At extremely low outside temperatures, the electric ball head might not rotate. If this
happens, it is sufficient to place the vehicle in a warmer room, e.g. a garage.
Fitting a bicycle carrier on the swivelling ball head
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Mount the bicycle carrier in accordance with the manufacturer's assembly instructions.
Only carrier systems which can hold a maximum of three bicycles may be used ⇒. Position
heavy bicycles as close to the vehicle (ball head) as possible.
Maximum carrying load
The maximum permitted load (carrier system including load) on the ball coupling is 75 kg at a
distance of 300 mm. This distance refers to the gap between the centre of gravity of the bicycle
carrier and the middle of the ball head.
Volkswagen recommends that you remove all add-on parts from the bicycles before setting
off. This includes for example bicycle bags and baskets, child seats or batteries. This helps improve
the carrier system's wind load and centre of gravity.
Notes on towing a trailer
Fig. 193 Pin assignment for the trailer socket (illustration).
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Pin assignment for the trailer socket ⇒ Fig. 193:
Left turn signal
Rear fog light
Earth for pins 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Right turn signal
Rear light, right
Brake light
Incorrect use of the towing bracket with a bicycle carrier fitted to the ball head could
cause injuries and accidents.
•Never exceed the specified load and overhang.
•Do not attach a bicycle carrier underneath the ball head on the neck of the ball head.
The shape of the ball head neck and the design of the bicycle carrier could result in the
bicycle carrier becoming misaligned with the vehicle.
•Read and observe the assembly instructions provided by the bicycle carrier
manufacturer.
WARNING
Considerable vehicle damage could occur if the maximum permitted payload or overhang
is exceeded.
•Never exceed the specified values.
NOTICE
If there is a fault in the vehicle or trailer electrical systems or in the anti-theft alarm or if there
is a fault in the anti-theft alarm, have the vehicle checked by a qualified workshop.
If the engine is not running and electrical equipment is switched on in the trailer via the trailer
socket, the 12-volt vehicle battery will discharge.
If the 12-volt vehicle battery charge level is low, the electrical connection to the trailer will be
interrupted automatically.
Loading the trailer
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Trailer weight and drawbar load
The trailer weight is the weight that the vehicle can pull ⇒. The drawbar load is the load that is
exerted vertically from above onto the ball head of the towing bracket ⇒ Information on technical
data.
The figures for trailer weights and draw bar weights that are given on the data plate of the towing
bracket are for certification purposes only. The correct values for your specific model, which may be
lower than these figures, are given in the vehicle registration documents. All data in the official
vehicle documents take precedence over these data.
The maximum permitted drawbar load exerted by the trailer drawbar on the ball head of the towing
bracket must not exceed 100 kg.
In the interest of driving safety, Volkswagen recommends that you always use the maximum
drawbar load. The response of the trailer on the road will be poor if the drawbar load is too small.
The drawbar load increases the weight on the rear axle and reduces the maximum load level as a
result.
Gross combination weight rating
The combination weight is made up of the actual weight of the loaded vehicle and of the loaded
trailer.
In some countries, trailers are divided into different classes. Volkswagen recommends that you
contact a qualified workshop to find out about suitable trailers.
Loading the trailer
The weight of the load should be distributed evenly. The maximum permitted drawbar load should
be utilised. Do not place the load only at the front or the rear of the trailer:
•Distribute the load in the trailer so that heavy objects are either over or as near to the axle as
possible.
•Secure all loads on the trailer properly.
Tyre pressure
Follow the trailer manufacturer's recommendations concerning the tyre pressure for the trailer tyres.
When towing a trailer, inflate the tyres on the towing vehicle with the maximum permitted tyre
pressure ⇒ Tyre pressure.
Accidents and serious injuries can occur if you exceed the vehicle's maximum permitted
gross axle weight rating, drawbar load, gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination
weight rating.
•Never exceed the specified values.
•Never let the actual weights at the front and rear axles exceed the gross axle weight
ratings. Never exceed the permissible gross vehicle weight for the vehicle with weight
at the front and rear of the vehicle.
WARNING
Loads that may slide can severely impair stability and driving safety, which can cause
accidents and severe injuries.
•Always load trailers correctly.
•Always secure loads properly using suitable and undamaged securing straps.
WARNING
Trailer towing
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Headlight adjustment
Towing a trailer can raise the front end of the vehicle enough for the dipped beam to blind other
road users. Use the headlight range control to lower the light cone as required. Vehicles with
automatic headlight range adjustment are adjusted automatically.
Things to note when driving with a trailer
•If the trailer has an overrun brake, apply the brakes gently at first and then firmly. This will
prevent the jerking that can be caused by the trailer wheels locking.
