•Connect the other end of the red jump lead to the positive terminal (+) of the vehicle battery
providing assistance ⇒ Fig. 217②.
•On the vehicle with the flat 12-volt battery, connect the other end of the black jump lead
⇒ Fig. 217③ preferably to the jump lead connection point (earth connection), or otherwise to a
solid metal part that is securely bolted onto the cylinder block, or to the cylinder block itself ⇒
.
•Position the leads in such a way that they cannot come into contact with any moving parts in the
engine compartment.
Connecting jump leads (vehicles with 12-volt battery in the luggage
compartment)
The jump leads should only be connected in the order A – B – C – D⇒ Fig. 218.
•Switch off the ignition in both vehicles ⇒ Starting and stopping the engine.
•Fold open the cover of the jump lead connection point in the engine compartment ⇒ Jump lead
connection point (positive terminal).
•Connect one end of the red jump lead to the jump lead connection point (positive terminal) (+)
of the vehicle with the discharged 12-volt vehicle battery ⇒ Fig. 218①⇒.
•Connect the other end of the red jump lead to the positive terminal (+) of the vehicle battery
providing assistance ⇒ Fig. 218②.
•On the vehicle with the 12-volt battery providing assistance, connect one end of the black jump
lead ⇒ Fig. 218③ preferably to the jump lead connection point (earth connection), or
otherwise to a solid metal part that is securely bolted onto the cylinder block, or to the cylinder
block itself.
•On the vehicle with the flat 12-volt battery, connect the other end of the black jump lead
⇒ Fig. 218③ preferably to the jump lead connection point (earth connection), or otherwise to a
solid metal part that is securely bolted onto the cylinder block, or to the cylinder block itself ⇒
.
•Position the leads in such a way that they cannot come into contact with any moving parts in the
engine compartment.
Starting the engine
•Start the engine of the vehicle providing assistance and let it run at idle.
•Start the engine of the vehicle with the discharged 12-volt vehicle battery and wait two or three
minutes until the engine is running smoothly.
Removing the jump leads
•Before disconnecting the jump leads, switch off the dipped beam headlights if they are switched
on.
•Turn on the blower of the air conditioning system or the heating and fresh air system and the
rear window heating in the vehicle with the discharged 12-volt vehicle battery. This helps to
minimise voltage peaks which are generated when the leads are disconnected.
•When the engine is running, the jump leads should be removed only in the order
D – C – B – A⇒ Fig. 217 or ⇒ Fig. 218.
•Close the battery cover or fold back the cover of the jump lead connection point ⇒ Jump lead
connection point (positive terminal).
•Go to a qualified workshop and have the 12-volt vehicle battery checked.
Tow-starting or towing
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Notes on tow-starting and towing
⇒ Fitting the rear towing eye
⇒ Fitting the front towing eye
⇒ Fitting the front towing eye (R-Line)
⇒ Driving notes when towing
Tow-starting is where a vehicle is started from it being set in motion by a vehicle that is hitched up
to it.
Towing is where a vehicle that cannot be driven is pulled away with the aid of another vehicle.
Observe any legal requirements when towing or tow-starting.
For technical reasons, vehicles with a discharged 12-volt battery must not be towed.⇒ Jump
starting
Vehicles with Keyless Access must only be towed with the ignition switched on.
Towing a vehicle when the engine is switched off and the ignition is switched on discharges the 12-
volt vehicle battery. Depending on the charge level of the 12-volt vehicle battery, the drop in voltage
can be large enough after just a few minutes that electrical consumers in the vehicle will no longer
function, e.g. the hazard warning lights.
Jump starting the vehicle incorrectly can cause the 12-volt vehicle battery to explode,
which can lead to serious injuries. Please observe the following in order to reduce the risk
of the 12-volt vehicle battery exploding:
•All work on the 12-volt vehicle battery and the electrical system can cause serious
chemical burns, fire or electric shocks. Always read the warnings and safety
information before carrying out any kind of work on the 12-volt vehicle battery ⇒ 12-
volt vehicle battery.
•Always wear suitable eye protection and gloves and never lean over the 12-volt vehicle
battery.
•Attach the connector cables in the correct order – the positive cable first, followed by
the negative.
•Never connect the negative cable to parts of the fuel system or to the brake lines.
