Roof carrier
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Attaching the mounts and load carrier system
⇒ Loading the load carrier system
The roof of the vehicle has been designed for optimum aerodynamic effect. It is therefore no longer
possible to attach conventional roof carrier systems to a rain channel on the roof.
As the rain channels have been integrated into the roof for better aerodynamics, only mounts or
roof carriers approved by Volkswagen can be used.
When should the roof carrier be removed?
•When it is no longer being used.
•When the vehicle is driving through a car wash.
•When the vehicle height exceeds the required clearance height, e.g. in a garage.
Additional information and warnings:
•Lights ⇒ Lights
•Transporting ⇒ Transporting
•Driving with respect for the environment ⇒ Driving with respect for the environment
•Wheels and tyres ⇒ Wheels and tyres
•Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts ⇒ Accessories, modifications, repairs
and renewal of parts
Driving with a fitted roof carrier will increase air resistance and thus increase fuel
consumption.
Attaching the mounts and load carrier system
Never use the bag hooks as fastening rings for straps. The bag hook could break off during a
sudden braking manoeuvre or accident.
WARNING
The bag hooks can only carry a maximum of 1.5 kg.
NOTICE
When transporting heavy or bulky objects in the roof carrier, the vehicle's handling will change
due to a shift in the centre of gravity and an increased susceptibility to crosswinds.
•Always secure loads properly using suitable and undamaged securing straps.
•Cargo that is large, heavy, bulky, long or flat will have a negative effect on the vehicle
aerodynamics, centre of gravity and overall handling.
•Avoid abrupt and sudden driving and braking manoeuvres.
•Adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.
WARNING
•Always remove the roof carrier before driving through an automatic car wash.
•The vehicle's height is changed by the installation of the roof carrier system and the load
secured on it. Check and compare the height of the vehicle with clearance heights, e.g. for
underpasses and garage doors.
•The roof carrier system and its load must not obstruct you from opening and closing the
electric panorama sliding/tilting glass roof and tailgate. The roof aerial must also remain
unaffected.
•When opening the tailgate, take care not to let it hit the roof load.
NOTICE
Fig. 78 Attachment points for the mounts on 2-door vehicles (both sides)
Fig. 79 Attachment points for the mounts on 4-door vehicles (both sides)
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Mounts serve as a basis for special load carrier systems. Special load carriers must then be added
to transport luggage, bicycles, skis, surfboards or boats safely. Suitable accessories are available
from your Volkswagen dealership.
Mounts and load carriers must always be attached correctly. You must observe the fitting
instructions that were delivered with the roof carrier system.
Attaching the mounts and load carrier system
2-door vehicles: the holes or markings for the front mount securing points are located on the
underside of the roof side members ⇒ Fig. 78A (left-hand magnification). The holes or markings for
the securing points are only visible when the door is open. The markings for attaching at the rear
are at the top on the side windows ⇒ Fig. 78 (right magnification).
4-door vehicles: the holes or markings for the mount securing points are located on the underside
of the roof side member and are visible only when the doors are open ⇒ Fig. 79.
The roof carrier must only be attached at the markings shown in the illustration ⇒.
After fitting the mounts properly as per the instructions provided, attach the load carrier to the
mount.
Read and note the fitting instructions for the mounts and the load carrier system provided
and always carry the instructions in the vehicle.
Loading the load carrier system
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Loads can only be attached securely when the roof carrier system is fitted correctly ⇒.
Maximum permissible roof load
The maximum permitted roof load is 50 kg. The roof load limit refers to the combined weight of the
load carrier, the mounts and the load carried on the roof ⇒.
Incorrectly attaching and using the mounts and load carrier could cause the whole system to
fall off the roof. This could cause accidents and injuries.
•Always observe the manufacturer's instructions.
•Use mounts and load carriers only when they are undamaged and fitted correctly.
•The roof carrier may be attached at the markings shown in the illustrations only ⇒ Fig. 78
or ⇒ Fig. 79.
•Fit mounts and load carriers correctly.
•Check the bolts and anchorage points before starting your journey and adjust as
necessary after driving a short distance. During a long trip, check all bolts and fasteners at
each stop.
•Special fixtures for items such as bicycles, skis, surfboards, etc. should always be
properly installed.
•Do not carry out any alterations or repairs to the mounts and roof carrier system.
WARNING
Ensure that you know the weight of the mounts, roof carrier system and the items to be transported
on the roof - weigh them if necessary. Never exceed the maximum permissible roof load.
However, if you are using a carrier system with a lower weight rating, you will not be able to carry
the maximum roof load. In this case, do not exceed the maximum weight limit for the load carrier
system which is listed in the fitting instructions.
Distributing the load
Distribute the load evenly and secure it correctly ⇒.
Checking the fittings
After the mounts and load carrier have been attached, check the bolted connections and fastenings
once you have travelled a short distance and then at regular intervals.
