2021 VOLKSWAGEN UP! heating

General information on the heating and fresh air system
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The required interior temperature cannot be lower than the outside temperature as the heating and
fresh air system cannot cool or dehumidify the air.
Settings for optimal road visibility
•Set blower ⇒ Fig. 112② to level 1 or 2.
•Open and position all vents on the dash panel ⇒ Vents.
•Turn the air distribution controller ⇒ Fig. 112③ to the defrost position.
Information on the air conditioning system
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The cooling system for the vehicle interior only works when the engine is running and the blower is
switched on.
The air conditioning system operates most effectively with the windows and the electric panorama
sliding and tilting glass roof closed. However, if the vehicle has heated up after standing in the sun
for some time, the air inside can be cooled more quickly by opening the windows and the electric
panorama sliding and tilting glass roof for a short time.
Settings for optimal road visibility
Switching the cooling system on not only reduces the temperature of the vehicle interior, but also
the humidity. This improves comfort for the vehicle occupants and prevents the windows from
misting when the outside humidity is high.
•Switch off air recirculation mode ⇒ Air recirculation mode.
•Set the blowers to the required level.
•Open and position all vents on the dash panel ⇒ Vents.
•Turn the air distribution controller to the defrost position.
•Press the button to switch the cooling system on. The indicator lamp in the button
lights up.
The cooling system cannot be switched on
The following criteria may prevent the cooling system from being switched on:
•The engine is not running.
•The blower is switched off.
•The air conditioning system fuse has blown.
•The ambient temperature is lower than approximately +2℃ (+36°F).
•The compressor has been temporarily switched off because the coolant temperature is too high.
•There is a different fault in the vehicle. The air conditioning system should be checked by a
qualified workshop.
Things to note
If the humidity and temperature outside the vehicle are high, condensation can drip off the
evaporator in the cooling system and form a pool underneath the vehicle. This is normal and does
not indicate a leak.
The windscreen may mist up after starting the engine due to residual humidity in the air
conditioning system. Switch the defrost function on in order to clear the windscreen of condensation
or mist as quickly as possible.
Vents
Fig. 114 In the dash panel: vents
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction

Switch off the engine, ignition and the mobile telephone before filling the tank and leave them
switched off during the process ⇒.
Please read and follow the instructions for the natural gas refuelling system.
The vehicle is not constructed for use with Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) ⇒. Before refilling with
natural gas check that you are using the correct fuel ⇒ Fuel.
Opening the tank cap
The gas filler neck is located under the tank flap next to the petrol filler neck.
•The tank flap is at the rear of the vehicle on the right.
•Open the tank cap by the moulding to the rear.
Filling the tank
At very high ambient temperatures, the overheating protection function for the natural gas refuelling
system could switch off automatically.
•Remove the cap ⇒ Fig. 118① from the gas filler neck ②.
•Place the filler coupling for the refuelling system on the gas filler neck. Please refer to natural
gas refuelling system operating manual.
•The fuel tank is full when the compressor for the refuelling system switches off automatically.
•To end the refuelling procedure press the stop button on the refuelling system.
Closing the tank cap
•Check whether seal ⇒ Fig. 118③ on the gas filler neck has slipped onto the filler coupling.
Place the seal back in the gas filler neck as necessary.
•Push the cap ① onto the gas filler neck.
•Close the tank flap. The tank flap must be flush with the vehicle bodywork.
The filling couplings for the natural gas refuelling systems can be of various different
designs. Please ask for assistance from trained personnel if you are unsure of how to use the
system.
Noises which you may hear while refuelling are normal and do not indicate that the system is
malfunctioning.
The natural gas system in your vehicle is suitable for use with small compressors (slow fill)
and large compressors (fast fill).
Capacities
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Fuel tank capacity
Petrol enginesapprox 35.0 l, of which 4.0 l reserve.
Natural gas engineNatural gas: approx. 11.0 kg of which reserve approx. 1.5 kg.
Petrol: approx. 10.0 l of which reserve approx. 5.0 l
Checks when filling the tank
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Checklist
Never carry out any work on the engine or in the engine compartment if you are not familiar with
the necessary procedures and the general safety requirements or if the correct operating
Natural gas is highly explosive and inflammable. Failure to refuel properly with natural gas
could result in accidents, serious burns and other injuries.
•Lock the fuel filler nozzle correctly before refuelling natural gas. Stop refuelling
immediately if you start to smell gas.
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

