2013 VOLKSWAGEN GOLF Media

WARNING
Incorrect tire pressures and/or underinflation can cause sudden tire failure, loss of control,
collision, serious personal injury or even death.
x When the warning symbol appears in the instrument cluster, stop and inspect the tires.
x Incorrect tire pressure and/or underinflation can cause increased tire wear and can affect
the handling of the vehicle and stopping ability.
x Incorrect tire pressures and/or underinflation can also lead to sudden tire failure,
including a blowout and sudden deflation, causing loss of vehicle control.
x The driver is responsible for the correct tire pressures for all tires on the vehicle. The
recommended tire pressure values are listed on a sticker inside the driver door
x The TPMS can only work correctly when all tires on the vehicle are filled to the correct
cold tire inflation pressure.
x Using incorrect tire pressure values can cause accidents or other damage. Always inflate
the tires to the correct specified cold tire pressure values for the tires installed on the vehicle.
x Always maintain correct cold tire inflation pressure so that TPMS can do its job.
x Always inflate tires to the recommended and correct tire pressure before driving off.
x Driving with underinflated tires causes them to flex (bend) more, letting them get too hot,
resulting in tread separation, sudden tire failure, and loss of control.
x Excessive speed and/overloading can cause heat build-up, sudden tire failure and loss of
control.
x If the tire pressure is too low or too high, the tires will wear prematurely and the vehicle
will not handle well.
x If the tire is not “flat” and you do not have to change a wheel immediately, drive carefully
and at reduced speed to the nearest service station to check the tire pressure and add air as
required.
x When replacing tires or wheel rims on vehicles equipped with TPMS always read and heed
the information and all WARNINGS regarding , Tires and wheels.
x The Tire Pressure Monitoring System must be recalibrated using the SET button whenever
you remove and remount or change any wheel or tire on the vehicle, even if the reinstalled or
replacement wheels and tires are identical to those that were removed and even if the tire
pressure does not change .
WARNING
Improper use of the SET button can cause the TPMS to give false warnings or to give no
warning despite dangerously low tire pressure .
Underinflation increases fuel consumption and tire wear.
Do not rely solely on the Tire Pressure Monitoring System. Check your tires regularly to make
sure they are properly inflated and have no signs of damage, such as punctures, cuts, cracks, and
blisters. Remove any objects that become embedded in the tire tread but have not penetrated into the
body of tire itself.
When you take delivery of the vehicle, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System is calibrated for the
factory-recommended cold tire inflation pressure for the tires on your vehicle, as shown on the label
inside the driver door
x The system must be recalibrated using the SET button whenever you remove and remount or
change any wheel or tire on the vehicle, even if the reinstalled or replacement wheels and tires are

WARNING
Incorrect tire pressures and/or underinflation can cause sudden tire failure, loss of control,
collision, serious personal injury, or even death.
x When the warning symbol Ç appears in the instrument cluster, stop the vehicle as soon as
it is safe to do so and inspect all tires.
x Incorrect tire pressure and/or underinflation can cause increased tire wear and can affect
the handling of the vehicle and its stopping ability.
x Incorrect tire pressure and/or underinflation can also lead to sudden tire failure, including
a blowout and sudden deflation, causing loss of vehicle control.
x The driver is responsible for the correct tire pressures for all tires on the vehicle. The
recommended tire pressure values are listed on a sticker inside the driver door .
x The TPMS can only work correctly when all tires on the vehicle are filled to the correct
cold tire inflation pressure. Always maintain the correct cold tire inflation pressure so that
TPMS can do its job.
x Using incorrect tire pressure values can cause accidents or other damage. Check the
pressure in all 4 tires when the tires are still cold. Never reduce air pressure in warm tires to
match cold tire inflation pressure.
x Always inflate the tires to the correct specified cold tire pressure values for the tires
installed on the vehicle; see the tire inflation pressure label on the driver door jamb Tires
and wheels.
x Always inflate tires to the recommended and correct tire pressure before driving off.
x Driving with underinflated tires causes them to flex (bend) more, letting them get too hot,
which can result in tread separation, sudden tire failure, and loss of control.
x Excessive speed and/or overloading can cause heat build-up, sudden tire failure, and loss
of control.
x If the tire pressure is too low or too high, the tires will wear prematurely and the vehicle
will not handle well.
x If the tire is not “flat” and you do not have to change the tire or wheel immediately, drive at
reduced speed to the nearest service station to check the tire pressure and add air as
required.
x When replacing tires or wheel rims on vehicles equipped with TPMS, always read and
heed the information and all WARNINGS in the section, Tires and wheels.
x The Tire Pressure Monitoring System must be recalibrated using the SET button whenever
you remove and remount or change any wheel or tire on the vehicle, even if the reinstalled or
replacement wheels and tires are identical to those that were removed and even if the tire
pressure does not change
WARNING
Improper use of the SET button can cause the TPMS to give false warnings or to give no
warning despite dangerously low tire pressure
WARNING
Failure to heed warning lights and instrument cluster text messages can cause the vehicle to
break down in traffic and result in a collision and serious personal injury.
x Never ignore warning lights or text WARNINGS.
x Always stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.

