When parking the vehicle in cold weather, it may be helpful to leave the windscreen wipers in
the service position to make it easier to loosen the wiper blades ⇒ Wiper blades.
Wiper functions
Automatic activation of the rear window wiper
The rear window wiper is switched on automatically if the front windscreen wipers are switched on
and reverse gear is engaged. The automatic wipe function can be activated and deactivated in the
Infotainment system in the Vehicle settings menu ⇒ Operation and display in the
Infotainment system:
Heated washer jets
The heating defrosts frozen washer jets. The heating output is regulated automatically when the
ignition is switched on depending on the ambient temperature. Only the jets are heated and not the
hoses carrying the washer fluid.
Headlight washer system
The headlight washer system cleans the headlight lenses and only works when the vehicle lighting
is switched on.
Once the ignition has been switched on, the headlights will also be washed the first time the wash
and wipe system for the windscreen is used, and every tenth time thereafter. Hardened dirt, such
as insect remains, should be removed from the headlight lens at regular intervals.
In winter, you should remove any snow from the headlight washer system covers in the bumper
prior to use to keep the system in working order. Remove any ice with a de-icer spray.
Rain/light sensor
Fig. 103 On the right of the steering column: wiper lever.
When the rain/light sensor is activated, it automatically controls the frequency of the wiper intervals,
depending on the intensity of the rain.
Activating and deactivating the rain/light sensor
•Position Ⓐ - the rain/light sensor is deactivated.
•Position Ⓑ - the rain/light sensor is activated, automatic wipe when necessary.
The automatic wipe function can be activated and deactivated in the Infotainment system in
the Vehicle settings menu ⇒ Operation and display in the Infotainment system:
If the automatic wipe function is deactivated in the Infotainment system, the intervals are set at fixed
levels.
Setting the sensitivity of the rain/light sensor
The sensitivity of the rain/light sensor can be adjusted manually using the switch in the wiper lever
⇒ Fig. 103①⇒.
•Switch to the right – high sensitivity.
•Switch to the left – low sensitivity.
Some settings can be stored in the user accounts of the personalisation function and
therefore change automatically when the user account changes ⇒ Personalisation.
The rain/light sensor cannot always detect every rain shower and activate the windscreen
wipers.
•If necessary, switch on the windscreen wipers manually if the water on the windscreen
restricts the field of vision.
WARNING
Troubleshooting
Washer fluid level too low. Fill up the washer fluid reservoir as soon as possible ⇒ Washer
fluid.Fault in the rain/light sensor. Switch the ignition on and off. If the indicator lamp still lights
up permanently after you switch the ignition back on, seek expert assistance.Fault in
windscreen wipers. Switch the ignition on and off. If the indicator lamp still lights up permanently
after you switch the ignition back on, seek expert assistance.
Changes in the response of the rain/light sensor
Possible causes for faults and misinterpretations relating to the sensitive surface of the rain/light
sensor ⇒ Vehicle overviews include:
•Damaged wiper blades: a film of water or smears caused by damaged wiper blades can
increase the time the wipers are switched on, can shorten the length of the intervals between
wipes or cause the wipers to run quickly and continuously.
•Insects: insects hitting the windscreen surface can cause the wipers to be activated.
•Salt deposits: in winter, salt deposits on the windscreen can cause the wipers to continue to
wipe the windscreen when it is almost dry.
•Soiling: dry dust, wax, windscreen coatings (lotus effectyf R U G H W H U J H Q W G H S R V L W V I U R P D Q
automatic car washyf F D Q F D X V H W K H U D L Q O L J K W V H Q V R U W R E H F R P H O H V V V H Q V L W L Y H D Q G U H D F W W R R
slowly, or prevent it from reacting at all. Clean the sensitive surface of the rain/light sensor
⇒ Caring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior at regular intervals and inspect the wiper blades
for damage.
•Crack in the windscreen: a wipe cycle will be triggered if the rain/light sensor is on when the
windscreen is impacted by a stone. The rain/light sensor will then register the reduction in
sensitivity of the surfaces and adjust accordingly. The size of the crack can affect the way in
which the rain/light sensor activates the wipers.
We recommend that you use an alcohol-based glass cleaner to remove wax and polish.
The wipers will try to wipe away any obstacles that are on the windscreen. The wipers will
stop moving if the obstacle blocks their path. Remove the obstacle and switch the wipers back on
again.
Mirrors
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Interior mirror
⇒ Exterior mirrors
You can use the exterior mirrors and the interior mirror to observe traffic behind you and adjust
driving style accordingly.
