
Information on the brakes
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
New brake pads cannot generate the full braking effect during the first 200 to 300 km and must first
be run in ⇒. However, you can compensate for the slightly reduced braking force by applying
more pressure to the brake pedal. During the run-in period, the braking distance is longer when
the brakes are depressed fully or during emergency braking than with brakes that have been fully
run in. In the run-in period, the brakes should not be depressed fully and situations that create a
heavy load on the brakes should be avoided. For example, when driving too close to the vehicle
ahead.
The rate of wear of the brake pads depends to a great extent on the conditions under which the
vehicle is operated and the way in which the vehicle is driven. With regular urban trips, short
journeys and a sporty driving style, the brake pads must be checked by a qualified workshop more
regularly than stated in the service schedule.
When driving with wet brakes, for example after driving through water, after heavy rainfall or after
washing the vehicle, the braking effect may be delayed as the brake discs will be wet, or possibly
iced up (in winter). The brakes must be dried as quickly as possible by careful braking at higher
speed. Please ensure that no following vehicle and no other road user is put at risk as a result of
this action ⇒.
Any layer of salt accumulated on the discs and pads will delay the braking effect and increase the
braking distance. If the brakes on the vehicle have not been applied for a long time on roads that
have been gritted with salt, the layer of salt must be reduced through careful braking ⇒.
Corrosion on the brake discs and dirt in the brake pads are facilitated through long periods of
inactivity, low mileage and low load levels. If the brake pads have been hardly used, or if they are at
all corroded, Volkswagen recommends that the brake discs and brake pads be cleaned by braking
strongly several times from high speed. Please ensure that no following vehicle and no other road
user is put at risk as a result of this action ⇒.
Fault 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 distance). This is indicated by the warning light . 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.
Brake servo
The brake servo will only function when the engine is running and reinforces the pressure applied
by the driver on the brake pedal.
If the brake servo is not functioning or the vehicle is being towed, the brake pedal will have to be
depressed more forcefully as the braking distance will be increased due to the lack of assistance for
the brake system ⇒.
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 any
inflammable material underneath the vehicle, e.g. leaves, dry grass, spilt fuel.
WARNING
•To avoid unintentional movement when parking the vehicle, first apply the handbrake firmly
and then remove your foot from the brake pedal.
•Always take care when driving in car parks with protruding kerbstones or bollards. Objects
that protrude from the ground can damage the bumper and other components when
parking the vehicle. In order to avoid any damage, stop the vehicle before the wheels
touch the bollards or kerbs.
•Drive carefully through dips in the road, over driveways, ramps, kerbstones and other
objects. Low-lying vehicle components such as the bumper, spoiler and parts of the
running gear, engine or exhaust system could be damaged.
NOTICE

Points 1 to 3 must be fulfilled at the same time:
Manual gearboxAutomated manual gearbox
In order to start moving, remove your foot
from the brake pedal, then release the clutch
pedal (clutch engages) and press the
accelerator simultaneously. The brake will
gradually be released as the clutch is
engaged.
To start moving, remove your foot from the
brake pedal and press the accelerator
immediately. The brake will gradually be
released as the vehicle pulls away.
The Hill Hold Assist function will be deactivated immediately:
•As soon as one of the conditions indicated on ⇒ The Hill Hold Assist function is automatically
activated if the following conditions are met is not fulfilled.
•If the engine is not running smoothly or there is an engine fault.
•If the engine is switched off or has stalled.
•Vehicles with automated manual gearbox: if the selector lever in is the neutral position N.
ParkPilot
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Operating ParkPilot
⇒ Acoustic and optical ParkPilot signals at the rear of the vehicle
The ParkPilot assists the driver when manoeuvring and parking.
The ultrasound sensors in the rear bumper transmit and receive ultrasonic waves. The system uses
the time difference between the ultrasonic waves (i.e. between the transmission and reflection from
obstacles and the point of reception) to continuously calculate the distance between the bumper
and the obstacle.
Additional information and warnings:
•Exterior views ⇒ Exterior views
•Braking, stopping and parking ⇒ Braking, stopping and parking
•Cleaning and caring for the vehicle exterior ⇒ Caring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior
•Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts ⇒ Accessories, modifications, repairs
and renewal of parts
•Portable navigation device (delivered by Volkswagen) ⇒ Accessories, modifications, repairs and
renewal of parts
•Radio ⇒BookletRadio,