WARNING
Even if empty, portable fuel containers can leak and cause a fire and serious personal
injuries, especially in a crash.
x For your safety, we strongly recommend that you do not travel with a portable fuel
container in your vehicle.
x If, under exceptional circumstances, you must transport a portable fuel container, please
observe the following:
– Never fill a portable fuel container while it is anywhere in or on the vehicle (for
example, in the luggage compartment). Static electricity can build up while filling and can
ignite fuel vapors, causing a fire.
– Always place a portable fuel container on the ground before filling. Never spill fuel
inside the vehicle or luggage compartment. Fuel vapors are highly flammable.
– Always keep the filler nozzle completely inside the portable container before and
during filling.
– If filling a portable container made of metal, the filler nozzle must always be in contact
with the container. This will help prevent static electricity from discharging and causing a
fire.
– Always observe local and state or provincial laws about the use, storage, and
transportation of portable fuel containers.
– Make certain that the portable fuel container meets industry standards, such as
ANSI/ASTM F852-86.
NOTICE
x Remove fuel spills from the vehicle immediately to help prevent damage to the paint, tires,
and wheel housings.
x Refueling with gasoline when your vehicle has a diesel engine or refueling with diesel fuel
when your vehicle has a gasoline engine can cause very serious and expensive engine and
fuel system damage that is not covered by any Volkswagen Limited Warranty.
x If you put any amount of incorrect fuel in the fuel tank, do not start the engine under any
circumstances. Immediately contact the nearest authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized
Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance. These fuels contain substances that can severely
damage the fuel system and the engine if the engine is started.
x Vehicles with diesel engines must never be refueled or driven with gasoline, kerosene,
heating oil, or other non-specified fuels that have not been expressly approved for use with the
diesel engine. Other kinds of fuel can cause serious damage to the fuel system and the engine
that is not covered by any Volkswagen Limited Warranty.
Fuels can pollute the environment. Spilled fuel must be collected and disposed of properly,
following all applicable environmental regulations.
There is no emergency release for the fuel filler flap. Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or
an authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.

slightly with light pressure to open the misfueling guard. If the misfueling guard cannot be opened this
way, see the nearest authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility and
have the fuel system checked.
WARNING
Spilled fuel can cause fires, explosions, burns, and other severe injuries.
x Do not refuel from devices other than correct, undamaged standard diesel fuel pump
nozzles.
x Always stop refueling once the pump nozzle switches off so that the tank does not
overflow.
NOTICE
x It is your responsibility to put the right fuel in your vehicle and any damage that results is
not covered under the Emissions warranties or any other Volkswagen Limited Warranty.
x If you put any amount of the incorrect fuel in the fuel tank, do not start the engine under any
circumstances. Immediately contact the nearest authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized
Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.
x If diesel fuel should get on any rubber hose, it must be wiped off immediately. The same
applies if diesel fuel gets onto other parts of the vehicle, especially paint, tires, or a plastic
part. Wash the contaminated vehicle parts right away with soap and warm water to help
prevent leaks and serious damage.
x Never force a fuel nozzle in the misfueling guard. If you have problems inserting a fuel
nozzle, first check to make sure you are using the correct diesel fuel. If you are, go to a pump
with the standard diesel nozzle. Forcing a fuel nozzle in the misfueling guard can damage it so
that it can no longer help prevent misfueling.
Fuel capacities

If you expect temperatures below +5 °F (-15 °C) ask your fuel dealer if their ULSD is sufficiently
winterized.
If non-winterized or insufficiently winterized diesel fuel has already thickened to the point that the
engine will not start, move the vehicle to a heated garage or workshop until it has warmed up.
Cold diesel engines normally produce louder noises during winter conditions than during warmer
periods. In addition, the exhaust gases may be light blue in color until the engine has warmed up. The
exhaust gas volume varies depending on the outside temperature.
Do not let your diesel engine idle unnecessarily after a cold start. Driving off slowly will shorten the
warm-up period.
WARNING
Starting fluids can explode and cause a run-away vehicle condition.
x Never use starting assist fluids.
NOTICE
x The vehicle's diesel engine was designed solely for use with ULSD fuel. For this reason,
never use gasoline, heating oil, or other fuels that have not been expressly approved for use
with the diesel engine. These fuels contain substances that will severely damage the fuel
system and the engine. Such damage will not be covered by any Volkswagen Limited Warranty.
x If you put any amount of the incorrect fuel in the fuel tank, do not start the engine under any
circumstances. Immediately contact the nearest authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized
Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.
x If diesel fuel should get on any rubber hose, it must be wiped off immediately. The same
applies if diesel fuel gets onto other parts of the vehicle, especially paint, tires, or a plastic
part. Wash the contaminated vehicle parts right away with soap and warm water to help
prevent leaks and serious damage.
x The vehicle is designed to run on diesel fuel containing methyl ester biodiesel in
concentrations of 5% or less. Never use methyl ester biodiesel in blend levels higher than 5%
(5% methyl ester blends are sometimes designated or labeled as B5). The properties of methyl
ester biodiesel blends in levels greater than 5% may cause serious damage to the fuel injection
system and to the engine. This could lead to expensive repairs that will not be covered by any
Volkswagen Limited Warranty.
x Damage to the engine and fuel system and performance problems caused by using fuels
that are different from those specified above or by using “starting assist fluids” are not the
responsibility of Volkswagen and are not covered under the Emission warranties or any other
Volkswagen Limited Warranty.

