Skoda Rapid Owner's Manual page 112

110 Starting, shifting gears, parking
Brake fluid
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First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 104.
The brake fluid absorbs moisture from the surrounding air over a period of time.
Excessive water content of the brake fluid causes damage to the brake system.
Water reduces the boiling point of the brake fluid considerably. With an excessive-
ly high water content, vapour bubbles may form in the brake system when the
brakes are used hard and during full braking manoeuvres. Vapour bubbles reduce
the braking efficiency, extend the braking distance significantly and may even
lead to total failure of the brake system. Your own safety and the safety of other
road users depend on a brake system that is properly functioning at any time
⇒
.
Brake fluid specification
For best function of the brake system, Škoda recommends brake fluid of VW
standard 501 14. If this brake fluid is not available or a different brake fluid is used
for other reasons, a brake fluid may be used that complies with the requirements
of U.S. standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4 or DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4⇒
Brake fluids according to the VW standard 501 14 meet the requirements of the
U.S. standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4 and DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4. This does not mean
that a brake fluid in accordance with the requirements of U.S. standard
FMVSS 116 DOT 4 or DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 automatically also meets the require-
ments of the VW standard 501 14. Compare this information with the information
on the packaging of the brake fluid and make sure to always use the correct brake
fluid for the vehicle.
Suitable brake fluids are available from a Škoda partner.
Brake fluid level
The fluid level must always be between the MIN and MAX markings of the brake
fluid reservoir and above the MIN marking ⇒
The brake fluid level cannot be accurately checked for each model, as engine parts
block the view of the fluid level in the brake fluid reservoir. If the brake fluid level
cannot be read accurately, seek professional help.
The brake fluid level drops slightly during driving as the brake pads wear out and
the brake automatically adjusts itself.
Fig. 73 In the engine com-
Brake fluid change
partment: Cover of the brake
The brake fluid must be changed as specified in the service schedule. Have the
fluid reservoir.
brake fluid changed by a specialist garage. Škoda recommends a Škoda partner for
this purpose. Only replenish new brake fluid that has the required specification.
WARNING
Brake failure or reduced braking efficiency may be caused by a low brake fluid
level or old or unsuitable brake fluid.
● Have the brake system and brake fluid level checked regularly!
● Have the brake fluid changed regularly according to the service schedule
requirements.
● Heavy use of the brakes with old brake fluid may cause forming of vapour
bubbles. Vapour bubbles reduce the braking efficiency, extend the braking
distance significantly and may lead to total failure of the brake system.
● Make sure that the correct brake fluid is used. Only use brake fluid that
matches VW standard 501 14 or FMVSS 116 DOT 4 or DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4.
Any other brake fluid may impair the braking function and reduce the braking
efficiency. Do not use the brake fluid, if VW standard 501 14, FMVSS 116 DOT 4
or DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 is not indicated on the brake fluid reservoir.
.
● The replenished brake fluid must be fresh.
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