Using the system
Cockpit
OverviewElectric windows
44
Door opening lever
37
Central locking system
36
Air outlet
99
Parking ticket holder
Operating lever:
› Turn signal light, headlight and parking light, headlight flasher
53
›
Speed regulating system
157
Steering wheel:
› With horn
› With driver’s front airbag
180
›with pushbuttons for radio, navigation system phone and infor-
mation system
111, 126
Instrument cluster: Instruments, warning lights and display
10
Operating lever:
› Information system
23
›Windscreen wiper and wash system
61
Air outlets in the central part of the dash panel
99
Regulator for left seat heating
70
Button for hazard warning light system
56
Regulator for right seat heating
70
Depending on equipment fitted:
› Radio
› Navigation system
Storage compartment on the front passenger side
80
Front passenger airbag
180
Air outlet
99
Key switch for switching off the front passenger airbag (in front
passenger storage compartment)
184
Door opening lever
3712345678910111213141516171819Electric exterior mirror adjustment65Light switch51
Bonnet release lever
208
Regulator for the instrument lighting and regulator for the head- light beam range adjustment
52, 52
Storage compartment on the driver's side
75
Lever for adjusting the steering wheel
130
Driver’s knee airbag
181
Ignition lock
132
Pedals
139
Handbrake
138
Bars with buttons depending on the equipment fitted:
›
START STOP
159
›
Tyre control display
21
›
Traction control TCS
151
›
Electronic Stability Control ESC
150
›
Park Assist
153
›
Parking aid
152
›
Tailgate operation (Superb Combi)
42
Depending on equipment fitted:
› Gearshift lever (manual gearbox)
138
›
Selector lever (automatic gearbox)
139
Depending on equipment fitted:
› Ashtrays
77
›
Storage compartment
76
Warning light for the deactivated front seat passenger airbag
184
Depending on equipment fitted:
› Operating controls for the air conditioning system
100
›Operating controls for Climatronic
103
Note
The arrangement of the controls and switches and the location of some items on
right-hand drive models may differ from that shown in » Fig. 1. The symbols on
the controls and switches are the same as for left-hand drive models.2021222324252627282930313233349Cockpit
Windscreen washer fluid level21 Pads21
Turn signal system
21
Low beam
22
Fog lights
22
Cruise control system
22
Selector lever lock/starting (KESSY system)
22
Main beam
22
The indicator lights show certain functions/faults and may be accompanied by au-
dible signals.
WARNING■ If illuminated indicator lights and the corresponding descriptions and warn-
ing notes are not observed, this may result in severe injuries or major vehicle
damage.■
The engine compartment of your car is a hazardous area. There is a risk of
injuries, scalding, accidents and fire when working in the engine compart-
ment, e.g. inspecting and replenishing oil and other fluids. It is essential to ob-
serve safety notes » page 206, Engine compartment .
Handbrake
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
The indicator light
comes on if the handbrake is applied. An audible warning is
also given if you drive the vehicle for at least 3 seconds at a speed of more than
6 km/h.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Release parking brake!
Brake system
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
The indicator light illuminates if the brake fluid level in the braking system is
too low or there is a fault in the ABS.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Brake fluid: Log book!
Stop the vehicle, switch off the engine, and check the level of the brake flu-
id » page 214 »
.
WARNING■
If you have to stop for technical reasons, then park the vehicle at a safe dis-
tance from the traffic, switch off the engine and activate the hazard warning
light system » page 56.■
The following guidelines should be observed when opening the bonnet and
checking the brake fluid level » page 206, Engine compartment .
■
If the warning light is displayed simultaneously with warning light
» page 19 , Antilock brake system (ABS) , do not continue your jour-
ney! Seek help from a specialist garage.
■
A fault to the ABS system or the braking system can increase the vehicle's
braking distance – risk of accident!
Seat belt warning light
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 14.
The indicator light
comes on after the ignition is switched on as a reminder for
the driver and front passenger to fasten the seat belt. The indicator light only
goes out if the driver or front passenger has fastened his seat belt.
If the seat belt has not been fastened by the driver or front passenger, a perma-
nent warning signal sounds at vehicle speeds greater than 20 km/h and simulta- neously the indicator light
flashes.
If the seat belt is not fastened by the driver or front passenger during the next
90 seconds, the warning signal is deactivated and the indicator light
lights up
permanently.
15Instruments and Indicator Lights
Engine oil levelFirst read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
The indicator light lights up (oil quantity too low)
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Check oil level!
Stop the vehicle, switch off the engine, and check the level of the engine
oil » page 211 .
The indicator light will go out if the bonnet is left open for more than 30 seconds.
If no engine oil has been replenished, the indicator light will come on again after
driving about 100 km.
The indicator light
flashes (engine oil level sensor faulty)
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Oil sensor: Workshop!
If the engine oil level sensor is faulty, the indicator light flashes
several times
and an audible signal sounds when the ignition is turned on.
Seek help from a specialist garage.