Flashes
Temperature
gauge needle
⇒ fig. 154
Possible cause Proper response
(B)
Normal range
Engine coolant level too
low.
Check the engine coolant level after the
engine has cooled down and add engine
coolant if low
If the engine coolant level is correct or the
problem continues after adding coolant, do
not drive any farther. Contact an
authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized
Volkswagen Service Facility.
These instructions apply only when the
coolant temperature stays in the normal
range. Stop immediately if the needle goes
into the red warning zone (C).
– Engine coolant system
malfunction.

If more antifreeze protection is needed for climate conditions, the percentage of coolant additive can
be increased. However, the coolant additive percentage must never be more than 60%; otherwise,
antifreeze protection is reduced and the ability of the mixture to cool the engine is also reduced.
When adding engine coolant, use a mixture of distilled water and at least 40% coolant additive G 13
or G 12 plus-plus (TL-VW 774 G) for optimum corrosion protection ⇒ .
Do not mix G 13 with G 12 plus or G 11. Mixing these coolant additives together significantly reduces
corrosion protection ⇒  and can lead to engine damage that is not covered by any Volkswagen
Limited Warranty.
WARNING
Too little antifreeze protection in the engine cooling system can cause engine failure and
severe injuries.
x Always make sure there is enough of the correct coolant additive to provide proper
antifreeze protection at the coldest temperatures that can be expected where the vehicle will
be used.
x At extremely cold temperatures, the coolant could freeze, causing the vehicle to break
down. The heater would also not work, and vehicle occupants could be without protection at
subfreezing temperatures.
NOTICE
Never mix original Volkswagen engine coolant additives with other additives not approved by
Volkswagen. Mixing Volkswagen coolant additives with coolant additives made by other
manufacturers can seriously damage the engine and the engine cooling system.
x If the fluid in the engine coolant reservoir is any color but pink, then G 13 was mixed with a
different engine coolant. If this is the case, the engine coolant must be replaced immediately.
Otherwise serious malfunctions or engine damage can occur!
Engine coolant and engine coolant additives can pollute the environment. Collect leaking
operating fluids and dispose of them properly in accordance with applicable environmental laws and
regulations.

WARNING
Working on the batteries or the electrical system in your vehicle can cause serious acid
burns, fires, explosions, or electrical shocks. Always read and heed the following WARNINGS
and safety precautions before working on the batteries or the electrical system.
x Before working on the electrical system, always switch off the ignition and all electrical
consumers and disconnect the negative (-) cable from the standard 12 Volt battery.
x When you change a light bulb, always switch off the light first.
x Always keep children away from battery acid and vehicle batteries in general.
x Always wear eye protection. Never let battery acid or lead particles come into contact with
your eyes, skin, or clothing.
x Sulfuric battery acid is very corrosive. It can burn unprotected skin and cause blindness.
Always wear protective gloves and eye protection. To reduce your risk of injury, never tilt the
batteries, as this could spill acid through the vents and burn you.
x If you get battery acid in your eyes or on your skin, immediately rinse with cold water for
several minutes and then get immediate medical attention. If you swallow any battery acid,
get medical attention immediately.
x When disconnecting the batteries from the vehicle electrical system, always disconnect
the negative cable (-) first and then the positive cable (+).
x Always switch off all electrical consumers before reconnecting 12 Volt batteries.
Reconnect the plus cable (+) first and then the negative cable (-). Never reverse the polarity of
the connections. This could cause a fire.
x A highly explosive mixture of gases is given off when the battery is being charged.
x Do not smoke and avoid fires, sparks, and open flames when working. Never create
sparks or electrostatic charges when handling cables and electrical equipment. Never short
circuit the battery terminals. High-energy sparks can cause serious personal injury.
x Never use or attempt to charge a damaged or frozen battery, or a battery that was frozen
but has thawed. Charging a frozen or thawed battery could cause explosions and chemical
burns! Replace damaged or frozen vehicle batteries immediately. A dead battery can freeze at
temperatures around +32 °F (0 °C).
x If the battery has a vent line or tube, make sure that it is properly connected to the battery.
WARNING
California Proposition 65 Warning
x Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead components,
chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash
your hands after handling.
NOTICE
x Do not expose the vehicle battery to direct sunlight for an extended period of time as
ultraviolet rays may damage the battery housing.
x If the vehicle is left standing in the cold for a long time, protect the vehicle battery from
freezing. A battery will be permanently damaged by freezing.
Emergency starting and starting the engine with a very weak vehicle battery or after the vehicle
battery has been replaced may change or delete system settings (including time, date, personal
convenience settings, and programming). Check the settings and correct as necessary once the
vehicle battery has built up a sufficient charge.