ABS SKODA OCTAVIA 2007 1.G / (1U) Owner's Manual

Contents
4
Important safety information regarding the use of seat
belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How are seat belts correctly fastened? . . . . . . . . . .
Belt tensioners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Airbag system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Description of the airbag system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front airbag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Side airbags* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Head airbags* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Deactivating an airbag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transporting children safely . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What you should know about transporting children!
Child seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Attaching a child seat using the “ISOFIX” system .
Attaching child seat using the “Top Tether” system
Driving Tips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intelligent Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electronic stability programme (ESP)* . . . . . . . . . .
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake booster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Antilock brake system (ABS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake Assist* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Uphill-Start off-Assist* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electromechanical 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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing a trailer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing a trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Detachable towing device* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Breakdown assistance. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Breakdown assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
First-aid box* and Warning triangle* (Octavia) . .
First-aid box* and warning triangle* (Estate car) .
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 comments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Used abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Performances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Identification details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel consumption according to the regulations
(99/100/EU) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.4 ltr./59 kW - EU4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.6 l/75 kW - EU 4, EU 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.6 l/85 kW FSI - EU 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.8 l/118 kW TFSI - EU 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.0 l/110 kW FSI - EU 4, EU 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.0 ltr./147 kW - EU 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1.9 l/77 kW TDI PD - EU 4, EU 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.0 l/103 kW TDI PD - EU 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.0 l/100 kW TDI PD - EU 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2.0 l/125 kW TDI PD DPF - EU 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
159
160
162
163
163
165
167
169
171
173
173
176
179
180
181
181
181
184
185
185
185
186
186
187
188
189
189
190
190
194
194
195 196
196
198
199
199
199
199
204
206
206
206
207
209
209
212
214
217
218
221
223
223
229
229
229
231
231
231
231
231
232
232
233233
238
239
243
243
248
255
255
255
255
255
255
255
256
257
258
260
262
264
266
268
270
272
274
276
279
NKO A5 20 MR08.book Page 4 Wednesday, April 11, 2007 2:54 PM

Layout of this Owner's Manual (explanations)
6
Layout 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 index
The text of the manual are divided into re latively short sections which are combined
into easy-to-read chapters. The chapter you are reading at any particular 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.
Sections
The 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.
Equipment which is marked * is only standa rd on certain vehicle model versions or
only suppliable as optional equipment for certain models.
Brief information and instructions
Each 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 straig htforward way the action you have to take.
Work steps which have to be carried out are illustrated with a hyphen.
Notes
All 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 po ssibility 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.
Direction indications
All direction indications such as “left”, “right”, “front”, “rear” relate to the direction
of travel of the vehicle.
NKO A5 20 MR08.book Page 6 Wednesday, April 11, 2007 2:54 PM

Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights25
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical 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 replenis hing oil and other fluids. It is also
essential to observe all warnings ⇒page 210.
Note
•Arrangement of the indicator lights de pends on the model and model version.
The symbols shown in the following function al 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 56.
Airbag system⇒page 28
Coolant temperature/coolant level⇒page 28
Brake pad wear*⇒page 29
Fluid level in windshield washer system*⇒page 29
Fuel reserve⇒page 29
Engine oil pressure⇒page 29
Bonnet⇒page 30
Open door*⇒page 30
Engine oil level*⇒page 30
Tyre pressure*⇒page 30
Selector lever lock*⇒page 31
*Speed regulating system*⇒page 31
Antilock brake system (ABS)⇒page 31
Traction control system (TCS)⇒page 31
Electronic stability programme (ESP)*⇒page 32
Dynamo⇒page 32
Brake system⇒page 32
Seat belt warning light*⇒page 33
NKO A5 20 MR08.book Page 25 Wednesday, April 11, 2007 2:54 PM

Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights31
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
WARNING
•When the warning light  lights up, immediately reduce the speed and
avoid sudden steering and brake mano euvres. 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.
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* 
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.
Cruise control system* *
The warning light  lights up, when operating the speed regulating system.
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 pr operly 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 in the
meantime since you will not know how great the damage is.
Three additional warning tones will sound if there is a major fault in the ABS.
Further information about ABS ⇒page 185, “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 ⇒.
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 217, “Brake fluid”. If the fluid level has dropped
below the MIN marking, do not drive any further - risk of accident! Contact
a Škoda dealer to obtain professional assistance.
•Pay attention to the following instructions ⇒ page 210, “Working in the
engine compartment” before checking the brake fluid level and opening the
bonnet.
•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.
Traction control system (TCS) 
The warning light  comes on for a few seconds when the ignition is switched on.
The warning light comes on when driving when a control cycle is activated.
The warning light will come on and remains on if the TCS is switched off or if there
is a fault in the system.
NKO A5 20 MR08.book Page 31 Wednesday, April 11, 2007 2:54 PM

Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights
32
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 183, “Traction control system (TCS)”.
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.
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),
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), and the Antilock Brake System ABS (ABS).
The warning light comes on when driving when a control cycle is activated.
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.
If the warning light
 comes on immediately after starting the engine, the ESP
system can be switched off for technical reasons. In this case, the ESP system can
be switched on again by switching the ignition on and off. If the warning light goes
out, the ESP system is fully functional again.
Further information on the ESP ⇒page 181, “Electronic stability programme
(ESP)*”. Electronic Differen
tial Lock (EDL)*
The EDL is a part of the ESP. A fault in th e EDL is indicated by the ESP warning light
in the instrument cluster. Have the ve hicle inspected without delay by a Škoda
Service Partner. Further information on the EDL ⇒page 182, “Electronic Differen-
tial Lock (EDS)*”.
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.
Alternator 
The warning light  comes on after the ignition has been switched on. It should go
out after the engine has started.
If the warning light does not go out after the engine has started, or comes on when
driving, drive to the nearest specialist garage. The vehicle battery will be discharged
in this case so switch off all non-essential electrical components.
Caution
If the warning light  comes on when driving and in addition the warning light 
(cooling system fault) also comes on in display, you must then stop the car imme-
diately and switch the engine off - risk of engine damage!
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 Owner's manual
NKO A5 20 MR08.book Page 32 Wednesday, April 11, 2007 2:54 PM

Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights33
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
If there is a fault in the ABS which also in
fluences 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, long braking distances and long free play
of the brake pedal when driving to the next specialist garage.
For further information on the brake system ⇒page 184, “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 ⇒page 210, “Working in the
engine compartment” before checking the brake fluid level and opening the
bonnet.
•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 217, “Brake fluid”. If the fluid
level has dropped below the MIN marking, do not drive any further - risk of
accident! Contact a Škoda dealer to obtain professional assistance.
Seat belt warning light* 
The warning light  comes on after the ignition is switched on as a reminder to
fasten the seat belt. The warning light only goes out if the driver has fastened his
seat belt.
If the seat belt has not been fastened, a permanent warning signal sounds at vehicle
speeds greater than 20 km/h and simultaneously the warning light
 flashes. If the seat belt is not fastened during
the next 90 seconds, the warning signal is
deactivated and the warning light
 lights up permanently.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*: Please fasten seatbelt!
For further information on the seat belts ⇒page 158, “Seat belts”.
NKO A5 20 MR08.book Page 33 Wednesday, April 11, 2007 2:54 PM

Unlocking and locking
34
Unlocking and locking
Key
The vehicle is supplied with two keys. Depending on the equipment fitted, your
vehicle can be equipped with keys without remote control ⇒fig. 20 ; with keys with
light* ⇒page 35, fig. 22 or with keys with radio remote control* ⇒fig. 21 .
Key ring
The key ring ⇒fig. 20 only has the key number on it which is essential for producing
other keys. This number can be used to order replacement keys from the Škoda
Service Partners. The
key ring with the number should be separately and securely kept in safe
keeping since keys can only be replaced if th ey are lost or damaged by giving this
number. You should also therefore give 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 st art 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 cl ean as impurities (textile fibres, dust
etc.) have a negative effect on proper op eration of the keys and the ignition lock.
Note
Please approach a Škoda Service Partner if you lose a key since he can obtain a new
one for you.
Fig. 20 Set of keys
without remote control
Fig. 21 Radio-operated
key
NKO A5 20 MR08.book Page 34 Wednesday, April 11, 2007 2:54 PM

Seats and Stowage85
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
For the sake of the environment
The increased aerodynamic drag results in a higher fuel consumption. One should
therefore take off the roof bar system after use.
Note
A roof rail is obtainable from a specialist garage if hasn't been fitted onto an estate
car at the works.
Lashing points (Octavia)
Fitting
– Insert the attachment points of th e 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, plea se contact a specialist garage.
•The figure is not valid for an estate car.
Roof load
Distribute 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 vehicl e should not be exceeded.
You cannot make full use of th e permissible roof load if you use a roof luggage rack
system with a lower load carrying capa city. 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.
Fig. 90 Attachment
points for base roof
carrier
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Seat belts
158
Seat belts
Why seat belts?
It is a proven fact that seat belt s offer good protection in accidents ⇒fig. 157 . 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 correc t seated position ⇒fig. 157 . 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 159. It is important that you pay attention to
safety measures, particularly when trans-
porting children in the vehicle ⇒ page 173, “What you should know about trans-
porting children!”.
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 160, “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 pr operly on the next pages.
Note
Please comply with any differing legal requirements when using the seat belts.
Fig. 157 Driver wearing
seat belt
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Seat belts159
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
The physical principle of a frontal collision
The physical principle of a frontal a ccident 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 uncontrolle d way parts of the interior of the car,
such as steering wheel, dash panel, windscreen, ⇒fig. 158 . The occupants of a
vehicle who have not fastened their seat belts may even be thrown out of the
vehicle. This can resu lt 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 fo r those seated at the front ⇒fig. 159 .
Important safety information regarding the use of
seat belts
The 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 160, “How are seat belts
correctly fa stened?”.
Fig. 158 The driver is
thrown forward if not
wearing a belt
Fig. 159 The rear seat
occupant is thrown
forward if not wearing a
belt
NKO A5 20 MR08.book Page 159 Wednesday, April 11, 2007 2:54 PM