2021 VOLKSWAGEN UP! towing

⇒ Catalytic converter
Additional information and warnings:
•Changing gear ⇒ Changing gear
•Filling the tank ⇒ Filling the tank
•Fuel ⇒ Fuel
•Engine oil ⇒ Engine oil
•Battery ⇒ Vehicle battery
•Information stored in the control units ⇒ Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts
•Tow-starting and towing ⇒ Tow-starting and towing
Indicator lamps
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Lit upPossible causeSolution
Engine management system fault
(Electronic Power Control).
The engine should be checked by a qualified
workshop as soon as possible.
Fault in catalytic converter.
Decrease speed. Drive carefully to the next
qualified workshop. The engine should be
checked.
FlashesPossible causeSolution
Misfiring, which damages the catalytic
converter.
Decrease speed. Drive carefully to the next
qualified workshop. The engine should be
checked.
Several warning and indicator lamps will light up briefly as a functional check when the ignition is
switched on. They will go out soon afterwards.
If the indicator lamps  or are lit up, fuel consumption may be higher, and engine
performance reduced.
Catalytic converter
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The catalytic converter is used for exhaust gas post-treatment and helps to reduce exhaust
emissions. To help ensure long-term functionality in the exhaust system and the catalytic converter:
•Use unleaded petrol only.
•Do not allow the fuel tank to run empty.
•Do not overfill engine oil ⇒ Engine oil.
•Do not tow-start the vehicle. Use jump leads ⇒ Starting the engine with jump leads.
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. If this happens,
unburnt fuel can enter the exhaust system and escape into the atmosphere. The catalytic converter
can also be damaged by overheating.
Even when the exhaust purification system is working perfectly, there may be a smell of
sulphur from the exhaust in some conditions. This depends on the sulphur content of the fuel being
used.
The components of the exhaust system become very hot. This can cause fires.
•Park the vehicle so that no part of the exhaust system can come into contact with any
inflammable material underneath the vehicle, e.g. dry grass.
•Never apply additional underseal or anti-corrosion coatings to the exhaust pipes, catalytic
converters or heat shields.
WARNING
To avoid damage to your vehicle, always observe the indicator lamps and associated warning
texts.
NOTICE
If and when

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

Stowage
Fig. 146 In the luggage compartment: floor covering held in upright position
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The vehicle tools, spare wheel, emergency spare wheel or breakdown set are located in the
luggage compartment under the floor covering ⇒ Fig. 146.
•If necessary, remove the variable luggage compartment floor ⇒ Luggage compartment.
•Lift the floor covering at the recess (arrow) ⇒ Fig. 146.
After using the vehicle jack, crank it back to its original position so that it can be stored
safely.
Contents
Fig. 147 Contents of the vehicle toolkit
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The content of the vehicle toolkit depends on the vehicle equipment level. The following describes
the maximum scope.
The vehicle toolkit contains the following⇒ Fig. 147
Screwdriver with hexagon socket in the handle for slackened wheel bolts. The screwdriver
blade is reversible. The screwdriver may be located under the box spanner.
Adapter for the anti-theft wheel bolts. Volkswagen recommends that you carry the wheel
bolt adapter in the vehicle toolkit at all times. The code number of the anti-theft wheel bolt is
engraved on the front of the adapter. You will need this number to replace the adapter if lost.
Make a note of the code number for the anti-theft wheel bolt and keep it in a safe place – but
not inside the vehicle.
Removable towing eye.
Wire hook for pulling off the centre cover, wheel covers and the wheel bolt caps.
In the event of a sudden driving or braking manoeuvre or accident, a loose vehicle toolkit,
breakdown set and spare wheel could be flung though the vehicle and cause severe injuries.
•Always ensure that the vehicle toolkit, breakdown set and spare wheel or temporary spare
wheel are secured in the luggage compartment.
WARNING
Unsuitable or damaged tools in the vehicle toolkit can lead to accidents and injuries.
•Never work with unsuitable or damaged tools from the vehicle toolkit.
WARNING

