Adjust the tire pressure
The proper tire pressure helps reduce rolling resistance as well as
fuel consumption.
When purchasing new tires, always make sure that the tires are opti-
mized for lower rolling resistance.
Use low viscosity engine oil
Fully “synthetic,” low viscosity engine oils that expressly comply with
Volkswagen oil quality standards reduce fuel consumption. Low vis-
cosity engine oils reduce the frictional resistance on the engine and
are distributed more evenly and quickly, particularly when cold-
starting the engine. The effect is particularly apparent in vehicles that
frequently travel short distances.
Always ensure the right engine oil level is maintained and keep to the
scheduled service intervals (engine oil changes).
Make sure the engine oil that you purchase expressly complies with
Volkswagen oil quality standards and is the oil approved by
Volkswagen for your vehicle.
Avoid unnecessary weight
The lighter the vehicle, the more economical and eco-friendly it will
be. For example, an extra 220 lbs (100 kg) of weight increases fuel
consumption by up to 1 pint per 60 miles (0.3 l/100 km).
Remove all unnecessary items and unnecessary dead weight from
the vehicle.
Remove unnecessary aftermarket components
The more aerodynamic the vehicle, the less fuel it will consume. Af-
termarket components such as bicycle racks reduce its aerodynamic
performance.
Therefore, remove unnecessary structures and unused rack systems,
particularly if planning to drive at higher speeds.
Your engine was factory-filled with a high-quality, “synthetic” all-
season engine oil that meets strict Volkswagen oil quality standards
and has a viscosity grade of SAE 5W-40 or SAE 5W-30. You can use
this oil for normal driving in all temperatures.
If you need to add oil between oil changes, use only a high quality oil
that expressly complies with the Volkswagen oil quality standard
specified for your vehicle's engine:
Engines Engine oil specification
200 hp (147 kW), 2.0L
VW 502 00
VW 503 00
VW 504 00
280 hp (206 kW), 3.6L
VW 501 01
VW 502 00
VW 503 00
At the time this Manual was printed, the engine oils available in the
U.S. that meet these Volkswagen standards are “synthetic” oils. This
does not mean, however, that any “synthetic” engine oil will meet
Volkswagen standards. Always use an approved oil that expressly
complies with the Volkswagen oil quality standard that applies to your
vehicle's engine.
General recommendations:
If “synthetic” oil that meets the applicable Volkswagen oil quality
standard with viscosity grade SAE 5W-40 or SAE 5W-30 is not avail-
able in your area, be sure to use a viscosity grade suitable for the
climate, season, and operating conditions that exist where the vehicle
is used. Make sure the oil meets the quality standard.
Engine oils are constantly being improved. Authorized Volkswagen
dealers and authorized Volkswagen Service Facilities are always up-
to-date regarding new developments and changes. Volkswagen
therefore recommends that you have the engine oil changed by an
authorized Volkswagen dealer or an authorized Volkswagen Service
Facility.
