction Control System (TCS), the
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) and the Antilock Brake System (ABS).
The warning light flashes when a control cycle is activated while driving.
The warning light will come on and remains on if the ESP is switched off or if there
is a fault in the system.
The fact that the ESP system operates together with the ABS means that the ESP
warning light will also come on if the ABS system is not operating properly.
Further information on the ESP ⇒page 155, “Electronic stability programme
(ESP)*”.
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)*
The EDL is a part of the ESP. A fault in the EDL is indicated by the ESP warning light
 in the instrument cluster. Have the vehicle inspected immediately by your
specialist garage. Further information on the EDL ⇒page 157.Antilock brake system (ABS)*

The warning light
 shows the functionality of the ABS.
The warning light comes on for a few seconds after the ignition has been switched
on or when starting the engine. The warning light goes out after an automatic check
sequence has been completed.
A fault in the ABS
The system is not functioning properly if the ABS warning light
 does not go out
within a few seconds after switching on the ignition, does not light up at all or lights
up while driving. The vehicle will only be braked by the normal brake system. Visit
a specialist garage as quickly as possible and adjust your style of driving to take
account of the fault in the meantime since you will not know the extent of the fault
and in how far the effect of the antilock brakes is affected.
Three additional warning tones will sound if there is a major fault in the ABS.
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Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights33
Using the system
Safety
Driving Tips
General Maintenance
Breakdown assistance
Technical Data Further information about ABS ⇒page 159, “Antilock brake system (ABS)*”.
A fault in the entire brake system
If the ABS warning light
 comes on together with the brake system warning light
 (handbrake must be released), there is a fault not only in the ABS but also in
another part of the brake system ⇒.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
STOP BRAKE FAULT OWNER'S MANUAL!
WARNING
•
If the brake system warning light
 comes on together with the ABS
warning light
 stop the vehicle immediately and check the brake fluid
level in the reservoir ⇒page 191, “Brake fluid”. If the fluid level has dropped
below the MIN marking, do not drive any further - risk of accident! Obtain
professional assistance.
•
Pay attention to the following instructions before checking the brake
fluid level and opening the bonnet ⇒page 185, “Working in the engine
compartment”.
•
If the brake fluid is at the correct level, the ABS control function has
failed. The rear wheels may then block very rapidly when braking. In certain
circumstances, this can result in the rear end of the car breaking away - risk
of skidding! Drive carefully to the nearest specialist garage and have the
fault rectified.
Brake system

The warning light
 flashes or comes on if the brake fluid level is too low, if there
is a fault in the ABS or if the handbrake is applied.
If the warning light  flashes (handbrake is not applied), stop and check the brake
fluid level ⇒.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
STOP BRAKE FLUID SERVICE MANUALIf there is a fault in the ABS which also influences the function of the normal brake
system (e.g. distribution of brake pressure), the ABS warning light
 comes on
together with the brake system warning light
. Be aware that not only the ABS but
also another part of th brake system is defective ⇒.
3 peeps sound as an additional warning signal.
One should get used to high pedal forces, an extended free play of the brake pedal
and long braking distances when carefully driving to the specialist garage.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
STOP BRAKE FAULT OWNER'S MANUAL!
For further information on the brake system ⇒page 158, “Brakes”.
Handbrake applied
The warning light
 also comes on if the handbrake is applied. An audible warning
is also given if you drive the vehicle for at least 3 seconds at a speed of more than 6
km/h.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
HANDBRAKE ON
WARNING
•
Pay attention to the following instructions before checking the brake
fluid level and opening the bonnet ⇒page 185, “Working in the engine
compartment”.
•
If the brake system warning light
 does not go out a few seconds after
switching on the ignition or comes on when driving, stop immediately and
check the brake fluid in the reservoir ⇒page 191, “Brake fluid”. If the fluid
level has dropped below the MIN marking, do not drive any further - risk of
accident! Obtain professional assistance.
Airbag system

Monitoring the airbag system
The warning light
 comes on for a few seconds when the ignition is switched on.
s3f4.1.book Page 33 Thursday, June 18, 2009 11:07 AM

Unlocking and locking 36Unlocking and lockingKeyDescriptionThe vehicle is supplied with two keys without remote control ⇒fig. 31 or with two
keys with remote control* ⇒fig. 32. The keys fit in all vehicle locks.
Key ring
The key ring only has the key number on it which is essential for producing other
keys. This number can be used to order replacement keys from specialist garages.The key ring with the number should be separately and securely kept in safe
keeping since keys can only be replaced if they are lost or damaged by giving this
number. You should also therefore hand over this key ring to the purchaser when
selling the vehicle.
WARNING
•
Always withdraw the key whenever you leave the vehicle - even if it is
only for a short time. This is particularly important if children are left in the
vehicle. The children might otherwise start the engine or operate electrical
equipment (e.g. power windows) - risk of injury!
•
Do not withdraw the ignition key from the ignition lock until the vehicle
has come to a stop. The steering lock might otherwise engage unintention-
ally - risk of accident!Caution
•
Each key contains electronic components; therefore protect them against mois-
ture and severe shocks.
•
Keep the groove of the keys absolutely clean as impurities (textile fibres, dust
etc.) have a negative effect on the proper operation of the locking cylinder and the
ignition lock.Note
Please approach a specialist garage if you lose a key since he can obtain a new one
for you.
Fig. 31 Set of keys without
remote controlFig. 32 Remote control key
s3f4.1.book Page 36 Thursday, June 18, 2009 11:07 AM

