If the battery was disconnected for a long time, the next scheduled service may not be correctly calcu-lated and displayed. The maximum permissible service and maintenance intervals are shown in the
⇒ Booklet Warranty and Maintenance.
Vehicles with Keyless Access
If the ignition will not start after reconnecting the vehicle battery, lock the vehicle from the outside and unlock it again. Then try to start the ignition again. If the ignition cannot be switched on, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer, an authorized Volkswagen Service Facility, or another qualified work-shop for assistance.
Automatic electrical load deactivation
If the vehicle battery drain is high, the intelligent on-board electrical system management automatically takes steps to help prevent battery drain.
x The idle speed is increased so that the alternator provides more power.
x The power to devices that consume a lot of electricity is cut back or switched off completely.
x When the engine is started, the power supply to the 12 Volt sockets and the cigarette lighter is temporarily interrupted.
The on-board electrical system management cannot always keep the battery from being drained. For example, the battery will drain if the engine is not running, but the ignition is switched on or the parking lights are left on for a long time when parked.
Battery disconnection in an accident with airbag deployment
In vehicles with a battery in the luggage compartment, the electrical connection to the battery is dis-connected automatically in a collision with airbag deployment. This helps to prevent a short-circuit.
What drains the vehicle battery?
x Long periods when the engine is not running, especially when the ignition is on.
x Using electrical systems or devices when the engine is switched off.
x Leaving the vehicle unlocked for several days when not in use.
x The selector lever is left for a long period of time in any position other than (P) when the ignition is
switched off ⇒ Automatic transmission: Selector lever.
WARNING
Failure to use the proper battery with proper mounting and connections may cause short circuits, fires, and serious personal injuries.
x Always use only maintenance-free or cycle-free, leak-proof batteries with the same speci-fications and dimensions as the original equipment battery. Specifications are listed on the battery housing.
WARNING
When the vehicle battery is charged, it produces highly explosive hydrogen gas.
x Charge vehicle batteries only in well-ventilated areas.
x Never charge a frozen or thawed battery. A dead battery can freeze at temperatures around +32 °F (0 °C). Always replace a battery that has frozen.
x You must replace the vehicle battery if it was frozen.
x Incorrectly connected cables can cause a short-circuit. First connect the positive cable (+) and then the negative cable (-).
Description Possible causes
among others Possible remedy
Fuel consumption
higher than indi-
cated.
– Short hauls.
– “Jumpy accelerator
pedal”.
– Avoid traveling short dis-
tances
– Drive defensively.
– Accelerate smoothly.
Electrical loads
switched on.
Switch off unnecessary
loads.
Engine control mal-
functioning.
Have the malfunction cor-
rected.
Tire pressure too low. Adjust tire pressure
Driving in the moun-
tains.
No direct corrective action
possible.
Towing a trailer or roof
rack.
– Check use.
– Remove if not in use.
Driving with heavy
payload.
No direct corrective action
possible.
Driving at high engine
speed. Select a higher gear.
knowledge and tools are required to close the power sunroof if it will not close on its own. To help prevent damage to the sunroof, have an authorized Volkswagen dealer or an authorized Volkswagen Service Facility help you close and repair the power sunroof.
Emergency release for the selector lever lock
