2020 AUDI A3 warning light

8V2012721BK
Child safety


A WARNING
Improper installation of child restraints will
— Always follow the instructions provided by
the manufacturer of the child restraint you
intend to install in your Audi.
— Improper use of child restraint anchors (in-
cluding tether anchors) can lead to injury in
a collision. The anchors are designed to
withstand only those loads imposed by cor-
rectly fitted child restraints.
— Never mount two child restraint systems on
one LATCH lower anchor point.
— Never attach two child restraint systems to
one tether strap or tether anchorage.
— Never attach a tether strap to a tie-down
hook in the luggage compartment.
— Never use child restraint tether anchorages
to secure safety belts or other kinds of occu-
pant restraints.
— Never secure or attach any luggage or other
items to the LATCH lower anchorages or to
the tether anchors.
— If you must install a rearward facing child
safety seat on the front passenger seat be-
cause of exceptional circumstances and the
PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF light does not
come on and stay on, immediately install
the rear-facing child safety seat in a rear
seating position and have the airbag system
inspected by your Audi dealer.

increase the risk of injury and death in a crash.
B8V-0565


Installing the upper tether strap on the
anchorage



B4L-1435

Applies to: Sedan
Fig. 237 Tether strap: proper routing and mounting


Applies to: Cabriolet/Sportback
Fig. 238 Tether strap: proper routing and mounting. @
center, @ outside
Installing the tether strap
Applies to: Sedan
> Release or deploy the tether strap on the child
restraint according to the child restraint manu-
facturer's instructions.
> Guide the upper tether strap under the rear
head restraint (raise the head restraint if neces-
sary) > fig. 237. For child restraints with V-
tether straps, always make sure that the head
restraint guide rods do not interfere with any
part of the top tether strap.
> Tilt the recess flap up to expose the anchor
bracket.
> Attach the tether strap anchorage hook into the
opening of the tether anchorage.
> Pull on the tether strap hook so that the spring
catch of the hook engages.
> Tighten the tether strap firmly following the
child restraint manufacturer's instructions.
Installing the tether strap
Applies to: Cabriolet/Sportback
> Release or deploy the tether strap on the child
restraint according to the child restraint manu-
facturer's instructions.
295
>

Child safety

» Applies to: Sportback: Unlock the backrest and
fold it slightly forward > page 62, Increasing
the cargo area and locate the tether anchor be-
hind the rear seat backrest.
» Applies to: Cabriolet: Unlock the backrest and
fold it slightly forward > page 63, Pass-
through and locate the tether anchor behind
the rear seat backrest.
> Guide the upper tether strap under the rear
head restraint (raise the head restraint if neces-
sary) > fig. 238. For child restraints with V-
tether straps, always make sure that the head
restraint guide rods do not interfere with any
part of the top tether strap.
> Attach the tether strap anchorage hook into the
opening of the tether anchorage.
> Pull on the tether strap hook so that the spring
catch of the hook is engaged.
> Straighten the backrest back up into its upright
position and press it firmly into the locking
mechanism.
>» Tighten the tether strap firmly following the
child restraint manufacturer's instructions.
Releasing the tether strap
> Loosen the tension on the straps following the
child restraint manufacturer's instructions.
> Depress the spring catch on the hook and re-
lease it from the anchorage.
Remember: Use tether straps to help keep the
child restraint firmly in place.

ZA WARNING
Improper use of the LATCH system can in-
crease the risk of serious personal injury and
death in an accident.
— These anchors were developed only for child
safety seats using the “LATCH” system.
— Never attach other child safety seats, belts
or other objects to these anchors.
— Always make sure that you hear a click when
latching the seat in place. If you do not hear
a click the seat is not secure and could fly
forward and hit the interior of the vehicle, or
be ejected from the vehicle.