Seats and Storage 80
Installing
– Insert the attachment points of the roof rack into the mounts of the
body so that the pins of the attachment points grasp into the holes of
the body.
Note•
Pay attention to the information regarding assembly and disassembly in the
attached instructions.
•
If you have any questions, please contact a specialist garage.
Roof loadDistribute weight evenly over the roof luggage rack system. The maximum permis-
sible roof load (including roof rack system) of 75 kg and the maximum permissible
total weight of the vehicle should not be exceeded.
You cannot make full use of the permissible roof load if you use a roof luggage rack
system with a lower load carrying capacity. The load transported on the roof
luggage rack system must not exceed the weight limit which is stated in the fitting
instructions.
WARNING
•
The items which you transport on the roof bar system must be reliably
attached - risk of accident!
•
You must on no account exceed the permissible roof load, the permis-
sible axle loads and the permissible gross weight of your vehicle - risk of
accident!
•
Please note that the handling properties of your vehicle change when
you transport heavy or bulky items on the roof bar system as a result of the
displacement of the centre of gravity and the increased wind attack area -
risk of accident! You must absolutely adapt your style of driving and the
speed of the vehicle to the specific circumstances.
Front cup holderYou can place two cups or beverage cans into the recesses ⇒fig. 100.
WARNING
•
Do not place any hot beverages into the cup holder. If the vehicle moves,
the hot beverages may spill - risk of scalding!
•
Do not use any cups or beakers which are made of brittle material (e.g.
glass, porcelain). You might be injured by them in the event of an accident.Caution
Do not open the beverages in the cup holder while driving. There is a risk of spilling
e.g. when braking and therefore the electrical components or the seat upholstery
can be damaged.
Fig. 100 Front centre
console: Cup holder
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Seat belts 132Seat beltsWhy seat belts?It is a proven fact that seat belts offer good protection in accidents ⇒fig. 142. Thus
wearing a seat belt is a legal requirement in most countries.
Seat belts which have been correctly fastened and adjusted hold the occupants of
the car in the correct seated position ⇒fig. 142. The belts reduce the kinetic energy
(energy of motion) to a considerable extent. They also prevent uncontrolled move-
ments which, in turn, may well result in severe injuries.
The occupants of a vehicle who have fastened and correctly adjusted their seat belt,
profit to a major extent from the fact that the kinetic energy is optimally absorbed
by the belts. The structure of the front end of the vehicle and other passive safety
measures, such as the airbag system, also contribute to reducing the kinetic energy.
The energy produced is thus absorbed and there is less risk of injury.
Accident statistics prove that seat belts which are fastened and properly adjusted
reduce the risk of an injury and enhance the chance of survival in a major accident
⇒page 133.It is important that you pay attention to safety measures, particularly when trans-
porting children in the vehicle ⇒page 147, “Transporting children safely”.
WARNING
•
Fasten your seat belt each time before setting off, also when driving in
town! This also applies to the people seated at the rear - risk of injury!
•
Expectant women must also always wear a seat belt. This is the only way
of ensuring optimal protection for the unborn child ⇒page 134, “Fastening
three-point seat belts”.
•
It is important for the belt webbing to be properly routed if the seat belts
are to offer the maximum protection. You can see a description of how safety
belts should be fitted properly on the next pages.Note
Please comply with any differing legal requirements when using the seat belts.
Fig. 142 Driver wearing seat
belt
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Seat belts133
Using the system
Safety
Driving Tips
General Maintenance
Breakdown assistance
Technical Data
The physical principle of a frontal collisionThe physical principle of a frontal accident can be explained quite simply:
Motion energy, so-called kinetic energy, is produced as soon as the vehicle is
moving, both for the vehicle and its occupants. The magnitude of this kinetic energy
depends essentially on the speed at which the vehicle is travelling and on the
weight of the vehicle and the occupants. The greater the speed and weight increase, the greater the amount of energy which has to be absorbed in the event of an acci-
dent.
The speed of the vehicle is, nevertheless, the most important factor. Doubling the
speed of the vehicle from 25 km/h up to 50 km/hour increases the kinetic energy
four times.
The common opinion that it is possible to support your body in a minor accident
with your hands, is incorrect. Even in a collision at only a low speed, the forces
acting on the body are such that it is no longer possible to support your body.
Even if you only drive at a speed within the range from 30 km/hour to 50 km/hour,
the forces which are produced on your body in the event of an accident can easily
exceed 10.000 N (Newton). This equals a weight of one tonne (1 000 kg).
In the event of a frontal collision, occupants of the car not wearing a seat belt, are
thrown forward and strike in an uncontrolled way parts of the interior of the car,
such as steering wheel, dash panel, windscreen,⇒fig. 143. The occupants of a
vehicle who have not fastened their seat belts may even be thrown out of the
vehicle. This can result in fatal injuries.
It is also important that rear seat occupants fasten their seat belts as they will other-
wise be thrown through the vehicle in an uncontrolled manner in the event of an
accident A rear seat passenger who has not fastened the seat belt is a danger not
only to himself but also for those seated at the front ⇒fig. 144.
Important safety information regarding the use of seat beltsThe correct use of the seat belts considerably reduces the risk of
injury!
WARNING
•
The belt webbing must not be jammed in-between at any point or
twisted, or chafe against any sharp edges.
•
It is important that the belt webbing is properly routed if the seat belts
are to offer their maximum protection ⇒page 134, “How are seat belts
correctly fastened?”.
Fig. 143 The driver is thrown
forward if not wearing a beltFig. 144 The rear seat occu-
pant is thrown forward if not
wearing a belt
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