Skoda Rapid 2013 Owner's Manual page 56

Information for braking
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First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 53.
New brake pads have not yet attained full braking power during the first 100 to
200 miles (200 to 300 km) and must be "run in" first. However, the slightly re-
duced braking force can be overcome by a stronger pressure on the brake pedal.
During the running-in period, the braking distance during full braking or emer-
gency braking is longer than with run-in brake pads. During the running-in peri-
od, avoid full braking and situations that exert high loads on the brakes, for ex-
ample when driving too close to the vehicle ahead.
Wear-and-tear
The wear of the brake pads is dependent on the operating conditions and driving
style. The brake pads wear more quickly if a lot of journeys are completed in
towns and over short distances or if a very sporty style of driving is adopted. If
operated under severe conditions, the thickness of the brake pads must be
checked by a specialist garage before the next service appointment.
Wet roads or road salt
The performance of the brakes can be delayed as the brake discs and brake pads
may be moist or have a coating of ice or layer of salt on them in winter. The
brakes are cleaned and dried by applying the brakes several times.
Corrosion
Corrosion on the brake discs and dirt on the bake pads occur if the vehicle has
been parked for a long period and if you do not make much use of the braking
system. If the brake system is not used much or if there is corrosion on the sur-
face, we recommend cleaning the brake discs by firmly applying the brakes from a
fairly high speed.
Faults in the brake surface
If it is found that the braking distance has suddenly become longer and that the
brake pedal can be depressed further, the brake system may be faulty. Visit a
specialist garage immediately and adjust your style of driving appropriately as you
will not know how great the damage is.
Brake booster
The brake booster increases the pressure generated with the brake pedal. The
brake booster only operates when the engine is running.
54
Using the system
WARNING
Overheated brakes reduce the braking efficiency and extend the braking dis-
tance significantly.
When driving downhill, the brakes are particularly stressed and become hot
■
very quickly.
Before driving over a longer distance with a steep gradient, slow down, shift
■
to a lower gear or select a lower driving stage. As a result, the braking effect
of the engine will be used, reducing the load on the brake.
Non-standard or damaged front spoilers may impair the supply of air to the
■
brakes and lead to overheating of the brakes.
WARNING
Driving without a brake booster can significantly lengthen the braking dis-
tance, causing accidents and serious injuries.
Never let the vehicle roll with the engine switched off.
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If the brake booster is not working or the vehicle is towed, the brake pedal
■
must be depressed with greater force because the braking distance increases
due to the lack of braking assistance.
Notice
When the front brake pads are checked, the rear brake pads should be examined
simultaneously. The thickness of all brake pads should regularly be checked visu-
ally by examining the brake pads through the openings of the wheels or from the
underside of the vehicle. If necessary, remove the wheels to carry out a thorough
inspection. ŠKODA recommends a ŠKODA Partner for this purpose.
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