
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  

In some vehicles other vehicle functions can be displayed on the screen of the portable 
navigation device (delivered by Volkswagen) ⇒ Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of 
parts.
After starting the engine with a discharged vehicle battery, or after the battery has been 
changed, system settings (time, date, personal convenience settings and programming) may have 
been changed or deleted. Check and correct the settings as necessary once the vehicle battery has 
been sufficiently charged.
Using the displays in the instrument cluster
Fig. 12 The windscreen wiper lever: button ① to confirm and rocker switch ② to change the 
display
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Opening a display option
•Switch on the ignition.
•If a message or vehicle pictogram is displayed, press the  button ⇒ Fig. 12①.
•Press the rocker switch ② up or down until the appropriate display option is shown.
Multifunction display (MFD)
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The multifunction display (MFD) is equipped with two automatic memories: 1 - Trip memory and 2 - 
Total journey memory. The number of the current memory on display will be shown in the lower 
right-hand corner of the display.
When the ignition is switched on and memory 1 or 2 is shown on the 
display, press the  button to switch between the two memories.
1Trip memory
The memory collects the travel and fuel consumption data from the moment 
the ignition is switched on until it is switched off.
If the journey is interrupted for more than two hours, the memory is 
automatically deleted. If the journey is continued within two hours of the 
ignition being switched off, the new values will be added to the existing trip 
recorder.
2Total journey 
memory
Depending on which instrument cluster is installed, the memory collects 
journey data for any number of individual journeys up to a total of 19 hours 
and 59 minutes travel time or 1,999.9 km (miles) distance travelled. Once 
these total limits have been reached, the memory will be deleted 
automatically and begin again at 0.
Possible displays
MenuFunction
TimeCurrent time in hours (h) and minutes (min).
Driving timeDriving time in hours (h) and minutes (min) that has elapsed since 
the ignition was switched on.
Current fuel consumption
While the vehicle is in motion, current consumption is displayed 
in l/100 km. When the engine is running and the vehicle is 
stationary it is measured in litres/hour or, in vehicles with gas 
engines, in kg/h.
Average fuel consumption
The average fuel consumption will be shown in l/100km or, in 
vehicles with gas engines, in kg/100 km after a distance of 
approximately 100 metres has been travelled. The display will show 
dashes until this point. The displayed values will be updated 
approximately every 5 seconds.
Fuel range
Approximate calculation of the distance in km that can still be 
travelled with the current fuel level under the current driving 
conditions. One factor used for calculating this figure is the current 
level of fuel consumption.
In natural gas engines: the value with the  symbol  shows the 
total distance in petrol mode. The value with the  symbol shows 
the total distance in petrol mode.
Distance drivenThe distance travelled in km since the ignition was switched on.
a) 

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 

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 

Childproof lock
Fig. 25 In the left rear door: childproof lock Ⓐ switched off, Ⓑ switched on
Fig. 26 In the right rear door: childproof lock Ⓐ switched off, Ⓑ switched on
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The childproof lock prevents the rear doors from being opened from the inside, e.g. so that children 
cannot open the doors accidentally while the vehicle is in motion. When the childproof lock is 
activated the door can only be opened from the outside.
Switching the childproof lock on or off
•Unlock the vehicle and open the appropriate rear door.
•Fold the key bit out of the vehicle key.
•Use the key bit to turn the slot to the required position.
Slot position ⇒ Fig. 25 or ⇒ Fig. 26:
Childproof lock is switched off.
Childproof lock is switched on.
Tailgate
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Opening the tailgate
⇒ Closing the tailgate
Additional information and warnings:
•Exterior views ⇒ Exterior views
•Central locking system ⇒ Central locking system
•Transporting ⇒ Driving notes
•Manual opening and closing ⇒ Manual opening and closing
When the childproof lock is activated, the door cannot be opened from the inside.
•Never leave children or people requiring assistance alone in the vehicle when the doors 
are locked. This may mean that these people lock themselves in the vehicle. They could 
become trapped in the vehicle in an emergency and may not be able to get themselves to 
safety. People locked in the vehicle may be subjected to very high or very low 
temperatures.
•Temperatures inside a locked vehicle may reach extremes of heat or cold, according to 
season. This can cause serious injuries and illness or fatalities, especially for small 
children.
WARNING 

