DSG dual clutch gearbox
Function of the DSG dual clutch gearbox
Description
The vehicle is equipped with a DSG dual clutch gearbox.
The DSG dual clutch gearbox is a gearbox which uses dual-clutch technology to change gear
automatically. It uses a dual clutch and two gear train halves to enable very fast gear changes with
no loss of torque. The DSG dual clutch gearbox thus combines the performance and economy of a
manual gearbox with the comfort and convenience of a conventional automatic transmission.
Function
When driving, engine power is transferred to the drive axle via the gearbox. In order to change
gears, the power transmission between the engine and the gearbox has to be interrupted. This is
what the clutch is for.
With the DSG dual clutch system with its two gear train halves, the engine power is always
connected to one gear train half when driving. Before a gear change, the next higher or lower gear
is already preselected in the load-free second gear train half. The clutch on the non-driven gear is
closed and the other is opened at the same time. This is what makes very fast gear changes
possible.
Thanks to its design, the DSG dual clutch gearbox is more efficient than an automatic gearbox.
Whereas in an automatic gearbox the torque converter is constantly in use, in the DSG dual clutch
system the clutch can be opened at idling speed, thus saving fuel. Thanks to its efficiency, low
weight and intelligent control system, the DSG dual clutch system usually enables fuel
consumption equal to or lower than a manual gearbox.
However, just like the manual gearbox, the clutch in the DSG dual clutch gearbox is subject to
wear. Regular maintenance is necessary depending on the type of dual clutch gearbox DSG;
further information ⇒ Scope of service. In the event of a fault in one gear train half, the DSG dual
clutch gearbox also allows one gear train half to be deactivated and the journey to be continued
using the other gear train half ⇒ Troubleshooting. If this happens, have the system checked as
soon as possible by a qualified workshop.
DSG dual clutch gearbox: selecting a gear
Fig. 123 Left-hand drive vehicles: selector lever for DSG dual clutch gearbox with lock button
(arrowyf 7 K H F R Q W U R O V D U H P L U U R U H G I R U U L J K W K D Q G G U L Y H Y H K L F O H s
When the ignition is switched on, the selected position or gearbox programme is displayed in the
instrument cluster display.
Instrument cluster display
Serious damage to the clutch and gearbox can occur if the gear stick on the manual
gearbox is shifted to too low a gear when travelling at high speeds or at high revs. This
also applies if the clutch remains depressed and the gears do not engage.
NOTICE
Please note the following to help avoid damage and premature wear:
•Do not rest your hand on the gear lever when driving. The pressure from your hand is
passed onto the selector forks in the gearbox.
•Ensure that the vehicle has come to a full stop before engaging reverse gear.
•Always fully depress the clutch pedal when changing gear.
•Do not hold the vehicle by riding the clutch on a hill with the engine running.
NOTICE
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Steering
Information on steering
The steering should be locked every time you leave the vehicle to make it more difficult for the
vehicle to be stolen.
Steering
The power steering is not hydraulic. It is an electromechanical system. The advantage of this
steering system is that no hydraulic hoses, hydraulic oil, pumps, filter or other parts are required.
The electromechanical system reduces fuel consumption. A hydraulic system requires constant oil
pressure in the system, whereas an electromechanical steering system only needs an energy
supply while steering.
In vehicles with driving profile selection, the selected driving profile can affect the behaviour of the
power steering ⇒ Driving profile selection and 4MOTION Active Control.
Electronic steering column lock in vehicles with starter button
The steering column will be locked if the driver door is opened and the ignition is switched off. For
this, the vehicle should be stationary and, if necessary, the gear selector lever should be in position
P.
If the ignition is not switched off until after the driver door is opened, the electronic steering column
will only be locked when the vehicle is locked using the vehicle key or the sensor in the door
handle.
Mechanical steering column lock (steering lockyf L Q Y H K L F O H V Z L W K D Q
ignition lock
The steering column is locked if the vehicle key is removed from the ignition lock when the vehicle
is stationary. Turn the steering wheel slightly until the steering lock clicks into place.
Insert the vehicle key into the ignition lock to unlock the steering lock. Turn the steering wheel
slightly to take the load off the steering lock mechanism. Hold the steering wheel in this position and
turn the ignition on.
Electromechanical steering
The power steering provided by the electromechanical steering system automatically adjusts to the
vehicle speed, steering wheel torque and steering wheel angle. The electromechanical steering
only functions when the engine is running.
You will need considerably more strength than normal to steer the vehicle if the power steering is
reduced or has failed completely.
Counter steering assistance
Counter steering assistance provides the driver with power steering in critical driving situations.
