2021 VOLKSWAGEN UP! maintenance

Owner's manual*Owner's manual
Owner's manual
RCD 210, RCD 215
Replacement service schedule
Edition: 11.2012
Item number: 132.5R1.BUP.20
Refers to a section within a chapter that contains important information and safety
notes that should always be observed.
Indicates that the section is continued on the next page.
Indicates the end of a section.
Indicates situations in which the vehicle must be stopped as quickly as possible.
®Indicates a registered trademark. However, the absence of this symbol does not
constitute a waiver of the rights concerning any term.
⇒
Symbols like these refer you to warnings within the same section or on a given
page. They draw your attention to possible risks of accident or injury and explain
how they can be avoided.
⇒Cross reference to information about possible damage to your vehicle within the
same section or on a given page.
Texts with this symbol contain additional information on the protection of the environment.
Texts with this symbol contain additional information.
Thank you for choosing Volkswagen
By purchasing this Volkswagen, you have become the owner of a vehicle fitted with the most up-to-
date technology and a multitude of convenience functions for your use and enjoyment.
Before using your vehicle for the first time, please read and observe the information in this
owner's manual. It will quickly help you to become familiar with your vehicle and all of its
functions as well as making you aware of dangers to yourself and others and of how these
dangers can be avoided.
If you have any further questions about your vehicle, or if you think that the vehicle wallet has not
covered everything, please get in touch with your Volkswagen dealership. They will always be
happy to deal with your questions, suggestions or problems.
up!
Description of symbols
Texts with this symbol indicate dangerous situations which will lead to fatal or severe injuries
if you do not observe the warning.
DANGER
Texts with this symbol indicate dangerous situations which could lead to fatal or severe
injuries if you do not observe the warning.
WARNING
Texts with this symbol indicate dangerous situations which could lead to slight or severe
injuries if you do not observe the warning.
CAUTION
Texts with this symbol indicate situations which could cause vehicle damage if you do not
observe the warning.
NOTICE
Description of symbols
Thank you for choosing Volkswagen
About this owner's manual
Overview of the vehicle
Before the journey
While driving
Cleaning and maintenance
If and when
Abbreviations
Index
Epilog

Check that all lights and turn signals are working properly.
Check the tyre pressure (Wheels and tyres) and fuel level (Filling the tank).
Ensure that you have a good, clear view through all of the windows.
Secure any objects and luggage in the stowage compartments, the luggage compartment
or on the roof Driving notes.
Ensure that you are able to operate the pedals freely at all times.
Secure any children travelling in the vehicle in a restraint system suitable for their weight
and size Child seats (accessories).
Adjust the front seats, head restraints and mirrors properly in accordance with the size of
the occupants Adjusting the seat position, Mirrors.
Wear shoes that provide good grip for your feet when using the pedals.
The floor mat in the footwell on the driver side must leave the pedal area free and must be
securely fastened.
Assume a correct sitting position before setting off and maintain this position while driving.
This also applies to all passengers Adjusting the seat position.
Fasten your seat belt correctly before setting off and keep it properly fastened throughout
the journey. This also applies to all passengers Seat belts.
Each vehicle occupant must sit in a seat of their own and must have their own seat belt.
Never drive if your driving ability is impaired, e.g. by medication, alcohol or drugs.
Do not allow yourself to be distracted from the traffic, e.g. by passengers, telephone calls,
opening menus and making adjustments to settings.
Always adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic
conditions.
Observe traffic regulations and speed limits.
When travelling long distances, stop and take a break regularly – at least every 2 hours.
Secure animals in the vehicle using a system that is suitable for their weight and size.
Additional information and warnings:
•Sitting correctly and safely ⇒ Sitting correctly and safely
•Transporting ⇒ Transporting
•Starting the engine, changing gear and parking the vehicle ⇒ Starting the engine, changing gear
and parking
•Driving with respect for the environment ⇒ Driving with respect for the environment
•Consumer information ⇒ Consumer information
Preparing for a journey and driving safely
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Checklist
Observe the following information both before and during the journey to ensure your own safety
and the safety of passengers and other road users ⇒:
Servicing the vehicle is not only about vehicle maintenance – it also ensures that your
vehicle remains roadworthy and in perfect working order. Servicing work should therefore be
carried out in accordance with the service schedule. Some work may have to be carried out before
the due date of the next service if the vehicle is subjected to severe operating conditions. Severe
operating conditions are, for example, regular stop and go driving and driving in areas with high
levels of dust. Further information can be obtained from your Volkswagen dealership or qualified
workshop.
Driving abroad
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, medication or narcotics can cause serious
accidents and fatal injuries.
•Alcohol, drugs, medication and narcotics can severely impair perception, reaction times
and driving safety. This could cause you to lose control of the vehicle.
WARNING
Always observe current traffic regulations and speed limits, and think ahead when driving.
Correct interpretation of a driving situation can make the difference between reaching your
destination safely and having an accident with serious injuries.
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

