Rear light, left
Reversing light
Permanent positive
Permanent positive
Earth for pin 10
Not assigned
Earth for pin 9
Trailer socket
A 13-pin trailer socket makes the electrical connection between the towing vehicle and the trailer.
When the vehicle detects a trailer through the electrics, the consumers in the trailer are supplied
with electrical current via the electrical connection (pins 9 and 10yf 3 L Q L V D V V L J Q H G D V W K H
permanent live, enabling operation of e.g. interior trailer lighting.
Electrical consumers such as a caravan refrigerator are supplied with power only when the engine
is running (pin 10yf .
To avoid overloading the electrical system, do not inter-connect the three earth wires (pins 3, 11
and 13yf .
If the trailer has a 7-pin plug you will need to use a suitable adapter cable. Pin 10 is then without
function.
If you are uncertain whether the electrical connection of the trailer with the vehicle is correct, please
contact a qualified workshop. Volkswagen recommends using a Volkswagen dealership for this
purpose.
Connection to the anti-theft alarm
The trailer is integrated in the anti-theft system if the following conditions are fulfilled:
•When the vehicle has a factory-fitted anti-theft alarm and a factory-fitted towing bracket.
•When the trailer is electrically connected to the towing vehicle via the trailer socket.
•When the vehicle and trailer electric systems are functional, fault-free and undamaged.
•When the vehicle is locked with the vehicle key and the anti-theft alarm is active.
When the vehicle is locked, the alarm will be triggered as soon as the electrical connection to the
trailer is interrupted.
Connection to the anti-theft alarm (trailer with LED tail light clustersyf
For technical reasons, trailers with LED tail lights cannot be integrated into the anti-theft alarm
system.
When the vehicle is locked, the alarm is not triggered as soon as the electrical connection to the
trailer with LED rear lights is interrupted.
Any electrical accessories which are not connected properly could cause a power surge to
the trailer. This could lead to malfunctions in the entire vehicle electronics system and
could also cause accidents and serious injuries.
•All work on the electrical system should only be carried out by a qualified workshop.
•Never connect the trailer's electrical system directly to the electrical connections of the
towing vehicle's tail light clusters or to other power sources.
WARNING
Contact between the pins in the trailer socket can lead to short circuits, overloading of the
electrical system and failure of the lighting system, thereby causing accidents and serious
injuries.
•Never connect the pins in the trailer socket to one another.
•Have bent pins repaired by a qualified workshop.
WARNING
If you park the trailer using the support wheel or other trailer supports, disconnect the
trailer from the vehicle. The vehicle could rock up and down if the load changes or if there
is damage to the tyres, for example. If this happens, a great deal of force will be exerted on
the towing bracket and trailer, which could lead to damage to the vehicle and trailer.
NOTICE
If there is a fault in the vehicle or trailer electrical systems or in the anti-theft alarm or if there
is a fault in the anti-theft alarm, have the vehicle checked by a qualified workshop.
If the engine is not running and electrical equipment is switched on in the trailer via the trailer
socket, the 12-volt vehicle battery will discharge.
If the 12-volt vehicle battery charge level is low, the electrical connection to the trailer will be
interrupted automatically.
Loading the trailer
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Trailer weight and drawbar load
The trailer weight is the weight that the vehicle can pull ⇒. The drawbar load is the load that is
exerted vertically from above onto the ball head of the towing bracket ⇒ Information on technical
data.
The figures for trailer weights and draw bar weights that are given on the data plate of the towing
bracket are for certification purposes only. The correct values for your specific model, which may be
lower than these figures, are given in the vehicle registration documents. All data in the official
vehicle documents take precedence over these data.
The maximum permitted drawbar load exerted by the trailer drawbar on the ball head of the towing
bracket must not exceed 100 kg.
In the interest of driving safety, Volkswagen recommends that you always use the maximum
drawbar load. The response of the trailer on the road will be poor if the drawbar load is too small.
The drawbar load increases the weight on the rear axle and reduces the maximum load level as a
result.
Gross combination weight rating
The combination weight is made up of the actual weight of the loaded vehicle and of the loaded
trailer.
In some countries, trailers are divided into different classes. Volkswagen recommends that you
contact a qualified workshop to find out about suitable trailers.
Loading the trailer
The weight of the load should be distributed evenly. The maximum permitted drawbar load should
be utilised. Do not place the load only at the front or the rear of the trailer:
•Distribute the load in the trailer so that heavy objects are either over or as near to the axle as
possible.
•Secure all loads on the trailer properly.
Tyre pressure
Follow the trailer manufacturer's recommendations concerning the tyre pressure for the trailer tyres.