•The non-insulated parts of the battery clamps must not be allowed to touch. The jump
lead attached to the positive terminal on the 12-volt vehicle battery must not touch
electrically conductive parts of the vehicle.
•m/k/a995MK Vehicles with battery in the engine compartment: check the battery
window on the 12-volt vehicle battery. Use a torch for this if necessary. If the display is
light yellow or colourless, do not jump start the vehicle. Seek expert assistance.
•Avoid electrostatic discharge in the vicinity of the 12-volt vehicle battery. The explosive
gas emitted from the 12-volt vehicle battery could be ignited by sparks.
•Do not carry out jump starting if the 12-volt vehicle battery is damaged or if it is or has
ever been frozen.
WARNING
Once the vehicle has been successfully jump-started, go to a qualified workshop and have
the 12-volt vehicle battery checked.
NOTICE
Safety notes for working in the engine compartment
Always park the vehicle on a level and stable surface before carrying out any work in the engine
compartment.
The engine compartment of a motor vehicle is a hazardous area. You should only carry out work on
the engine, and in the engine compartment, if you know exactly how to perform the required tasks,
are aware of the general safety procedures and have access to the correct equipment, service
fluids and suitable tools. Failing to carry out work correctly can cause serious injuries ⇒. The
work should be carried out by a qualified workshop if you are uncertain. Volkswagen recommends
using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.
Unintentional vehicle movements during service work can cause serious injury.
•Never work underneath a vehicle if it is not secured against rolling away. If you are
working underneath the vehicle while the wheels are on the ground, the vehicle must
be on a level, the wheels chocked, and the vehicle key removed from the ignition lock
as required.
•If you have to work underneath the vehicle, use suitable stands to provide extra
support for the vehicle. The vehicle jack is not sufficient for this task and can fail,
which can lead to serious injuries.
•The start/stop system must have been deactivated.
WARNING
The engine compartment of any motor vehicle is a dangerous area. Serious injuries can be
sustained here.
•The utmost care and attention must be paid when carrying out any work and you must
follow the general safety rules. Never take any risks.
•Never do any work on the engine or in the engine compartment unless you know
exactly how to carry it out. If you are uncertain of what to do, the work should be
carried out by a qualified workshop. Serious injuries can result from work that has not
been carried out properly.
•Never open the bonnet if you see steam or coolant escaping from the engine
compartment. Hot steam or hot coolant can cause serious burns. Always wait until you
can no longer see or hear steam or coolant coming from the engine compartment.
•Always allow the engine to cool down before opening the bonnet.
•Hot parts of the engine or exhaust system can burn the skin.
•Observe the following points before opening the bonnet once the engine has cooled
down:
- Switch on the electronic parking brake and move the selector lever to position P
or move the gear lever to the neutral position.
- Switch off the ignition and remove the vehicle key from the ignition lock.
- Always keep children away from the engine compartment and never leave the
vehicle unattended.
•The cooling system is under pressure when the engine is hot. Never open the cap of
the coolant expansion tank when the engine is hot. Coolant may spray out and cause
serious burns and other injuries.
- Slowly and carefully turn the cap on the coolant expansion tank anticlockwise
while exerting gentle downward pressure on the cap.
- Always protect the face, hands and arms from hot coolant or steam with a large,
thick cloth.
•When refilling, do not spill any service fluids on engine components or on the exhaust
system. The spilt service fluids can start a fire.
WARNING
High voltages in the electrical system can cause electric shocks, burns, serious injuries
and death!
•Never short circuit the electric system. The 12-volt battery could explode.
•Please note the following guidelines to help reduce the risk of an electric shock and
serious injuries while the engine is running or being started:
- Never touch the electrical wiring of the ignition system.
- Never touch the electrical wiring and connections of gas discharge bulbs.
WARNING
Park the vehicle on a level and stable surface.
Depress and hold the brake pedal until you have switched off the ignition.
Switch on the electronic parking brake Electronic parking brake.
Select the neutral position Manual gearbox: selecting a gear or move the selector lever to
position P DSG® dual clutch gearbox.
Switch off the ignition and remove the vehicle key from the ignition lock Starting and
stopping the engine.
Service fluids leaks are harmful to the environment. So you should regularly check the
ground underneath your vehicle. If there are spots of oil or other service fluids on the ground, the
vehicle should be inspected by a qualified workshop. Any spilt service fluids must be disposed of
properly.
