ABS SKODA SUPERB 2003 1.G / (B5/3U) Owner's Manual

Contents
4
Driving Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intelligent Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electronic stability programme (ESP)* . . . . . .
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Antilock brake system (ABS) . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake Assist* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driving and the Environment. . . . . . . . . . . .
The first 1 500 kilometres and then afterwards
Catalytic converter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Motoring abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Avoiding damage to your vehicle . . . . . . . . . .
Driving in an economical and environmentally
conscious manner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Environmental compatibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing a trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Towing a trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Detachable towing device* . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General Maintenance . . . . . . . . . .
Care and cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Care of the exterior of vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . .
Care of the interior of vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Refuelling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inspecting and Replenishing. . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Overview of the engine compartment . . . . . .
Engine oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cooling system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windscreen Wiper and Washer System . . . .
Spark plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-ribbed belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
The dust and pollen filter* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheels and Tyres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Accessories, changes and replacement of
parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Breakdown assistance . . . . . . . .
Breakdown assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
First-aid box* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Warning triangle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fire extinguisher* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle tool kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Spare wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Changing a wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Jump-starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tow-starting and towing vehicle . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuses and light bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electric fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Technical Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle identification data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
169
169
169
172
173
174
174
176
176
177
178
178
179
183
184
184
186
189
189
189
189
194
196
198
198
198
200
202
202
204
205
208 210
212
217
217
218
218
219
219
226
226
227
227
227
227
228
228
229
229
236
238
241
241
243
249
249
249
251

Layout of this Owner's Manual 7
Layout of this Owner's Manual
The Owner's Manual has been systematically designed, in order to make
it easy for you to find and absorb the information you require. A sample
page of the manual is illustrated in ⇒page 6, fig. 1 . The text in this case
is in Latin as the important aspect here is not the contents. This page is
an example we have taken in order to explain to you the following aspects
and designations of the text.
Chapters, table of cont ents and subject index
The text of the manual are divided into relatively 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 information 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 standard on certain vehicle model
versions or only suppliable as optional equipment for certain models, cf. .
Brief information and instructions
Each section has a Heading, cf. .
This is followed by Brief information (in large italic lettering), which tells
you the subject which is dealt with in this section, cf. .
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. We have identified the corresponding
Actions with a dash,
cf. .
Notes
There are 4 different types of notes which are all presented on this
example page. Such guidelines are presented together at the end of the
section.
The most important type of comments are the Warnings, cf. . 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, cf. . 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.
A Caution note, cf. , draws your attention to the possibility of damage
to your vehicle (e.g. damage to gearbox), or points out general risks of an
accident .
An Environmental note, cf. , draws your attention to environmental
protection aspects. This is where you will, for example, find tips aimed at
reducing your fuel consumption.
A normal Note cf. , 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.
6
2
3
4
7
5
8
9
10

Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights29
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
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 indicator lights in the instrument cluster.
•Operational faults are shown in the display of 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 posi-
tion 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 59.
Main beam 
The indicator light  comes on when the main beam is selected or also
when the headlight flasher is operated.
EPC fault light (petrol engine)⇒ page 31
Glow plug system (diesel engine)⇒page 31
Coolant temperature/coolant level⇒page 31
Brake pad wear⇒page 32
Bonnet⇒page 32
Fuel reserve⇒page 32
Engine oil⇒page 32
Open door⇒page 33
Fluid level in windshield washer system⇒page 33
Bulbs⇒page 33
EPC fault light⇒page 34
Electronic stability programme (ESP)*⇒page 34
Traction control system (TCS)*⇒page 34
Antilock brake system (ABS)⇒page 34
Electronic immobiliser⇒page 35
Brake system⇒page 35
Dynamo⇒page 36
Seat belt warning light⇒page 36

Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights
34
or
BRAKE LIGHTS FAILURE
EPC  fault light
The warning light  comes on after the ignition has been switched on.
If the warning light does not go out or comes on when driving, or flashes,
this indicates a system fault in the electronic power control or in the
exhaust emission system. The engine management system selects an
emergency programme which enables you to drive to the nearest Škoda
dealer while adopting a gentle style of driving.
The following text will be displayed in the information display*:
EMISSIONS WORKSHOP!
Electronic Stability Programme (ESP)* 
The warning light  comes on for several seconds after the ignition is
switched on.
Components of the ESP system also include the Traction Control System
(TCS), Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), the Antilock Brake System ABS
and the braking assistant
The warning light comes on when driving when a control cycle is acti-
vated.
The warning lig ht will come on an d 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 169.
Traction Control System (TCS)* 
The warning light  comes on for several seconds after the ignition is
switched on.
The warning light comes on when driving when a control cycle is acti-
vated.
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.
Further information about the TCS ⇒page 170.
Antilock brake system (ABS) 
The warning light  shows the functionality of the ABS and the Electronic
Differential Lock (EDL).
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.

