Avoiding Damage To Your Vehicle; Fig - Skoda Octavia Owner's Manual

Note
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Avoiding damage to your vehicle


Introduction
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
General information
Driving through water on roads
General information

First read and observe the introductory information given on page 129.
Pay attention to low-slung parts of the vehicle, such as the spoiler and exhaust,
particularly in the following situations.
›
When driving on poorly maintained roads and lanes.
›
When driving over kerb stones.
›
When driving on steep ramps, etc.
Particular attention is necessary for vehicle with a sport suspension and when
then vehicle is fully laden.
Driving through water on roads
129
129

Fig. 128

Driving through water

First read and observe the introductory information given on page 129.
The following must be observed to avoid damage to the vehicle when driving

through bodies of water (e.g. flooded roads).
›
Determine the depth of the water when driving through bodies of water.
The water level must fit around the strut on the side member as a maxi-
mum » Fig. 128.
›
Do not drive any faster than at a walking speed.
At a higher speed, a water wave can form in front of the vehicle which can cause
water to penetrate into the air induction system of the engine or into other parts
of the vehicle.

›
Never stop in the water, do not reverse and do not switch the engine off.
›
Deactivate the START-STOP system before driving through water
WARNING
Driving through water, mud, sludge etc. can reduce the braking power and
■
extend the braking distance – risk of accident!
Avoid abrupt and sudden braking immediately after water crossings.
■
After driving through bodies of water, the brakes must be cleaned and dried
■
as soon as possible by intermittent braking. Only apply the brakes for the pur-
pose of drying and cleaning the brake discs if the traffic conditions permit this.
Do not place any other road users in jeopardy.
CAUTION

When driving through bodies of water, some parts of the vehicle such as the
■
engine, gearbox, chassis or electrics can be severely damaged.
Oncoming vehicles can generate water waves which can exceed the permissible
■
water level for your vehicle.
Potholes, mud or rocks can be hidden under the water making it difficult or im-
■
possible to drive through the body of water.
Do not drive through salt water. The salt can lead to corrosion. Any vehicle parts
■
that have come into contact with salt water must be rinsed immediately with
fresh water.
» page 141.
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129
Starting-off and Driving