2021 VOLKSWAGEN UP! brakes

to assist every time that there is a sudden change in the road surface quality. If a section of dry
road is suddenly covered with water, mud or snow, ESC will not be able to assist in the same
manner as on a dry road. If the vehicle aquaplanes (drives on a layer of water rather than on the
road surface), ESC will not be able to assist in steering the vehicle as the contact to the road
surface has been interrupted and it is therefore no longer possible to steer or brake the vehicle.
Always adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions. ESC
cannot defy the laws of motion, improve the available power output, or keep the vehicle on the road
if insufficient care and attention on the part of the driver causes the vehicle to leave the road.
Instead, ESC increases the possibility of keeping the vehicle under control and, in extreme on-road
driving situations, it assesses the driver’s steering input and helps the vehicle to continue in the
required direction. If the vehicle is driving at a speed that leads it to leave the road before the ESC
can provide any kind of support, the ESC will be unable to provide any assistance.
The ABS, BAS, TCS and EDL systems are integrated into the ESC. The ESC is always on.
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
The ABS prevents the wheels from locking when the brakes are applied up until the point where the
vehicle is nearly stationary and assists the driver in steering the vehicle and keeping it under
control. This means that the vehicle is less likely to spin, even when the brakes are depressed fully:
•Depress and hold the brake pedal with force. Do not take your foot off the brake pedal or
reduce the force on the brake pedal!
•Do not pump the brake pedal or reduce the pressure on the brake pedal!
•Steer the vehicle while the brake pedal is fully depressed.
•The ABS will switch off when the brake pedal is released or if the pressure on the brake pedal is
reduced.
If the ABS is taking corrective action, there is a pulsing movement in the brake pedal and some
noise. However, ABS will not necessarily guarantee shorter braking distances in all conditions. The
braking distance could even be longer when braking on gravel or on fresh snow covering an icy or
slippery surface.
Electronic brake pressure distribution system (EBD)
Every vehicle's centre of gravity moves forwards whenever the brake is operated. This means that
the rear wheels are in danger of locking due to the lower traction. The electronic brake pressure
distribution system controls the brake pressure for the rear wheels and thereby ensures the
optimum distribution of brake pressure between the front and rear axles. Under normal conditions,
the system will prevent the rear from breaking away if too much brake pressure if applied to the rear
wheels. The electronic brake pressure distribution system is included in the ABS' scope of
functions.
Brake Assist system (BAS)
The brake assist system can help to reduce the braking distance. The brake assist system
reinforces brake pressure hydraulically when the driver depresses the brake pedal quickly in an
emergency situation. As a result, full braking power is made accessible very quickly, brake pressure
is increased and the braking distance reduced. In this way, the ABS is activated more quickly and
more effectively.
Do not reduce the pressure on the brake pedal. The brake assist system will switch off the
hydraulic brake servo automatically when the brake pedal is released or if the pressure on the
brake pedal is reduced.
Traction Control System (TCS) or Traction Control (TC)
The TCS or TC reduces the engine output if wheelspin occurs and adapts the output to suit road
surface conditions. TCS or TC helps the car to start moving, accelerate and climb gradients in
unfavourable road conditions.
Electronic differential lock (EDL)
The EDL is available for normal driving on straight roads. EDL brakes the wheel that has lost
traction and distributes the driving force to the other drive wheel. To prevent the disc brake of the
braked wheel from overheating, the EDL cuts out automatically if subjected to excessive loads. The
EDL will switch on again automatically when the brake has cooled down.

The ESC or the TCS/TC can only function properly if all four wheels have the same tyres.
Any differences in the rolling radius of the tyres can cause the system to reduce engine power
unexpectedly.
If the ABS fails, the ESC, TCS, TC and EDL will also cease to function.
Control processes running in the systems described may cause operating noises.
Brake fluid
Fig. 101 In the engine compartment: cap on the brake fluid container
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Brake fluid will gradually absorb water from the surrounding air. The brake system will be damaged
if there is too much water in the brake fluid. The boiling point of the brake fluid is also considerably
reduced by the water content. Heavy use of the brakes may cause a vapour lock in the brake
system if the water content is too high. Vapour locks reduce levels of braking power, considerably
increase braking distance and can even cause the brake system to fail completely. Your own safety
and that of other road users depends on having a brake system that functions properly at all times
⇒.
Brake fluid specification
Volkswagen has developed a brake fluid that has been optimised for the brake system in the
vehicle. To ensure optimal operation of the brake system, Volkswagen recommends the use of
brake fluid compliant with VW standard 501 14.