•Insert the plug ⇒ Fig. 157⑨ into one of the vehicle's 12-volt sockets ⇒ Socket.
•Use the on/off switch ⇒ Fig. 157⑧ to switch on the air compressor.
•Run the compressor until the tyre pressure has reached 2.0 – 2.5 bar (29 – 36 psi / 200 –
250 kPa) ⇒. The maximum running time is 8 minutes⇒.
•Switch off the air compressor.
•If a pressure level of 2.0 – 2.5 bar (29 – 36 psi / 200 – 250 kPa) cannot be achieved unscrew
the tyre filler hose from the tyre valve.
•Drive (or reverse) the vehicle approximately 10 metres so that the sealing compound is more
evenly distributed in the tyre.
•Screw the tyre filler hose for the air compressor firmly back onto the tyre valve and inflate the
tyre again.
•If the required pressure still cannot be reached, the tyre is too badly damaged. The tyre cannot
be sealed with the breakdown set. Do not drive on. Seek expert assistance ⇒.
•Disconnect the air compressor and unscrew the tyre filler hose from the tyre valve.
•Drive the vehicle no faster than 80 km/h (50 mph) once a tyre pressure of 2.0 – 2.5 bar
(29 – 36 psi / 200 – 250 kPa) has been reached.
•Check the tyre pressure after driving for 10 minutes⇒ Test after driving for 10 minutes.
Test after driving for 10 minutes
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Reconnect the tyre filler hose ⇒ Fig. 157⑤ and check the tyre pressure on the tyre pressure
display ⑥.
1.3 bar (19 psi / 130 kPa) and lower:
•Do not drive on! The tyre cannot be sealed adequately with the breakdown set.
•Seek expert assistance ⇒.
1.4 bar (20 psi / 140 kPa) and higher:
•Set the tyre pressure back to the correct value ⇒ Wheels and tyres.
•Resume your journey to the nearest qualified workshop. Do not exceed a maximum speed of
80 km/h (50 mph).
•Have the damaged tyre replaced at the workshop.
Fuses
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Fuses in the vehicle
⇒ Changing a blown fuse
At the time of print we are unable to provide an up-to-date overview of the locations of the fuses for
the electrical consumers. This is because the vehicle is under constant development, because
fuses are assigned differently depending on the vehicle equipment level and because several
consumers may use a single fuse. You can get more information about the fuse layout from a
Volkswagen dealership.
The tyre filler hose and the air compressor can get hot during inflation.
•Protect your hands and skin from the hot components.
•Do not place the hot tyre filler hose or the hot air compressor on any inflammable
materials.
•Allow the device to cool down fully before stowing.
•If the tyre will not inflate to at least 2.0 bar (29 psi / 200 kPa), the tyre is too damaged. The
sealant is unable to seal the tyre. Do not drive on. Seek expert assistance.
WARNING
Switch the air compressor off after a maximum of 8 minutes to avoid overheating. Let the air
compressor cool down for a few minutes before switching it back on.
NOTICE
Driving with an unsealed tyre is dangerous as it can cause accidents and serious injuries.
•Do not carry on driving if the tyre pressure is 1.3 bar (19 psi / 130 kPa) or lower.
•Seek expert assistance.
WARNING

How to start the engine using jump leads
Fig. 171 How to connect the jump leads when starting vehicles without start/stop system:
discharged battery Ⓐ and battery providing assistance Ⓑ
Fig. 172 How to connect the jump leads when starting vehicles with start/stop system: discharged
battery Ⓐ and battery providing assistance Ⓑ
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Vehicle with discharged battery that is being jump-started.
Vehicle with vehicle battery that is supplying power and jump-starting the other vehicle.
Suitable earth connection. A solid metal part that is firmly bolted to the engine block, the
engine block itself or, where fitted, the screwed-in towing eye at the front ⇒ Tow-starting and
towing.
Using the jump leads incorrectly or completing the jump start procedure incorrectly can cause
the battery to explode, which can lead to severe injuries. Please note the following in order to
reduce the risk of the battery exploding:
•All work on the vehicle battery and the electrical system can cause serious chemical
burns, fire and electric shocks. Always read the warnings and safety information before
carrying out any kind of work on the vehicle battery ⇒ Vehicle battery.
•The vehicle battery providing assistance must have the same voltage as the discharged
vehicle battery (12 volt) and approximately the same capacity (see markings on battery).
•Never charge a vehicle battery once it has been frozen. Discharged vehicle batteries can
even freeze at temperatures of around 0°C (+32°F).
•The battery should be replaced if it is or has ever been frozen.
•A highly explosive mixture of gases is given off when the vehicle battery is jump started.
Always keep fire, sparks, naked flames and lit cigarettes away from the vehicle battery.
Never use a mobile telephone when the jump leads are being connected or disconnected.
•Only charge the battery in a well-ventilated space as the battery emits a highly explosive
mixture of gases when the vehicle is being jump started.
•Position the jump leads so that they never come into contact with any moving parts in the
engine compartment.
•Never confuse the negative and positive terminals or connect the jump leads incorrectly.
•Observe the jump lead manufacturer's instructions.
WARNING
Please note the following in order to avoid considerable damage to the vehicle electrical
system:
•A short circuit can be caused if the jump leads are wrongly connected.
•The vehicles must not touch each other, otherwise electricity could flow as soon as the
positive terminals are connected.
NOTICE