Preparing the vehicle for working in the engine compartment
Checklist
The following steps should always be carried out in the specified order before working in
the engine compartment ⇒:
There are rotating components in the engine compartment that can cause serious injury.
•Never place your hand near these components or in the radiator fan. Touching the
rotary blades can result in serious injuries. The fan is temperature-controlled and can
start automatically, even if the ignition has been switched off and the vehicle key has
been removed from the ignition lock.
•If any work has to be performed when the engine is started or with the engine running,
there is an additional, potentially fatal, safety risk from the rotating parts, such as the
poly V-belts, alternator, radiator fan etc., and from the high-voltage ignition system.
Always be particularly careful.
- Always ensure that no body parts, jewellery, ties, loose items of clothing or long
hair can be caught up in rotating engine components. Before starting work,
remove any jewellery and ties, tie up long hair and pull clothes in tightly to avoid
them getting caught in the engine compartment.
- Always take due care and attention when depressing the accelerator. The vehicle
could move, even if the electronic parking brake is applied.
•Always ensure you have not left any objects, such as cleaning cloths and tools, in the
engine compartment. Any forgotten items can cause malfunctions, engine damage and
fires.
WARNING
Additional insulating materials such as covers in the engine compartment could disrupt
the operation of the engine, start fires and lead to severe injuries.
•Never cover the engine with any insulating materials.
WARNING
Service fluids and some materials in the engine compartment are highly flammable and
can cause fires and serious injuries!
•Never smoke in the vicinity of the engine compartment.
•Never work near naked flames or sparks.
•Never spill fluids onto the engine. They could ignite on hot engine components and
hence cause injuries.
•Please note the following when carrying out any work on the fuel system or the
electrical system:
- Always disconnect the 12-volt vehicle battery. Ensure that the vehicle is
unlocked when the 12-volt vehicle battery is disconnected as otherwise the anti-
theft alarm will be activated.
- Never work in the direct proximity of heating systems, water heaters or any other
open flames.
•Always have a fully functional and tested fire extinguisher to hand.
WARNING
When topping up or changing service fluids, ensure that you pour the correct service
fluids into the correct openings. The use of incorrect service fluids could result in serious
malfunctions and engine damage.
NOTICE
Allow the engine to cool sufficiently.
Children and other people should be kept well away from the engine compartment.
Ensure that the vehicle cannot roll away unexpectedly.
Opening and closing the bonnet
Fig. 223 In the footwell on the driver's side: release lever for the bonnet.
Fig. 224 Above the radiator grille: bonnet control lever.
Opening the bonnet
•Ensure that the wiper arms are positioned on the windscreen before opening the bonnet ⇒.
•Open the driver door and pull the release lever in the direction of the arrow ⇒ Fig. 223. The
bonnet is released from its lock by a spring mechanism ⇒.
•Lift the bonnet at the opening lever ⇒ Fig. 224 (arrow) and open fully. The bonnet is held in the
open position by the gas strut.
Closing the bonnet
•To close the bonnet, pull it down to overcome the gas strut pressure ⇒.
•Let the bonnet drop into the catches from a height of about 30 cm – do not press it down!
If the bonnet has not closed properly, lift it and then close it again.
The bonnet sits flush with the body parts around it when it is closed properly. The bonnet is no
longer highlighted in the instrument cluster display ⇒ Display or the display goes out.
Ignoring any of the items on this important safety checklist can lead to severe injuries.
•Always follow the instructions in the checklist and observe the general safety
procedures.
WARNING
With the engine at operating temperature, park the vehicle on a level surface to ensure
that the engine oil reading is correct.
Switch off the engine and wait a few minutes for the engine oil to flow back into the sump.
Open the bonnet In the engine compartment.
Identify the engine oil filler cap and oil dipstick. The engine oil filler opening bears the
symbol on the cap and the oil dipstick has a coloured handle. If you cannot find the cap
and dipstick please contact a qualified workshop.
Pull the dipstick out of the guide tube and wipe it off with a clean cloth.
Insert the oil dipstick into the guide tube again as far as it will go. If there is a marking on
the upper end of the oil dipstick, this marking must fit in the corresponding groove at the
top end of the guide tube when inserting.