Instruments and Indicator/Warning Lights35
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
A fault in the ABS
The system is not functioning properly if the 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 without the effect of the ABS function. Visit a Škoda
dealer as quickly as possible and adjust your style of driving in the mean-
time 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 173.
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 SERVICE MANUAL
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)*
The EDL is a part of the ABS. A fault in the EDL is indicated by the ABS
warning light
 in the instrument cluster. Have the vehicle inspected
without delay by a Škoda dealer. Further information on the EDL
⇒ page 171.
Electronic immobiliser 
Data is compared between the ignition key and the control unit when
switching on the ignition. The indicator light  will light up for a few
seconds when ignition key authorisation is confirmed.
The warning light will start flashing continuously if a non-authorised igni-
tion key (for example the wrong ignition key) has been used. The engine
cannot be started ⇒page 39.
It is only possible to start the engine of the vehicle with a Genuine Škoda
key with the matching code.
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 MANUAL
If 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
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 210. If the brake fluid level
has dropped below the MIN marking, do not drive any further - risk
of accident! Contact a Škoda dealer to obtain professional assist-
ance.
WARNING (continued)
•Pay attention to the following instructions ⇒page 203 before
checking the brake fluid level and opening the bonnet.

Unlocking and locking
38
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
Škoda dealers.
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 give this key ring to the
purchaser when selling the vehicle.
Note
•Keep the groove of the keys absolutely clean as impurities (textile
fibres, dust etc.) have a negative effect on proper operation of the keys
and the ignition lock.
•Please approach a Škoda dealer if you lose a key since he can obtain
a new one for you.
Changing the key battery
Each master key contains a battery which is housed in the cover of the transmitter housing ⇒fig. 20 . We recommend that you
have the batteries of the key replaced by a Škoda dealer. You
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 unintentionally - risk of accident!
Fig. 20 Disconnect the
folding key
Fig. 21 Cover of the
transmitter housing
AB

Seats and Stowage89
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
Attachment points
Installing
When fitting on the feet of the roof bars, ensure that they are positioned
exactly between the arrow markings in the sealing strip on the roof
⇒fig. 77 . The markings are visible only when the doors are open.
Roof load
Distribute weight evenly over the roof luggage rack system. The maximum
permissible roof load (including roof rack system) of 100 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 trans-
ported on the roof luggage rack system must not exceed the weight limit
which is stated in the fitting instructions.
Fig. 77 Attachment
points for roof bars
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
permissible 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.

Seat belts
138
Seat belts
Why seat belts?
It is a proven fact that seat belts offer good protection in accidents
⇒ fig. 120 . Thus wearing a seat belt is a legal requirement in most coun-
tries.
Seat belts which have been correctly fastened and adjusted hold the
occupants of the car in the correct seated position ⇒ fig. 120. The belts
reduce the kinetic energy (energy of motion) to a considerable extent.
They also prevent uncontrolled movements 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 139.
It is important that you pay attention to safety measures, particularly when
transporting children in the vehicle ⇒page 157, “What you should know
about transporting children!”.
Note
Please comply with any differing legal requirements when using the seat
belts.
Fig. 120 Driver
wearing seat belt (a
basic illustration)
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 141.
•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.

Seat belts139
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
The physical principle of a frontal
collision
The physical principle of a frontal accident can be explained quite simply: As soon as the vehicle is moving, so-called kinetic energy (the energy of
motion) is produced both in terms of the car as well as in terms of the
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
accident.
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 inte-
rior of the car, such as steering wheel, dash panel, windscreen,
⇒fig. 121 .
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 passengers fasten their seat belts as they
will otherwise 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. 122 .
Fig. 121 The driver is
thrown forward if not
wearing a belt
Fig. 122 The rear seat
occupant is thrown
forward if not wearing a
belt

Intelligent Technology169
Using the systemSafetyDriving TipsGeneral MaintenanceBreakdown assistanceTechnical Data
Driving Tips
Intelligent Technology
Electronic stability programme (ESP)*
General
General
The ESP aids you maintain control of your vehicle in situations in border-
line driving situations such as when negotiating a curve too fast. The risk
of skidding is reduced and your car thus offers greater driving stability
depending on the conditions of the road surface. This occurs at all speeds.
The following systems are integrated into the electronic stability
programme:
•Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
•Traction control system (TCS)
•Antilock brake system ABS
•Brake Assist
Operating principle
The ESP switches on automatically when the engine is started and then
conducts a self-test. The ESP control unit processes data from the indi-
vidual 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 acceleration of the vehicle, the braking
pressure and the steering angle.
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
car beginning to skid, the ESP will automatically brake the appropriate
wheel and reduce the engine speed.
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 understeer (tendency to shift out of the
curve). This braking control cycle is accompanied by noises.
The ESP operates in combination with the ABS ⇒page 173. If there is a
fault in the ABS system, the ESP also does not operate.
Fig. 145 ESP switch