Skoda Fabia Owner's Manual page 167

CAUTION
The vehicle battery must only be disconnected if the ignition is switched off,
■
otherwise the vehicle's electrical system (electronic components) can be dam-
aged. When disconnecting the battery from the electrical system, disconnect the
negative terminal ( ) first and then the positive terminal ( ).
When connecting the battery to the electrical system, connect the positive ter-
■
minal ( ) and then the negative terminal ( ). Under no circumstances must the
battery cables be connected incorrectly – risk of a cable fire.
Ensure that battery acid does not come into contact with the bodywork – there
■
is a risk of damage to the paintwork.
Do not place the battery in direct daylight in order to protect the vehicle battery
■
housing from the effects of ultra-violet light.
If the vehicle has not been driven for more than 3 to 4 weeks, the battery will
■
discharge. This is because certain electrical components consume electricity (e. g.
control units) also in idle state. Prevent the battery from discharging by discon-
necting the battery's negative terminal ( ) or trickle-charging the battery with a
very low charging current.
If the vehicle is frequently used for making short trips, the vehicle battery will
■
not have time to charge up sufficiently and may discharge.
For the sake of the environment
A vehicle battery that has been removed is a special type of hazardous waste.
These must be disposed of in accordance with national legal regulations.
Note
You should replace batteries older than 5 years.
Battery cover
Fig. 130
Vehicle battery: Open up the
cover

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 163.
The battery is located in the engine compartment below a plastic box.
›
Push the lid in the direction of the arrow
›
The installation of the battery cover on the positive terminal side takes place in
the reverse order.
Checking the battery electrolyte level

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 163.
We recommend you have the electrolyte level checked by a specialist garage from
time to time, especially in the following cases.
›
High outside temperatures.
›
Long daily drives

›
After each charge » page 166.
On vehicles with a vehicle battery fitted with a colour indicator, the so-called
magic eye » Fig. 131, the electrolyte level can be determined by looking at the
change in colour.
Air bubbles can influence the colour of the indicator. For this reason carefully
knock on the indicator before carrying out the check.
›
Black colour - electrolyte level is correct.
›
Colourless or light yellow colour - electrolyte level too low, the battery must be
replaced.
» Fig. 130.
Fig. 131
Vehicle battery: Electrolyte level
indicator
Inspecting and replenishing


165