After reading off the oil level, push the oil dipstick back into the guide tube as far as it will
go.
Unscrew the engine oil filler opening cap .
Only the engine oil expressly approved by Volkswagen for this engine should be gradually
refilled in small quantities (no more than 0.5 l).
In order to avoid overfilling, wait for approximately one minute after each refill step to allow
the engine oil to flow into the oil sump up to the marking on the engine oil dipstick.
Read the engine oil level from the dipstick again before refilling with a further small
quantity of engine oil. Never overfill with engine oil .
After refilling, the engine oil level should be in the middle of area Ⓒ. It should not be above
Ⓒ, in area Ⓑ, and must not reach area Ⓐ .
If too much engine oil has been added unintentionally and the engine oil level is in area Ⓐ,
do not start the engine. Inform a qualified workshop and possibly seek expert assistance.
After refilling, close the engine oil filler opening with the cap.
Insert the oil dipstick into the guide tube as far as it will go. If there is a marking on the
upper end of the oil dipstick, this marking must fit in the corresponding groove at the top
end of the guide tube when inserting.
Close the bonnet In the engine compartment.
Do not refill engine oil.
Engine oil level OK.
Engine oil level too low – refill engine oil.
Checklist
Carry out the steps in the specified order ⇒:
Pull the dipstick out again and read the engine oil level on the dipstick as follows: Ⓐ Engine
oil level too high. Follow any messages that are shown on the instrument cluster display and
go to a qualified workshop . Ⓑ Do not fill the engine oil . Continue to step 16. Ⓒ Engine oil
level OK. Engine oil can, e.g. in the case of high engine loads , be filled up to the upper limit
of this range. Continue to step 8 or 16. Ⓓ Engine oil level is too low. The engine oil must be
refilled. Continue to step 8.
The engine oil level must never be above area ⇒ Fig. 227Ⓑ. Otherwise oil can be drawn in
through the crankcase breather and escape into the atmosphere via the exhaust system.
Troubleshooting
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Engine oil can ignite if it comes into contact with hot engine components. It can cause
fires, burns and other serious injuries.
•If engine oil is spilt on cold engine parts it can heat up and ignite when the engine is
running.
•Always ensure that the engine oil filler cap is securely tightened after refilling, and that
the dipstick is properly inserted back into the guide tube. This will prevent the engine
oil from draining out on to hot engine components when the engine is running.
WARNING
•If too much engine oil has been added unintentionally and the engine oil level is in area
⇒ Fig. 227Ⓐ, do not start the engine. Inform a qualified workshop and possibly seek
expert assistance. The catalytic converter and the engine could otherwise be damaged.
•When topping up service fluids, please ensure that you pour the correct service fluids
into the correct openings. The use of incorrect service fluids could result in serious
malfunctions and engine damage.
NOTICE
Warning lamps and text messages may be shown in the instrument cluster display. These warnings
may also be accompanied by acoustic signals.
Engine oil
Lit up: engine oil level too low. Switch off the engine. Check the engine oil level ⇒ Checking
the engine oil level and refilling the engine oil.Flashing: engine oil system fault. Go to a
qualified workshop and have the engine oil sensor checked.Flashing: engine oil pressure
is too low. Do not drive on!
Switch off the engine and check the engine oil level ⇒ Checking the engine oil level and refilling the
engine oil - Do not drive on or remain at idling speed if the warning lamp is flashing even if the
engine oil level is correct. The engine could otherwise be damaged. You should obtain professional
assistance.
Engine coolant
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Coolant specification
⇒ Checking the coolant level and refilling coolant
You should only carry out work on the cooling system if you know exactly how to perform the
required tasks, are aware of the general safety procedures and have access to the correct
equipment, service fluids and suitable tools. Failing to carry out work correctly can cause serious
injuries ⇒. The work should be carried out by a qualified workshop if you are uncertain.
Volkswagen recommends using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.
Coolant and coolant additives can pollute the environment. Spilt service fluids must be
collected then disposed of properly and in an environmentally responsible way.
Coolant specification
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The cooling system is filled at the factory with a mixture of specially prepared water and at least
40% coolant additive G 13 (TL-VW 774 J). The coolant additive is dyed purple. This mixture of
water and coolant additive gives the necessary frost protection down to -25°C (-13°F) and protects
the alloy parts of the cooling system against corrosion. The mixture also prevents scaling and
raises the boiling point of the coolant.
