Are any technical modifications required for driving the vehicle abroad, e.g. masking the
headlights?
Are the necessary tools, diagnostic equipment and spare parts available for service and
repair work?
Are there any Volkswagen dealerships in the destination country?
For petrol engines: is unleaded petrol with the correct octane number available?
And for gas engines: is compressed natural gas (CNG) available Fuel?
Are the correct engine oil (Engine oil) and other service fluids that comply with Volkswagen
specifications available in the destination country?
Will the portable navigation unit Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts
work with the navigation data available in the destination country?
Are special tyres necessary for travelling in the destination country?
Checklist
In some countries, special safety standards and emissions-related legislation apply that may
differ from the construction of the vehicle. Volkswagen recommends that you visit your
Volkswagen dealership before travelling abroad to find out about any legal requirements and
the following issues at your destination:
Driving through water on roads
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Please follow these rules to help prevent damage to your vehicle when driving through water, for
example if the road is flooded:
•Check the depth of the water before driving through it. The water level must be no higher than
the lower edge of the vehicle body ⇒.
•Do not drive faster than walking speed.
•Never stop the vehicle, reverse or switch off the engine while in water.
•Oncoming vehicles create waves that could increase the water level for your vehicle to such an
extent that it is not safe to drive through the water.
•When driving through water, always switch off the start/stop system ⇒ Pull-away assist
systems.
Technical data
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Vehicle identification data
⇒ Engine data
⇒ Dimensions
⇒ Performance figures
The vehicle data sticker in the service schedule or the vehicle registration documents show which
engine is installed in your vehicle.
All data in the official vehicle documents take precedence over these data. All data in this manual
apply to the basic model. The figures may be different if additional equipment is fitted, for different
models, for special vehicles and for other countries.
Volkswagen is not responsible for any vehicle damage caused by low-quality fuel, inadequate
servicing work or lack of Genuine Parts.
NOTICE
After driving through water, mud, slush etc., the brakes may react slowly and the braking
distance will be increased as the brake discs and pads will be wet, or possibly 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.
•Avoid abrupt and sudden braking manoeuvres directly after driving through water.
WARNING
•If you drive through water, parts of the vehicle, such as the engine, drive train, running
gear and vehicle electrics, could sustain severe damage.
•Never drive through salt water as salt can cause corrosion. Rinse all components that have
been exposed to salt water immediately with fresh water.
NOTICE
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Indicator lamps
⇒ Turn signal and main beam lever
⇒ Switching lights on and off
⇒ Lights and vision – functions
⇒ Attaching adhesive strips to headlights
⇒ Headlight range control, instrument and switch lighting
⇒ Interior and reading lights
Observe any country-specific regulations when using vehicle lighting.
The driver is responsible for the correct headlight position and the correct headlight setting.
Additional information and warnings:
•Exterior views ⇒ Exterior views
•Volkswagen information system ⇒ Volkswagen information system
•Changing bulbs ⇒ Changing bulbs
Indicator lamps
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Lit upPossible causeSolution
The rear fog light is switched on.⇒ Fog lights:.
Left or right turn signal.
The indicator lamp will flash twice as fast if
one of the turn signals on the vehicle is not
working.
If necessary, check the vehicle
lighting.
Main beam is switched on or the headlight
flasher is being operated.⇒ Turn signal and main beam lever.
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.
Turn signal and main beam lever
Accidents and serious injuries can occur if roads are not sufficiently illuminated and other
road users have difficulty seeing the vehicle, or cannot see it at all.
•Always switch the dipped beam headlights on if it is dark, raining or visibility is poor.
WARNING
Setting headlights too high, and the incorrect use of the main beam, could distract and dazzle
other road users. This can lead to accidents and serious injuries.
•Always ensure that the headlights are adjusted correctly.
•Never use the main beam or the headlight flasher if other road users could be dazzled.
WARNING
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.