Additional steering power helps the driver when counter steering ⇒.
The intelligent Hill Descent Control technology cannot overcome the laws of physics, and
functions only within the limits of the system. Never allow the extra convenience afforded
by pull-away assist systems to tempt you into taking any risks when driving.
•Unintentional vehicle movements can cause serious injury.
•The Hill Descent Control cannot replace the full concentration of the driver.
•Always adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic
conditions.
•A Hill Descent Control System may not be able to always hold the vehicle on uphill
gradients or brake it sufficiently on all slopes going downhill (e.g. if the ground is
slippery or icyyf .
WARNING
Always be prepared to brake the vehicle. Accidents and injuries could occur if this is not
ensured.
•The Hill Descent Control system is only a support function and may not be able to
brake the vehicle sufficiently in all situations when driving downhill.
•The vehicle may accelerate despite the Hill Descent Control system.
WARNING
Obtain sufficient information before driving into off-road terrain with the vehicle.
Do not plan day tours that are too long. Take increased fuel requirements for off-road
driving into account.
Refill tank completely. Fuel consumption is considerably higher off-road.
Check that your tyres are suitable for the off-road journey you have planned.
Recommendation for difficult off-road terrain: always have off-road tyres fitted to your
vehicle.
Check the tyre pressure on all tyres and correct them if necessary. This includes the
temporary spare wheel, if fitted.
Check engine oil level and refill engine oil as necessary. The engine will only be supplied
with engine oil when it is driven on or across a steep slope if the engine oil level is
sufficient.
Completely refill the washer fluid reservoir with water and washer fluid.
Fit the towing eye at the front and rear. It is not always possible to fit a towing eye when
the vehicle is stuck.
Check the vehicle tool kit and add tools according to individual requirements Useful
accessories for off-road driving.
Pack luggage in the vehicle as evenly and as low as possible. Secure all loose items.
Fig. 132 Illustration: angle of tilt.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Centre of gravityThe centre of gravity of a vehicle influences its propensity to roll over. The vehicle
has greater ground clearance for off-road driving, and thus a higher centre of gravity than a normal
vehicle. The high centre of gravity means that there is a greater danger of roll-over when driving.
Always remember this fact when driving and follow the safety tips and warnings given in this
owner's manual.Ground clearanceThis is the vertical distance between the level ground and the
lowest item on the vehicle.Angle of rising gradientThe number of metres in height gained over a
distance of 100 m will be given as a percentage or degree ⇒ Fig. 131. Indication of gradient that
the vehicle can drive up under its own power. This depends on aspects such as the road surface
and engine power.Tilt angleMaximum angle at which the vehicle may be driven across a slope
without the vehicle toppling over (determined by centre of gravityyf ⇒ Fig. 132.Breakover
angleMaximum permitted angle given in degrees that a vehicle driven at low speed can clear a
ramp without the underbody of the vehicle scraping the ramp.Ramp angleCrossover from the
horizontal level surface to an uphill gradient, or from a downhill gradient back to the level surface.
Angle at which the vehicle underbody will come into contact with the edge of the ramp.Fall lineThis
is the vertical drop route.Torsional flexibilityThe vehicle's torsional flexibility when driving over
objects with just one side of the vehicle.
Checklist: Before driving off-road
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Checklist
To ensure your own safety and the safety of your passengers, observe the following points
before driving off-road:
Before driving off-road, Volkswagen recommends attending an off-road driving course, particularly if
you have no or very little experience.
A good driving course will teach you how to handle the vehicle in a variety of off-road situations and
how to drive safely in difficult terrain. Driving off-road demands different skills and driving styles in
comparison to driving on roads. The safety of the driver and the vehicle occupants depends on the
driver.
General rules and driving tips
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Code of conduct for off-road driving
A responsible driver should respect the environment when driving off-road. Remember that driving
through undergrowth and on meadows can destroy animal and plant habitats.
•Always stay on designated routes and paths.
•Do not create any unnecessary noise or dust.
•Leave nature as you found it.
•Avoid sensitive natural habitats.
If the tyre pressure is too low, this will increase fuel consumption and tyre wear.
When new tyres are driven at high speeds for the first time, they can expand slightly and
trigger a one-off pressure warning.
Old tyres should only be replaced by tyres that have been approved by Volkswagen for the
vehicle type.
Do not rely solely on the tyre monitoring system. Check your tyres regularly to ensure that
they are properly inflated and have no signs of damage, such as punctures, cuts, cracks, and
blisters. Remove any objects that become embedded in the tyre tread but have not penetrated into
the body of the tyre itself.