The discharged vehicle battery must be properly connected to the vehicle's electrical system.
The vehicles must not touch. Otherwise electricity could flow as soon as the positive terminals are
connected.
Ensure that the battery clamps have good metal-to-metal contact with the battery terminals.
If the engine does not start immediately, switch off the starter after about 10 seconds and try again
after about half a minute.
The steps should only be carried out in the specified order.
Attaching the jump leads
•Switch off the ignition in both vehicles ⇒ Starting and stopping the engine.
•If necessary, open the battery cover in the engine compartment ⇒ Vehicle battery.
•Connect one end of the red jump lead to the positive terminal ⇒ Fig. 171⊕ or ⇒ Fig. 172⊕ in
the vehicle with the discharged battery Ⓐ ⇒.
•Connect the other end of the red jump lead to the positive terminal ⊕ in the vehicle providing
assistance Ⓑ.
•In vehicles without start/stop system: connect one end of the black jump lead to the negative
terminal ㊀ in the vehicle providing assistance Ⓑ ⇒ Fig. 171.
•In vehicles with start/stop system: connect one end of the black jump lead Ⓧ to a suitable
earth connection, to a solid metal part that is securely bolted onto the cylinder or to the cylinder
block itself ⇒ Fig. 172.
•Connect the other end of the black jump lead Ⓧ to a solid metal component bolted on to the
engine block, or onto the engine block in the vehicle with the discharged battery. Do not
connect it to a point near the battery Ⓐ ⇒.
•Position the leads in such a way that they cannot come into contact with any moving parts in the
engine compartment.
Starting the engine
•Start the engine of the vehicle providing assistance and let it run at idle.
•Start the engine of the car with the discharged vehicle battery and wait two or three minutes
until the engine is running smoothly.
Removing the jump leads
•Before disconnecting the jump leads, switch off the dipped beam headlights if they are switched
on.
•Turn on the heater blower and rear window heater in the vehicle battery with the discharged
battery. This helps minimise the voltage peaks generated when the leads are disconnected.
•With the engines running, disconnect the jump leads in the exact reverse order to the
instructions given above.
•Close the battery cover.
Tow-starting and towing
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒  Notes on tow-starting
⇒ Notes on towing
Jump starting the vehicle incorrectly can cause the battery to explode, which can lead to
serious injuries. Please note the following in order to reduce the risk of the battery exploding:
•All work on the vehicle battery and the electrical system can cause serious chemical
burns, fire and electric shocks. Always read the warnings and safety information before
carrying out any kind of work on the vehicle battery ⇒ Vehicle battery.
•Always wear suitable eye protection and never lean over the vehicle battery.
•Attach the connector cables in the correct order – the positive cable first, followed by the
negative.
•Never connect the negative cable to parts of the fuel system or to the brake lines.
•The non-insulated parts of the battery clamps must not be allowed to touch. The jump lead
attached to the positive vehicle battery terminal must not touch metal parts of the vehicle.
•Check the window on the vehicle battery using a torch if necessary. If the display is light
yellow or colourless, do not jump start the vehicle. Seek expert assistance.
•Avoid electrostatic discharge in the vicinity of the vehicle battery. The gas emitted from the
vehicle battery could be ignited by sparks.
•Do not use jump leads to start the engine if the vehicle battery is damaged or if it is or has
ever been frozen.
WARNING