•The combination weight causes the braking distance to increase.
•Engage a lower gear prior to inclines (manual gearbox or Tiptronic mode of the automatic
gearbox) to additionally make use of engine braking. The brake system could otherwise
overheat and fail.
•The vehicle's centre of gravity and, in turn, the vehicle's handling, will change because of the
trailer load and the increased combined towing weight of the vehicle and trailer.
•The weight distribution of a loaded trailer with an unladen towing vehicle is very unfavourable.
When driving in this situation, drive particularly carefully and slowly.
Pulling off on slopes when towing a trailer
A vehicle towing a trailer is liable to roll back a short distance when moving off on a slope,
depending on the angle of the slope and the total weight of the trailer and vehicle.
When towing a trailer, pull off on slopes as follows:
•Depress and hold the brake pedal.
•Press button once to switch off the electronic parking brake ⇒ Electronic parking
brake.
•Manual gearbox: depress the clutch fully.
•Select first gear ⇒ Manual gearbox: selecting a gear or selector lever position D/S⇒ DSG dual
clutch gearbox.
•Pull on the button and hold it in this position to hold the vehicle and trailer with the
electronic parking brake.
•Release the brake pedal.
•Pull away slowly. To do this, slowly release the clutch pedal for a manual gearbox.
•Only let go of the button when the engine has sufficient power to move off.
Trailer stabilisation
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The trailer stabilisation function can detect if an attached trailer is starting to lurch from side to side
and can provide countersteer.
Trailer stabilisation is a subsidiary function of the Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
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Incorrect trailer towing can cause loss of vehicle control and serious personal injury.
•Towing a trailer and transporting heavy or bulky items can change the way the vehicle
handles and increase the braking distance.
•Always drive carefully and think ahead. Brake earlier than in normal driving.
•Always adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic
conditions. Reduce your speed, particularly when going downhill.
•Accelerate carefully and gently. Avoid abrupt and sudden driving and braking
manoeuvres.
•Take special care when overtaking. Reduce your speed immediately if the trailer shows
even the slightest sign of snaking.
•Never try to stop a trailer from snaking by increasing your speed.
•Keep to speed limits which may be lower for vehicles with trailers than for vehicles
without trailers.
WARNING
Safety instructions for handling fuel
Fuels can pollute the environment. Any spilt service fluids must be cleaned up and disposed
of properly.
The tank flap cannot be opened manually. Seek expert assistance.
Fuel types and refuelling
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Petrol
⇒ Diesel
⇒ Refuelling
⇒ Misfuelling prevention device
The tank flap is located at the rear right-hand side of the vehicle ⇒ Side view.
Different engines require different fuels. The factory-fitted sticker on the inside of the tank flap
indicates the required fuel type for your vehicle.
Information on indicator and warning lamps can be found in the troubleshooting section at the end
of the chapter ⇒ Troubleshooting.
Petrol
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Vehicles with a petrol engine must be run on unleaded petrol. Fuels with a maximum ethanol
content of 10% (E10) can be used for refuelling ⇒.
The petrol grades differ with respect to the octane number. The vehicle may be filled with petrol that
has a higher octane number than the engine requires. However, this does not provide any
advantage in terms of fuel consumption or engine output.
The fuel quality affects the running properties, performance and service life of the engine. You
should therefore use fuel that already contains suitable service additives if possible ⇒.
Information on the fuel standards can be found in the chapter on fuel standards ⇒ Fuel standards.
Incorrect handling of fuel can cause explosions, fire, serious burns and other injuries.
•Switch off the auxiliary heater⇒ Auxiliary heater and ventilation, the engine, the
ignition, your mobile phone and other wireless equipment while refuelling.
•Do not get into the vehicle to avoid electrostatic discharge.
•Make sure that the tank cap is closed properly and no fuel can escape.
•Comply with any relevant safety information and legislation concerning the handling of
fuels.
WARNING
Fuel may run out of the fuel canister. This could cause fire and injuries.
•Do not carry fuel canisters in the vehicle.
CAUTION
Incorrect refuelling can lead to damage to the vehicle.
•Only use fuels that have been approved for the vehicle.
•Do not use fuels containing metals and only use approved additives.
•Spilt fuel should be removed from all vehicle components immediately.
NOTICE
Diesel
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Vehicles with a diesel engine must be run on diesel ⇒. If you use diesel with a high sulphur
content, the service intervals are shorter ⇒ Service. Information on countries that use diesel with a
high sulphur content is available from your Volkswagen dealership.
The fuel quality affects the running properties, performance and service life of the engine. You
should therefore use fuel that already contains suitable service additives if possible ⇒.
Information on the fuel standards can be found in the chapter on fuel standards ⇒ Fuel standards.