Driving fast on icy, slippery or wet roads can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle and could
cause serious injury to the driver and passengers.
•Adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions. Do
not let the extra safety afforded by the brake assist systems ABS, BAS, EDL, TCS, TC and
ESC tempt you into taking any risks when driving.
•The brake assist systems cannot defy the laws of motion. Slippery and wet roads will
remain dangerous, even when the ESC and other systems are active.
•Driving too fast on wet roads can cause the wheels to lose contact with the road surface
and aquaplane. A vehicle cannot be braked, steered or controlled once it has lost contact
with the road surface.
•Brake assist systems cannot prevent an accident if, for example, you are driving too close
to the vehicle in front or are driving too fast for the individual situation.
•Although the brake assist systems are very effective and can help to control the vehicle in
difficult driving situations, please always remember that the driving stability of the vehicle
depends on the tyre grip.
•When accelerating on a slippery surface, for example on ice and snow, press the
accelerator carefully. The wheels can spin even with active brake assist systems and this
can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle.
WARNING
ESC will be considerably less effective if other components and systems that affect driving
dynamics are not serviced correctly or are not functioning properly. This also applies, but not
exclusively, to the brakes, tyres and other systems that have already been named.
•Please always note that modifications and changes to the vehicle can affect the function of
the ABS, BAS, TCS, TC, EDL and ESC.
•Alterations to the suspension system or the use of non-approved wheel and tyre
combinations can affect the function of ABS, BAS, TCS, TC, EDL and ESC and reduce
their effectiveness.
•Suitable tyres are also crucial if ESC is to function optimally ⇒ Wheels and tyres.
WARNING

Before using a particular brake fluid, check that the specifications printed on the container
correspond to the vehicle requirements.
Brake fluid that is compliant with VW standard 501 14 is available from Volkswagen dealerships.
If this brake fluid is not available and it is necessary to use another high-quality brake fluid instead,
brake fluid that is compliant with DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 or US standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4 can
be used.
Not all brake fluids that are compliant with DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 or US standard FMVSS 116
DOT 4 have the same chemical composition. Some of these brake fluids may contain chemicals
that can damage or destroy brake system components over time.
Volkswagen therefore recommends the use of brake fluid that is compliant with
VW standard 501 14 to ensure sustained optimal operation of the brake system.
Brake fluid that is compliant with VW standard 501 14 fulfils the requirements of DIN ISO 4925
CLASS 4 or US standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4.
Brake fluid level
The brake fluid level must always be between the MIN and MAX marking on the brake fluid
container or above the MIN marking ⇒.
The brake fluid level cannot be checked accurately in all models as engine components may
partially conceal the brake fluid container. If the brake fluid level cannot be read exactly, please
proceed to a qualified workshop.
The brake fluid level drops slightly when the vehicle is being used as the brake pads wear and the
brakes are automatically adjusted.
Changing the brake fluid
The brake fluid must be changed as indicated in the service schedule ⇒BookletService schedule,.
The brake fluid should be changed by a qualified workshop. Volkswagen recommends using a
Volkswagen dealership for this purpose. Only brake fluid that conforms with the required
specification should be used.
Brake fluid can pollute the environment. Any spilt service fluids must be cleaned up and
disposed of properly.
Brake failure or reduced braking effect can be caused by the brake fluid level being too low or
by brake fluid that is too old or unsuitable.
•The brake system and brake fluid level must be checked regularly.
•The brake fluid should be changed regularly, according to the service schedule
⇒BookletService schedule,.
•Heavy use of the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the brake fluid is left in the system for
too long. Vapour locks reduce levels of braking power, considerably increase braking
distance and can cause the brake system to fail completely.
•Please ensure that the correct brake fluid is used. Only use brake fluid that is explicitly
compliant with VW standard 501 14.
•Any other brake fluid or a low-quality one can affect the functioning of the brakes and
reduce their effectiveness.
•If a brake fluid compliant with VW standard 501 14 is not available, use a high-quality
brake fluid compliant with DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 or the US standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4,
but only in exceptional circumstances.
•The refilled brake fluid must be new.
WARNING
Brake fluid is toxic.
•In order to reduce the risk of poisoning, never use bottles or other containers to store
brake fluid. These containers could encourage other people to drink out of them, even if
they are labelled otherwise.
•Brake fluid must always be stored in its original sealed container and kept out of the reach
of children.