Towing a trailer
Information on towing
The vehicle is not approved for towing a trailer. The vehicle is not factory-fitted with a towing
bracket and a towing bracket cannot be retrofitted.
Practical equipment
Stowage area
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Stowage compartment on the driver side
⇒ Stowage compartment in the front centre console
⇒ Stowage compartment with cover on the front passenger side
⇒ Open stowage compartment on the front passenger side
⇒ Stowage compartment in the rear centre console
⇒ Other stowage areas
Only use stowage compartments to stow light or smaller objects.
Additional information and warnings:
•Cleaning and caring for the interior ⇒ Cleaning and caring for the interior
•⇒BookletRadio,
Accidents and vehicle damage can occur if the maximum permitted roof load is exceeded.
•Never exceed the quoted roof load, the maximum permissible axle loads, and the
permissible gross vehicle weight for the vehicle.
•Do not exceed the weight rating of the roof carrier system, even if the maximum roof load
has not been reached.
•Secure heavy objects as far forwards as possible and distribute the load evenly.
WARNING
Loose and incorrectly secured loads could fall off the load carrier and cause accidents and
injuries.
•Always use suitable and undamaged securing straps.
•Secure loads properly.
WARNING
Fitting a towing bracket on the vehicle while the vehicle is in operation can lead to accidents
and cause serious injuries.
•Never fit a towing bracket on the vehicle.
•The bracket could be released from the vehicle during the journey.
WARNING
Fitting towing brackets of any kind can lead to serious vehicle damage.
NOTICE
Avoid unnecessary loads
The lighter the vehicle, the more economical and environmentally-friendly it is. An extra weight of
100 kg can increase fuel consumption by up to 0.3 l/100 km.
Remove all unnecessary objects and loads from the vehicle.
Remove any unnecessary special equipment and accessories
The more aerodynamic a vehicle, the lower its fuel consumption. Special equipment and
accessories, such as roof carriers or bicycle carriers, make the vehicle less aerodynamic.
You should therefore remove any special equipment and luggage carriers that are not in use,
especially if you are going to be driving at high speeds.
Steering
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Warning and indicator lamps
⇒ Information on steering
Depending on its equipment level the vehicle may have power steering.
The power steering is not hydraulic. It is an electromechanical system. The advantage of this
steering system is that no hydraulic hoses, hydraulic oil, pumps, filter or other parts are required.
The electromechanical system reduces fuel consumption. A hydraulic system requires constant oil
pressure in the system, whereas an electromechanical steering system only needs an energy
supply while steering.
The power steering provided by the electromechanical steering system automatically adjusts to the
vehicle speed, steering wheel torque and steering wheel angle. The electromechanical steering
only functions when the engine is running.
Additional information and warnings:
•Starting and stopping the engine ⇒ Starting and stopping the engine
•Battery ⇒ Vehicle battery
•Tow-starting and towing ⇒ Tow-starting and towing
Warning and indicator lamps
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Lit upPossible causeSolution
The electromechanical steering is faulty
or not working.
The steering should be checked by a
qualified workshop as soon as possible.
Electromechanical steering function
reduced.
The steering should be checked by a
qualified workshop as soon as possible.
If the yellow warning lamp remains off after
the ignition has been restarted and you have
driven a short distance, you do not need to
consult a qualified workshop.
The vehicle battery has been
disconnected and reconnected.
Drive a short distance at a speed of
15 – 20 km/h (9 – 12 mph).
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 power steering is not working, the steering wheel is difficult to turn, which makes it
difficult to steer the vehicle.
•The power steering only functions when the engine is running.
•Never allow the vehicle to roll if the engine is switched off.
•Never remove the vehicle key from the ignition lock when the vehicle is in motion. The
steering lock may be activated and you will no longer be able to steer the vehicle.
WARNING
FlashesPossible cause ⇒Solution
soiling, ice, roof load protruding over the
front) ⇒. Proceed to a qualified
workshop immediately and have the
system checked if it is constantly
unavailable.
When travelling between
5 – 30 km/h (3 – 19 mph): the city
emergency brake function was
switched off using the button
⇒ Fig. 109.
Switch on the city emergency brake
function using the button
⇒ Fig. 109.
Several warning and indicator lamps will light up briefly as a functional check when the ignition is
switched on. They will switch off after a few seconds.
Laser sensor
Fig. 107 On the windscreen: laser sensor for the city emergency brake function
Fig. 108 Detection range of the laser sensor
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The system monitors the traffic in front of the vehicle using a laser sensor in the windscreen
⇒ Fig. 107.
Vehicles travelling ahead can thus be recognised up to a distance of approximately 10 m.
Failure to observe the warning lamps could lead to your vehicle breaking down in traffic, and
to accidents and serious injuries.
•Never ignore any warning lamps that are lit up.
•Stop the vehicle as soon as possible and when safe to do so.