In order to protect the coolant system, the proportion of coolant additive must always be at least
40%, even if anti-freeze is not required in warm weather and warm climates.
If greater frost protection is required in very cold climates, the proportion of anti-freeze additive can
be increased. However, the percentage of coolant additive should not exceed 60%, as this would
reduce the frost protection and the cooling effect.
When refilling the coolant, a mixture of distilled water and at least 40% coolant additive - G 13 - or
- G 12 plus-plus - (TL-VW 774 G) (both of which are dyed purple) must be used in order to obtain
the optimum corrosion protection ⇒. Mixing - G 13 - with the coolant additives - G 12 plus - (TL-
VW 774 F), - G 12 - (dyed red) or - G 11 - (dyed blue-green) will significantly decrease the level of
corrosion protection and should therefore be avoided ⇒.
Engine coolant is toxic.
•Engine coolant should only be kept in sealed original containers in a safe place.
•Never store engine coolant in empty food containers, bottles or any other non-original
containers as people finding these containers may then drink the engine coolant.
•The engine coolant must be stored out of the reach of children.
•Please note that the amount of correct coolant additive used must be sufficient for the
lowest ambient temperature that you expect the vehicle to be exposed to.
•Coolant can freeze at extremely cold outside temperatures, causing the vehicle to
break down. Vehicle occupants with inadequate winter clothing could then freeze to
death as the heating will also no longer function.
WARNING
Brake fluid can pollute the environment. Any spilt service fluids must be cleaned up and
disposed of properly.
12-volt vehicle battery
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Checking the electrolyte level of the 12-volt vehicle battery
⇒ Charging, replacing, disconnecting and connecting the 12-volt vehicle battery
⇒ Troubleshooting
The 12-volt vehicle battery is a component of the electrical system and serves to supply power in
the vehicle.
You should only carry out work on the electrical system if you know exactly how to perform the
required tasks, are aware of the general safety procedures and have access to the correct
equipment, service fluids and suitable tools. Failing to carry out work correctly can cause serious
injuries ⇒. All work should be carried out by a qualified workshop. Volkswagen recommends
using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.
Location of the 12-volt vehicle battery
Depending on the vehicle equipment level, the 12-volt vehicle battery may be located in the engine
compartment or in the luggage compartment under the luggage compartment floor.
Explanation of the warnings on the 12-volt vehicle battery
m/k/n948MKAlways wear eye protection!m/k/n947MKElectrolyte is very corrosive
and caustic. Always wear protective gloves and eye protection!m/k/n944MKNo fires,
sparks, naked lights or smoking!m/k/n946MKA highly explosive mixture of gases is given
off when the 12-volt vehicle battery is charging!m/k/n945MKAlways keep children away
from battery acid and the 12-volt vehicle battery!m/k/n949MKAlways observe the owner's
manual!
Brake failure or reduced braking effect can be caused by the brake fluid level being too
low or by brake fluid that is too old or unsuitable.
•The brake system and brake fluid level must be checked regularly.
•The brake fluid should be changed regularly.
•Heavy use of the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the brake fluid is left in the system
for too long. Vapour locks reduce levels of braking power, considerably increase
braking distance and can cause the brake system to fail completely.
•Please ensure that the correct brake fluid is used. Only use brake fluid that is explicitly
compliant with VW standard 501 14.
•Any other brake fluid or a low-quality one can affect the functioning of the brakes and
reduce their effectiveness.
•If a brake fluid compliant with VW standard 501 14 is not available, use a high-quality
brake fluid compliant with DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 or the US standard FMVSS 116 DOT
4, but only in exceptional circumstances.
•The refilled brake fluid must be new.
WARNING
Brake fluid is toxic.
•In order to reduce the risk of poisoning, never use bottles or other containers to store
brake fluid. There is always a risk of someone drinking from such containers, even if
they are labelled appropriately.
•Brake fluid must always be stored in its original sealed container and kept out of the
reach of children.
WARNING
Brake fluid that has leaked or been spilt can damage the vehicle paintwork, plastic parts
and tyres. Wipe off brake fluid that has leaked or been spilled immediately from all parts of
the vehicle.
NOTICE