For safety reasons it is important that the driver positions the exterior and interior mirrors correctly
before starting a journey ⇒.
Looking in the exterior mirrors and the interior mirror does not allow the driver to see the entire side
and rear area of the vehicle. The area that cannot be seen is known as the blind spot. There may
be objects and other road users in the blind spot.
Adjusting the exterior and interior mirrors while driving may cause the driver to become
distracted. This can lead to accidents and serious injuries.
•Exterior and interior mirrors should only be adjusted when the vehicle is stationary.
•When parking, changing lane, or performing an overtaking or turning manoeuvre,
always pay careful attention to the area around the vehicle as objects and other road
users may be located in the blind spot.
•Always ensure that the mirrors are positioned correctly and that the rear view is not
restricted by ice, snow, condensation or any other objects.
WARNING
If you estimate the distance from traffic behind you incorrectly, you can cause accidents
and serious injuries.
•Curved mirrors (convex or asphericyf H Q O D U J H W K H I L H O G R I Y L V L R Q D Q G F D Q P D N H R E M H F W V L Q
the mirror seem smaller and further away than they actually are.
•Using curved mirrors to estimate the distance from other vehicles behind you when
changing lanes can provide inaccurate results and can lead to accidents and severe
injuries.
•Whenever possible, use the interior mirror to check the exact distance between your
vehicle and following traffic or other objects.
•Ensure that you have a good view to the rear of the vehicle.
WARNING
Progressive steering
Depending on the vehicle equipment level, progressive steering can adjust the force of the steering
movement in a driving situation. Progressive steering only functions when the engine is running.
In urban driving, smaller steering movements are required when parking, manoeuvring, or turning
sharply.
When driving on country roads or on the motorway, the progressive steering provides a more
sporty, direct steering response, and a dynamic feel.
Troubleshooting
Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster
The indicator lamps light up.
Do not drive on! Electromechanical steering not functioning. The steering must be
checked by a qualified workshop as soon as possible.Electromechanical steering function
reduced. The steering must be checked by a qualified workshop as soon as possible. If the yellow
warning lamp remains off after the engine has been restarted and you have driven a short distance,
you do not need to consult a qualified workshop.The 12-volt battery has been disconnected
and reconnected. Drive a short distance at a speed of 15 – 20 km/h (9 – 12 mphyf .
The indicator lamps flash.
Steering column twisted. Turn the steering wheel back and forth.Steering column not
locked or unlocked. Remove the vehicle key from the ignition lock and switch the ignition back on
again. Follow any messages that are on the instrument cluster display. Do not continue your
journey if the steering column remains locked when the ignition is switched on. Seek expert
assistance.
Driving profile selection and 4MOTION Active
Control
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Selecting a driving profile (ONROADyf
⇒ Selecting a driving profile (4MOTION Action Controlyf
⇒ Adjusting the driving profile to suit your requirements
⇒ Troubleshooting
The driving profile selection contains
factory-defined driving profiles which
have different effects on the vehicle
setup. You can also set your own
vehicle setup by means of an individual
driving profile.
Different driving profiles can be selected depending on the vehicle equipment level. The effect on
the vehicle setup in the individual driving profiles depends on the vehicle equipment.
The settings available depend on the type of drive. Vehicles with a front-wheel drive come with
ONROAD driving profiles ⇒ Selecting a driving profile (ONROADyf, while vehicles with all-wheel
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 column lock may be activated and it will no longer be possible to steer the
vehicle.
WARNING
In conjunction with the ESC, counter steering assistance provides the driver with
assistance when steering in critical driving situations. The driver must steer the vehicle at
all times. Counter steering assistance does not steer the vehicle.
WARNING
The ignition of the vehicle being towed must be switched on to prevent the steering wheel
from locking, and so that the turn signals, horn, wipers and window washer system can be
used.
NOTICE
Wiper blades
Service position
Fig. 201 Wiper blades in service position.
The wiper arms can be lifted off the windscreen when in the service position. Proceed as follows to
move the wipers to the service position ⇒ Fig. 201:
Activating the service position
•The bonnet must be closed ⇒ In the engine compartment.
•Switch the ignition on and then off again.
•Push the wiper lever downwards.
Lifting the windscreen wiper arms
•Move the wiper arms to the service position before lifting ⇒.
•When lifting the wiper arm hold it only by the wiper blade mounting.
Place the windscreen wiper arms back onto the windscreen before driving away. With the ignition
switched on, briefly press the windscreen wiper lever down to bring the windscreen wiper arms
back to the original position.
