
Warning lights and text messages are shown on the instrument cluster display. These warnings 
may be accompanied by acoustic signals.
Front brake pads worn. Go to a qualified workshop immediately. All brake pads should be 
checked and renewed as necessary.
Malfunction in the brake system
A brake circuit may have failed if you have to reduce speed and the vehicle does not brake as 
normal (sudden increase in braking distanceyf   7 K L V  L V  L Q G L F D W H G  E \  W K H  Z D U Q L Q J  O D P S    and in 
some cases by a text message. Go to the nearest qualified workshop immediately to have the fault 
corrected. Drive at low speed when doing this and anticipate much longer braking distances and an 
increase in the pressure required on the pedal.
Starting and stopping the engine
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Ignition lock
⇒ Starter button
⇒ Starting the engine
⇒ Stopping the engine
⇒ Electronic immobiliser
⇒ Troubleshooting
Push-starting or tow-starting
For technical reasons, your vehicle must not be push-started or tow-started. Use jump leads to 
start the engine instead ⇒ Jump starting.
Ignition lock
Switching the engine off while the vehicle is moving makes it more difficult to stop the 
vehicle. This can lead to loss of control of the vehicle and to accidents and severe injuries.
•Braking and steering support systems, the airbag system, the belt tensioners and other 
items of safety equipment in the vehicle are only active when the engine is running.
•Never switch the engine or ignition off while the vehicle is in motion.
WARNING
The risk of serious injury can be reduced with the engine running or when starting the 
engine.
•Never start or run the engine in unventilated or closed rooms. The exhaust fumes 
contain carbon monoxide, an odourless and colourless toxic gas. Carbon monoxide 
can cause people to lose consciousness. It can also cause death.
•Never start or run the engine if oil, fuel or any other highly flammable fluids are under 
or near the vehicle, or are leaking out of the vehicle, e.g. as the result of damage.
•Never leave the vehicle unattended with the engine running, particularly if a gear or 
position has been selected. The vehicle could move suddenly or something 
unexpected may happen that may cause damage, fire and serious injuries.
•Never use a start booster. Start boosters may explode and cause the engine to 
suddenly run at high revs.
WARNING
The components of the exhaust system become very hot. This can cause fires and serious 
injuries.
•Never park the vehicle where parts of the exhaust system can come into contact with 
inflammable material underneath the vehicle, e.g. undergrowth, leaves, dry grass, spilt 
fuel.
•Never apply additional underseal or anti-corrosion coatings to the exhaust pipes, 
catalytic converters, heat shields or particulate filter.
WARNING 

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 

Diesel
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Vehicles with a diesel engine must be run on diesel ⇒. If you use diesel with a high sulphur 
content, the service intervals are shorter ⇒ Service. Information on countries that use diesel with a 
high sulphur content is available from your Volkswagen dealership.
The fuel quality affects the running properties, performance and service life of the engine. You 
should therefore use fuel that already contains suitable service additives if possible ⇒.
Information on the fuel standards can be found in the chapter on fuel standards ⇒ Fuel standards.
Winter-grade diesel fuel and filter preheater system
Winter-grade diesel fuel, which can be used at temperatures below -20°C (-4°Fyf   L V  D Y D L O D E O H  G X U L Q J  
the cold months. In countries with different climates, diesel for other temperature conditions is 
usually available. Information is available from your Volkswagen dealership and filling stations in 
the respective country.
Diesel vehicles are equipped with a filter pre-heater system. When using winter-grade diesel fuel, 
the fuel system is safe for operation at temperatures down to around -24°C (-11°Fyf .
However, if the fuel has waxed to such an extent that the engine will not start at temperatures 
below -24°C (-11°Fyf   S O D F H  W K H  Y H K L F O H  L Q  D  K H D W H G  J D U D J H  R U  Z R U N V K R S  I R U  D  Z K L O H  ⇒.
At cold temperatures, louder noises may occur in the diesel engine and the exhaust gas may 
be tinged blue.
Refuelling
Fig. 195 Behind the tank flap: tank cap.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
See the chapter on technical data for information on filling capacities ⇒ Fuel tank capacity.
Incorrect refuelling or unsuitable fuel additives may cause damage to the vehicle.
•Before refuelling, check whether the fuel standard information provided on the pump 
conforms to the requirements of the vehicle.
•Use only Volkswagen-approved service additives in the approved quantity.
