2021 VOLKSWAGEN UP! power steering

SymbolMeaning ⇒See
Do not drive on!
The electromechanical steering is faulty or not working.
Driver or front passenger seat belt not fastened.
⇒ Seat belts
There are objects on the front passenger seat.
Fault in the alternator.⇒ Vehicle battery
Vehicles with start/stop system: manual engine start
required.
⇒ Pull-away assist
systems
Fault in the automated manual gearbox.⇒ Changing gear
Lit up: there is a fault in the ESC, or it has been switched of
for system-related reasons
OR: together with the ABS indicator lamp : ABS fault.
OR: the vehicle battery has been reconnected.
⇒ Braking, stopping
and parking
Flashing: ESC/TCS is taking corrective action.
Lit up: Traction Control fault or switched off for system-
related reasons.
Flashes: Traction Control active.
ABS faulty or not functioning.
The rear fog light is switched on.⇒ Lights
Lit up or flashing: catalytic converter fault.⇒ Engine
management
system and exhaust
purification system
Engine management system fault (Electronic Power
Control).
Electromechanical steering function reduced.⇒ Steering
Petrol tank nearly empty.⇒ Filling the tank
Natural gas tank nearly empty.⇒ Filling the tank
Fault in airbag and belt tensioner system.⇒ Airbag system
Automated manual gearbox overheated, or the gears
cannot be selected correctly.⇒ Changing gear
Flashing: vehicle with an automated manual gearbox is not
secured from rolling away.
Changing gear
⇒ Changing gear
Braking, stopping
and parking
⇒ Braking, stopping
and parking
Turn signal left or right.⇒ Lights
Hazard warning lights switched on.⇒ In an emergency
Cruise control system is controlling the speed.⇒ Cruise control
system (CCS)
Depress the brake pedal.
Changing gear
⇒ Changing gear
Braking, stopping
and parking
⇒ Braking, stopping
and parking
Main beam is switched on or the headlight flasher is being
operated.⇒ Lights
Engine coolant temperature is too low in vehicles with
natural gas engine.⇒ Coolant
Seat belt fastened for a rear seat passenger.
⇒ Seat belts
Seat belt not fastened for a rear seat passenger.
Immobilizer active.⇒ Starting and
stopping the engine
After switching on the ignition: Display to indicate that a
service is due soon.
⇒ Instruments
Black ice warning. The outside temperature is below
+4°C (+39°F).
Flashing quickly: City emergency brake function braking
automatically or has braked automatically.
⇒ City emergency
brake function
Flashing slowly: City emergency brake function currently
not available.
City emergency brake function has been switched on
manually. Switches off after approx. 5 seconds.
City emergency brake function has been switched off
manually.
Lit up: start/stop system is available.
Flashing: start/stop system is not available.⇒ Pull-away assist
systemsStart/stop system is available, but an automatic engine stop
is not possible.

Starting the engine, changing gear and
parking
Starting and stopping the engine
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Ignition lock
⇒ Starting the engine
⇒ Stopping the engine
⇒ Electronic immobilizer
Immobilizer display
If the vehicle key is not valid or there is a fault in the system, then may be displayed in the
instrument cluster. The engine cannot be started ⇒ Electronic immobilizer.
Push-starting or towing
For technical reasons, your vehicle must not be push-started or tow-started. Use jump leads to
start the engine instead.
Additional information and warnings:
•Vehicle key set ⇒ Vehicle key set
•Changing gear ⇒ Changing gear
•Braking, stopping and parking ⇒ Braking, stopping and parking
•Steering ⇒ Steering
•Pull-away assist systems ⇒ Pull-away assist systems
•Filling the tank ⇒ Filling the tank
•Fuel ⇒ Fuel
•Manual opening and closing ⇒ Manual opening and closing
•Starting the engine with jump leads ⇒ Starting the engine with jump leads
•Tow starting and towing ⇒ Tow-starting and towing
•Observe the operating instructions for any device that you plug into the socket.
•Never exceed the maximum power rating as this could damage the whole vehicle electrical
system.
•12-volt socket:
- Only use accessories that have been approved in accordance with the relevant
guidelines on electromagnetic compatibility.
- Never feed electricity into the socket.
NOTICE
While driving