Lit upPossible causeSolution
Start/stop system cannot start the
engine.⇒ Pull-away assist systems
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.
Checking the electrolyte level of the vehicle battery
Fig. 125 In the engine compartment: possible position of the window on top of the vehicle battery
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The electrolyte level of the vehicle battery should be checked regularly in high-mileage vehicles, in
hot countries and in older vehicle batteries. The vehicle battery is otherwise maintenance-free.
Vehicles with a start/stop system ⇒ Pull-away assist systems are fitted with special vehicle
batteries. For technical reasons, it might not be possible to check the electrolyte level in these
vehicle batteries.
Preparation
•Preparing the vehicle for working in the engine compartment ⇒ Preparation for working in the
engine compartment.
•Open the bonnet ⇒ .
Checking the electrolyte level
•Ensure that enough light is available for you to see the colours clearly. Never use naked flames
or glowing matter (e.g. cigarettes) as a light source.
•The colour display in the round window ⇒ Fig. 125 on the top side of the vehicle battery will
change according to the electrolyte level.
Colour displayAction
Light yellow or colourless
The electrolyte level of the vehicle is too low. The vehicle battery
should be checked and replaced by a qualified workshop if
necessary.
BlackThe electrolyte level of the vehicle battery is correct.
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

Charging, replacing, disconnecting and connecting the vehicle battery
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Charging the battery
The vehicle battery should be charged by a qualified workshop, as the technology used in factory-
fitted batteries requires voltage-limited charging ⇒. Volkswagen recommends using a
Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.
Replacing a vehicle battery
The battery has been developed to suit the conditions of its location and has special safety
features. If a vehicle battery has to be replaced, discuss the electromagnetic compatibility, size and
necessary servicing, output and safety requirements for the new vehicle battery with a Volkswagen
dealership before purchase. Volkswagen recommends that the vehicle battery is changed by a
Volkswagen dealership.
Only maintenance-free vehicle batteries compliant with the standards TL 825 06 and VW 7 50 73
should be used. These standards must be dated April 2008 or later.
Vehicles with start/stop system ⇒ Pull-away assist systems are equipped with a special vehicle
battery. These vehicle batteries may only be replaced by a vehicle battery with the same
specifications.
Disconnecting the vehicle battery
Please note the following if the vehicle battery has to be disconnected from the electrical system in
the vehicle:
•Switch off all electrical consumers and the ignition.
•Unlock the vehicle before disconnecting the battery in order to avoid triggering the alarm.
•First disconnect the negative cable and then the positive cable ⇒.
Connecting the vehicle battery
•Switch off all electrical consumers and the ignition before reconnecting the vehicle battery.
•First reconnect the positive cable and then the negative cable ⇒.
Various indicator lamps may light up after the vehicle battery has been connected and the ignition is
switched on. They will go out if you drive a short distance at a speed of 15–20 km/h (10–12 mph). If
the indicator lamps remain lit up, the vehicle should be checked by a qualified workshop.
If the vehicle battery was disconnected for long periods, the system may not able to calculate or
correctly display the time when the next service is due ⇒ Instruments. Comply with the maximum
permissible service intervals ⇒BookletService schedule,.
Automatic switch-off for electrical consumers
The intelligent vehicle electrical system automatically implements a range of measures to prevent
the battery from discharging under high loads:
•The idling speed is increased so that the alternator provides more electricity.
•The performance of large electrical consumers may be reduced or they may be switched off
completely.
•The power supply to the 12-volt socket and the cigarette lighter is interrupted temporarily while
the engine is being started.
The vehicle electrical system cannot always prevent the vehicle battery from discharging. For
example when the ignition is switched on for an extended period with the engine off, or when the
side or parking lights are on when the vehicle is parked for an extended period.
Any work on the vehicle battery can cause serious chemical burns, explosions and electric
shocks.
•Always wear eye protection and protective gloves.
•Electrolyte is very aggressive. It can burn the skin and can cause blindness. When
working with the battery, protect your hands, arms and particularly your face from acid
spillages.
•Never tilt the vehicle battery. Electrolyte may spill out of the battery vents and cause
chemical burns.
•Never open a vehicle battery.
•If acid is splashed onto your skin or into your eye, rinse immediately for several minutes
with cold water. Then consult a doctor immediately.
•If acid is swallowed, consult a doctor immediately.
WARNING