WARNING
Brake fluid that has leaked or been spilt can damage the vehicle paintwork, plastic parts and
tyres. Brake fluid that has leaked or been spilt should be cleaned off the vehicle paintwork and
other components immediately.
NOTICE

Driving with respect for the environment
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ An economic driving style
⇒ Driving in a fuel-efficient manner
Fuel economy, environmental impact and wear on the engine, brakes and tyres depend largely on
three factors:
•Personal driving style.
•Conditions of use (weather, road surface).
•Technical conditions.
Depending on your personal driving style, a few simple measures can help save fuel by up to 25%.
An economic driving style
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Changing gear earlier
In principle, the highest gear is always the most economical gear. A rule of thumb for most vehicles:
at a speed of 30 km/h (19 mph) drive in 3rd gear, at 40 km/h (25 mph) in 4th gear and at 50 km/h
(31 mph) in 5th gear.
If the traffic and driving situation allows it, skipping gears when changing up a gear will also save
fuel.
Do not drive gears to their upper limit. Use first gear only for pulling away then quickly change up to
second gear. Avoid using the kickdown function in vehicles with an automated manual gearbox.
Vehicles with a gear display help to improve fuel economy by indicating the optimum time to
change gear.
Rolling to a stop
Taking your foot off the accelerator will interrupt the supply of fuel to the engine and decrease fuel
consumption.
Therefore, in situations such as approaching a red traffic light, let the vehicle roll without applying
the accelerator. Only press on the clutch pedal to disengage if the vehicle becomes too slow or if
the stopping distance is longer. The engine will then run at idling speed.
Switch off the engine in situations when the vehicle might be stationary for a long time, e.g. at a
level crossing. In vehicles with an active start/stop system, the engine will switch off automatically
when the vehicle is stationary.
Thinking ahead when driving, and driving with the flow of traffic
Applying the brake and accelerator too often will significantly increase fuel consumption. By thinking
ahead when driving and by maintaining a sufficient distance from the vehicle in front, simply
keeping your foot off the accelerator will stop the speed from fluctuating. This means that active
braking and accelerating is not always necessary.
Driving smoothly and evenly
Even more important than speed is smoothness: the more evenly you drive, the lower your fuel
consumption will be.
When driving on a motorway, it is much more effective to drive at a constant moderate speed than
to drive with constant acceleration and braking. As a rule, driving with a constant style will get you
to your destination just as quickly.
The cruise control system will help you to maintain a constant driving style.
Using additional equipment in moderation
It is always important to be comfortable in your vehicle, but it is also important to consider the
environment.
Some equipment will increase fuel consumption when switched on:
Adapt your speed and distance from the vehicles ahead to suit visibility, weather, road and
traffic conditions.
WARNING

If, in a potential collision scenario, the city emergency brake function detects that the driver is
applying the brakes with insufficient pressure, the system can increase the brake pressure in order
to reduce speed ahead of the collision. Hence the system can help minimise the consequences of
an accident.
Additional information and warnings:
•Exterior views ⇒ Exterior views
•Lower section of the centre console ⇒ Overview of the centre console
•Instrument cluster ⇒ Instrument cluster
•Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts ⇒ Accessories, modifications, repairs
and renewal of parts
The brake pedal travel decreases when the city emergency brake function is triggered. This
may make the brake pedal feel stiffer.
Automatic brake intervention by the city emergency brake function can be stopped by using
the clutch, the accelerator or steering intervention.
Unusual noises may be heard if the city emergency brake function is applying an automatic
braking procedure. This is normal and the noises are caused by the braking system.
Warning and indicator lamps
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The city emergency brake function is switched on every time the ignition is switched on. No display
will be shown to alert you of this.
The indicator lamp will be lit up if the city emergency brake function is switched off, is working or if
there is a fault in the system.
Lit upPossible cause ⇒Solution
The city emergency brake function
was switched on using the button
⇒ Fig. 109.
The indicator lamp is switched off
automatically after approximately 5
seconds.
FlashesPossible cause ⇒Solution
Quickly: city emergency brake function
is braking automatically or has braked
automatically.
Indicator lamp will go out automatically.
Slowly: city emergency brake function
currently not available.
While the vehicle is stationary, switch off
the engine and re-start it again. If
necessary, inspect the laser sensor (for
The intelligent technology of the city emergency brake function cannot change the laws of
physics or the system-related vehicle limitations. Never let the extra convenience afforded by
the city emergency brake function tempt you into taking any risks when driving. The driver is
always responsible for braking in time.
