2008 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN washer fluid

Lights up Possible cause Proper response
Y Not enough windshield washer fluid. Refill windshield washer reservoir at the next opportunity

When the ignition is switched on, several warning and indicator lights come on briefly for a function check. They go out after a few seconds.
NOTICE
Failure to heed warning lights or text WARNINGS can result in vehicle damage.
Windshield wiper lever

Fig. 90 Operating the front windshield wiper.

Fig. 91 Operating the rear wiper.

x Salt streaks: Salt streaks on the windshield from winter driving can cause wiping more often or continuously on glass that is almost dry.
x Dirt: Caked-on dust, wax, any other buildup on the windshield (lotus effect), or car-wash detergent residue can lower the rain sensor's sensitivity and cause it to react too slowly or not at all.
x Crack or chip in the windshield: If a stone hits and chips the windshield while the rain sensor is on, this will trigger a wiper cycle. After that, the rain sensor will recognize the change and recalibrate itself to respond to the smaller detection zone. Depending on the size of the chip, the sensor's reaction pattern may or may not change.
WARNING
The rain sensor cannot always recognize rain and activate the wipers.
x Switch the wipers on manually when water on the windshield reduces visibility.
Clean the rain sensor's sensitive surface ⇒ fig. 94 regularly and check the wiper blades for wear or damage.
To remove wax and coats of polish safely, we recommend using an alcohol-based windshield cleaner.
Checking and refilling windshield washer fluid

Fig. 95 In the engine compartment: Cap of the windshield washer fluid reservoir.

x Refill with clear water (not distilled water) and an appropriate windshield washer fluid that is
recommended by Volkswagen ⇒ . Follow the directions on the container.
x In cold weather, always use a special windshield washer antifreeze solution that will help keep the
water from freezing ⇒ .
Recommended cleaners

x For the warmer months, Windscreen Clear SummerG 052 184 A1 or equivalent. Mixing ratio 1:100 (1 part concentrate to 100 parts water) in the windshield washer reservoir.
x All-season Windscreen ClearG 052 164 A2 or equivalent. the mixing ratio in winter to 0 °F (-18 °C) about 1:2 (1 part concentrate to 2 parts water), otherwise, mixing ratio 1:4 in the windshield washer reservoir.
Filling capacity
The windshield washer fluid reservoir holds about 3.2 qts. (3.0 liters).
WARNING
Never mix antifreeze or similar additives into the windshield washer reservoir. This could produce an oily film on the windshield, which would considerably reduce visibility.
x Use clear water (not distilled water) with a cleaning solution recommended by Volkswagen.
x If necessary, blend with a suitable windshield washer fluid antifreeze agent.
NOTICE
x Never mix cleaning solutions recommended by Volkswagen with other cleaning agents. If you do, this could cause sediments or other by-products that can clog the windshield wiper nozzles.
x When refilling, do not confuse one type of operating liquid with another! Otherwise serious malfunctions and engine damage can occur!

Windshield wiper squeak and grab can be reduced by filling the windshield washer fluid tank with a wiper fluid containing wax-removing agents. Make sure to maintain the proper mixing ratio when
refilling the washer fluid tank. Grease-removing cleaning agents cannot remove wax residue ⇒ .
Special cleaners or cleaning cloths are available from your authorized Volkswagen dealer and authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
All-season Windscreen Clear G 052 164 A2 or equivalent. Mixing ratio in winter to -0.4 °F (-18 °C) about 1:2 (1 part concentrate to 2 parts water), otherwise mixing ratio 1:4 in windshield washer reservoir.
Window cleaning cloths / chamois G 052 522 A1 or equivalent for all windows and outside mirrors.
Removing snow
Remove snow from all windows and outside mirrors with an appropriate brush.
Removing ice
The best way to remove ice is with a deicer spray. When using an ice scraper always scrape in one direction, never back and forth. Dirt can scratch the glass when moving the scraper backward.
WARNING
Dirty or fogged up windows reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents and severe injuries.
x Don't drive until you have clear visibility through all windows.
x Remove ice, snow and condensation from all inside and outside window surfaces.
NOTICE
x Never mix recommended cleaning agents with other cleaning agents in the windshield washer reservoir. If you do, this could cause sediments or other by-products that can clog the windshield wiper nozzles.
x Never use warm or hot water to remove snow and ice from windows and mirrors. This could cause the glass to crack!
x The heating elements for the rear defroster are on the inside of the rear window. Do not put stickers over the heating elements on the inside of the rear window and never clean the inside of the windows with corrosive or acidic cleaning agents or other chemicals that could damage the heating elements.
x Antennas installed on the insides of windows can be damaged by abrasive objects or by corrosive or acidic cleaning agents or other chemicals. Do not place any stickers on the windshield-integrated antenna and never clean the antenna with corrosive or acidic cleaning agents or other chemicals.