•Stop the vehicle at a safe distance away from moving traffic and so that no part of the
exhaust system can come into contact with any inflammable material underneath the
vehicle, e.g. dry grass, fuel, oil etc.
•Broken-down vehicles increase the risk of accidents, both for you and for other road users.
If necessary, switch on the hazard warning lights and set up the warning triangle to warn
other road users.
WARNING
Failure to observe the illuminated indicator lamps could lead to the vehicle being damaged.
NOTICE
Checking and refilling the windscreen washer fluid level
Fig. 68 In the engine compartment: cap of washer fluid reservoir
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The windscreen washer fluid level should be checked regularly and topped up as necessary.
•Open the bonnet ⇒ .
•The washer fluid reservoir is identified by the symbol on the cap ⇒ Fig. 68.
•Check whether there is enough windscreen washer fluid in the reservoir.
•To top up, mix clean water with a washer fluid recommended by Volkswagen ⇒. Observe the
dilution instructions on the packaging.
•At low temperatures, add a special anti-freeze agent so that the fluid cannot freeze ⇒.
Recommended windscreen washer fluid
•For warm weather: summer windscreen wash- G 052 184 A1 -. Dilution 1:100 (1 part
concentrate, 100 parts water) in the washer fluid reservoir.
•All-year washer fluid- G 052 164 A2 -. Dilution in winter to -18°C (0°F) approximately 1:2 (1 part
concentrate, 2 parts water), otherwise dilute one part concentrate to four parts water (1:4) in the
washer fluid reservoir.
Capacities
The windscreen washer fluid reservoir has a capacity of about 3 litres.
Mirrors
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Interior mirror
⇒ Exterior mirrors
For safety reasons it is important that the driver positions the exterior and interior mirrors correctly
before starting a journey ⇒.
The driver can use the exterior mirrors and the interior mirror to observe rear traffic and then adjust
his or her driving style accordingly. Looking in the exterior mirrors and the interior mirror does not
•In order to prevent damage to the bonnet and the windscreen wiper arms, the windscreen
wiper arms should only be lifted when in the service position.
•Always return the windscreen wiper arms to the windscreen before starting your journey.
NOTICE
Never mix anti-freeze or other unsuitable additives into the windscreen washer fluid. An oily
film may otherwise be left on the screen, and restrict the field of vision.
•Use clean, clear water with a washer fluid recommended by Volkswagen.
•A suitable anti-freeze agent should be added to the windscreen washer fluid if necessary.
WARNING
•Never mix other cleaning agents with the cleaning agents recommended by Volkswagen.
This can cause the ingredients to separate and block the washer jets.
•Never mix up service fluids when refilling. Failure to observe this warning can result in
serious malfunctions and engine damage.
NOTICE
Warning and indicator lamps
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Lit upPossible cause ⇒Solution
Handbrake is applied.⇒ Handbrake.
Brake system fault.
Do not drive on!
Seek expert assistance immediately ⇒ Fault
in the brake system.
Brake fluid level is too low.Do not drive on!
Check brake fluid level ⇒ Brake fluid level.
In conjunction with ABS indicator lamp
: ABS and EDV not functioning.
Do not drive on!
Seek expert assistance immediately ⇒ Fault
in the brake system.
ESC switched off by the system.Switch the ignition on and off. If necessary,
drive a short distance.
ESC fault.Proceed to a qualified workshop.
In conjunction with ABS indicator lamp
: ABS fault.
Proceed to a qualified workshop. The
vehicle can be braked without ABS.
Vehicle battery has been reconnected.
Drive a short distance at a speed of
15 – 20 km/h (10 – 12 mph). If the indicator
lamp remains lit up, the vehicle should be
checked by a qualified workshop ⇒ Vehicle
battery.
Traction Control fault or switched off for
system-related reasons.
Go to qualified workshop ⇒ Traction Control
System (TCS) or Traction Control (TC).
In conjunction with ESC indicator lamp
: ABS fault.
Proceed to a qualified workshop. The
vehicle can be braked without ABS.
