Skoda Rapid Owner's Manual page 84

82 Transporting
WARNING
When transporting heavy items, the handling of the vehicle changes and the
stopping distance becomes longer. Heavy cargo, which was not properly stow-
ed or secured, may result in loss of control over the vehicle, causing serious
injuries.
● When transporting heavy items, the handling characteristics of the vehicle
change due to the displacement of the centre of gravity.
● Always distribute the payload evenly and as low as possible in the vehicle.
● Always securely stow heavy items in the boot as far away as possible from
the rear axle.
NOTICE
● The heating elements or the aerial in the rear window can be destroyed by
abrasive objects on the stowage area.
● The aerial in the side windows can be destroyed by abrasive objects.
Stowing luggage
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First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 81.
Stow all luggage items in the vehicle securely
● Distribute loads in the vehicle as evenly as possible.
● Place heavy items as far as possible towards the front of the boot.
● Adjust the range of the headlights ⇒ p age 71.
● Adjust the type pressure according to the load. Observe the tyre inflation pres-
sure label ⇒ p age 160.
NOTICE
The heating elements in the rear window can be destroyed by abrasive ob-
jects on the stowage area.
Driving with the boot lid open
ä
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 81.
Driving with an open boot lid poses a particular danger. Secure all items and the
open boot lid properly and take appropriate measures to reduce the penetration
of toxic exhaust gases.
WARNING
Driving with an unlocked or open boot lid can cause serious injuries.
● Always drive with the boot lid closed.
● Stow all items in the vehicle securely. Loose items can fall out of the boot
and hurt road users behind.
● Always drive carefully and with special foresight.
● Avoid abrupt or sudden driving and braking manoeuvres since the open
tailgate may move uncontrollably.
● Make items extending from the boot visible to other road users. Observe
the statutory provisions.
● If items extend from the boot, the boot lid must never be used to "clamp"
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or "hold" any items.
● In any case, remove any rack mounted on the boot lid, including the cargo,
when driving with an open boot lid.
WARNING
Toxic exhaust gases may enter the interior when the boot lid is open. This can
lead to unconsciousness, carbon monoxide poisoning, accidents and serious
injuries.
● To prevent the penetration of toxic exhaust gases, always drive with the
boot lid closed.
● If, in exceptional cases, driving with an open boot lid can not be avoided,
do the following to reduce the penetration of toxic exhaust gases into the
passenger compartment:
– Switch off recirculated air mode of the air conditioning.
– Open all air outlets in the instrument panel.
– Set the blowers of the air conditioning to the highest blower stage.
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NOTICE
The open boot lid changes the height of the vehicle.
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