WARNINGIf you have to stop for technical reasons, then park the vehicle at a safe dis-
tance from the traffic, switch off the engine and activate the hazard warning
light system » page 56.
Traction Control System (ASR)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
The indicator light flashes
to show that the ASR is currently operating.
If the indicator light
comes on immediately after starting the engine, the ASR
can be switched off for technical reasons. Switch the ignition off and on again. If
the indicator light does not light up after you switch the engine back on, the ASR
is fully functional again.
If the indicator light lights up, there is a fault in the ASR.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Error: Traction control (ASR)
Seek help from a specialist garage.
Further information » page 151, Traction Control System (TCS) .
Note
If the vehicle's battery has been disconnected and reconnected, the indicator
light comes on after switching on the ignition. The indicator light should go out
after driving a short distance.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
The indicator light flashes
to show that the ESC is currently operating.
If the indicator light
comes on immediately after you start the engine, the ESC
might be switched off due to technical reasons. Switch the ignition off and on
again. If the indicator light does not light up after you switch the engine back on,
the ESR is fully functional again.
If the warning light lights up
there is a fault in the ESC system.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display.
Error: Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Seek help from a specialist garage.
Further information » page 150, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) .
Note
If the vehicle's battery has been disconnected and reconnected, the indicator
light comes on after switching on the ignition. The indicator light must go out
after driving a short distance.18Using the system
Airbag systemFirst read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 14.
If the indicator light lights up, there is a fault in the airbag system.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Error: Airbag
The functionality of the airbag system is monitored electronically even if one of
the airbags is switched off.
If a front, side or head airbag or belt tensioner has been switched off using the
vehicle system tester:
› The indicator light
lights up for around 4 seconds after the ignition is switch-
ed on and then flashes for around 12 seconds.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Airbag/belt tensioner deactivated.
If the air bag was switched off using the key-operated switch on the side of the
dash panel on the passenger side:
› The indicator light
comes on for around 4 seconds after the ignition has been
switched on.
› The deactivated air bag is indicated by the illumination of the warning
light » page 184
in the middle of the dash panel .
WARNINGIf there is a fault, have the airbag system checked immediately by a specialist
garage. Otherwise, there is a risk of the airbag not being activated in the
event of an accident.
Tyre pressure
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
The indicator light
lights up, if there is a substantial drop in inflation pressure
in one of the tyres. Check and adjust the pressure in all tyres » page 221, Service
life of tyres .
If the indicator light lights up, there is a fault in the system.
Seek help from a specialist garage.
Further information » page 223, Tyre pressure monitor .
Note
If the battery has been disconnected, the indicator light illuminates after the
ignition is switched on. The indicator light must go out after driving a short dis-
tance.
Windscreen washer fluid level
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 14.
If the windscreen washer fluid level is too low, the indicator light
comes on.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Top up wash fluid!
Top up with liquid » page 209, Windscreen washer system .
Pads
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
If the indicator light
is slit, the brake pads are worn.
The following message is shown in the MAXI DOT display. Check brake wear!
Seek help from a specialist garage.
Turn signal system
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 14.
Either the left
or right
indicator light flashes depending on the position of
the turn signal lever.
21Instruments and Indicator Lights
If a turn signal light fails, the indicator light flashes at twice its normal rate.
Switching off the hazard indicator light system is switched on will cause all of the
turn signal lights as well as both indicator lights to flash.
Further information » page 53, Turn signal and main beam .
Low beam
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
The indicator light comes on when low beam is selected » page 51.
Fog lights
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
The indicator light
comes on when the fog lights are operating » page 55.
Cruise control system
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
The indicator light
comes on when the cruise control is operating » page 157.
Selector lever lock/starting (KESSY system)
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings
on page 14.
If the indicator light
lights up, operate the brake pedal. This is necessary to
move the selector lever from position P and N » page 140 or to start the engine in
vehicles with the KESSY system » page 135.
Main beam
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 14.
The indicator light comes on when the main beam or headlight flasher are se-
lected » page 53 .
22Using the system
Description of the operationButton/wheelActionOperationApush up or down brieflySelect datapush up or down brieflySet data valuesPress and hold buttonCall up main menu of the MAXI DOT displayBpress brieflyShow datapress brieflyConfirm dataCPress and hold buttonCall up main menu of the MAXI DOT displaypress brieflyto go back one level in the menu of the MAXI DOT displayDTurn upwards or downwardsSelect dataTurn upwards or downwardsSet data valuespress brieflyShow datapress brieflyConfirm data
Ice warningFirst read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings
on page 23.
Prompt in the MAXI DOT display
If the outside temperature while driving drops to below +4°C, the following icon
appears on the display in front of the temperature display . An audible signal is
emitted.
If the outside temperature is already below +4°C when turning the ignition on,
the icon appears immediately. An audible signal is emitted.
Prompt in the segment display
If the outside temperature while driving drops to below +4°C, the temperature
display » page 26 , Outside temperature will show up with the following icon in
front
. An audible signal is emitted.