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

Changing engine oil
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The engine oil must be changed regularly in accordance with the data given in the service
schedule.
The engine oil and filter should always be changed, and used oil disposed of, by a qualified
workshop due to the special tools and knowledge required. Volkswagen recommends using a
Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.
More details on the service intervals can be found in the service schedule.
Additives in the engine oil can cause new engine oil to discolour quickly. This is normal and does
not mean that the engine oil should be changed more frequently.
Before changing the engine oil, first find out where old oil can be disposed of properly near
you.
Used oil must be disposed of in accordance with regulations governing the protection of the
environment. Never dispose of old oil in locations such as gardens, woods, sewerage systems, on
streets and roads, or in rivers and waterways.
Coolant
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Warning lamp for coolant
⇒ Coolant specification
⇒ Checking the coolant level and refilling coolant
Never carry out any work on the engine coolant system if you are not familiar with the requisite
procedures, or if you do not have access to the correct tools, operating equipment and fluids ⇒.
The work should be carried out by a qualified workshop if you are uncertain. Volkswagen
recommends using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.
Serious injuries can be caused if work is carried out incorrectly.
Additional information and warnings:
•Preparation for working in the engine compartment ⇒ Preparation for working in the engine
compartment
•Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts ⇒ Accessories, modifications, repairs
and renewal of parts
If, in exceptional cases, you have to carry out an oil change yourself, please note the
following:
•Always wear eye protection.
•Always allow the engine to cool down completely to avoid burns.
•Keep your arms horizontal when removing the oil drain plug with your fingers to help
prevent oil from running down your arm.
•Use a suitable container when draining the used oil. It must be at least large enough to
hold the entire quantity of engine oil required for refilling.
•Never store engine oil in empty food containers, bottles or any other non-original
containers as people finding these containers may not know that they contain engine oil.
•Engine oil is toxic and must be stored out of the reach of children.
WARNING
Engine coolant is toxic.
•Engine coolant should only be kept in sealed original containers in a safe place.
•Never store engine coolant in empty food containers, bottles or any other non-original
containers as people finding these containers may then drink the engine coolant.
•The engine coolant must be stored out of the reach of children.
•Please note that the amount of correct coolant additive used must be sufficient for the
lowest ambient temperature that you expect the vehicle to be exposed to.
•Coolant can freeze at extremely cold outside temperatures, causing the vehicle to break
down. Vehicle occupants with inadequate winter clothing could then freeze to death as the
heating will also no longer function.
WARNING

Coolant and coolant additives can pollute the environment. Spilt operating fluids must be
collected and disposed of properly and with respect for the environment.
Checking the coolant level and refilling coolant
Fig. 123 In the engine compartment: marking on the coolant expansion tank
Fig. 124 In the engine compartment: coolant expansion tank cap
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The warning lamp for the engine coolant will light up if the engine coolant level is too low.
Preparation
•Park the vehicle on a firm and level surface.
•Allow the engine to cool down ⇒.
•Open the bonnet ⇒ .
•The coolant expansion tank has the symbol on its cap ⇒ Fig. 124.
Checking the coolant level
•Check the coolant level at the side marking of the expansion tank when the engine is cold
⇒ Fig. 123.
•Refill the coolant if the liquid level is below the minimum marking (min). When the engine is
warm, the coolant level may be slightly above the top end of the marked area.
Refilling coolant
•Always protect your hands and arms from hot coolant or steam by placing a suitable cloth on
the cap of the coolant expansion tank.
Insufficient anti-freeze in the coolant system can cause the engine to break down and cause
serious injuries.
•Please note that the amount of correct coolant additive used must be sufficient for the
lowest ambient temperature that you expect the vehicle to be exposed to.
•Coolant can freeze at extremely cold outside temperatures, causing the vehicle to break
down. Vehicle occupants with inadequate winter clothing could then freeze to death as the
heating will also no longer function.
WARNING
Never mix genuine coolant additives with other coolants that have not been approved by
Volkswagen. Mixing other coolants could cause serious damage to the engine and cooling
system.
•If the liquid in the coolant expansion tank is brown instead of purple, for example, - G 13 -
has been mixed with another unsuitable engine coolant. The coolant must be changed as
soon as possible if this is the case. Failure to observe this point can result in serious faults
or engine damage.
NOTICE

