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.
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
40yb F R R O D Q W D G G L W L Y H G 13 (TL-VW 774 Jyf 7 K H F R R O D Q W D G G L W L Y H L V G \ H G S X U S O H 7 K L V P L [ W X U H R I
water and coolant additive gives the necessary frost protection down to -25°C (-13°Fyf D Q G S U R W H F W V
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
40yb H Y H Q L I D Q W L I U H H ] H L V Q R W U H T X L U H G L Q Z D U P Z H D W K H U D Q G Z D U P F O L P D W H V .
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 60yb D V W K L V Z R X O G
reduce the frost protection and the cooling effect.
When refilling the coolant, a mixture of distilled water and at least 40yb F R R O D Q W D G G L W L Y H - G 13 - or
- G 12 plus-plus - (TL-VW 774 Gyf E R W K R I Z K L F K D U H G \ H G S X U S O H \f must be used in order to obtain
the optimum corrosion protection ⇒. Mixing - G 13 - with the coolant additives - G 12 plus - (TL-
VW 774 Fyf - G 12 - (dyed redyf R U - G 11 - (dyed blue-greenyf Z L O O V L J Q L I L F D Q W O \ G H F U H D V H W K H O H Y H O R I
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
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
After changing a wheel
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
•Clean the tools from the vehicle tool kit and place them back in the foam rubber holder in the
luggage compartment ⇒ Vehicle toolkit.
•Stow the changed wheel securely in the luggage compartment.
•Have the tightening torque of the wheel bolts checked immediately ⇒ Tightening torque for the
wheel bolts.
•The damaged wheel should be replaced as soon as possible.
In vehicles with a Tyre Pressure Loss Indicator, the system has to re-synchronise after
wheels are changed ⇒ Tyre monitoring systems.
Breakdown set
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Contents of the breakdown set
⇒ Preparation
⇒ Sealing and inflating tyres
⇒ Test after driving for 10 minutes
The breakdown set can be used to temporarily and reliably seal any tyre damage caused by foreign
bodies or punctures (up to approx. 4 mm in diameteryf Do not remove foreign objects (e.g.
screws or nailsyf I U R P W K H W \ U H !
Once the sealant has been added to the tyre, the tyre pressure must be checked and adjusted
again after approximately ten minutes of driving.
Seek expert assistance if more than one of the vehicle's tyres is damaged. The breakdown set is
designed to fill only one tyre.
Use the breakdown set only when the vehicle has been safely parked and if you are familiar with
the work and safety precautions needed. Seek expert assistance if this is not the case.
The tyre sealant must not be used:
•If the rim is damaged.
•If the outside temperature is below -20°C (-4°Fyf .
•If there are cuts or punctures in the tyre that are larger than 4 mm.
•If the vehicle was driven with very low tyre pressure or a flat tyre.
•If the use-by date on the tyre filler bottle has expired.
•In conjunction with AirStop tyres. You can tell if your vehicle is equipped with AirStop tyres if
there is the word Seal on the outside of the tyres.
Incorrect torque or incorrect use of wheel bolts can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle,
cause accidents and serious injuries.
•Always keep all wheel bolts and threads in the wheel hubs clean and free from oil and
grease. The wheel bolts must be easy to turn and be tightened to the specified torque.
•The hexagonal socket in the screwdriver handle should only be used for turning wheel
bolts, not use for loosening or tightening them.
WARNING
®®
Scope of service
The scope of service includes all maintenance work that is necessary in order to keep your vehicle
roadworthy (depending on the operating conditions and vehicle equipment, e.g. engine, gearbox or
service fluidsyf 7 K H P D L Q W H Q D Q F H Z R U N L V G L Y L G H G L Q W R inspection work and servicing work. You can
find out what work is required in detail for your vehicle:
•From your Volkswagen dealership.
•From your qualified workshop.
•In the electronic repair and workshop information system erWin at https://erwin.volkswagen.de.
Inspection work
Electrics
•12-volt vehicle battery: check and replace if necessary.
•Lighting: check.
•High-voltage components: check.
•Horn: check.
•Headlight setting: check.
•Service interval display: reset.
Engine/gearbox
•Exhaust system: check.
•Gearbox and final drive: check.
•Gas system: check.
•Poly V-belt: check.
•Cooling system: check.
•Engine and components in engine compartment: check.
•Engine oil level: check.
Running gear
•Swivel joints/track rods: check.
•Tyres: check.
•Brake system: check.
•Brake pads/discs: check.
•Brake fluid level: check.
•Boots: check.
•Coupling rod and stabiliser bearings: check.
•Pneumatic suspension: check.
•Breakdown set: check.
•Tyre pressure on all wheels: check.
•Power steering: check.
•Shock absorbers/coil springs: check.
Body
•Roof systems: check.
•Windscreen: check.
•Body: check for corrosion.
•Wiper blades: check.
•Window wiper and washer system: check.
•Door arresters: lubricate.
•Underbody: check.
Inadequate servicing, no servicing at all, or failure to adhere to service intervals can result
in breakdowns, accidents or serious injury.
•Have your service work carried out by an authorised Volkswagen dealership or
workshop.
WARNING
Volkswagen is not responsible for any vehicle damage caused by inadequate service work
or the lack of part availability.
NOTICE
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
1yf