Winter-grade diesel fuel and filter preheater system
Winter-grade diesel fuel, which can be used at temperatures below -20°C (-4°F), is available during
the cold months. In countries with different climates, diesel for other temperature conditions is
usually available. Information is available from your Volkswagen dealership and filling stations in
the respective country.
Diesel vehicles are equipped with a filter pre-heater system. When using winter-grade diesel fuel,
the fuel system is safe for operation at temperatures down to around -24°C (-11°F).
However, if the fuel has waxed to such an extent that the engine will not start at temperatures
below -24°C (-11°F), place the vehicle in a heated garage or workshop for a while ⇒.
At cold temperatures, louder noises may occur in the diesel engine and the exhaust gas may
be tinged blue.
Refuelling
Fig. 195 Behind the tank flap: tank cap.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
See the chapter on technical data for information on filling capacities ⇒ Fuel tank capacity.
Incorrect refuelling or unsuitable fuel additives may cause damage to the vehicle.
•Before refuelling, check whether the fuel standard information provided on the pump
conforms to the requirements of the vehicle.
•Use only Volkswagen-approved service additives in the approved quantity.
•If, in an emergency, you have to use petrol with an octane number lower than the
recommended number, drive at medium engine speeds and avoid high engine loading.
Avoid high engine speeds and heavy engine loads. Failure to do so can result in engine
damage. Fill the tank with petrol with the correct octane number as soon as possible.
NOTICE
Start boosters may explode or suddenly cause the engine to run at high revs. This can
cause injuries or damage to the engine.
•Never use a start booster.
WARNING
Incorrect refuelling can lead to damage to the vehicle.
•Before refuelling, check whether the fuel standard information provided on the pump
conforms to the requirements of the vehicle.
•Do not refuel with RME fuel, petrol, fuel oil or other unsuitable fuels.
•Use only Volkswagen-approved service additives in the approved quantity.
NOTICE
Refuelling process
•Unlock the tank flap with the vehicle key or the button in the driver door.
•Open the tank flap.
•Unscrew the tank cap and place it in the holder on the tank flap.
•The fuel tank is full when the properly operated automatic filler nozzle clicks off for the first time
⇒.
•Screw the tank cap onto the filler neck.
•Close the tank flap.
Misfuelling prevention device
Fig. 196 In the tank filler neck: misfuelling prevention device.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The tank filler neck in diesel vehicles can be fitted with a misfuelling prevention device ⇒ Fig. 196.
The misfuelling prevention device ensures that the vehicle can be refuelled only using diesel pump
nozzles.
Turn the diesel nozzle to and fro if the misfuelling prevention device gets stuck. This can open the
misfuelling prevention device and make it possible to refuel the vehicle. If the misfuelling prevention
device remains closed, proceed to a qualified workshop to have the system checked.
If it is necessary to refuel the vehicle using a spare fuel canister in the event of an emergency, the
misfuelling prevention device will not open. In order to fill the tank with fuel, pour the diesel into the
tank extremely slowly in very small quantities.
Components relevant to emission control
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Emission control with AdBlue
⇒ Catalytic converter
⇒ Particulate filter
⇒ Troubleshooting
•Emission control with AdBlue⇒ Emission control with AdBlue
•Catalytic converter ⇒ Catalytic converter
•Particulate filter ⇒ Particulate filter
Information on indicator and warning lamps can be found in the troubleshooting section at the end
of the chapter ⇒ Troubleshooting.
Overfilling the fuel tank may cause the fuel to splash out and overflow. This can cause
fires, explosions and serious injuries.
•Do not continue refuelling when the petrol nozzle switches off for the first time.
WARNING
Do not fill up with fuel that has a lower Research Octane Number (RON) than specified. The
engine could otherwise be damaged.
NOTICE
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The refill bottle must be disposed of in accordance with regulations governing the protection
of the environment.
Catalytic converter
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
To help ensure long-term functionality in the exhaust system and the catalytic converter:
•Use unleaded petrol only ⇒ Fuel types and refuelling.
•Do not allow the fuel tank to run completely empty.
•Do not overfill engine oil ⇒ Engine oil.
•Do not tow start the vehicle. Use jump leads ⇒ Jump starting.
If you notice misfiring, uneven running or loss of power when the vehicle is moving, reduce speed
immediately. The vehicle should be inspected at the nearest qualified workshop
⇒ Troubleshooting. If this happens, unburnt fuel can enter the exhaust system and escape into the
atmosphere. The catalytic converter can also be damaged by overheating.
The emissions may have a sulphur-like smell even if the emission purification system is
working properly.