After the engine is switched off, the radiator fan in the engine compartment may run on for
some minutes, even if the ignition is switched off or the vehicle key has been removed. The radiator
fan will switch itself off automatically.
Electronic immobilizer
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The immobilizer helps to prevent the engine from being started and driven with an unauthorised
vehicle key.
There is a chip in the key. It automatically deactivates the immobilizer when the vehicle key is
inserted into the ignition lock.
The electronic immobilizer is automatically activated when the vehicle key is removed from the
ignition lock.
The engine can only be started using a genuine Volkswagen vehicle key with the correct code.
Coded vehicle keys are available from a Volkswagen dealership ⇒ Vehicle key set.
If a non-authorised vehicle key has been used, the display in the instrument cluster will show
. The vehicle cannot be used if this occurs. Remove the non-authorised vehicle key from
the ignition lock and used an authorised vehicle key.
The vehicle cannot be operated properly if you do not have a genuine Volkswagen key.
Changing gear
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Warning and indicator lamp
⇒ Pedals
⇒ Manual gearbox: selecting a gear
⇒ Automated manual gearbox: selecting a gear
⇒ Changing gear with Tiptronic
⇒ Driving with an automated manual gearbox
⇒ Fault in the automated manual gearbox
⇒ Gear-change indicator (manual gearbox)
The following will occur if reverse gear is selected and the ignition is
switched on:
•The reverse light comes on.
•The rear window wiper will move once when the windscreen wipers are switched on.
•The ParkPilot may switch on.
Additional information and warnings:
•Overview of the centre console ⇒ Overview of the centre console
•Instruments ⇒ Instruments
•Braking, stopping and parking ⇒ Braking, stopping and parking
•Pull-away assist systems ⇒ Pull-away assist systems
•ParkPilot ⇒ ParkPilot
•Engine management system and exhaust purification system ⇒ Engine management system
and exhaust purification system
Never switch off the engine while the vehicle is in motion. This can lead to a loss of vehicle
control, accidents and serious injuries.
•The airbags and belt tensioners will not work if the ignition is switched off.
•The brake servo will not work when the engine is switched off. More force is required on
the brake pedal to stop the vehicle.
•The power steering will not function if the engine is switched off, and more force will be
required to steer the vehicle.
•If the vehicle key is removed from the ignition, the steering lock can activate and you will
no longer be able to steer the vehicle.
WARNING
If the vehicle has been driven at high load for a long period, the engine could overheat when it
is switched off. In order to avoid damage to the engine, allow the engine to run in neutral for
approximately 2 minutes before switching it off.
NOTICE

to assist every time that there is a sudden change in the road surface quality. If a section of dry
road is suddenly covered with water, mud or snow, ESC will not be able to assist in the same
manner as on a dry road. If the vehicle aquaplanes (drives on a layer of water rather than on the
road surface), ESC will not be able to assist in steering the vehicle as the contact to the road
surface has been interrupted and it is therefore no longer possible to steer or brake the vehicle.
Always adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions. ESC
cannot defy the laws of motion, improve the available power output, or keep the vehicle on the road
if insufficient care and attention on the part of the driver causes the vehicle to leave the road.
Instead, ESC increases the possibility of keeping the vehicle under control and, in extreme on-road
driving situations, it assesses the driver’s steering input and helps the vehicle to continue in the
required direction. If the vehicle is driving at a speed that leads it to leave the road before the ESC
can provide any kind of support, the ESC will be unable to provide any assistance.
The ABS, BAS, TCS and EDL systems are integrated into the ESC. The ESC is always on.
Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
The ABS prevents the wheels from locking when the brakes are applied up until the point where the
vehicle is nearly stationary and assists the driver in steering the vehicle and keeping it under
control. This means that the vehicle is less likely to spin, even when the brakes are depressed fully:
•Depress and hold the brake pedal with force. Do not take your foot off the brake pedal or
reduce the force on the brake pedal!
•Do not pump the brake pedal or reduce the pressure on the brake pedal!
•Steer the vehicle while the brake pedal is fully depressed.
•The ABS will switch off when the brake pedal is released or if the pressure on the brake pedal is
reduced.
If the ABS is taking corrective action, there is a pulsing movement in the brake pedal and some
noise. However, ABS will not necessarily guarantee shorter braking distances in all conditions. The
braking distance could even be longer when braking on gravel or on fresh snow covering an icy or
slippery surface.
Electronic brake pressure distribution system (EBD)
Every vehicle's centre of gravity moves forwards whenever the brake is operated. This means that
the rear wheels are in danger of locking due to the lower traction. The electronic brake pressure
distribution system controls the brake pressure for the rear wheels and thereby ensures the
optimum distribution of brake pressure between the front and rear axles. Under normal conditions,
the system will prevent the rear from breaking away if too much brake pressure if applied to the rear
wheels. The electronic brake pressure distribution system is included in the ABS' scope of
functions.
Brake Assist system (BAS)
The brake assist system can help to reduce the braking distance. The brake assist system
reinforces brake pressure hydraulically when the driver depresses the brake pedal quickly in an
emergency situation. As a result, full braking power is made accessible very quickly, brake pressure
is increased and the braking distance reduced. In this way, the ABS is activated more quickly and
more effectively.
Do not reduce the pressure on the brake pedal. The brake assist system will switch off the
hydraulic brake servo automatically when the brake pedal is released or if the pressure on the
brake pedal is reduced.
Traction Control System (TCS) or Traction Control (TC)
The TCS or TC reduces the engine output if wheelspin occurs and adapts the output to suit road
surface conditions. TCS or TC helps the car to start moving, accelerate and climb gradients in
unfavourable road conditions.
Electronic differential lock (EDL)
The EDL is available for normal driving on straight roads. EDL brakes the wheel that has lost
traction and distributes the driving force to the other drive wheel. To prevent the disc brake of the
braked wheel from overheating, the EDL cuts out automatically if subjected to excessive loads. The
EDL will switch on again automatically when the brake has cooled down.

