2021 VOLKSWAGEN T-ROC steer

The downhill speed control cannot hold the vehicle on the gradient in all situations or brake it
sufficiently on all slopes going downhill (e.g. if the ground is slippery or icy).

WARNING
Always be prepared to brake the vehicle. Accidents and injuries could occur if you are not prepared
to brake.
The downhill speed control is only a support function and may not be able to brake the vehicle
sufficiently in all situations when driving downhill.
The vehicle may become faster despite the downhill speed control being in operation.
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.
The steering
The power steering is not hydraulic, but 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 a starter button
The steering column will be locked if the driver door is opened when 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 sensor in the door handle or the vehicle key.
Mechanical steering column lock (steering lock) in vehicles with an 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 audibly engages.
Insert the vehicle key into the ignition lock to unlock the steering lock. Turn the steering wheel
slightly to relieve the load on the steering lock mechanism. Hold the steering wheel in this position
and turn the ignition on.
Electromechanical steering

The steering assistance provided by the electromechanical steering system automatically adjusts to
the vehicle speed, steering wheel torque and steering wheel angle. The electromechanical steering
functions only 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 steering assistance in critical driving situations.
Additional steering forces assist the driver when counter steering ⇒ .
Progressive steering
Depending on the vehicle equipment level, progressive steering can adjust the steering response in a
driving situation. Progressive steering functions only when the engine is running.
In urban traffic, less steering input is required when parking, manoeuvring, or turning sharply.
When driving on country roads or on the motorway, the progressive steering provides a more
sporty, direct steering response, and a dynamic feel.

WARNING
If the power steering is not working, the steering wheel is difficult to turn, which makes it difficult to
steer the vehicle.
Depending on the vehicle equipment level, the power steering functions only when the engine is
running.
Never allow the vehicle to roll if the engine is switched off.
Never remove the vehicle key from the ignition if the vehicle is in motion. The steering column lock
may be activated and it will no longer be possible to steer the vehicle.

WARNING
In conjunction with the ESC, counter steering assistance provides the driver with assistance when
steering in critical driving situations. The driver must steer the vehicle at all times. Counter steering
assistance does not steer the vehicle.

NOTICE
When the vehicle is towed, the ignition must be switched on to prevent the steering wheel from
locking, and so that the turn signals, horn, wipers and window washer system can be used.
Troubleshooting
Steering requires increased force

The indicator lamp lights up yellow.
The steering should be checked by a qualified workshop as soon as possible.
If the yellow warning lamp remains off after the engine has been restarted and you have driven a
short distance, you do not need to consult a qualified workshop.
Fault in steering
The indicator lamp lights up yellow.
The 12-volt vehicle battery was disconnected.
Drive a short distance at a speed of 15 – 20 km/h (9 – 12 mph).
If the yellow warning lamp is still lit after the engine has been restarted, have the steering checked
by a qualified workshop immediately.
Fault in steering
The indicator lamp flashes yellow.
Turn the steering wheel back and forth.
Switch the ignition off and then on again.
Observe the messages on the instrument cluster display.
Do not continue your journey if the indicator lamp still flashes when the ignition is switched on.
Seek expert assistance.
Steering column is not unlocked or locked
The indicator lamp flashes yellow.
Follow any messages that are on the instrument cluster display.
Switch the ignition off and then on again.
Do not continue your journey if the steering column remains locked when the ignition is switched
on.
Seek expert assistance.
Steering requires increased force
The warning lamp lights up red.
The electromechanical steering has failed.
Do not drive on!
Seek expert assistance.
Driving profile selection and 4MOTION Active Control

The indicator lamp lights up yellow.
Go to a qualified workshop and have the system checked.
Fault in Hill Start Assist
Go to a qualified workshop and have the system checked.
Offroad display
The offroad display contains digital instruments that show additional information about the vehicle
and its surroundings. This makes it possible to assess the current driving situation more precisely.

Fig. 112 In the Infotainment system: offroad display.
Opening the offroad display
Press the button on the Infotainment system.
Touch the Vehicle function button.
Touch the Selection function button.
Touch the Offroad function button.
Selecting instruments and setting units
The Infotainment system displays various instruments ⇒ Fig. 112 .
To change instruments, swipe vertically over the display.
The units can be adjusted for some instruments in the Infotainment system ⇒ Infotainment system
controls and displays .
Instruments in the offroad display:
Altimeter: the altimeter shows the current height above sea level.
Steering angle display: the steering angle of the vehicle is displayed in the range between -49° and
49°. The value is positive for a left steering angle and negative for a right steering angle.
Compass: the compass shows the current driving direction.

Coolant temperature display: the display corresponds to the temperature display on the instrument
cluster ⇒ Coolant temperature display .
Oil temperature display: the display corresponds with the oil temperature display on the instrument
cluster ⇒ Engine oil .
Adapting the display areas to the driving situation
The displayed instruments can be selected according to the driving situation, the ambient conditions
and the offroad conditions:
Sandy terrain: oil, steering angle and coolant temperature display
Inclines: steering angle and coolant temperature display, altimeter
Alpine terrain: steering angle display, altimeter, compass
Offroad driving situations
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Safety instructions for offroad driving 
⇒ Explanation of some technical terms 
⇒ Checklist  
⇒ General rules and driving tips 
⇒ Useful accessories for offroad driving 
⇒ Changing gear correctly 
⇒ Driving on rough terrain 
⇒ Driving through water 
⇒ Offroad driving in snow 
⇒ Driving on sand and mud 
⇒ Driving on steep terrain 
⇒ Traversing a slope 
⇒ Driving through ditches 
⇒ Stuck vehicle 
⇒ After offroad driving 
You can also drive vehicles with all-wheel drive offroad in addition to on normal roads. It is very
important to read the contents of this section before driving offroad.
The vehicle is not built for expedition-type journeys.