Cleaning and changing windscreen wiper blades
Fig. 126 Changing the windscreen wiper blades
Fig. 127 Changing the rear window wiper blade
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The factory-fitted windscreen wiper blades are coated with graphite. The graphite coating ensures
that the windscreen wiper blade moves quietly over the windscreen. If the graphite coating is
damaged, the windscreen wiper will become louder.
Check the condition of the wiper blades on a regular basis. Rubbing wiper blades should be
changed if damaged or cleaned if dirty ⇒.
Damaged wiper blades should be replaced immediately. Windscreen wiper blades can be bought
from a qualified workshop.
Cleaning windscreen wiper blades
Note for the front windscreen wiper: move the wiper arms to the service position before lifting
them ⇒ Windscreen wiper and washer.
•When lifting a wiper arm hold it only by the wiper blade mounting.
•Clean the windscreen wiper blade carefully using a damp cloth ⇒.
•Place the windscreen wiper arm back onto the windscreen.
Changing the windscreen wiper blades
•Move the wiper arms to the service position before lifting ⇒ Windscreen wiper and washer.
•When lifting a wiper arm hold it only by the wiper blade mounting.
•Press and hold the release button ⇒ Fig. 126① and simultaneously pull off the wiper blade in
the direction of the arrow.
•Insert a new wiper blade with the same length and design onto the wiper arm. Push it on until it
engages.
Dirty or misted windows reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents and severe
injuries.
•Only drive when you have a clear view through all windows.
•Ice, snow and mist must be removed from the inside and outside of all windows.
WARNING
•Never combine the recommended cleaning agents with other cleaning agents for use in the
windscreen washer fluid. This can cause the ingredients to separate and block the washer
jets.
•Never use warm or hot water to remove snow and ice from windows and mirrors. This can
cause the glass to crack.
•The heating elements for the rear window heater are located on the inside of the rear
window. Never apply stickers over the heating elements and never clean the inside of the
rear window with corrosive or acidic detergents or any other chemicals.
NOTICE

recommends that the protective coating on the underside of the vehicle and on the running gear
should be checked regularly and repaired if necessary.
Cleaning the engine compartment
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The engine compartment of any motor vehicle is a hazardous area ⇒ Preparation for working in the
engine compartment.
The engine compartment should be cleaned by a qualified workshop. An incorrect cleaning
procedure could possibly remove corrosion protection and damage electrical components.
Furthermore, water could enter the vehicle interior directly via the plenum chamber ⇒.
If the engine compartment is very dirty, we recommend that you always proceed to a qualified
workshop to have it cleaned by a professional mechanic. Volkswagen recommends using a
Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.
Plenum chamber
The plenum chamber is located in the engine compartment between the windscreen and the engine
and has a perforated cover. Air from outside is drawn in from the plenum chamber and is passed
into the vehicle interior via the heating and air conditioning system.
Leaves and other loose objects must be removed from the cover of the plenum chamber at regular
intervals using a vacuum cleaner or by hand.
In the interests of environmental protection, the engine compartment should be washed only
in specially provided wash bays. This prevents toxic waste water containing oil, grease and fuel
from entering the sewerage system. In some districts, washing the engine compartment anywhere
else may be prohibited.
Cleaning and caring for the interior
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Seat covers
⇒ Cleaning cloth seat covers, fabric trim and Alcantara upholstery
⇒ Cleaning and caring for natural leather covers
⇒ Cleaning leatherette upholstery
⇒ Cleaning stowage compartments, drink holders and ash trays
⇒ Cleaning and caring for the dash panel, wooden trims and plastic parts
⇒ Cleaning seat belts
Modern fabrics, such as dark denim, are often not colourfast. Light-coloured upholstery (soft
materials or leather) is particularly sensitive to staining caused by these fabrics, even if you are
careful. This is not caused by a fault in the upholstery, but by the non-colourfast nature of the
garments.
Leaving stains, dirt and other deposits on the surface of vehicle components and cloth seat covers
for a long time can make it difficult to clean and treat them. Stains, dirt and deposits may become
impossible to remove, particularly if left for a long time.
Additional information and warnings:
•Cleaning and caring for the vehicle exterior ⇒ Caring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior
Underseal and anti-corrosion coatings can ignite on the hot exhaust system or on other hot
engine parts.
•Never apply underseal or anti-corrosion coatings to the exhaust pipes, catalytic converter,
heat shields or other vehicle components that become hot.
CAUTION
All work in the engine compartment carries the risk of injury, scalding, accidents and fire.
•Before carrying out any work ensure that you are familiar with the requisite procedures
and general safety regulations ⇒ Preparation for working in the engine compartment.
•Volkswagen recommends having the work carried out by a qualified workshop.
WARNING
Water that has entered the plenum chamber via a manual process (e.g. from a high-pressure
cleaner) can cause considerable damage to the vehicle.
NOTICE