Z\ WARNING
Improper installation of child restraints will
increase the risk of injury in an accident.
— Always follow the child restraint system
manufacturer's instructions for proper in-
stallation of the child restraint system and
proper use of tether straps as well as the
lower anchorages or safety belts in your ve-
hicle.
— Always read and heed the important infor-
mation and WARNINGS about child safety
and the installation of child restraint sys-
tems > page 278, Child safety.

Using tether straps on rearward-facing
child restraints

Currently, few rear-facing child restraint systems
come with a tether. Please read and heed the
child restraint system manufacturer's instruc-
tions carefully to determine how to properly in-
stall the tether.

Z\ WARNING
A child in a rearward-facing child safety seat
installed on the front passenger seat will be
seriously injured and can be killed if the front
airbag inflates - even with an Advanced Airbag
System.
— The inflating airbag will hit the child safety
seat or infant carrier with great force and
will smash the child safety seat and child
against the backrest, center armrest, or
door.
— If you must install a rearward facing child
safety seat on the front passenger seat be-
cause of exceptional circumstances and the
PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF light does not
come on and stay on, immediately install
the rear-facing child safety seat in a rear
seating position and have the airbag system

inspected by your Audi dealer.


296

Checking and Filling

> After the fuel pump has switched off, wait five
seconds before removing the nozzle to allow
the rest of the fuel to finish dripping into the
fuel tank.
> Turn the fuel cap clockwise until it clicks into
place.
> Close the fuel filler door and then press on the
left side until it latches.
The correct fuel type for your vehicle can be
found ona label located on the inside of the fuel
filler door. For additional information on fuel, see
=> page 298.
For the tank capacity in your vehicle, refer to the
Technical Data > page 380.
To reduce the risk of fuel leaking out or vapors
escaping, make sure that the fuel tank is closed
correctly. Otherwise the Ey indicator light will
turn on.
If the central locking system malfunctions, there
is a fuel filler door emergency release
= page 301.
Messages
Plug-in hybrid drive: for additional information
on refueling, see > page 302.
| Tank system: malfunction! Please contact
Service
There is a malfunction in the fuel tank system.
Drive to an authorized Audi dealer or authorized
Audi Service Facility immediately to have the
malfunction corrected.

— If you do not insert the fuel pump nozzle all
the way into the filler tube, then fuel can
leak out. Spilled fuel can ignite and start a
fire.
— Never get into the vehicle when refueling. If
there is an exceptional situation where you
must enter the vehicle, close the door and
touch a metal surface before touching the
fuel pump nozzle again. This will reduce the
risk of electrostatic discharge that can cause
flying sparks. Sparks can start a fire when
refueling.


ZA\ WARNING
Improper fueling procedures and improper
handling of fuel can lead to explosions, fires,
severe burns, and other injuries.
— Do not smoke. Keep away from open flames.
— The ignition must be switched off when re-
fueling.
— Mobile devices, radio devices, and other ra-
dio equipment should always be switched
off when refueling. Electromagnetic rays


ZA WARNING
Transporting fuel containers inside the vehicle
is not recommended. Fuel could leak out of
the container and ignite, especially during an
accident. This can cause explosions, fires, and
injuries.
— If you must transport fuel in a fuel contain-
er, note the following:
— Always place the fuel container on the
ground before filling. Never fill the fuel
container with fuel while it is inside or on
the vehicle. Electrostatic discharge can oc-
cur while refueling and the fuel vapors
could ignite.
— When using fuel containers made of met-
al, the fuel pump nozzle must always re-
main in contact with the container to re-
duce the risk of static charge.
— Insert the fuel pump nozzle as far as pos-
sible into the filler opening while refuel-
ing.
— Follow the applicable legal regulations in
the country where you are driving when
using, storing and transporting fuel con-
tainers.
— Make sure that the fuel container meets
the industry standards, for example ANSI
or ASTM F852-86.


could cause sparks and start a fire.