Cleaning and replacing the wiper blades
Fig. 202 Changing the windscreen wiper blades.
Fig. 203 Changing the rear window wiper blade.
The factory-fitted windscreen wiper blades are coated with graphite. The graphite coating ensures
that the windscreen wiper blade moves quietly over the windscreen. If the graphite coating is
damaged, the windscreen wiper will become louder.
Check the condition of the wiper blades on a regular basis. Rubbing wiper blades should be
changed if damaged or cleaned if dirty ⇒.
Damaged wiper blades should be replaced immediately. Windscreen wiper blades can be bought
from a qualified workshop.
•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
Cleaning windscreen wiper blades
Note for the windscreen wipers: move the wiper arms to the service position before lifting them
⇒ Wipers.
•When lifting the wiper arm hold it only by the wiper blade mounting.
•Clean the wiper blades carefully using a damp sponge ⇒.
•Carefully place the wiper arms on the windscreen.
Changing the windscreen wiper blades
•Move the wiper arms to the service position before lifting ⇒ Wipers.
•When lifting the wiper arm hold it only by the wiper blade mounting.
•Press and hold the release button ⇒ Fig. 202① and simultaneously pull off the wiper blade in
the direction of the arrow.
•Insert a new wiper blade with the same length and design onto the wiper arm. Push it on until
it engages.
•Carefully place the wiper arms on the windscreen.
Changing the wiper blade for the rear window
•When lifting the wiper arm hold it only by the wiper blade mounting.
•Lift and fold back the wiper arm.
•Press and hold the release button ⇒ Fig. 203①.
•Tilt the wiper blade in the direction of the wiper arm ⇒ Fig. 203 (arrow Ⓐyf D Q G S X O O L W R I I L Q W K H
direction of the arrow Ⓑ at the same time. You may need to use some force to do this.
•Insert a new wiper blade with the same length and design onto the wiper arm in the opposite
direction of the arrow. Push it on until it engages ⇒ Fig. 203Ⓑ. The wiper blade must be in the
folded back position ⇒ Fig. 203 (arrow Ⓐyf .
•Carefully place the wiper arm back onto the rear window.
Wax deposits on the windscreen and rear window could cause the wiper blades to rub.
Remove wax residue using a special cleaning product or cleaning cloths.
Changing bulbs
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Checklist
⇒ Changing bulbs in the headlights (halogen bulbsyf
⇒ Changing bulbs in the front bumper
⇒ Changing bulbs in the front bumper (R-Lineyf
⇒ Changing the bulbs in the tail light cluster in the body
⇒ Troubleshooting
Changing the vehicle bulbs requires considerable technical skill. Volkswagen therefore
recommends having bulbs replaced by a qualified workshop if you are uncertain. The work must
always be performed by an expert if other vehicle parts around the affected bulbs need to be
removed. Volkswagen recommends having bulbs replaced by a Volkswagen dealership.
You should keep a box with spare light bulbs for the lights that ensure the vehicle is roadworthy in
the vehicle at all times. Spare bulbs are available from Volkswagen dealerships. In some countries
it is a legal requirement to have these spare bulbs in the vehicle.
It may be illegal to drive with a defective bulb in the exterior lighting.
Worn or dirty windscreen wiper blades reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents
and severe injuries.
•Always change wiper blades if they are damaged or worn and no longer clean the
window properly.
WARNING
Damaged or dirty windscreen wipers can scratch the windscreen.
•Do not use any cleaning agents containing solvents, hard sponges and other sharp
objects, as they can damage the graphite coating of the wiper blades during cleaning.
•Do not use fuel, nail varnish remover, paint thinner or similar products to clean the
windows.
NOTICE
Fig. 212 Engine compartment: fuse layout.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The table shows the fuse locations of the electrical equipment relevant for the driver. The first
column in the table contains the location. The other columns contain the fuse designs, the amp
rating and the consumer protected by the fuse.
Fuse
location
⇒ Fig. 212
Fuse
design
Amp
rating
Electrical consumers
F6ATO5Brake light sensor
F14JCASE40Windscreen heating
F15ATO15Horn
F19ATO30Windscreen wipers
F37ATO20Auxiliary heater
Depending on the version and specification of your vehicle, the fuse numbers and positions
may differ to those given in the table. If necessary, ask a qualified workshop for the exact fuse
layout. Volkswagen recommends using a Volkswagen dealership.
Changing a blown fuse
Fig. 213 Blown fuse: flat blade fuse, JCASE® fuse.
