2013 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT drive

not always be able to help you master situations where there is a sudden change in the coefficient of
friction of the road surface. When there is a section of dry road that is suddenly covered with water,
slush or snow, ESC cannot perform the same way it would on a dry surface. If the vehicle
“hydroplanes” (rides on a cushion of water instead of the road surface), ESC will not be able to help
you steer the vehicle because contact with the pavement has been interrupted and the vehicle cannot
be braked or steered. During fast cornering, particularly on winding roads, ESC cannot always deal as
effectively with difficult driving situations as it can at lower speeds. When towing a trailer, ESC is not
able to help you regain control as it would if you were not towing a trailer.
Always adjust your speed and driving style to visibility, road, traffic, and weather conditions. ESC
cannot override the vehicle's physical limits, increase the available traction, or keep a vehicle on the
road if road departure is a result of driver inattention. Instead, ESC improves the possibility of keeping
the vehicle under control and on the road during extreme maneuvers by using the driver's steering
inputs to help keep the vehicle going in the intended direction. If you are traveling at a speed that
causes you to run off the road before ESC can provide any assistance, you may not experience the
benefits of ESC.
ESC includes and/or works together with the ABS, BAS, ASR, EDL, and XDL systems (see below).
ESC is switched on all the time and cannot be switched off.
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
ABS helps to keep the wheels from locking up and helps to maintain the driver's ability to steer and
control the vehicle. This means the vehicle is less likely to skid, even during hard braking:
x Push the brake pedal down hard and hold it there. Don't take your foot off the pedal or reduce the
force on the pedal!
x Do not “pump” the brake pedal or let up on it!
x Steer the vehicle while pushing down hard on the brake pedal.
x ABS stops working if you release or let up on the brake.
When ABS is doing its job, you will notice a slight vibration through the brake pedal and hear a
noise. ABS cannot shorten the stopping distance under all conditions. The stopping distance may
even be longer, for instance, when driving on gravel or on newly fallen snow covering an icy or
slippery surface.
Brake Assist (BAS)
The Brake Assist System can help to reduce stopping distances. If you press the brake pedal very
quickly, BAS detects an emergency situation. It then very quickly builds up full brake system pressure,
maximizing braking power and reducing the stopping distance. This way, ABS can be activated more
quickly and efficiently.
Do not reduce pressure on the brake pedal! BAS switches off automatically as soon as you release or
let up on the brake.
Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR)
ASR reduces engine power directed to spinning wheels and adjusts power to the road conditions.
Even under poor road conditions, ASR can make it easier to get moving, accelerate, and climb hills.
ESC and ASR can help when driving on loose surfaces (such as gravel) and in deep snow. If you get
stuck in deep snow, you may be able to get going again by “rocking” the vehicle back and forth. ESC
and ASR recognize this special driving situation and automatically increase the speed of the front
wheels. Keep pressing the accelerator and let ESC increase the speed of the front wheels to help you
keep moving or get moving again.
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL and XDL)
EDL is applied during regular straight-line acceleration. EDL gently brakes a drive wheel that has lost
traction (spinning) and redirects the drive force to other drive wheels. In extreme cases, EDL
automatically switches off to keep the brake from overheating. As soon as the brake has cooled down,
EDL automatically switches on again.

XDL is an extension of the Electronic Differential Lock system. XDL does not react to drive wheel
slippage when driving straight ahead. Instead, XDL detects slippage of the inside front wheel during
fast cornering. XDL applies enough brake pressure to this wheel in order to stop the slippage. This
improves traction, which helps the vehicle stay on track.
WARNING
Driving fast on icy, slippery, or wet roads can lead to a loss of control and result in serious
personal injury for you and your passengers.
x Always adjust your speed and driving style to road, traffic, weather, and visibility
conditions. Never let the additional safety that ESC, ABS, BAS, ASR, and EDL can provide
tempt you into taking extra risks.
x Braking assistance systems cannot overcome the laws of physics and always prevent
loss of vehicle control. Slippery and wet roads are still dangerous even with ESC and the
other systems!
x Driving too fast on wet roads can cause the wheels to lose contact with the road and
“hydroplane.” A vehicle that has lost road contact cannot be braked, steered, or controlled.
x These systems cannot reduce the risk of accident, for example if you drive too fast for
conditions or if you do not keep your distance from the vehicle in front of you.
x Although these systems are very effective and can help you control the vehicle in many
difficult situations, always remember that your vehicle handling control is limited by tire
traction.
x When accelerating on a slippery surface, for example on ice and snow, depress the
accelerator carefully. Even with these systems, the wheels may start to spin, leading to a loss
of vehicle control.
WARNING
The effectiveness of ESC can be significantly reduced if other components and systems that
affect vehicle dynamics, including but not limited to brakes, tires, and other systems
mentioned above, are not properly maintained or functioning.
x Always remember that vehicle alterations or modifications can affect the functioning of
the ABS, BAS, ASR, EDL, and ESC systems.
x Changing the vehicle suspension or using an unapproved tire / wheel combination can
change the way the ABS, BAS, ASR, EDL, and ESC systems work and reduce their
effectiveness.
x The effectiveness of ESC is also determined by the tires fitted.
All 4 wheels must be equipped with identical tires in order for ESC and ASR to work properly.
Differences in the tread circumference of the tires can cause the system to reduce the engine power
when it is not expected.
If ABS is not working, ESC, ASR, and EDL will also not work.
You may hear noises when these systems are active.

Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR)
ASR reduces engine power directed to spinning wheels and adjusts power to the road conditions.
Even under poor road conditions, ASR can make it easier to get moving, accelerate, and climb hills.
ESC and ASR can help when driving on loose surfaces (such as gravel) and in deep snow. If you get
stuck in deep snow, you may be able to get going again by “rocking” the vehicle back and forth. ESC
and ASR recognize this special driving situation and automatically increase the speed of the front
wheels. Keep pressing the accelerator and let ESC increase the speed of the front wheels to help you
keep moving or get moving again.
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
EDL is applied during regular straight-line acceleration. EDL gently brakes a drive wheel that has lost
traction (spinning) and redirects the drive force to other drive wheels. In extreme cases, EDL
automatically switches off to keep the brake from overheating. As soon as the brake has cooled down,
EDL automatically switches on again.
WARNING
Driving fast on icy, slippery, or wet roads can lead to a loss of control and result in serious
personal injury for you and your passengers.
x Always adjust your speed and driving style to road, traffic, weather, and visibility
conditions. Never let the additional safety that ESC, ABS, BAS, ASR, and EDL can provide
tempt you into taking extra risks.
x Braking assistance systems cannot overcome the laws of physics and always prevent
loss of vehicle control. Slippery and wet roads are still dangerous even with ESC and the
other systems!
x Driving too fast on wet roads can cause the wheels to lose contact with the road and
“hydroplane.” A vehicle that has lost road contact cannot be braked, steered, or controlled.
x These systems cannot reduce the risk of accident, for example if you drive too fast for
conditions or if you do not keep your distance from the vehicle in front of you.
x Although these systems are very effective and can help you control the vehicle in many
difficult situations, always remember that your vehicle handling control is limited by tire
traction.
x When accelerating on a slippery surface, for example on ice and snow, depress the
accelerator carefully. Even with these systems, the wheels may start to spin, leading to a loss
of vehicle control.
WARNING
The effectiveness of ESC can be significantly reduced if other components and systems that
affect vehicle dynamics, including but not limited to brakes, tires, and other systems
mentioned above, are not properly maintained or functioning.
x Always remember that vehicle alterations or modifications can affect the functioning of
the ABS, BAS, ASR, EDL, and ESC systems.
x Changing the vehicle suspension or using an unapproved tire / wheel combination can
change the way the ABS, BAS, ASR, EDL, and ESC systems work and reduce their
effectiveness.
x The effectiveness of ESC is also determined by the tires fitted.
All 4 wheels must be equipped with identical tires in order for ESC and ASR to work properly.
Differences in the tread circumference of the tires can cause the system to reduce the engine power
when it is not expected.

Calm and smooth driving
Consistency is more important than speed. The more smoothly you drive, the less fuel the vehicle
consumes.
When driving on the highway or freeway, a constant, moderate speed is more efficient and economical
than constantly accelerating and braking. Usually you can reach your destination just as quickly by
driving at a moderate, but steady speed.
The cruise control system can assist in maintaining a uniform driving style.
Moderate use of extra electrical loads
Comfort inside the vehicle is nice and important, but it is important to use them in an environmentally
conscious manner.
Some devices can increase fuel consumption when activated (examples):
x Climate control system (air conditioner): If the climate control system has to produce starkly
contrasting temperatures, it requires a large amount of energy, which is generated by the engine. The
temperature in the vehicle should therefore not be extremely different from that of the outside
temperature. It may be helpful to ventilate the vehicle before driving and then to drive a short distance
with the windows open. After that, switch on the air conditioner with the windows closed. Keep the
windows closed when driving at high speeds. Open windows increase fuel consumption.
x Switch off seat heating once it has served its purpose.
x Switch off the rear window defroster as soon as the windows are free of fog and ice.
Additional factors that increase fuel consumption (examples):
x Malfunctioning engine control.
x Driving in the mountains.
x Towing a trailer.
NOTICE
Never let the vehicle coast or roll down a hill in Neutral (N), especially when the engine is not
running. The transmission will not be lubricated and will be damaged.
Fuel-efficient driving

Fig. 147 Fuel consumption in mpg at 2 different outside air temperatures.