Types of tyre monitoring systems
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
There are two different tyre monitoring systems available for this vehicle. Their differing features are
described below:
Tyre Pressure Loss Indicator
•Monitoring of various parameters (for example rolling circumferenceyf R I D O O Z K H H O V X V L Q J $ % 6
sensors (indirect measurementyf .
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
•Monitoring of the tyre pressure by means of pressure sensors on each tyre valve (direct
measurementyf 7 \ U H Y D O Y H P D G H R I P H W D O .
Tyre Pressure Loss Indicator
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Functional description
The Tyre Pressure Loss Indicator uses data from the ABS sensors and other functions to check the
speed of rotation and the rolling circumference of the individual wheels.
The rolling circumference can change:
•If the tyre pressure has been changed.
•If the tyre pressure is too low.
•If the tyre has structural damage.
•If the vehicle is loaded more heavily on one side.
•If snow chains have been fitted.
•If a temporary spare wheel has been fitted.
•If one wheel per axle has been changed.
The Tyre Pressure Loss Indicator may react with a delay or not display anything at all in the
event of a sporty driving style, when driving on snow-covered or icy roads or unpaved roads or
when driving with snow chains.
Synchronising the Tyre Pressure Loss Indicator
•Switch on the ignition.
•Press the button or function button, depending on version ⇒ Vehicle settings menu.
The intelligent tyre monitoring system technology cannot overcome the laws of physics,
and functions only within the limits of the system. Incorrect handling of the wheels and
tyres can lead to a sudden loss of pressure in the tyres, tread separation and even tyre
blow-out.
•Check tyre pressures regularly and always maintain the specified tyre pressure value
⇒ Tyre pressure. If the tyre pressure is too low, it is possible that the tyre temperature
will increase to such an extent that the tread peels off and the tyre bursts.
•Always maintain the correct cold tyre pressure as specified on the sticker ⇒ Tyre
pressure.
•Check the tyre pressure regularly when the tyres are cold. If necessary, adjust the tyre
pressure in the cold tyre to the recommended tyre pressure for the tyres installed on
your vehicle ⇒ Tyre pressure.
•Check your tyres regularly for signs of wear or damage.
•Never exceed the top speed and load permitted for the fitted tyres.
WARNING
Handling wheels and tyres
Fig. 235 Diagram showing how to swap wheels.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The wheels and tyres approved by Volkswagen have been carefully selected.
Rotating wheels front to rear
Regularly rotating the wheels as shown in the illustration ⇒ Fig. 235 is recommended to help
ensure that tyres wear evenly. All the tyres will then last for about the same time.
Volkswagen recommends having the wheels changed by a qualified workshop.
Avoiding damage to the rims and tyres
•Always drive over kerbs slowly and at a right angle.
•Check the tyre pressure regularly.
•Never exceed the top speed and load permitted for the tyres that are fitted ⇒ Tyre lettering and
tyre type.
•Damaged or worn tyres must be replaced immediately ⇒ Tyre damage.
•Protect the wheels from contact with corrosive substances, including oils, lubricants, fuel and
brake fluid ⇒.
•Replace missing dust caps immediately.
Tyres that are older than 6 years
Tyres age through physical and chemical processes that can impair their function. Tyres that have
been stored unused for an extended period of time age quicker than tyres that are used all the time.
New tyres or tyres which are old, worn down or damaged cannot provide full levels of
vehicle control and braking power.
•Incorrect handling of wheels and tyres can reduce vehicle safety and cause accidents
and serious injuries.
•All four wheels must be fitted with radial tyres of the same type, size (rolling
circumferenceyf D Q G W K H V D P H W U H D G .
•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.
•Check tyre pressures regularly when the tyres are cold, and always keep to the
specified value. If the tyre pressure is too low, it is possible that the tyre temperature
will increase to such an extent when driving that the tread peels off and the tyre bursts.
•Never drive with worn tyres or tyres that are damaged (cuts, cracks or blistersyf ' U L Y L Q J
with tyres in this condition can result in blown tyres, accidents and serious injuries.
Worn or damaged tyres must be replaced as soon as possible.
•Never exceed the top speed and load permitted for the fitted tyres.
•The effectiveness of the driver assist systems and brake support systems depends on
the tyre grip.
•If you notice unusual vibrations or if the vehicle pulls to one side when driving, stop
the car immediately and check the wheels and tyres for damage.
•In order to reduce the risk of losing control of the vehicle, and the risk of accident and
serious injury, never loosen the bolts on wheel rims with bolted on wheel rim rings.
•Do not use wheels or tyres if you do not know their history. Used wheels and tyres
could be damaged, even if the damage is not visible.
•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
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