1) Depending on the engine and country
300

8V2012721BK
Checking and Filling

The fuel tank is almost empty. You must antici-
pate a significant power loss. Drive immediately
to a gas station.
Ey Beet Warning! Limited performance
The gasoline engine is no longer available be-
cause there is not enough fuel. Drive immediately
to agas station.
Fuel filler door emergency release
Applies to: vehicles with plug-in hybrid drive
You must use the emergency release to open the
fuel filler door when there is a malfunction
=> page 301.
The tank is not vented. You can only fill a small
amount of fuel in the tank.
> Fill only until the automatic fuel pump nozzle
turns off for the first time when it is operated
correctly.
Drive to an authorized Audi dealer or authorized
Audi Service Facility immediately to have the
malfunction corrected.
@ Tips.
Pressure can escape if you open the tank cap
after using the emergency release. This can
create noises.
Emissions control
system
(ee eileen)
ZX WARNING
The temperature of the exhaust system is
high, both when driving and after stopping
the engine.
— Never touch the exhaust tail pipes once they
have become hot. This could result in burns.

— Do not park your vehicle over flammable
materials such as grass or leaves because
the high temperature of the emissions sys-
tem could start a fire.

— Do not apply underbody protectant in the
exhaust system area, because this increases
the risk of fire.
(el e-] Nad (mcl akg
Follow the safety precautions > page 303, Gener-
al information.


The vehicle may only be driven with unleaded
gasoline, or the catalytic converter will be de-
stroyed.
Never drive until the tank is completely empty.
The irregular supply of fuel that results from that
can cause engine misfires. Uncombusted fuel
could enter the exhaust system, which could
cause overheating and damage to the catalytic
converter.
On Board Diagnostic System (OBD)
The On Board Diagnostic System monitors the
engine and transmission components that influ-
ence emissions.


Fig. 245 Footwell on left side of the vehicle: connection
port for the On Board Diagnostic System (OBD)
On Board Diagnostic System
Engine data can be read out at the On Board Di-
agnostic System connection port using a special
testing device > fig. 245.
Indicator light
If the S indicator light blinks or turns on, there
is a malfunction that is causing poor emissions
quality and that could damage the catalytic con-
verter. Drive slowly to an authorized Audi dealer >
303

Checking and Filling

or authorized Audi Service Facility to have the
malfunction corrected.
The indicator light can also turn on if the fuel fill-
er cap is not closed correctly > page 2991).

ZA\ WARNING
Incorrect use of the connection port for the
On Board Diagnostic System can cause mal-
functions, which can then result in accidents
and serious injuries.
— Only allow an authorized Audi dealer or au-
thorized Audi Service Facility to read out the
engine data.

Engine compartment
(ee eel)
Special care is required if you are working in the
engine compartment
For work in the engine compartment, such as
checking and filling fluids, there is a risk of in-
jury, scalding, accidents, and burns. For this
reason, follow all the warnings and general
safety precautions provided in the following in-
formation. The engine compartment is a dan-
gerous area. > /\.

Z\ WARNING
— Turn the engine off.
— Switch the ignition off.
— Set the parking brake.
— Select the “P” (Park) selector lever position.
— Allow the engine to cool.
— Keep children away from the engine com-
partment.
— Never spill fluids on a hot engine. These flu-
ids (such as the anti-freezing agent con-
tained in the coolant) can ignite.
— Avoid short circuits in the electrical system.
— Never reach into the radiator fan. The fan is
temperature-controlled and can turn on
suddenly, even when the ignition is switched
off.