If the outside temperature is already below +4°C when turning the ignition on, the temperature display and the
icon appear immediately. An audible signal is
emitted.
After pressing button
A
» Fig. 8 on page 23, the information which was shown
last is indicated.
WARNINGEven at temperatures of around +4 °C, black ice may still be on the road sur-
face! You should therefore not only rely on the outside temperature display
for accurate information as to whether there is ice on the road.
Gear recommendation
Fig. 9
Information on the selected
gear / Gear recommendation
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 23.
Information on the selected gear
The currently engaged gear
A
is shown in the display » Fig. 9.
24Using the system
Vehicle keyFig. 12
Remote control key
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-ings on page 32.
Two remote control keys are provided with the vehicle » Fig. 12.
The transmitter with the battery is housed in the handle of the remote control
key. The receiver is located in the interior of the vehicle.
The operating range of the remote control key is approx. 30 m. But this range ofthe remote control can be reduced if the batteries are weak.
The remote control key has a fold-open key bit which can be used for unlocking
and locking the car manually and also for starting the engine.
The spare key must by initialised by a specialist garage after repair or replace-
ment of the receiver unit. Only then can the remote control key be used again.
WARNING■ Always withdraw the key whenever you leave the vehicle - even if it is only
for a short time. This is particularly important if children are left in the vehicle.
Otherwise, the children might start the engine or operate electrical equipment
(e.g. power windows) – risk of injury!■
Do not withdraw the ignition key from the ignition lock until the vehicle has
come to a stop. The steering lock might otherwise engage unintentionally –
risk of accident!
CAUTION■ Each key contains electronic components; therefore it must be protected
against moisture and severe shocks.■
Keep the groove of the keys absolutely clean. Impurities (textile fibres, dust,
etc.) have a negative effect on the functionality of the locking cylinder and igni-
tion lock.
■
The battery must be replaced if the central locking or anti-theft alarm system
does react to the remote control at less than approx. 3 metres away » page 239.
Note
If you lose a key, please contact a specialist garage, who will be able to provide
you with a new one.
Unlock/lock with remote control
Fig. 13
Remote control key
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 32.
Explanation of graphic
Unlocking the vehicle
Locking the vehicle
Unlocking the boot lid
Folding out/folding up of the key bit Warning light
Unlocking
The turn signal lights flash twice as confirmation that the vehicle has been un-
locked.
AB33Unlocking and opening
If you unlock the vehicle and do not open a door or the boot lid within the next
30 seconds, the vehicle will lock again automatically and the safelock system or
anti-theft alarm system will be switched on. This function is intended to prevent
the car being unlocked unintentionally.
The seat and mirror are adjusted after the vehicle is unlocked » page 69.
Locking
The turn signal lights flash once as confirmation that the vehicle has been locked.
If the doors or the boot lid remain open after the vehicle has been locked, the
turn signal lights do not flash until they have been closed.
The current position of the seat and mirror after the vehicle is locked » page 69.
Checking the battery condition
The battery is empty if the red warning iconB
» Fig. 13 does not flash when you
press a button on the remote control key. Replace the battery » page 239.
WARNINGIf the car is locked from the outside and the safelock system is switched on,
there must not be any person in the car as it is then not possible to open ei- ther a door or a window from the inside. The locked doors make it more diffi-
cult for rescuers to get into the vehicle in an emergency – risk to life!
CAUTION
■ Only operate the remote control when the doors and boot lid are closed and the
vehicle is in your line of sight.■
If the driver door is open, the vehicle cannot be locked using the remote control
key.
■
The operation of the remote control may temporarily be affected by signal inter-
ference from transmitters close to the car and which operate in the same fre-
quency range (e.g. mobile phone, TV transmitter).
Note
For vehicles with anti-theft alarm the acoustic signals can also be activated/deac-
tivated by locking/unlocking » page 29.
Unlocking/locking – KESSYFig. 14
KESSY: Name of the zones/sensors in the handle of the front door
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn- ings
on page 32.
The KESSY system (Keyless Entry Start Exit System) enables unlocking and lock-
ing of the vehicle without actively using the remote control key. The key must be
in one of the areas
A,
B
or
C
» Fig. 14 (about 1.5 meters away from the vehicle).
Unlocking
›
Grab the door handle of the front door or cover the sensor
2
» Fig. 14 with the
whole palm of your hand » .
Locking
›
Touch the sensor
1
» Fig. 14 with your fingers.
On vehicles fitted with automatic gearbox, the selector lever must be moved into the position P before unlocking.
Unlocking the boot lid
›
Press the button in the handle of the boot lid » page 39.
Switching off the safelock system
›
Use your fingers to touch the sensor
1
twice within 2 seconds.
Unlocking or locking areas Front door left
Front door right
Luggage compartment lid
If you cover the sensor
2
at the same time as the sensor
1
» Fig. 14 when un-
locking the vehicle, it is not unlocked.
ABC34Using the system