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 
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