1) Depending on the engine and country
304


— Never open the hood when there is steam or
coolant escaping from the engine compart-
ment, because there is a risk that you could
be burned. Wait until no steam or coolant is
escaping.
Plug-in hybrid drive: the coolant expansion
tank cap is equipped with a seal that must
never be removed under any circumstances
=> page 312, fig. 251. If the coolant expan-
sion tank for the high-voltage system is not
sealed, please contact an authorized Audi
dealer or authorized Audi Service Facility.
Plug-in hybrid drive: the sealed cap must on-
ly be opened by an authorized Audi dealer or
authorized Audi Service Facility.
The cap on the coolant expansion tank must
never be opened as long as the coolant is
hot. The cooling system is under pressure.
There is a risk of burns
To protect your face, hands, and arms from
hot steam or coolant, cover the cap with a
thick cloth when opening.
Do not remove the engine cover under any
circumstances. This increases the risk of
burns.
Due to the risk of electric shock, never touch
the ignition cable or other components in
the electronic high-voltage ignition system
when the engine is running or is starting.
If a gear is engaged while the vehicle is sta-
tionary and the engine is running, do not
press the accelerator pedal inadvertently.
Pressing the accelerator pedal will cause the
vehicle to move, and this could result in an
accident.
If inspections or repairs must be performed
while the engine is running, moving compo-
nents (such as the ribbed belt, generator,
and radiator fan) pose an additional risk.
— Set the parking brake first and select the
“p” (Park) selector lever position.
— Always make sure that no parts of the
body, jewelry, ties, loose clothing, and
long hair can be caught in moving engine

Checking and Filling

> With the door open, pull the lever > below
the instrument panel in the direction of the ar-
row > fig. 246.
> Raise the hood slightly > A\.
> Press the rocker switch under the hood upward
> fig. 247. This releases the catch.
> Open the hood.
Closing the hood
> Push the hood down until you override the
force of the strut.
> Let the hood fall lightly into the latch. Do not
press it in. > /\.
Message
2 Warning! Hood is not locked. Stop vehicle
and check the lock
The hood latch is not locked correctly. Stop im-
mediately and close the hood.


AN WARNING
— Never open the hood when there is steam or
coolant escaping from the engine compart-
ment, because there is a risk that you could
be burned. Wait until no steam or coolant is
escaping.
— For safety reasons, the hood must always be
latched securely while driving. Because of
this, always check the hood after closing it
to make sure it is latched correctly. The hood
is latched if the front corners cannot be lift-
ed.
— If you notice that the hood is not latched
while you are driving, stop immediately and
close it, because driving when the hood is
not latched increases the risk of an accident.
— If the hood is not latched completely, it
could fly up while you are driving and ob-
struct your vision.


D) The &> symbol on the lever was still being designed at
the time this manual was printed.
306

Checking and Filling

quart (1 liter) of ACEA C3 or API SN engine oil
one time until the next oil change.
For more information on the correct engine oil
for your vehicle, contact an authorized Audi deal-
er or authorized Audi Service Facility. Have the oil
changed by an authorized Audi dealer or author-
ized Service Facility.

Audi recommends
Sbastrol/ ZIDIBE Frorzssional
Audi recommends using the LongLife high-per-
formance engine oil from Audi Genuine Parts.
Engine oil pressure