⇒ Fitting the front towing eye
⇒ Driving tips when towing
Observe any legal requirements when towing or tow-starting.
For technical reasons, vehicles with a discharged battery must not be tow-started.
For technical reasons, vehicles with an automated manual gearbox must not be tow started
unless it has been ascertained that the gearbox is in position N⇒ When a vehicle with an
automated manual gearbox has to be towed:.
Towing a vehicle when the engine is switched off and the ignition is switched on discharges the
vehicle battery. In some vehicles battery charge level, the drop in voltage can be large enough after
just a few minutes that electrical consumers in the vehicle will no longer function, e.g. the hazard
warning lights.
Additional information and warnings:
•Exterior views ⇒ Exterior views
•Changing gear ⇒ Changing gear
•Engine management system and exhaust purification system ⇒ Engine management system
and exhaust purification system
•Starting the engine with jump leads ⇒ Starting the engine with jump leads
You will not be able to fit a towing eye onto the rear bumper. The vehicle is not suited for
towing other vehicles.
Notes on tow-starting
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Vehicles should not be tow-started wherever possible. Use jump leads to start the engine
instead⇒ Starting the engine with jump leads.
For technical reasons, the following vehicles cannot be tow-started:
•If the vehicle battery has discharged, the engine control unit will not function properly.
However, if the vehicle still has to be tow-started (manual gearbox):
•Engage 2nd or 3rd gear.
•Keep the clutch pressed down.
Never tow a vehicle that has no power supply.
•Never remove the key from the ignition. This could cause the steering lock to engage
suddenly. You will no longer be able to steer the vehicle. This can lead to a loss of control
of the vehicle, accidents and serious injuries.
•If the power supply to the towed vehicle is disconnected, stop towing immediately and
seek expert assistance.
WARNING
If a vehicle is being towed, the vehicle handling and braking effect will change significantly.
Please note the following in order to reduce the risk of an accident or serious injuries:
•Notes for the driver of the towed vehicle:
- You will need to depress the brake pedal more vigorously than normal as the brake
servo is not working. Always be careful not to drive into the vehicle that is pulling your
vehicle.
- You will need to turn the steering wheel more vigorously as the power-assisted
steering function is not working.
•Notes for the driver of the towing vehicle
- Accelerate carefully and gently.
- Avoid sudden braking and driving manoeuvres.
- Brake earlier than normal by pressing lightly on the brake pedal.
WARNING
•Remove and install the cover and the towing eye carefully so as to avoid damage to the
vehicle, e.g. the paintwork.
•Unburnt fuel can enter the catalytic converter and damage it while the vehicle is being
towed.
NOTICE

•Switch on the ignition and the hazard warning lights.
•Once both vehicles are in motion, release the clutch.
•As soon as the engine starts, press the clutch and put the gear into neutral. This helps to
prevent driving into the towing vehicle.
However, if the vehicle still has to be tow-started (automated manual
gearbox):
•Switch on the ignition and the hazard warning lights.
•Place the selector lever in position N.
•When both vehicles are in motion and the brake pedal indicator lamp goes out, move the
selector lever to position D.
•As soon as the engine starts, press the brake pedal and move the selector lever to position N.
This helps to prevent driving into the towing vehicle.
Notes on towing
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Tow rope or tow bar
It is easier and safer to tow a vehicle with a tow bar. Only use a tow rope if you do not have a tow
bar.
The tow rope should be slightly elastic to reduce the strain on both vehicles. It is advisable to use a
tow rope made of synthetic fibre or similarly elastic material.
Only attach the tow rope or tow bar to the specially provided towing eyes or to the towing bracket.
When a vehicle with a manual gearbox has to be towed:
Check whether the vehicle can be towed ⇒ When should your vehicle not be towed?.
•Move the gear stick to neutral ⇒ Changing gear.
•Do not allow the vehicle to be towed at speeds faster than 50 km/h (30 mph).
•Do not have the vehicle towed further than 50 km (30 miles).
When a vehicle with an automated manual gearbox has to be towed:
Check whether the vehicle can be towed ⇒ When should your vehicle not be towed?
•Switch on the ignition.
•Move the selector lever to N⇒ Changing gear.
•Check whether the automated manual gearbox is really in neutral. To do this drive the car a few
metres as a test. The automated manual gearbox is in neutral if the vehicle can be easily
moved.
•Seek expert assistance if the automated manual gearbox cannot be put into neutral ⇒.
•Do not allow the vehicle to be towed at speeds faster than 50 km/h (30 mph).
•Do not have the vehicle towed further than 50 km (30 miles).
•If a breakdown truck is used, the vehicle must be towed with the front wheels raised.
When should your vehicle not be towed?
•If, due to damage, the vehicle gearbox no longer contains any lubricant.
•If the automated manual gearbox cannot be put into neutral ⇒.
•If the distance to be towed is further than 50 km - applies to vehicles with an automated manual
gearbox only.
•If the steering function or the operating clearance of the wheels cannot be ensured, e.g. after an
accident.
The vehicle can only be towed when the handbrake and steering lock are not engaged.
Fitting the front towing eye
When tow-starting, unburnt fuel can enter the catalytic converter and damage it.
NOTICE
Never tow a vehicle with automated manual gearbox if the automated manual gearbox cannot
be put into neutral. Otherwise, the gearbox and engine can suffer considerable damage.
NOTICE