Fig. 214 Remove or insert fuse with plastic pliers: : flat blade fuse, : JCASE® fuse.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Fuse designs
•Standard flat blade fuse (ATOyf .
•Small flat blade fuse (MINIyf .
•JCASE fuse.
Colour coding of fuses
ColourAmp rating in ampere (ATO
/ MINIyf
Amp rating in ampere
(JCASEyf
Black1
®
®
®
®
®
®
®
®
Fig. 222 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. 221.
The towing eye must always be kept in the vehicle.
Observe the notes on towing ⇒ Notes on tow-starting and towing.
Fitting the towing eye at front
•Remove the towing eye from the vehicle tool kit in the luggage compartment.
•Push the area of the cover pointing towards the vehicle ⇒ Fig. 221 in the direction of the arrow
to release the cover fastener.
•Remove the cover and leave it hanging from the vehicle.
•Turn the towing eye anti-clockwise into the threaded hole and tighten as far as possible
⇒ Fig. 222⇒. 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 with a suitable object
clockwise.
•Insert the lug on the cover on the opening pointing towards the vehicle side in the bumper and
push on the opposite area of the cover until the lug engages in the bumper.
•If necessary clean the towing eye and place them back in the vehicle tool kit in the luggage
compartment.
Driving notes 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, remember not to 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.
It is still possible to activate the turn signals in a vehicle that is being towed, even if the hazard
warning lights are switched on. To do this, operate the turn signal lever in the required direction
while the ignition is switched on. 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 of the vehicle being towed switched on to prevent the steering wheel from
locking, to enable the electronic parking brake to be switched off, and to ensure that the turn
signals, wipers and washer system 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.
•You will need to depress the brake pedal more vigorously than normal as the brake servo is not
working. Do not drive too close to the towing vehicle.
•Read and comply with the information and notes in the owner's manual of the towing vehicle.
Notes for the driver of the towing vehicle:
•Accelerate carefully and gently. Avoid any sudden driving manoeuvres.
•Brake earlier than normal by pressing lightly on the brake pedal.
•Read and comply with any information and notes in the owner's manual of the towed vehicle.
Checking and refilling
In the engine compartment
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
Suitable accessories are available from your Volkswagen dealership. Follow the usage
instructions on the packaging.
Washing the vehicle
Also wash the underside of the vehicle on a regular basis to remove road salt or seawater residue.
Automatic car washes
Always observe all the car wash operator's specifications, in particular if your vehicle features add-
on parts ⇒.
•Preferably use car washes without brushes.
•Preclean the vehicle by rinsing with water.
•The steering column must not lock when driving through automatic car washes ⇒ Steering.
•Always switch off the Auto Hold function ⇒ Electronic parking brake, the wipers ⇒ Wipers and
the rain/light sensor before entering the car wash.
•Fold in the exterior mirrors.
•If your vehicle has decorative and protective films, do not select a wash program with hot wax.
High-pressure cleaners
Observe the manufacturer's information for the high-pressure cleaner. Never use rotating nozzles
⇒.
•Only use water with a maximum temperature of +60°C (+140°Fyf .
•Do not clean windows that are iced over or covered in snow with a high-pressure cleaner.
•Move the jet of water uniformly so that the nozzle is at least 50 cm away from the side windows
and other vehicle components.
•Do not point the water jet at the same location for too long. Instead, leave stubborn dirt to soak.
•If possible, do not direct the water jet at seals, e.g. side windows, decorative trim, tyres, rubber
hoses, insulation materials or any other sensitive components, e.g. door locks.
•Sensors, camera lenses, and decorative and protective films should be sprayed directly only for
brief periods of time.
Washing the car by hand
Washing the car by hand is always the more gentle way to clean it. However, there are also some
things to note for this ⇒.
•Before washing the vehicle, soak the dirt with plenty of water and then rinse it off thoroughly.
•Clean the vehicle with a soft sponge, a wash mitt or a brush applying only light pressure. Start
with the roof and work from the top to the bottom.
•Rinse the sponge, wash mitt or brush thoroughly at regular short intervals.
•Clean the wheels, sill panels etc. last. Use a second sponge for this.
Use a shampoo for very stubborn dirt only.
Car care products can be toxic and hazardous. Unsuitable care products and incorrect use
of care products can cause accidents, serious injuries, burns or poisoning.
•Care products must be kept in the original, sealed container only.
•Read the manufacturer's instructions.
•Never use empty food cans, bottles or other containers for storing 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
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 always be removed as quickly as possible and
not allowed to dry in.
•Have stubborn stains removed by a qualified workshop.
NOTICE
1yf