•If, in an emergency, you have to use petrol with an octane number lower than the 
recommended number, drive at medium engine speeds and avoid high engine loading. 
Avoid high engine speeds and heavy engine loads. Failure to do so can result in engine 
damage. Fill the tank with petrol with the correct octane number as soon as possible.
NOTICE
Start boosters may explode or suddenly cause the engine to run at high revs. This can 
cause injuries or damage to the engine.
•Never use a start booster.
WARNING
Incorrect refuelling can lead to damage to the vehicle.
•Before refuelling, check whether the fuel standard information provided on the pump 
conforms to the requirements of the vehicle.
•Do not refuel with RME fuel, petrol, fuel oil or other unsuitable fuels.
•Use only Volkswagen-approved service additives in the approved quantity.
NOTICE 

The refill bottle must be disposed of in accordance with regulations governing the protection 
of the environment.
Catalytic converter
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
To help ensure long-term functionality in the exhaust system and the catalytic converter:
•Use unleaded petrol only ⇒ Fuel types and refuelling.
•Do not allow the fuel tank to run completely empty.
•Do not overfill engine oil ⇒ Engine oil.
•Do not tow start the vehicle. Use jump leads ⇒ Jump starting.
If you notice misfiring, uneven running or loss of power when the vehicle is moving, reduce speed 
immediately. The vehicle should be inspected at the nearest qualified workshop 
⇒ Troubleshooting. If this happens, unburnt fuel can enter the exhaust system and escape into the 
atmosphere. The catalytic converter can also be damaged by overheating.
The emissions may have a sulphur-like smell even if the emission purification system is 
working properly.
Particulate filter
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Function
The particulate filter filters out soot particles in the exhaust gas. Observe the following points to 
ensure that the exhaust purification system will work properly for a long time:
AdBlue is an irritant and corrosive fluid that can damage the skin, eyes and breathing 
passages upon contact.
•Always observe the instructions for use when using AdBlue. If containers are used 
according to the instructions, it is unlikely that a user will come into contact with 
AdBlue.
•AdBlue must be kept in the closed original container. Never use empty food 
containers, bottles or other containers for this purpose.
•Always store in a safe place out of reach of children.
•If AdBlue gets into the eyes, immediately rinse the eyes with plenty of water for at 
least 15 minutes and consult a doctor.
•If AdBlue gets onto the skin, immediately wash the area with plenty of water for at 
least 15 minutes and consult a doctor if the skin becomes irritated.
•If AdBlue is swallowed, immediately rinse the mouth out with lots of water for at least 
15 minutes. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a doctor. Seek 
medical assistance immediately.
CAUTION
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Overfilling AdBlue may damage the tank system and the vehicle.
•Do not fill with more than the maximum refill quantity indicated on the instrument 
cluster display.
•Remove any spilt AdBlue as quickly as possible with a damp cloth and plenty of cold 
water.
•If the AdBlue has already formed crystals, use warm water and a sponge to remove.
NOTICE
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Improper use of AdBlue may cause damage to the vehicle that is not covered by the 
warranty.
•Only use AdBlue that complies with the standard ISO 22241-1.
•Do not mix with water, fuel or additives.
•Never fill AdBlue in the diesel tank.
•Do not transport the refill bottle in the vehicle habitually. The bottle may develop a leak 
following changes in temperature and damage and the AdBlue may damage the 
vehicle interior.
NOTICE
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•Only refuel with fuels that are suitable for the vehicle ⇒ Fuel types and refuelling.
•Do not allow the fuel tank to run completely empty.
•Use only suitable engine oil for the vehicle and do not overfill ⇒ Engine oil.
•Do not tow start the vehicle. Use jump leads ⇒ Jump starting.
Periodic regeneration
The soot in the particulate filter is burnt off at high temperatures on a periodic basis.
To assist the regeneration of the particulate filter, Volkswagen recommends that you avoid making 
only short journeys.
Noises, slight smells and increased engine speeds may occur during regeneration. The radiator fan 
may run on while the vehicle is moving or when the engine has been switched off.
During the periodic regeneration process, the yellow indicator lamp  does not light 
up.
Troubleshooting
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Irregular engine running and malfunctions
If the engine shows signs of irregular running or malfunctions while you are driving, this may mean 
that the fuel is of poor quality. Reduce speed immediately. Drive to nearest qualified workshop at 
medium engine speeds and low loads on the engine.
