In vehicles with selective catalytic reduction, a special urea solution (AdBlue) is injected into the
exhaust system ahead of the catalytic converter in order to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions.
AdBlue is stored in a separate tank of the vehicle and should be refilled under normal driving
conditions during service according to the maintenance schedule. The AdBlue tank holds slightly less
than 5 gallons (20 liters).
AdBlue consumption depends on the individual driving style, system operating temperature, and
outside air temperature. Therefore in rare cases AdBlue may have to be refilled between service
events.
Starting with a remaining range of about 1500 miles (2400 km), a reminder to refill AdBlue is displayed
in the instrument cluster. If you ignore the last refill reminder, it is impossible to start the engine again
after it is switched off
Volkswagen recommends that you have the AdBlue tank refilled by an authorized Volkswagen dealer
or an authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. If no authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized
Volkswagen Service Facility or other qualified workshop is available, you should refill at least 1.5
gallons (5.7 liters) of AdBlue (3 AdBlue bottles). Refill only the type of AdBlue that Volkswagen has
explicitly approved for your vehicle.
If warning lights ~ and d both come on together, there is a malfunction. Volkswagen recommends that
you take the vehicle to the closest qualified workshop.
AdBlue® is a registered trademark of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) in the
United States, Germany, the European Union and in other countries.
Refilling AdBlue
Fig. 279 Luggage compartment with collapsible spare tire and AdBlue tank.
Fig. 280 AdBlue tank with filler neck cap and refill container.
.WARNING
High voltage systems in the engine compartment can cause electrical shocks or even
electrocution, severe burns, other serious injuries, and even death!
x Never short-circuit the electrical system. Be especially CAReful when using jumper
cables. The vehicle's battery could explode!
x To reduce the risk of electrical shock and personal injury while the engine is running or
being started:
– Never touch ignition cables. Never touch other components of the high-voltage
electronic ignition system.
– Never touch the wiring of the HID - High Intensity Discharge (Xenon) headlights.
.WARNING
Moving parts in the engine compartment can cause serious personal injury on contact.
x Never reach into the area around or touch the radiator fan. Contact with the blades can
cause serious personal injury. Always remember that the radiator fan is temperature-
controlled and can come on suddenly even when the engine has been switched off for a while
and the key has been removed from the ignition.
x If you have to perform a check or repair when the engine is running, there are more risks
from the rotating parts, such as the drive belts, alternator, radiator fan, etc., and from the
high-voltage ignition system. Always use extreme CARe.
– Always make sure that jewelry, loose clothing and long hair do not get caught in
rotating engine parts. Before starting any work remove your jewelry, take off your necktie,
tie back and cover your hair, and do not wear clothing that can hang down and get caught
in moving engine parts.
– Always use extreme caution if the accelerator pedal has to be depressed to perform a
check. The vehicle will start to move even if the parking brake is on.
x Never leave any objects in the engine compartment, for example cleaning rags and tools.
Objects left behind can cause malfunctions, engine damage, and even fires.
.WARNING
Operating fluids and some materials in the engine compartment can catch fire easily, causing
burns and other serious personal injuries!
x Do not smoke.
x Never work next to open flames or sparks.
x Never pour or spill operating fluids or other flammable liquids on the engine. These fluids
can ignite on hot engine parts and cause injuries.
x If work on the fuel system or the electrical system is necessary:
– Always disconnect the 12 Volt vehicle battery. Make sure the vehicle is unlocked when
you disconnect the battery, or the alarm will go off. Never touch the electrical wiring of the
ignition system.
– Never work near heaters, water heaters, or other open flames.
x Always have a functional, approved fire extinguisher nearby.