The dangers of assuming an incorrect sitting position
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
If the seat belts are not worn or are worn incorrectly, the risk of severe or fatal injuries increases. 
Seat belts can only provide optimal protection if the seat belt routing is correct. Assuming an 
incorrect sitting position considerably impairs the level of protection provided by a seat belt. This 
could lead to severe or even fatal injuries. The risk of severe or fatal injuries is especially increased 
when a triggering airbag strikes an occupant who has assumed an incorrect sitting position. The 
driver is responsible for all vehicle passengers, especially if they are children.
The following list contains examples of sitting positions that could be dangerous for all occupants.
Whenever the vehicle is in motion:
•Never stand in the vehicle.
•Never stand on the seats.
•Never kneel on the seats.
•Never tilt the backrest too far to the rear.
•Never lean against the dash panel.
•Never lie on the rear bench seat.
•Never sit on the front edge of a seat.
Assuming an incorrect sitting position in the vehicle can increase the risk of severe or fatal 
injuries during a sudden driving or braking manoeuvre, in the event of a collision or accident, 
or if the airbags are triggered.
•All vehicle occupants must assume a correct sitting position before setting off and 
maintain this position throughout the trip. This also applies to the fastening of seat belts.
•The number of vehicle occupants must never exceed the number of seats with seat belts 
in the vehicle.
•Always secure children in the vehicle in an authorised restraint system suitable for their 
height and weight ⇒ Child seats (accessories)⇒ Airbag system.
•Always keep your feet in the footwell while the vehicle is in motion. Never place your feet 
on the seat or on the dash panel and never hold your feet out the window. The airbag and 
seat belt can otherwise not provide optimal protection and can actually increase the risk of 
injury during an accident.
WARNING
Always adjust seats, seat belts and head restraints to their correct position before any journey 
and ensure that all passengers have fastened their seat belt.
•Push the front passenger seat as far back as possible.
•Adjust the driver seat in such a way that there is at least 25 cm between your breastbone 
and the hub of the steering wheel. Adjust the driver seat by moving it forwards or 
backwards so that you are able to press the pedals to the floor with your knees still slightly 
angled and the distance to the dash panel in the knee area is at least 10 cm. If your 
physical build makes it impossible to fulfil this requirement, you must contact a qualified 
workshop so they can make any necessary modifications.
•Never travel with the backrest tilted far back. The further back the backrest is tilted, the 
greater the risk of injury caused by incorrect seat belt routing or an incorrect sitting 
position.
•Never travel with the backrest tilted far forwards. When an airbag is triggered it could force 
the seat backrest backwards and injure vehicle occupants on the back seats.
•Adopt and maintain the greatest possible distance to the steering wheel and dash panel.
•You should always sit upright with your back against the seat backrest with the front seats 
properly adjusted. Do not position any body part too close where the airbags are fitted.
•The risk of serious injury is increased for passengers on the rear seat if they are not sitting 
upright because the seat belts are incorrectly positioned.
WARNING
Incorrect adjustment of the seats can cause accidents and serious injuries.
•The seats may only be adjusted when the vehicle is stationary as the seat could otherwise 
change position unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion, leading to a loss of control of 
the vehicle. Furthermore, an incorrect seating position is adopted while adjusting the seat.
•Only adjust the height and tilt of the seat or move it forwards and backwards when the 
area around the seat is clear.
•There should be no objects in the adjustment area of the front seats.
WARNING 