The examples given in this chapter are an aid for safe offroad driving. However, we cannot predict
whether these guidelines will be valid for all situations that could occur.
The many different types of terrain and the associated risks and dangers make it impossible to
describe all possible driving situations. The examples are only general guidelines which are intended
to help you to drive offroad safely. It is crucial that you know what to expect when you drive into
offroad terrain you are unfamiliar with. This will enable you to assess potential dangers in advance.
The driver can use 4MOTION Active Control to activate a variety of vehicle settings in an all-wheel
drive vehicle as required ⇒ Setting a driving profile .
Checklist
Before driving offroad for the first time, take the following steps so you can operate and drive the
vehicle safely offroad:
Observe the basic safety notes Safety instructions for offroad driving.
Familiarise yourself with the vehicle controls.
Check and adjust the seat position Sitting position and fasten the seat belts Seat belts.
Check distance to steering wheel and adjust Steering wheel.
Always wear suitable, well-fitting shoes that provide good grip for your feet when operating the
pedals.
Safety instructions for offroad driving
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒Introduction 

WARNING
The intelligent vehicle technology cannot overcome the laws of physics, and functions only within
the limits of the system. Despite ABS, instability through locked wheels can occur on adverse terrain
– e.g. if you brake hard when driving on a loose gravel road. The Electronic Stability Control will be
able to stabilise the vehicle only to a limited extent in these circumstances.

WARNING
Driving offroad can be dangerous and could cause accidents, serious injury, damage to the vehicle
and also a vehicle breakdown far from any assistance.
Never select a dangerous route and never take risks that could endanger you and your passengers. If
you cannot drive on or if you are in any doubt about the safety of the route, turn round and choose
another route.
Even terrain that looks harmless can be difficult and dangerous, and could get you and your
passengers into difficulties. We recommend inspecting the terrain on foot beforehand.

You should drive particularly carefully and think ahead when driving offroad. If you drive too fast or
if a driving manoeuvre is unsuccessful, this could result in serious injuries and vehicle damage.
Never drive faster than the current terrain, road conditions, traffic and weather allow.
Never drive too fast over embankments, ramps or slopes. This could cause the vehicle to lose
contact with the ground. If this happens, you will be unable to steer and will lose control of the
vehicle.
If the vehicle does lose contact with the ground, always point the front wheels straight ahead. If the
wheels are not pointing straight ahead when the vehicle lands, it could roll over.
Terrain might look harmless, but there could be hidden dangers. Potholes, hollows, ditches,
precipices, obstacles, shallows, soft and boggy surfaces are often not recognisable as such and can
be covered either fully or partly by water or grass or branches lying on the ground. Inspect terrain on
foot if necessary.

WARNING
Sporty multipurpose vehicles are subject to a considerably higher risk of rolling over than normal
road passenger vehicles ⇒ Explanation of some technical terms .
In the event of an accident, vehicle occupants not wearing seat belts are subjected to a considerably
higher risk of fatal injury than those wearing seat belts.
The vehicle has a higher centre of gravity and is more prone to rolling over than a normal passenger
car which is unsuited for offroad driving.
Never drive too fast, especially when driving through bends, or carry out any extreme driving
manoeuvres.
Always adjust your speed and driving style to the terrain.
Luggage and other items transported on the roof of the vehicle raise the centre of gravity and will
make the vehicle more likely to roll over.

WARNING
The terrain might look harmless, but there could be hidden dangers. Potholes, hollows, ditches,
precipices, obstacles, shallows, soft and boggy surfaces are often not recognisable as such and can
be covered either fully or partly by water or grass or branches lying on the ground. Driving offroad
over such terrain could cause accidents, serious injury and also a vehicle breakdown.
Carefully inspect any unknown sections of the terrain on foot before driving through them.
Never choose an unsafe route or take a risk which could endanger you or your passengers. If you are
in any doubt about the safety of the route, turn round and choose another way.
Always adjust your speed and driving to match vehicle load levels and visibility, terrain and weather
conditions.

WARNING
Always avoid traversing a slope ⇒ Traversing a slope .
Vehicle occupants should never leave the vehicle via the doors facing down the hill when stopped
sideways on a steep hill. The combined centre of gravity of the vehicle and its payload (vehicle
occupants and payload) can shift and cause the vehicle to roll over and roll down the incline. Always
leave the vehicle slowly via the doors which open up the incline ⇒ Traversing a slope .

WARNING
The cruise control system has been designed for use on surfaced roads only. The cruise control
system is not suitable for use offroad and may even be hazardous. If you use the cruise control
system while driving offroad, you may lose control over the vehicle and sustain serious injuries.
Never use the cruise control system when driving offroad.

WARNING
The area monitoring system (Front Assist) was developed for use on surfaced roads only. The area
monitoring system is not suitable for use offroad and may even be hazardous. If you use the area
monitoring system while driving offroad, you may lose control over the vehicle and sustain serious
injuries.
Never use the area monitoring system when driving offroad.

WARNING
Driving the vehicle when the fuel level is too low could lead to your vehicle breaking down offroad,
accidents and serious injuries.
When the fuel level is too low, the fuel supply to the engine could be irregular, especially when
driving up or down hills and inclines.
The steering, all driver assist systems and brake support systems will not function if the engine
sputters or stops completely due to a lack of fuel or irregular fuel supply.
Always fill the tank when it is still 1/4 full. This reduces the risk of running out of fuel and breaking
down.

NOTICE