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

Information on steering
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The steering should be locked every time you leave the vehicle to make it more difficult for the
vehicle to be stolen.
Mechanical steering column lock
The steering column is locked if the vehicle key is removed from the ignition lock when the vehicle
is stationary.
Activating the steering lockDeactivating the steering lock
Park the vehicle ⇒ Braking, stopping and
parking.Insert the vehicle key into the ignition lock.
Remove the vehicle key.Turn the steering wheel slightly to take the load
off the steering lock mechanism.
Turn the steering wheel slightly until the
steering lock clicks into place.
Hold the steering wheel in this position and turn
the ignition on.
Electromechanical 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.
You will need considerably more strength than normal to steer the vehicle if the power steering is
reduced or has failed completely.
Driver assist systems
Pull-away assist systems
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Indicator lamps
⇒ Start/stop system
⇒ Hill Hold Assist
Additional information and warnings:
•Volkswagen information system ⇒ Volkswagen information system
•Braking, stopping and parking ⇒ Braking, stopping and parking
•Battery ⇒ Vehicle battery
•Wheels and tyres ⇒ Wheels and tyres
•Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts ⇒ Accessories, modifications, repairs
and renewal of parts
•Starting the engine with jump leads ⇒ Starting the engine with jump leads
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

⇒ 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

Fig. 173 On the right-hand side of the front bumper: releasing and removing the cover
Fig. 174 Front bumper, right-hand side: screwing in the towing eye
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The towing eye is screwed into a threaded hole behind a cover on the right of the front bumper
⇒ Fig. 173.
The towing eye must always be kept in the vehicle.
Comply with the notes on towing ⇒ Notes on towing.
Fitting the towing eye at front
•Remove the towing eye from the vehicle toolkit in the luggage compartment ⇒ Vehicle toolkit.
•Press at the bottom of the cover ⇒ Fig. 173① to release the cover.
•Pull the cover forwards to remove it ② and leave it to hang on the vehicle.
•Turn the towing eye anticlockwise into the threaded hole and tighten as far as possible
⇒ Fig. 174⇒. Use a suitable object to screw the towing eye fully and securely into the
mounting.
•After you have finished towing, remove the towing eye by unscrewing it clockwise.
•Insert the lower locking lug in the opening in the bumper and guide the upper locking lug
carefully over the edge of the opening. If necessary, press the upper locking lug from above.
•Push on the upper area of the cover until the lower locking lug engages in the bumper.
Driving tips when towing
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Towing requires some experience, especially when using a tow rope. Both drivers should be
familiar with the technique required for towing. Inexperienced drivers should not attempt to tow.
When driving, ensure that you do not pull too hard on the towing vehicle and take care to avoid
jerking movements. When towing on an unpaved road, there is always a risk of overloading and
damaging the anchorage points.
You can still use the turn signals if your vehicle is towed with the hazard warning lights and ignition
switched on. Move the turn signal lever to signal the required direction. The hazard warning lights
will not flash while the turn signal is being used. The hazard warning lights will start flashing
automatically as soon as the turn signal lever is moved back to the neutral position.
Notes for the driver of the towed vehicle:
•Leave the ignition switched on to prevent the steering wheel from locking, and so that the turn
signals, horn, windscreen wipers and washers can be used.
•As the power assisted steering does not work if the engine is not running, you will need more
strength to steer than you normally would.
The towing eye must always be screwed firmly into the mounting. Otherwise, the towing eye
can be ripped out of the mounting when the vehicle is being tow-started or towed.
NOTICE