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

Before getting into the vehicle, close all Velcro fasteners that could touch the cloth seat
covers and fabric trims. Open Velcro fasteners can cause damage to cloth seat covers and
fabric trims.
Avoid the direct contact of sharp-edged items and accessories to the upholstery and fabric
trims in order to prevent damage. Accessories include zips, studs, rhinestones on clothing
or belts.
Dust and grit in upholstery pores, folds and seams should be removed regularly so that no
permanent damage is caused to the surface of the seats by scratching.
Always check whether garments are colourfast to prevent damage to the upholstery. This
is especially important for light-coloured upholstery.
•Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts ⇒ Accessories, modifications, repairs
and renewal of parts
Suitable care products are available from a Volkswagen dealership.
Seat covers
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Checklist
Please note the following for the cleaning and maintenance of the seat covers ⇒:
Volkswagen recommends that stained upholstery is cleaned by a specialist company.
Cleaning cloth seat covers, fabric trim and Alcantara upholstery
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Car care products can be toxic and hazardous. Unsuitable care products and incorrect
application of care products can cause accidents, serious injuries, burns or poisoning.
•The care product must be kept in its original sealed container.
•Read the manufacturer's instructions.
•Never store car care products in empty food containers, bottles or any other non-original
containers as people finding these containers may not know that they contain care
products.
•Keep children away from care products.
•The products can give off harmful fumes during use. They should therefore only be used
outside or in well-ventilated spaces.
•Never use fuel, turpentine, engine oil, nail varnish remover or other volatile fluids to wash,
clean or care for your vehicle. These substances are toxic and highly inflammable.
WARNING
Incorrect care and cleaning of vehicle parts can impair the safety features of the vehicle and
cause serious injury.
•Vehicle parts must be cleaned according to the manufacturer's instructions.
•Only use approved or recommended cleaning products.
WARNING
•Cleaning products that contain solvents attack the material and may cause irreparable
damage.
•Stains, dirt and other deposits containing aggressive and solvent-based ingredients attack
the material and may cause irreparable damage, even if only left for a short time.
•Stains, dirt and other deposits should be removed as quickly as possible and not allowed
to dry in.
•To avoid damage, stubborn stains should be removed by a specialist cleaning company.
NOTICE
Ignoring any of the items on this important checklist for maintaining the seat covers can lead
to damage or discolouration of the seat covers and fabric trims.
•Follow the instructions on the checklist.
NOTICE
®