When towing a trailer, inflate the tyres on the towing vehicle with the maximum permitted tyre
pressure ⇒ Tyre pressure.
Accidents and serious injuries can occur if you exceed the vehicle's maximum permitted
gross axle weight rating, drawbar load, gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination
weight rating.
•Never exceed the specified values.
•Never let the actual weights at the front and rear axles exceed the gross axle weight
ratings. Never exceed the permissible gross vehicle weight for the vehicle with weight
at the front and rear of the vehicle.
WARNING
Loads that may slide can severely impair stability and driving safety, which can cause
accidents and severe injuries.
•Always load trailers correctly.
•Always secure loads properly using suitable and undamaged securing straps.
WARNING
Safety instructions for handling fuel
Fuels can pollute the environment. Any spilt service fluids must be cleaned up and disposed
of properly.
The tank flap cannot be opened manually. Seek expert assistance.
Fuel types and refuelling
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Petrol
⇒ Diesel
⇒ Refuelling
⇒ Misfuelling prevention device
The tank flap is located at the rear right-hand side of the vehicle ⇒ Side view.
Different engines require different fuels. The factory-fitted sticker on the inside of the tank flap
indicates the required fuel type for your vehicle.
Information on indicator and warning lamps can be found in the troubleshooting section at the end
of the chapter ⇒ Troubleshooting.
Petrol
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Vehicles with a petrol engine must be run on unleaded petrol. Fuels with a maximum ethanol
content of 10yb ( \f can be used for refuelling ⇒.
The petrol grades differ with respect to the octane number. The vehicle may be filled with petrol that
has a higher octane number than the engine requires. However, this does not provide any
advantage in terms of fuel consumption or engine output.
The fuel quality affects the running properties, performance and service life of the engine. You
should therefore use fuel that already contains suitable service additives if possible ⇒.
Information on the fuel standards can be found in the chapter on fuel standards ⇒ Fuel standards.
Incorrect handling of fuel can cause explosions, fire, serious burns and other injuries.
•Switch off the auxiliary heater⇒ Auxiliary heater and ventilation, the engine, the
ignition, your mobile phone and other wireless equipment while refuelling.
•Do not get into the vehicle to avoid electrostatic discharge.
•Make sure that the tank cap is closed properly and no fuel can escape.
•Comply with any relevant safety information and legislation concerning the handling of
fuels.
WARNING
Fuel may run out of the fuel canister. This could cause fire and injuries.
•Do not carry fuel canisters in the vehicle.
CAUTION
Incorrect refuelling can lead to damage to the vehicle.
•Only use fuels that have been approved for the vehicle.
•Do not use fuels containing metals and only use approved additives.
•Spilt fuel should be removed from all vehicle components immediately.
NOTICE
Diesel
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Vehicles with a diesel engine must be run on diesel ⇒. If you use diesel with a high sulphur
content, the service intervals are shorter ⇒ Service. Information on countries that use diesel with a
high sulphur content is available from your Volkswagen dealership.
The fuel quality affects the running properties, performance and service life of the engine. You
should therefore use fuel that already contains suitable service additives if possible ⇒.
Information on the fuel standards can be found in the chapter on fuel standards ⇒ Fuel standards.
Winter-grade diesel fuel and filter preheater system
Winter-grade diesel fuel, which can be used at temperatures below -20°C (-4°Fyf L V D Y D L O D E O H G X U L Q J
the cold months. In countries with different climates, diesel for other temperature conditions is
usually available. Information is available from your Volkswagen dealership and filling stations in
the respective country.
Diesel vehicles are equipped with a filter pre-heater system. When using winter-grade diesel fuel,
the fuel system is safe for operation at temperatures down to around -24°C (-11°Fyf .
However, if the fuel has waxed to such an extent that the engine will not start at temperatures
below -24°C (-11°Fyf S O D F H W K H Y H K L F O H L Q D K H D W H G J D U D J H R U Z R U N V K R S I R U D Z K L O H ⇒.
At cold temperatures, louder noises may occur in the diesel engine and the exhaust gas may
be tinged blue.
Refuelling
Fig. 195 Behind the tank flap: tank cap.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
See the chapter on technical data for information on filling capacities ⇒ Fuel tank capacity.
Incorrect refuelling or unsuitable fuel additives may cause damage to the vehicle.
•Before refuelling, check whether the fuel standard information provided on the pump
conforms to the requirements of the vehicle.
•Use only Volkswagen-approved service additives in the approved quantity.
•If, in an emergency, you have to use petrol with an octane number lower than the
recommended number, drive at medium engine speeds and avoid high engine loading.
Avoid high engine speeds and heavy engine loads. Failure to do so can result in engine
damage. Fill the tank with petrol with the correct octane number as soon as possible.