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. Aftermarket 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.

Lights
up Possible cause Proper response
D
Power steering assist is reduced.
Stop, restart the engine, and drive a short
distance. If the yellow warning light does not
come on again, you do not need to have the
steering system checked.
Otherwise, have the steering checked
immediately by an authorized Volkswagen
dealer or an authorized Volkswagen Service
Facility.
Vehicle battery was disconnected and
has been reconnected.
Drive a short distance at about 10–12 mph
(15–20 km/h).


Flashes Possible cause Proper response
D Electronic steering column lock
malfunction.

To help make it more difficult to steal your vehicle, you should always make sure the steering column
is locked before leaving the vehicle.
Electronic steering column lock
Vehicles with Keyless Access: The steering column is locked if the driver door is opened with the
ignition switched off. The vehicle must be standing still and the transmission must be in Park (P) on an
automatic transmission vehicle.
If the driver door is opened before the ignition is switched off, the electronic steering column lock is
activated only after the vehicle has been locked with the vehicle key or via the sensor in the door
handle.
Mechanical steering column lock
Vehicles without Keyless Access: The steering column is locked if the vehicle is stationary and the
vehicle key is removed from the ignition switch.

Engaging the steering column
lock
Disengaging the steering column
lock
Parking the vehicle. Turn the steering wheel slightly to
take pressure off the steering
column lock.
Remove the vehicle key. Insert the vehicle key into the
ignition switch.
Turn the steering wheel slightly until
you hear the steering column lock
engage.
Hold the steering wheel in this
position and turn the ignition switch.

Power steering
Power steering automatically adjusts to driving speed, steering torque, and the steering angle of the
wheels. Power steering works only when the engine is running.
If power steering is reduced or lost completely, it will be much harder to steer and control the vehicle.
Counter-steering assistance
Counter-steering assistance is part of Electronic Stability Control (ESC). This feature makes it easier
for the driver to control the vehicle in difficult situations. For example, if you have to brake hard on a
surface that provides uneven traction, the vehicle could pull to the right or left. ESC detects this
situation and helps the driver counter-steer with additional steering power ⇒ .
WARNING
The counter-steering assistance in ESC can do no more than help the driver steer in difficult
situations. The driver must still control the vehicle. The vehicle does not steer by itself with
this feature!
NOTICE
If the ignition is off, the steering column lock will engage and the vehicle cannot be steered.
For this reason, you must leave the ignition on when going through an automatic car wash, for
example, so that the wheels will still steer.

Reverse (manual transmission) or in Drive (D), Sport Drive (S), or Reverse (R) (automatic
transmission) and you must use the foot brake to hold the vehicle before starting to move.
Hill Hold keeps the brake applied for not quite 2 seconds with the same force you used to prevent the
vehicle from moving. This gives you time to take your foot off the brake, let the clutch out on a manual
transmission vehicle, and gently depress the accelerator to get the vehicle moving again. If you do not
depress the accelerator pedal and get the vehicle moving again within this time, the brakes will release
and the vehicle will roll downhill. Furthermore, if any requirement for engaging Hill Hold is no longer
met while the vehicle is stopped, Hill Hold disengages and the brakes are automatically released and
will no longer hold the vehicle.
Hill Hold is activated automatically when the following conditions are all met at the same
time.

Points 1 to 3 must all be met at the same time:
Manual transmission Automatic transmission
1. Hold the stopped vehicle on an incline with the foot or parking brake.
2. The engine must be running “smoothly.”
3. A manual transmission vehicle must be in 1st
gear (1) if headed up a hill or in Reverse (R) if
backing up a hill; you must hold the clutch
down and the foot brake must be depressed to
keep the vehicle from moving.
An automatic transmission vehicle must be in
Reverse (R), Drive (D), or Sport Drive (S) and
the foot brake must be depressed to keep the
vehicle from moving.
4. To drive off take your foot off the brake pedal
as you let the clutch out and gently depress
the accelerator within 2 seconds.
To drive off take your foot off the brake pedal
and gently depress the accelerator within 2
seconds.

Hill Hold is immediately deactivated:
x If any requirement listed in the table above is no longer met.
x If the engine is not running smoothly or the engine malfunctions.
x If the engine stalls or is switched off.
x Automatic transmission vehicles: If the transmission is in Neutral (N).
x Automatic transmission vehicles: If a tire does not have enough road contact (such as when the
vehicle is tipped or at an angle).
WARNING
The intelligent technology of Hill Hold cannot overcome the laws of physics. Never let the
increased convenience provided by Hill Hold tempt you into taking risks.
x The Hill Hold feature cannot hold the vehicle in all hill start situations (for example, if the
surface is icy or slippery).
x Hill Hold can only help keep the vehicle from moving for less than 2 seconds. After that,
the brakes will be released and the vehicle can roll down the hill.