Driving with worn brake pads or with a faulty brake system can cause accidents and serious
injuries.
•If you have reason to believe that the brakes are worn down or the brake system is faulty,
go to a qualified workshop immediately and have the brake system checked and have any
worn brake pads replaced.
WARNING
Incorrect parking can cause serious injuries.
•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 or control the
vehicle.
•Never park the vehicle where parts of the exhaust system can come into contact with
inflammable material underneath the vehicle, e.g. leaves, dry grass, spilt fuel.
•Always apply the handbrake fully when the vehicle is parked.
•Never leave children or people requiring assistance alone in the vehicle. They could
release the handbrake, move the selector lever or gearshift lever and thus set the vehicle
in motion. This can lead to accidents and serious injuries.
•Always take all vehicle keys with you every time you leave the vehicle. The engine can still
be started and electrical equipment such as the window controls still can be operated,
potentially causing serious injury.
•Never leave children or people requiring assistance alone in the vehicle. They could
become trapped in the vehicle in an emergency and may not be able to get themselves to
safety. For example, locked vehicles may be subjected to very high or very low
temperatures, according to season. This can cause serious injuries and illness or
fatalities, especially for small children.
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
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
If the front brake pads are tested, the rear brake pads should be tested at the same time.
Regularly check the thickness of the brake pads through the openings in the rims or from the
underside of the vehicle. If necessary, remove the wheels to carry out a comprehensive check.
Volkswagen recommends using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.
Brake assist systems
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The brake assist systems ESC, ABS, EBV, BAS, TCS, TC and EDL will only function when the
engine is running. They make a considerable contribution to active driving safety.
Electronic stability control (ESC)
The ESC helps to reduce the risk of skidding and to improve driving stability by braking individual
wheels in certain driving situations. The ESC detects critical driving situations such as oversteer,
understeer and wheelspin. The system supports the stabilisation process for the vehicle by targeted
braking or by reducing engine torque.
ESC has its limitations. It is important to realise that ESC cannot overcome the laws of physics.
ESC will not be able to assist in every situation faced by a driver. For example, ESC will not be able
New brake pads will not have the optimal braking effect when first fitted.
•New brake pads cannot generate the full braking effect during the first 320 km and must
first be run in. A reduced braking effect can be increased by applying more pressure to the
brake pedal.
•You must drive particularly carefully when driving with new brake pads in order to reduce
the risk of accidents, serious injuries and loss of control of the vehicle.
•Never drive too close to other vehicles when running in new brake pads, and never create
a driving situation that will place a heavy load on the brakes.
WARNING
Overheated brakes reduce the braking effect and considerably increase the braking distance.
•When driving downhill the brakes are placed under particular strain and become hot very
quickly.
•Before driving down a long, steep gradient, reduce speed and change to a lower gear or
move the selector lever to a lower position. This will make use of the engine braking effect
and relieve the load on the brakes.
•Non-standard or damaged front spoilers could restrict the airflow to the brakes and cause
them to overheat.
WARNING
Wet brakes or brakes coated with ice or road salt react more slowly and require longer
braking distances.
•Carefully apply the brakes to test them.
•Always dry brakes and clean off any coating of ice and salt with a few cautious
applications of the brake when visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions permit.
WARNING
Driving without the brake servo can considerably increase the braking distance and thus
cause accidents and serious injuries.
•Never allow the vehicle to roll if the engine is switched off.
•If the brake servo does not function 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.
WARNING
•Never let the brakes rub by applying light pressure to the brake when it is not necessary to
brake. Continual pressure on the brake pedal will overheat the brakes. This can
considerably reduce the brake effect, increase the braking distance and, in certain
circumstances, cause the brake system to fail completely.
•Before driving down a long, steep gradient, reduce speed and change to a lower gear or
move the selector lever to a lower position. This will make use of the engine braking effect
and relieve the load on the brakes. The brakes could otherwise overheat and possibly fail.
The brakes should only be used to slow or stop the vehicle.
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