Windscreen washer fluid level Windscreen wiper and washer
Engine oil level Engine oil
Engine coolant level Coolant
Brake fluid level Braking, stopping and parking
Tyre pressure Wheels and tyres
equipment, service fluids and unsuitable tools are not available ⇒ Preparation for working in the
engine compartment! The work should be carried out by a qualified workshop if you are
uncertain. Please ensure that the following are checked regularly, preferably every time you fill
the tank:
Vehicle lighting necessary for traffic safety:
- Turn signals
- Side lights, dipped beam headlights and main beam headlights
- Tail light cluster
- Brake lights
- Rear fog light ⇒ Lights
Information on changing bulbs ⇒ Changing bulbs.
Fuel
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Petrol
⇒ Natural gas
Different engines require different fuels. The factory-fitted sticker on the inside of the tank flap
indicates the fuel type that is required for your particular vehicle.
Volkswagen recommends using low-sulphur or sulphur-free fuels, to help reduce fuel consumption
and prevent damage to the engine.
If the engine is not running smoothly or begins to judder, this can indicate poor or inadequate fuel
quality, e.g. water in the fuel. If these symptoms appear, reduce the vehicle speed immediately and
drive to the nearest qualified workshop at medium engine speeds, avoiding high engine loading. If
these symptoms occur immediately after the vehicle has been refuelled, switch the engine off as
soon as it is safe to do so and seek expert assistance. This can help to prevent further damage.
Additional information and warnings:
•⇒BookletService schedule,
•Filling the tank ⇒ Filling the tank
•Engine management and exhaust system ⇒ Engine management system and exhaust
purification system
Petrol
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Petrol types
Vehicles with a petrol engine must be run on unleaded petrol in compliance with the European
standard EN 228 or DIN 51626-1 ⇒. Fuels with a maximum ethanol content of 10% (E10) can
be used for refuelling.
Petrol types are categorised according to their octane number, e.g. 91, 95, 98 or 99 RON (RON =
Research Octane Number). The vehicle may be filled with petrol that has a higher octane number
Incorrect handling of fuel can cause explosions, fire and serious burns and injuries.
•Fuel is highly explosive and inflammable.
•Never handle fuel near open flames, sparks or glowing matter (e.g. cigarettes).
•Keep naked flames, hot parts and sparks at a safe distance.
•Switch off your mobile telephone or two-way radio when dealing with fuel. Electromagnetic
radiation can generate sparks which can in turn start a fire.
•Avoid electrostatic discharge and electromagnetic radiation in the direct vicinity of fuels.
•Never spill fuel in the vehicle or in the luggage compartment.
•Comply with any relevant safety information and legislation concerning the handling of
fuels.
WARNING