•The city emergency brake function cannot prevent accidents and serious injuries by itself.
•The city emergency brake function can carry out unwanted brake interventions in certain
complex situations, e.g. if a vehicle cuts very closely in front of you.
WARNING
Incorporating the city emergency brake function into your own driving style can cause
accidents and serious injuries. The system is not a substitute for the full concentration of the
driver.
•Adapt your speed and distance from the vehicles ahead to suit visibility, weather, road and
traffic conditions.
•The city emergency brake function does not react to persons, animals and vehicles
crossing or approaching in the same lane.
•Brake the vehicle by depressing the brake if the vehicle rolls forwards once the city
emergency brake function has been applied.
WARNING
Switch off the city emergency brake function if you suspect that the laser sensor has been
damaged. This can help to prevent further damage.
•Repairs to the laser sensor require specialist knowledge. Volkswagen recommends using
a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.
NOTICE

Washing the vehicle with a high-pressure cleaner
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer when cleaning your vehicle using a high-
pressure cleaner. This applies in particular to the pressure and the spraying distance⇒.
Maintain sufficient distance to soft materials such as rubber hoses, insulation, and the ParkPilot
sensors. The ParkPilot sensors are located in the rear bumper ⇒.
Never use concentrated jet nozzles or dirt blasters⇒.
Parts of the vehicle with sharp edges can cause injury.
•Protect your hands and arms from cuts on sharp parts, for example when cleaning the
underbody or the inside of the wheel housings.
WARNING
After the car has been washed, the braking effect could set in later than normal and extend
the braking distance as the brake discs and brake pads will be wet, or iced up in winter.
•You can dry and de-ice the brakes by performing careful braking manoeuvres. Ensure that
you do not endanger any other road users or violate any legal regulations when doing so.
WARNING
•The water should be no warmer than +60°C (+140°F).
•Do not wash the vehicle in direct sunlight in order to avoid damage to the vehicle
paintwork.
•Never clean with insect sponges, rough kitchen sponges or similar products as these can
damage the surface.
•Never clean the headlights with a dry cloth or sponge. Always use a wet cloth or sponge. It
is best to use soapy water.
•Washing the vehicle in cold weather: if the vehicle is rinsed with a hose, do not direct the
water into the lock cylinders or the gaps round the doors, boot, or bonnet. The locks and
seals could freeze.
NOTICE
Observe the following guidelines before driving the vehicle into an automatic car wash in order
to avoid damage to the vehicle:
•Ensure that the gap between the guide rails in the car wash is sufficient for the vehicle
track. If the track is too narrow your wheels and tyres will be damaged.
•Switch off the city emergency brake function before driving the vehicle into an automatic
car wash.
•Check that the car wash is tall and wide enough for your vehicle.
•Fold in the exterior mirrors.
•In order to prevent damage to the paintwork on the bonnet, fold the windscreen wipers
back onto the windscreen after drying the wiper blades. Do not drop the wipers onto the
glass.
•Lock the tailgate to prevent it from opening accidentally in the car wash.
NOTICE

Cleaning windows and exterior mirrors
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Cleaning windows and exterior mirrors
Moisten the windows and exterior mirrors with commercially available, alcohol-based glass cleaner.
Dry the glass surfaces with a clean chamois leather or a lint-free cloth. Chamois leathers that have
been used on painted surfaces are not suitable for use on glass surfaces. They will be soiled with
wax deposits which could smear the surfaces.
Use window cleaner or a silicone remover to clean off rubber, oil, grease and silicone deposits ⇒
.
Removing wax
Car washes and care products could leave wax deposits on the glass surfaces. Wax residue can
only be removed using a special cleaning product or cleaning cloths. Wax deposits on the
windscreen can cause the wiper blades to rub. Volkswagen recommends using a glass cleaning
cloth - G 052 522 A1 - to remove wax deposits from the windows and exterior mirrors each time the
vehicle is washed.
A window cleaner specifically for removing wax will stop the blades rubbing if added to the
windscreen wash water. Dilute the cleaner as instructed. Grease removing cleaners will not remove
wax deposits ⇒.
Special cleaners, glass cleaners and glass cleaning cloths are available from Volkswagen
dealerships.
Removing snow
Use a small brush to remove snow from the windows and exterior mirrors.
Removing ice
The best method for removing ice is to use a de-icer spray. If you use an ice scraper, do not move
it to and fro, but push it in one direction only. Moving the ice scraper backwards can cause dirt to
scratch the window.