2 Turn off engine! Oil pressure too low
Stop driving and switch the engine off. Check the
engine oil level > page 308.
— If the engine oil level is too low, add engine oil
=> page 309. Only continue driving once the in-
dicator light turns off.
— If the engine oil level is correct and the indica-
tor light still turns on, turn the engine off and
do not continue driving. See an authorized Audi
dealer or authorized Audi Service Facility for as-
sistance.
Engine oil level
Applies to: vehicles with oil level warning
= Please check oil level
— You may continue driving for the time being.
Check the engine oil level as soon as possible
=> page 308, Checking the engine oil level.
— If the engine oil level is correct and the indica-
tor light still turns on, drive at low engine
speed to an authorized Audi dealer or author-
ized Audi Service Facility.
Engine oil sensor
=. Oil level sensor: oil change necessary. Please
contact Service
Fuel has entered the engine oil. This will cause
the engine oil level to rise slowly and the engine
oil quality to decrease. Do not extract engine oil
to reduce the level, because this will increase the
308
risk of engine damage. Drive to an authorized
Audi dealer or authorized Audi Service Facility im-
mediately to have engine oil extracted.
& Oil level system: malfunction! Please con-
tact Service
The sensor that checks the engine oil level has
malfunctioned. Drive immediately to an author-
ized Audi dealer or authorized Audi Service Facili-
ty to have the malfunction repaired.
& Oil pressure sensor: malfunction! Please
contact Service
The sensor that checks the engine oil pressure
has malfunctioned. Drive immediately to an au-
thorized Audi dealer or authorized Audi Service
Facility to have the malfunction repaired.
Engine warm-up request*
i Please drive to warm up engine
Fuel has entered the engine oil, either due to low
outside temperatures or frequent short drives.
Drive until the engine is warm so that the fuel in
the engine oil will evaporate. Avoid high engine
speeds, full accelerating, and heavy engine loads
when doing this.
G) Tips
The oil pressure warning EE is not an oil level
indicator. Always check the oil level regularly.
Checking the engine oil level
The engine oil dipstick varies depending on the
engine type.

B8V-0588
&
Fig. 249 Oil dipstick: checking the engine oil level (exam-
ple)

8V2012721BK
Checking and Filling

> Check the coolant level in the coolant expan-
sion tank > page 307, fig. 248 using the outer
markings (2) > fig. 252. The coolant level must
be between the markings (2) when the engine is
cold. When the engine is warm it can be slight-
ly above the upper marking.
Adding coolant
Applies to: vehicles with plug-in hybrid drive:
Your vehicle has two coolant expansion tanks
that are separate from each other. The smaller of
the two expansion tanks must not be opened
= page 312. Read and follow the important safe-
ty precautions > A\ in Coolant on page 312.
Requirement: there must be a residual amount of
coolant in the expansion tank >@).
If you must add coolant, use a mixture of water
and coolant additive. Mixing the coolant additive
with distilled water is recommended.
> Allow the engine to cool.
> Place a large, thick towel on the coolant expan-
sion tank cover.
> Remove the cover (@) © fig. 252 carefully to the
left > AX.
» Add the correct mixture ratio of coolant
> page 311 up to the upper marking @
> fig. 252.
> Make sure that the fluid level remains stable.
Add more coolant if necessary.
> Close the cap securely.
Coolant loss usually indicates that there is a leak.
Immediately drive your vehicle to an authorized
Audi dealer or authorized Audi Service Facility
and have the cooling system inspected. If the
cooling system is not leaking, coolant loss can re-
sult from the coolant boiling due overheating
and then being forced out of the cooling system.

— Never open the hood if you can see or hear
steam or coolant escaping from the engine
compartment. This increases the risk of
burns. The cooling system is under pressure.
When you no longer see or hear steam or
coolant escaping, you may open the engine
compartment with caution.
—When working in the engine compartment,
remember that the radiator fan can switch
on even if the ignition is switched off, which
increases the risk of injury.
— Coolant additive and coolant can be danger-
ous to your health. For this reason, store the
coolant in the original container and away

from children. There is a risk of poisoning.

@) Note
Do not add coolant if the expansion tank is
empty. Air could enter the cooling system and
damage the engine. If this is the case, do not
continue driving. See an authorized Audi deal-
er or authorized Audi Service Facility for assis-
tance.
Brake fluid

BFV-0229)



Z\ WARNING
— The engine compartment in any vehicle can
be a dangerous area. Stop the engine and al-
low it to cool before working in the engine
compartment. Always follow the informa-
tion found in > page 304, General informa-
tion.


Fig. 253 Engine compartment: cap on brake fluid reservoir
Observe the safety precautions > page 304, Gen-
eral information.
Checking the brake fluid level
Read the brake fluid level on the brake fluid res-
ervoir > page 307, fig. 248. The brake fluid level
must be between the MIN and MAX markings
>A.
The brake fluid level is monitored automatically. >
313