If these symptoms occur directly after refuelling, switch off the engine immediately to avoid any 
subsequent damage. You should obtain professional assistance.
Warning and indicator lamps 
Lights up together with the red warning lamp  : fault in the selective catalytic reduction 
system. The engine cannot be restarted! Drive straight to a qualified workshop without switching 
off the engine and have the system checked ⇒.AdBlue level too low. The engine cannot 
be restarted! Switch off the vehicle and refill the AdBlue minimum quantity according to 
⇒ Emission control with AdBlue⇒.Lights up together with the yellow warning lamp  
: the selective catalytic reduction system is faulty or not filled with standard-compliant 
AdBlue. Drive immediately to a qualified workshop and have the system checked.AdBlue
level too low. Refill AdBlue within the displayed remaining range in accordance with ⇒ Emission 
control with AdBlue⇒.The particulate filter is saturated with soot and requires 
regeneration. Driving at speeds between 50 - 120 km/h (31 - 75 mphyf  Z L O O  V X S S R U W  U H J H Q H U D W L R Q   
Observe the relevant speed limits and the gear recommendation. The indicator lamp goes out 
automatically when the particulate filter has been regenerated. If the indicator lamp is still lit up after 
driving for around 30 minutes, seek expert assistance immediately.Lit up: malfunction. Have 
the engine checked by a qualified workshop.Flashing: misfiring, which damages the catalytic 
converter. Drive immediately to the nearest qualified workshop and have the engine checked.
There may be engine faults and fuel consumption may be higher if the indicator lamps are lit 
up or flashing.
 Colour display only on an instrument cluster with colour display.
Fuel standards
Petrol
Vehicles with a petrol engine must be run on petrol in compliance with the European standard 
EN 228 or the German standard DIN 51626-1 ⇒.
Where petrol complying with the specified standard is not available, Volkswagen dealerships will 
have information on what fuels are suitable for the vehicle.
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If the AdBlue level is too low, the vehicle cannot be restarted after the ignition has been 
switched off. Starting with jump leads is also not possible.
•Refill AdBlue at the latest when the remaining distance reaches approximately 
1,000 km.
•Never allow the AdBlue tank to run empty.
NOTICE
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Leaking service fluids can pollute the environment. Spilt service fluids must be collected in 
suitable containers and disposed of properly and with respect for the environment.
Washer fluid
Fig. 226 In the engine compartment: cap of washer fluid reservoir.
The windscreen washer fluid level should be checked regularly and topped up as necessary.
A filter can be found in the feed throat of the washer fluid reservoir. The filter keeps large dirt 
particles away from the windscreen washer jets when refilling. The filter should only be removed for 
cleaning. If the filter is damaged or is not present, dirt particles can enter the system and will block 
the washer jets.
•Open the bonnet ⇒ In the engine compartment.
•The washer fluid reservoir is identified by the  symbol on the cap ⇒ Fig. 226.
•Check whether there is enough windscreen washer fluid in the reservoir.
•To top up, mix clean water (not distilled wateryf  Z L W K  D  Z D V K H U  I O X L G  U H F R P P H Q G H G  E \  
Volkswagen ⇒. Observe the dilution instructions on the packaging.
•At low temperatures, add a special anti-freeze agent so that the fluid cannot freeze ⇒.
Capacities
The washer fluid reservoir has a capacity of between 3 and 5 litres depending on the vehicle 
equipment level.
Unsuitable service fluids and consumables, and the incorrect use of these fluids and 
consumables, can cause accidents, serious injuries, burns or poisoning.
•Service fluids must be kept in their original sealed container.
•Never store service fluids in empty food containers, bottles or any other non-original 
containers as people finding these containers could drink them.
•Keep children away from all service fluids and consumables.
•Always read and follow the information and warnings on the service fluid packaging.
•When using products that give off harmful fumes, always work outdoors or in a well-
ventilated area.
•Never use fuel, turpentine, engine oil, nail varnish remover or other volatile fluids for 
vehicle care. They are toxic and highly flammable. They could cause fires and 
explosions.
WARNING
•Only use suitable service fluids for refilling. Never use the wrong service fluid. Failure 
to observe this warning can result in serious malfunctions and engine damage.
•Optional equipment and other accessories in front of the air inlet reduce the cooling 
effect of the coolant. The engine may overheat at high ambient temperatures and high 
engine loads.
NOTICE