Volkswagen recommends replacing tyres that are older than 6 years with new tyres. This also
applies for tyres which appear to still be in good condition and whose tread depth has not yet
reached the minimum value stipulated by legislation ⇒.
Winter and all-year tyres also largely lose their effectiveness through ageing – regardless of the
remaining tread depth ⇒ Winter tyres.
The age of each tyre can be determined using the manufacturing date ⇒ Tyre lettering and tyre
type.
Storing tyres
Always store tyres in a cool, dry and preferably dark place. Do not store tyres mounted on the rim
vertically.
Any tyres not fitted on rims should be kept in suitable sleeves to protect against dirt and should be
stored vertically (standing on the treadyf .
New tyres
•Drive particularly carefully for the first 600 km with new tyres as the tyres have to be run in.
Tyres that have not been run in have reduced grip ⇒ and braking effect ⇒.
•All four wheels must be fitted with tyres of the same type, size, and the same tread pattern.
Replacing tyres
•Always replace tyres at least on an axle-by-axle basis ⇒.
•Old tyres should only be replaced by tyres that have been approved by Volkswagen for the
vehicle type.
•Never use tyres with an effective size that is larger than Volkswagen-approved tyres.
Re-adapting the Tyre Pressure Loss Indicator
The Tyre Pressure Loss Indicator must be recalibrated each time one or more wheels are replaced.
This also applies for changing the wheels round, e.g. from the front to the rear ⇒ Tyre monitoring
systems.
Vehicles fitted with a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
If you wish to replace factory-fitted wheels, make sure that the new wheels are equipped with
sensors that are compatible with the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System ⇒ Tyre Pressure Monitoring
System. The vehicle must be driven at a speed of over 25 km/h (15 mphyf I R U D Q H [ W H Q G H G S H U L R G V R
that the new wheels can be recognised.
Volkswagen recommends that a new valve set and set of seals is used every time the sensors are
replaced or modified.
Further information on the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System ⇒ Tyre monitoring systems.
Corrosive liquids and other substances can cause visible and invisible damage to the
tyres, which can cause the tyre to burst.
•Always keep chemicals, oils, lubricants, fuel, brake fluid and other corrosive
substances away from the tyres.
WARNING
Even if they have not been used, old tyres can suddenly lose pressure or burst, especially
at high speeds, and thus cause accidents and serious injuries.
•Avoid using tyres that are more than six years old. If you have no alternative, drive
slowly and with extra care at all times.
WARNING
New tyres will have to be run in as they will initially have reduced grip and braking effect.
•Drive particularly carefully for the first 600 km in order to prevent accidents and
serious injury.
WARNING
Suitable accessories are available from your Volkswagen dealership. Follow the usage
instructions on the packaging.
Washing the vehicle
Also wash the underside of the vehicle on a regular basis to remove road salt or seawater residue.
Automatic car washes
Always observe all the car wash operator's specifications, in particular if your vehicle features add-
on parts ⇒.
•Preferably use car washes without brushes.
•Preclean the vehicle by rinsing with water.
•The steering column must not lock when driving through automatic car washes ⇒ Steering.
•Always switch off the Auto Hold function ⇒ Electronic parking brake, the wipers ⇒ Wipers and
the rain/light sensor before entering the car wash.
•Fold in the exterior mirrors.
•If your vehicle has decorative and protective films, do not select a wash program with hot wax.
High-pressure cleaners
Observe the manufacturer's information for the high-pressure cleaner. Never use rotating nozzles
⇒.
•Only use water with a maximum temperature of +60°C (+140°Fyf .
•Do not clean windows that are iced over or covered in snow with a high-pressure cleaner.
•Move the jet of water uniformly so that the nozzle is at least 50 cm away from the side windows
and other vehicle components.
•Do not point the water jet at the same location for too long. Instead, leave stubborn dirt to soak.
•If possible, do not direct the water jet at seals, e.g. side windows, decorative trim, tyres, rubber
hoses, insulation materials or any other sensitive components, e.g. door locks.
•Sensors, camera lenses, and decorative and protective films should be sprayed directly only for
brief periods of time.
Washing the car by hand
Washing the car by hand is always the more gentle way to clean it. However, there are also some
things to note for this ⇒.
•Before washing the vehicle, soak the dirt with plenty of water and then rinse it off thoroughly.
•Clean the vehicle with a soft sponge, a wash mitt or a brush applying only light pressure. Start
with the roof and work from the top to the bottom.
•Rinse the sponge, wash mitt or brush thoroughly at regular short intervals.
•Clean the wheels, sill panels etc. last. Use a second sponge for this.
Use a shampoo for very stubborn dirt only.
Car care products can be toxic and hazardous. Unsuitable care products and incorrect use
of care products can cause accidents, serious injuries, burns or poisoning.
•Care products must be kept in the original, sealed container only.
•Read the manufacturer's instructions.
•Never use empty food cans, bottles or other containers for storing care products.
•Keep children away from care products.
•The products can give off harmful fumes during use. They should therefore only be
used outside or in well-ventilated spaces.
•Never use fuel, turpentine, engine oil, nail varnish remover or other volatile fluids to
wash, clean or care for your vehicle. These substances are toxic and highly
inflammable.
WARNING
Stains, dirt and other deposits containing aggressive and solvent-based ingredients attack
the material and may cause irreparable damage, even if only left for a short time.
•Stains, dirt and other deposits should always be removed as quickly as possible and
not allowed to dry in.
•Have stubborn stains removed by a qualified workshop.
NOTICE
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