The vehicle engine management will automatically adapt to the different natural gas qualities. Both
natural gas qualities can therefore be mixed in the fuel tank. You do not need to empty the tank
before refuelling with a different grade.
Natural gas
The vehicle can run on natural gas. Further information is available from your local Volkswagen
dealership.
Safe handling of natural gas
If you can smell gas or think there may be a leak in the natural gas system ⇒:
•Stop the vehicle immediately.
•Switch off the ignition.
•Open all the doors to fully ventilate the vehicle.
•Extinguish cigarettes immediately.
•Remove items that could cause sparks or fire from the vehicle or switch them off.
•Do not drive on if you can still smell gas.
•Seek expert assistance. Have the fault rectified.
Have the natural gas system checked regularly according to the service schedule by a
qualified workshop.
In the engine compartment
Preparation for working in the engine compartment
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Preparing the vehicle for working in the engine compartment
⇒ Opening and closing the bonnet
Always park the vehicle on a level and stable surface before carrying out any work in the engine
compartment.
The engine compartment of a motor vehicle is a hazardous area. Never carry out any work on the
engine or in the engine compartment if you are not familiar with the requisite procedures and
general safety requirements, or if you only have access to incorrect operating equipment, service
fluids, and unsuitable tools ⇒. The work should be carried out by a qualified workshop if you are
uncertain. Serious injuries can be caused if work is carried out incorrectly.
Additional information and warnings:
•Exterior views ⇒ Exterior views
•Windscreen wiper/washer ⇒ Windscreen wiper and washer
•Starting and stopping the engine ⇒ Starting and stopping the engine
•Brake fluid ⇒ Braking, stopping and parking
•Checks when filling the tank ⇒ Filling the tank
•Engine oil ⇒ Engine oil
•Engine coolant ⇒ Coolant
•Battery ⇒ Vehicle battery
•Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts ⇒ Accessories, modifications, repairs
and renewal of parts
Ignoring the smell of gas in the vehicle or when refuelling can cause serious injuries.
•Take any necessary action.
•Leave the area of risk.
•Contact the emergency services if necessary.
WARNING
Your vehicle is not suitable for use with Liquefied Natural Gas and must not be filled up or
driven with Liquefied Natural Gas. Liquefied Natural Gas can cause an explosion in the
natural gas tank and serious injuries as a consequence.
WARNING
Cleaning and maintenance

Park the vehicle on a level and stable surface.
Depress and hold the brake pedal until the engine has stopped.
Apply the handbrake firmly Braking, stopping and parking.
Select the neutral position or move the selector lever to N Changing gear.
Stop the engine and remove the vehicle key from the ignition Starting and stopping the
engine.
Allow the engine to cool sufficiently.
Children and other people should be kept well away from the engine compartment.
Ensure that the vehicle cannot roll away unexpectedly.
Service fluids leaks are harmful to the environment. So you should regularly check the
ground underneath your vehicle. If there are spots of oil or other fluids on the ground, the vehicle
should be inspected by a qualified workshop. Any spilt service fluids must be disposed of properly.
Preparing the vehicle for working in the engine compartment
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Checklist
The following steps should always be carried out in the specified order before working in the
engine compartment ⇒:
There are rotating components in the engine compartment that can cause serious injury.
•Never place your hand near or directly in the radiator fan. Touching the rotary blades can
result in serious injuries. The fan is temperature-controlled and can start automatically,
even if the engine has been switched off and the vehicle key has been removed from the
ignition lock.
•If any work has to be performed when the engine is started or with the engine running,
there is an additional, potentially fatal, safety risk from the rotating parts, such as the drive
belts, alternator, radiator fan, etc., and from the high-voltage ignition system. Always be
particularly careful.
- Always ensure that no body parts, jewellery, ties, loose items of clothing or long hair
can be caught up in rotating engine components. Before starting work, remove any
jewellery and ties, tie up long hair and pull clothes in tightly to avoid them getting
caught in the engine compartment.
- Always depress the accelerator carefully and never without due consideration. The
vehicle can start to move even if the handbrake is applied.
•Always ensure that you have not left any objects, such as cleaning cloths and tools, in the
engine compartment. Any forgotten items can cause malfunctions, engine damage and
fires.
WARNING
Operating fluids and some materials in the engine compartment are highly flammable and can
cause fires and serious injuries!
•Never smoke while working on the vehicle.
•Never work near naked flames or sparks.
•Never spill fluids onto the engine. They could ignite on hot engine components and hence
cause injuries.
•Please note the following when carrying out any work on the fuel system or the electrical
system:
- Always disconnect the vehicle battery.
- Never work in the direct proximity of heating systems, water heaters or any other
open flames.
•Always have a fully functional and tested fire extinguisher to hand.
WARNING
When refilling or changing operating fluids please ensure that the fluids are in the correct
container. Incorrect operating fluids can cause serious functional problems and engine
damage.
NOTICE

