Basic checks ŠKODA Auto

Winter Driving Tips - Basic checks

Your battery's connections should be tight and corrosion-free. If they aren't, the battery may need replacing.
The battery will have an inspection window on the top.
- Green: your battery is working properly.
- Black: your battery needs charging.
- Clear/yellow: your battery needs replacing.
If you're not sure about your battery's condition get it professionally checked at your local ŠKODA Retailer.

Check the pressure of all your tyres, including the spare. You can usually find the correct specification in one or more of the following locations:
- On a sticker on the driver's door pillar
- On the inner side of the fuel flap in the owner's handbook.
- Again, if you are unsure please contact your local ŠKODA retailer. Alternatively, you could call the ŠKODA Roadside Assistance number for advice.
Check the tread depth of your tyres. The legal minimum for cars is 1.6mm, but deeper tread depth will give you better grip in the snow. There will also be tread limit markers in the grooves of each tyre. If these markers are flush with the tread, you'll need to replace the tyre.

It's crucial that you use the correct screen wash additive, especially in colder weather. This will help reduce the effects of freezing. Check the instructions on the bottle for concentration levels against predicted temperatures. We recommend you purchase a ŠKODA solution to ensure it’s suitable for your car. Please contact your local ŠKODA retailer for further details.
You can also buy a premix screen wash solution that has already been diluted correctly. If you choose this option make sure you always top up with the premix solution - do not dilute it with water as this will reduce its effectiveness.
Remember: the washer system can still freeze, even if you have heated washer jets.

Check your front and rear wiper blades for any signs of wear or splitting.
Do not use your wipers to clear snow or ice from the windscreen. They may be frozen to the glass. If they are, operating them might blow the fuse. Carefully free the blades using de-icer and gently lift them off the screen.
If you do blow the wipers' fuse, you can usually find its location by checking your owner's handbook or the sticker attached to the fuse box's inner cover. If you aren't sure, seek professional advice.

Anti-freeze should be added to your vehicle's cooling system according to the manufacturer's specification.
If the cooling system warning light is illuminated, switch off the engine immediately. Allow sufficient time for the engine to cool. Once the engine has reached a safe temperature check how much coolant there is in the reservoir. If it's below the minimum level you'll need to top it up. Always do so with the correct anti-freeze solution as per manufacturing specification. Never top up with just water - this will reduce the system's effectiveness. More detailed information can be found in the owner's manual.
Again, if you are unsure please contact your local ŠKODA retailer. Alternatively, you could call the ŠKODA Roadside Assistance number for advice.

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