WARNING
Failure to observe the illuminated indicator lamps could lead to the vehicle being damaged.
NOTICE
Switching city emergency brake function on and off
Fig. 109 In lower part of centre console: button for the city emergency brake function
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Switching the city emergency brake function on and off
•Press the ⇒ Fig. 109 button in the centre console.
When the city emergency brake function is switched off, the indicator lamp lights up
when the vehicle is travelling at 5 – 30 km/h (3 – 19 mph).
Switch off the city emergency brake function in the following situations
The city emergency brake function should be switched off in the following situations ⇒:
•If the vehicle is being towed.
•If you are driving the vehicle through an automatic car wash.
•If the vehicle is on a rolling road test bed.
•If the laser sensor is faulty.
•If the laser sensor has been hit or moved with force.
•If the vehicle is being driven off-road (e.g. through low-hanging branches).
•If there are protruding objects in the area above the bonnet, e.g. a load on the roof that sticks
out at the front.
•If the windscreen is damaged in the area around the laser sensor.
•Driving with tailgate open.
•In the event of multiple unwanted interventions.
The beam from the laser sensor could cause severe damage to the eyes.
•Never use optical devices, such as a rangefinder camera, microscope or magnifying glass,
to look into the laser sensor from a distance of less than 100 mm.
•Please be aware that the laser beam may still be active even if the city emergency brake
function is switched off or unavailable. The laser beam is not visible to the human eye!
WARNING
The city emergency brake function may not work if the area on the windscreen around the
laser sensor is iced over, dirty or covered, for example from rain, spray or snow or by roof
loads protruding over the front of the vehicle.
•Always keep the area around the laser sensor free from dirt and ice and do not cover it.
•Remove snow with a brush, and remove ice preferably with a solvent-free de-icer spray.
NOTICE
The city emergency brake function may fail to work if the windscreen is damaged in the area
around the laser sensor.
•Have the windscreen replaced if it is scratched, cracked or chipped in the area around the
laser sensor. Only use windscreens that have been approved by Volkswagen. Do not
simply have the windscreen repaired (for example, if it has been damaged by stone
chipping).
•When changing the windscreen wiper blades only use wiper blades that are the same
production quality as the factory-fitted wiper blades.
•Do not paint the windscreen in the area around the laser sensor or cover the area with
stickers, deposits or similar.
NOTICE
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
How the vehicle battery discharges:
•Long periods at a standstill in which the engine is not running, especially if the ignition is
switched on.
•The use of electrical consumers when the engine is switched off.
Dispose of the vehicle battery as required by legislation. Batteries may contain toxic
substances such as sulphuric acid and lead.
Electrolyte can pollute the environment. Clean up any service fluid leakages and dispose of
them properly.
Vehicle care and maintenance
Caring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Washing the vehicle
⇒ Washing the vehicle with a high-pressure cleaner
⇒ Cleaning windows and exterior mirrors
⇒ Cleaning and changing windscreen wiper blades
⇒ Waxing and polishing the vehicle
⇒ Cleaning and caring for chrome and aluminium trim parts
⇒ Cleaning wheels
⇒ Care of rubber seals
⇒ De-icing the door lock cylinders
⇒ Underseal
⇒ Cleaning the engine compartment
Regular and expert care helps to maintain the value of the vehicle. Proper maintenance may also
be one of the requirements for the approval of warranty claims in the event of corrosion or paint
defects.
Suitable care products are available from Volkswagen dealers.
Additional information and warnings:
•Preparation for working in the engine compartment ⇒ Preparation for working in the engine
compartment
•Cleaning and caring for the interior ⇒ Cleaning and caring for the interior
•Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts ⇒ Accessories, modifications, repairs
and renewal of parts
Incorrectly attaching the battery and using incorrect vehicle batteries can cause short circuits,
fire and serious injuries.
•Always use maintenance-free and leak-proof batteries that have the same properties,
specifications and dimensions as the factory-fitted vehicle battery.
WARNING
A highly explosive mixture of gases is given off when the vehicle battery is being charged.
•Vehicle batteries should only be charged in well-ventilated spaces.
•Never charge a vehicle battery once it has been frozen. Discharged vehicle batteries can
even freeze at temperatures of around 0°C (+32°F).
•A vehicle battery must be replaced if it has been frozen.
•Incorrectly connected cables can cause a short circuit. First connect the positive cable and
then the negative cable.
WARNING
•Never make or break connections between vehicle batteries if the ignition is switched on or
the engine is running. Never use a vehicle battery that does not correspond with the
vehicle's specifications. The vehicle's electrical system or electronic components could be
damaged, which could lead to electrical faults, for example in the start/stop system.
•Never connect equipment that provides electricity, such as solar panels or a battery
charger, to the 12-volt socket or to the cigarette lighter to charge the vehicle battery. This
can damage the vehicle electrical system.
NOTICE