The incorrect use of a high-pressure cleaner can cause visible and invisible long-term
damage to tyres and other materials. This can cause accidents and serious injuries.
•Maintain sufficient distance between the washer jet and the tyres.
•Never clean the tyres with concentrated jet nozzles (dirt blasters). The tyres may incur
visible and invisible damage even if cleaned briefly with the spray at a distance.
WARNING
After the car has been washed, the braking effect could set in later than normal and extend
the braking distance as the brake discs and brake pads will be wet, or iced up in winter.
•You can dry and de-ice the brakes by performing careful braking manoeuvres. Ensure that
you do not endanger any other road users or violate any legal regulations when doing so.
WARNING
•The water may be no warmer than +60°C (+140°F).
•Do not wash the vehicle in direct sunlight in order to avoid damage to the vehicle
paintwork.
•The ParkPilot sensors in the bumpers must be kept clean and free of ice to guarantee
correct function. When cleaning with pressure hoses or steam cleaners, the sensors
should only be sprayed briefly and the steam/hose nozzle must be kept more than 10 cm
away.
•Do not clean windows that are iced over or covered in snow with a high-pressure cleaner.
•Washing the vehicle in cold weather: if the vehicle is rinsed with a hose, do not direct the
water into the lock cylinders or the gaps round the doors, boot, or bonnet. The locks and
seals could freeze.
NOTICE

Running-in
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Please follow the regulations concerning running-in new parts.
Running in a new engine
Any new engine has to be run in during the first 1,500 kilometres. During its first few hours of
running, the internal friction in the engine is greater than later on when all the moving parts have
bedded down.
The style of driving during the first 1,500 kilometres will also affect the engine quality. Even after
this time – and especially with a cold engine – drive the vehicle at moderate speeds in order to
reduce engine wear and to increase the mileage that the engine can cover. Do not drive at engine
speeds that are too low. Always shift down gear if the engine is not running smoothly. The
following applies up to 1,000 kilometres:
•Do not depress the accelerator fully.
•Do not drive the vehicle at more than 2/3 of the top engine speed.
From 1,000 to 1,500 kilometres, gradually increase driving performance to top speed and highest
engine speed.
Running in new tyres and brake pads
•New wheels and tyres ⇒ Wheels and tyres
•Information on the brakes ⇒ Braking, stopping and parking
If the engine is run in gently, the life of the engine will be increased and its oil consumption
reduced.
Accessories and parts
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Volkswagen recommends that you seek advice from a Volkswagen dealership before purchasing
accessories, spare parts or service fluids. For example, if the vehicle is to be retrofitted with
accessories or if parts have to be renewed. Volkswagen dealerships can recommend accessories,
parts and service fluids suitable for your requirements. They can also answer any questions you
might have regarding official regulations.
Volkswagen recommends that you only use approved Volkswagen accessories and Volkswagen
Genuine Parts. These parts and accessories have been specially tested by Volkswagen for
suitability, reliability and safety. And Volkswagen dealerships are qualified to install them correctly.
Although the market is constantly scrutinised, Volkswagen cannot assume responsibility for the
reliability, safety and suitability of products Volkswagen has not approved. Volkswagen can
therefore assume no responsibility for these parts, even if they have been approved by an official
testing agency or are covered by an official approval certificate.
Any retro-fitted equipment that has a direct effect on the vehicle and/or the way it is driven must be
approved by Volkswagen for use in your vehicle and bear the e mark (the European Union's
authorization symbol). These devices include cruise control systems or an electronically controlled
suspension.
Any additional electrical components fitted that do not serve to control the vehicle itself must bear
the mark (manufacturer conformity declaration in the European Union). Such devices include
refrigerator boxes, laptops and ventilator fans.
Unsuitable spare parts and accessories, incorrectly carried out work, modifications and
repairs can lead to damage to the vehicle and cause accidents and serious injuries.
•Volkswagen strongly recommends that you only use approved Volkswagen accessories
and Volkswagen Genuine Parts. These parts and accessories have been specially tested
by Volkswagen for suitability, reliability and safety.
•Repairs and modifications to your vehicle should only be carried out by a qualified
workshop. Qualified workshops have the necessary tools, diagnostic equipment, repair
information and qualified personnel.
•Never fit parts to your vehicle that are in any way different from the factory-fitted parts.
•Never secure or mount objects such as drink holders or telephone holders on or next to
the airbag covers or within the deployment zone of the airbag.
•Only use rim/tyre combinations that have been approved by Volkswagen for your vehicle
type.
WARNING
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