Cleaning upholstery on seat cushions with seat heating, electrically
adjustable seats, or seats containing airbag components
Airbag-related components and electrical connectors may be installed in the driver seat, passenger
seat and sometimes also in the rear outer seats. Seat cushions or backrests that are damaged,
incorrectly cleaned or treated, or that become wet, may cause damage to the vehicle electrics or
trigger a fault in the airbag system ⇒.
Electrical components and connectors are installed in electrically adjustable seats and seat
cushions with seat heating. These can be damaged if cleaned or treated incorrectly ⇒. This can
also result in damage to other parts of the vehicle electrics.
For this reason, please follow these cleaning guidelines:
•Do not use high-pressure cleaners, steam cleaners or coolant spray.
•Do not use washing paste or fine detergent solutions.
•Avoid getting the seat wet.
•Only use detergents that have been approved by Volkswagen.
•If in doubt, consult a specialist cleaning company.
Cleaning upholstery on seat cushions without seat heating, seats that are
not electrically adjustable, and seats that do not contain airbag components
•Please read and follow the instructions, notes and warnings on the package before using
cleaning products.
•Upholstery, fabric trims, Alcantara seat covers and carpeting should be cleaned regularly with
a vacuum cleaner (brush).
•Do not use high-pressure cleaners, steam cleaners or coolant spray.
•We recommend that you use a soft sponge or commercially available lint-free microfibre cloth
for cleaning jobs ⇒.
•Clean Alcantara surfaces with a slightly damp cotton or woollen cloth or a commercially
available lint-free microfibre cloth ⇒.
General surface soiling of the upholstery and fabric trim can be cleaned with a commercially
available foam cleaner.
If the upholstery and fabric trims are generally heavily soiled, consult a Volkswagen dealership for
information on suitable cleaning methods before attempting any cleaning. If required, take the
vehicle to a specialist cleaning company.
Treating stains
When treating stains, it may be necessary to clean the entire surface and not just the stain itself.
This particularly applies if the surface shows general signs of wear. The cleaned area could
otherwise be lighter than the surrounding area. If in doubt, consult a specialist cleaning company.
Type of stainRecommended cleaning method for seat cushions
and upholstery
Water-based stains, e.g.
coffee, fruit juice.
– Moisten a sponge using a spray bottle and treat the stain by
rubbing it in a circular motion.
– Wipe with a dry absorbent cloth.
Stubborn stains, e.g.
chocolate, foundation.
– Only use detergents approved by Volkswagen.
– If required, take the vehicle to a specialist cleaning firm to have the
upholstery cleaned.
Oily stains, e.g. oil,
lipstick.
– Only use detergents approved by Volkswagen.
– If required, take the vehicle to a specialist cleaning firm to have the
upholstery cleaned.
®
®
If there is a fault in the airbag system, the airbag may not function properly, or not function at
all or function unexpectedly. This could cause accidents and fatal injuries.
•The airbag system should be checked by a qualified workshop as soon as possible.
WARNING
If the upholstery on electrically adjustable seats or on seat cushions containing airbag
components gets wet, electric components and the vehicle electrics could be damaged.
•A wet seat cushion should always be dried out, and system components checked, by a
qualified workshop.
•Do not use steam cleaners as the steam pushes the soiling into the fabric and sets it.
•High-pressure cleaners and coolant sprays can damage the upholstery.
NOTICE