Particulate filter
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Function
The particulate filter filters out soot particles in the exhaust gas. Observe the following points to
ensure that the exhaust purification system will work properly for a long time:
AdBlue is an irritant and corrosive fluid that can damage the skin, eyes and breathing
passages upon contact.
•Always observe the instructions for use when using AdBlue. If containers are used
according to the instructions, it is unlikely that a user will come into contact with
AdBlue.
•AdBlue must be kept in the closed original container. Never use empty food
containers, bottles or other containers for this purpose.
•Always store in a safe place out of reach of children.
•If AdBlue gets into the eyes, immediately rinse the eyes with plenty of water for at
least 15 minutes and consult a doctor.
•If AdBlue gets onto the skin, immediately wash the area with plenty of water for at
least 15 minutes and consult a doctor if the skin becomes irritated.
•If AdBlue is swallowed, immediately rinse the mouth out with lots of water for at least
15 minutes. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a doctor. Seek
medical assistance immediately.
CAUTION
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Overfilling AdBlue may damage the tank system and the vehicle.
•Do not fill with more than the maximum refill quantity indicated on the instrument
cluster display.
•Remove any spilt AdBlue as quickly as possible with a damp cloth and plenty of cold
water.
•If the AdBlue has already formed crystals, use warm water and a sponge to remove.
NOTICE
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Improper use of AdBlue may cause damage to the vehicle that is not covered by the
warranty.
•Only use AdBlue that complies with the standard ISO 22241-1.
•Do not mix with water, fuel or additives.
•Never fill AdBlue in the diesel tank.
•Do not transport the refill bottle in the vehicle habitually. The bottle may develop a leak
following changes in temperature and damage and the AdBlue may damage the
vehicle interior.
NOTICE
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•Only refuel with fuels that are suitable for the vehicle ⇒ Fuel types and refuelling.
•Do not allow the fuel tank to run completely empty.
•Use only suitable engine oil for the vehicle and do not overfill ⇒ Engine oil.
•Do not tow start the vehicle. Use jump leads ⇒ Jump starting.
Periodic regeneration
The soot in the particulate filter is burnt off at high temperatures on a periodic basis.
To assist the regeneration of the particulate filter, Volkswagen recommends that you avoid making
only short journeys.
Noises, slight smells and increased engine speeds may occur during regeneration. The radiator fan
may run on while the vehicle is moving or when the engine has been switched off.
During the periodic regeneration process, the yellow indicator lamp does not light
up.
Troubleshooting
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Irregular engine running and malfunctions
If the engine shows signs of irregular running or malfunctions while you are driving, this may mean
that the fuel is of poor quality. Reduce speed immediately. Drive to nearest qualified workshop at
medium engine speeds and low loads on the engine.
If these symptoms occur directly after refuelling, switch off the engine immediately to avoid any
subsequent damage. You should obtain professional assistance.
Warning and indicator lamps
Lights up together with the red warning lamp : fault in the selective catalytic reduction
system. The engine cannot be restarted! Drive straight to a qualified workshop without switching
off the engine and have the system checked ⇒.AdBlue level too low. The engine cannot
be restarted! Switch off the vehicle and refill the AdBlue minimum quantity according to
⇒ Emission control with AdBlue⇒.Lights up together with the yellow warning lamp
: the selective catalytic reduction system is faulty or not filled with standard-compliant
AdBlue. Drive immediately to a qualified workshop and have the system checked.AdBlue
level too low. Refill AdBlue within the displayed remaining range in accordance with ⇒ Emission
control with AdBlue⇒.The particulate filter is saturated with soot and requires
regeneration. Driving at speeds between 50 - 120 km/h (31 - 75 mph) will support regeneration.
Observe the relevant speed limits and the gear recommendation. The indicator lamp goes out
automatically when the particulate filter has been regenerated. If the indicator lamp is still lit up after
driving for around 30 minutes, seek expert assistance immediately.Lit up: malfunction. Have
the engine checked by a qualified workshop.Flashing: misfiring, which damages the catalytic
converter. Drive immediately to the nearest qualified workshop and have the engine checked.
There may be engine faults and fuel consumption may be higher if the indicator lamps are lit
up or flashing.
Colour display only on an instrument cluster with colour display.
Fuel standards
Petrol
Vehicles with a petrol engine must be run on petrol in compliance with the European standard
EN 228 or the German standard DIN 51626-1 ⇒.
Where petrol complying with the specified standard is not available, Volkswagen dealerships will
have information on what fuels are suitable for the vehicle.
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If the AdBlue level is too low, the vehicle cannot be restarted after the ignition has been
switched off. Starting with jump leads is also not possible.
•Refill AdBlue at the latest when the remaining distance reaches approximately
1,000 km.
•Never allow the AdBlue tank to run empty.
NOTICE
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