proper facilities for disposing of the old tyres. Volkswagen recommends using a Volkswagen
dealership for this purpose.
Additional information and warnings:
•Transporting ⇒ Driving notes
•Braking, stopping and parking ⇒ Braking, stopping and parking
•Cleaning and caring for the vehicle exterior ⇒ Caring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior
•Consumer information ⇒ Consumer information
•Vehicle toolkit ⇒ Vehicle toolkit
•Hubcaps ⇒ Hubcaps
•Changing a wheel ⇒ Changing a wheel
•Breakdown set ⇒ Breakdown set
For technical reasons, it is not generally possible to use the wheels from other vehicles. This
can also apply to wheels of the same vehicle type. Refer to the vehicle documentation and ask a
Volkswagen dealership if necessary.
Handling wheels and tyres
Fig. 130 Diagram showing how to swap wheels
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The tyres are the most used and most underestimated parts of a vehicle. Tyres are very important
as the narrow tyre surfaces are the only contact between the vehicle and the road.
The service life of tyres is dependent on tyre pressure, driving style handling and fitting.
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
circumference) and the same tread.
•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 and always keep to the specified tyre pressure value. If the
tyre pressure is too low, it is possible that the tyre temperature will increase to such an
extent that the tread peels off and the tyre bursts.
•Never drive with worn tyres or tyres that are damaged (cuts, cracks or blisters). Driving
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 assist 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 rims with bolted on 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

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
®
®

Stop the vehicle at a safe distance away from moving traffic and on a suitable surface .
Switch on the hazard warning lights using the button .
Apply the handbrake firmly Braking, stopping and parking.
Select the neutral position or move the selector lever to N Changing gear.
Stop the engine and remove the vehicle key from the ignition .
Ensure that all occupants exit the vehicle away from moving traffic and proceed to a safe
position, e.g. behind the safety barrier.
Take all vehicle keys with you when you leave the vehicle.
Place the warning triangle in position to draw the attention of other road users to your
vehicle.
Allow the engine to cool down and, if necessary, seek expert assistance.
•Braking, stopping and parking ⇒ Braking, stopping and parking
•Manual opening and closing ⇒ Manual opening and closing
•Vehicle toolkit ⇒ Vehicle toolkit
•Changing a wheel ⇒ Changing a wheel
Making you and your vehicle safe
Fig. 140 In the upper part of the centre console: button for switching the hazard warning lights on
and off
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Observe any legislation concerning the safety of broken-down vehicles. For example, many
countries stipulate that you have to switch on the hazard warning lights and wear a high-visibility
waistcoat ⇒ First aid kit, warning triangle and fire extinguisher.
Checklist
To ensure your own safety and that of your passengers, observe the following actions in the
specified order ⇒:
When the hazard warning lights are switched on, for example if you are being towed, you can still
indicate a change in direction or lane change by operating the turn signal. The warning lights will be
interrupted temporarily.
Switch on the hazard warning lights:
•When traffic ahead suddenly starts moving more slowly or you reach the tail end of a traffic jam,
to will warn vehicles behind you.
•When there is an emergency.
•When the vehicle breaks down.
•When tow-starting or towing.
Always follow local regulations for the use of the hazard warning lights.
If the hazard warning lights are not working, use an alternative method of drawing attention to the
broken-down vehicle. This method must comply with traffic legislation.
Broken-down vehicles increase the risk of accidents in road traffic – both for you and other
road users.
•Stop the vehicle as soon as possible and when safe to do so. Park the vehicle at a safe
distance from moving traffic in order to lock all doors securely in an emergency. Switch on
the hazard warning lights to warn other road users.
•Never leave children or people requiring assistance alone in the vehicle when the doors
are locked. This may mean that they are locked in the vehicle in an emergency. People
locked in the vehicle may be subjected to very high or very low temperatures.
WARNING