•Never sit sideways.
•Never lean out of a window.
•Never put your feet out of a window.
•Never put your feet on the dash panel.
•Never place your feet on the seat cushion or seat backrest.
•Never travel in a footwell.
•Never travel on a seat without wearing the seat belt.
•Never travel in the luggage compartment.
Correct sitting position
Fig. 35 There must be a distance Ⓐ of at least 25 cm between the driver and the steering wheel
Fig. 36 Correct seat belt routing and head restraint adjustment
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The following details the correct sitting positions for the driver and passengers.
If any vehicle occupants cannot assume a correct sitting position due to their physical build, they 
should contact a qualified workshop to find out about possible special modifications. The seat belts 
and airbags can only provide a maximum level of protection if a correct sitting position is assumed. 
Volkswagen recommends using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.
Volkswagen recommends the following seating position for your own safety and to reduce the level 
of injury in the event of a sudden braking manoeuvre or an accident:
Notes for the driver:
•Move the backrest into an upright position so that your back rests fully against it.
•Adjust the seat so that the distance between the steering wheel and your breastbone is at least 
25 cm ⇒ Fig. 35Ⓐ and the circumference of the steering wheel can be held at the sides with the 
arms slightly bent.
•The steering wheel must always point towards the breastbone and not towards the face.
•Adjust the driver seat so that you are able to press the pedals with your knees still slightly bent 
⇒ Fig. 35.
•Adjust the height so that you can reach the highest point of the steering wheel.
•Always leave both feet in the footwell, to help ensure you maintain control of the vehicle at all 
times.
Every incorrect sitting position in the vehicle increases the risk of severe or fatal injuries in the 
event of an accident or sudden driving or braking manoeuvre.
•All vehicle occupants must maintain a correct sitting position and wear their seat belt 
properly while the vehicle is in motion.
•Sitting in an incorrect position, not fastening the seat belt or too short a distance to the 
airbag exposes the occupants to critical or fatal injuries, especially if the airbags trigger 
and strike an occupant who has assumed an incorrect sitting position.
WARNING 

 In 4-door vehicles: on the interior side of the seat only.
Adjusting the rear head restraint
Fig. 38 Adjusting rear head restraint
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Every seat is fitted with a head restraint.
The head restraints on the front seats are integrated in the backrest and cannot be adjusted.
The rear seats are fitted with an adjustable head restraint.
Adjusting the height
•Push the head restraint up in the direction of the arrow or push it down while pressing and 
holding button ⇒ Fig. 38①⇒.
•The head restraint must click securely into position.
Correct head restraint setting
Adjust the head restraint so that its upper edge is at the same height as the top of the head, but not 
lower than eye level. Position the back of your head as close to the head restraint as possible.
Head restraint setting for shorter people
Push the head restraint to the first position, even if the head is then located underneath the top 
edge of the head restraint. There may be a small gap between the head restraint and backrest in 
the lowest position.
Head restraint setting for taller people
Push the head restraint up as far as it will go.
Injuries could be caused if the backrests are folded forwards and backwards carelessly.
•Never fold the seat backrest forwards or backwards while the vehicle is in motion.
•While folding the seat backrest forwards, always ensure that there are no people, animals 
or objects in its path.
•When folding forwards and backwards, keep all hands, fingers, feet and other body parts 
away from the seat hinges and seat release mechanism.
•Floor mats or other objects could get caught in the hinges on the seat backrest. The seat 
backrest might then not engage securely when it is returned to the upright position.
•Passengers (adults and children) must not use seats if the backrest is folded forwards or 
is not clicked securely into place.
•When being folded back, the seat backrest must be securely locked in the upright position. 
If the seat backrest is not locked properly it could move suddenly and cause severe 
injuries.
WARNING
a)
Driving without head restraints or with incorrectly adjusted head restraints increases the risk 
of severe or fatal injuries in the event of an accident or sudden driving or braking manoeuvre.
•If a seat is occupied, the head restraint for that seat must be fitted and adjusted correctly.
•Each vehicle occupant must adjust the head restraint to suit their body size, to help reduce 
the risk of neck injuries in an accident. As far as possible, the upper edge of the head 
restraint must be level with the top of the head, but no lower than eye level. Position the 
back of your head as close to the head restraint as possible.
•Never adjust the head restraint when the vehicle is in motion.
WARNING