NOTICE
Start boosters may explode or suddenly cause the engine to run at high revs. This can
cause injuries or damage to the engine.
•Never use a start booster.
WARNING
Incorrect refuelling can lead to damage to the vehicle.
•Before refuelling, check whether the fuel standard information provided on the pump
conforms to the requirements of the vehicle.
•Do not refuel with RME fuel, petrol, fuel oil or other unsuitable fuels.
•Use only Volkswagen-approved service additives in the approved quantity.
NOTICE
Emission control with AdBlue
Fig. 197 Behind the tank flap: tank cap for AdBlue.
Fig. 198 Behind the tank flap: refilling AdBlue with the refill bottle or nozzle.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Key for ⇒ Fig. 197 and ⇒ Fig. 198:
Tank filler neck cap.
Refill bottle.
Filler nozzle.
AdBlue is a registered trademark and is also known as AUS32 or DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluidyf .
The AdBlue consumption figures depend on the driving style, the operating temperature and the
ambient temperature. The remaining range and refill quantity can be checked on the instrument
cluster display.
The AdBlue tank must never run empty. As of a remaining distance of approximately 2,400 km,
the instrument cluster display will indicate that the AdBlue must be refilled ⇒ Troubleshooting.
Preparing to refill
•Stop vehicle on a level surface.
•Switch off the ignition.
•Only use AdBlue that complies with the standard ISO 22241-1 ⇒.
Opening the tank filler neck
•Open the tank flap.
Engine emissions contain carbon monoxide that can cause people to lose consciousness
and can also cause death.
•Never start or run the engine in closed spaces.
•Never leave the engine running if you leave the vehicle unattended.
WARNING
The components of the exhaust system become very hot. This can cause fires.
•Park the vehicle so that no part of the exhaust system can come into contact with any
inflammable material underneath the vehicle, e.g. dry grass.
•Never apply additional underseal or anti-corrosion coatings to the exhaust pipes,
catalytic converters, particulate filter or heat shields.
WARNING
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The refill bottle must be disposed of in accordance with regulations governing the protection
of the environment.
Catalytic converter
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
To help ensure long-term functionality in the exhaust system and the catalytic converter:
•Use unleaded petrol only ⇒ Fuel types and refuelling.
•Do not allow the fuel tank to run completely empty.
•Do not overfill engine oil ⇒ Engine oil.
•Do not tow start the vehicle. Use jump leads ⇒ Jump starting.
If you notice misfiring, uneven running or loss of power when the vehicle is moving, reduce speed
immediately. The vehicle should be inspected at the nearest qualified workshop
⇒ Troubleshooting. If this happens, unburnt fuel can enter the exhaust system and escape into the
atmosphere. The catalytic converter can also be damaged by overheating.
The emissions may have a sulphur-like smell even if the emission purification system is
working properly.
Particulate filter
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Function
The particulate filter filters out soot particles in the exhaust gas. Observe the following points to
ensure that the exhaust purification system will work properly for a long time:
AdBlue is an irritant and corrosive fluid that can damage the skin, eyes and breathing
passages upon contact.
•Always observe the instructions for use when using AdBlue. If containers are used
according to the instructions, it is unlikely that a user will come into contact with
AdBlue.
•AdBlue must be kept in the closed original container. Never use empty food
containers, bottles or other containers for this purpose.
•Always store in a safe place out of reach of children.
•If AdBlue gets into the eyes, immediately rinse the eyes with plenty of water for at
least 15 minutes and consult a doctor.
•If AdBlue gets onto the skin, immediately wash the area with plenty of water for at
least 15 minutes and consult a doctor if the skin becomes irritated.
•If AdBlue is swallowed, immediately rinse the mouth out with lots of water for at least
15 minutes. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a doctor. Seek
medical assistance immediately.
CAUTION
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Overfilling AdBlue may damage the tank system and the vehicle.
•Do not fill with more than the maximum refill quantity indicated on the instrument
cluster display.
•Remove any spilt AdBlue as quickly as possible with a damp cloth and plenty of cold
water.
•If the AdBlue has already formed crystals, use warm water and a sponge to remove.
NOTICE
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Improper use of AdBlue may cause damage to the vehicle that is not covered by the
warranty.
•Only use AdBlue that complies with the standard ISO 22241-1.
•Do not mix with water, fuel or additives.
•Never fill AdBlue in the diesel tank.
•Do not transport the refill bottle in the vehicle habitually. The bottle may develop a leak
following changes in temperature and damage and the AdBlue may damage the
vehicle interior.
NOTICE
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•Only refuel with fuels that are suitable for the vehicle ⇒ Fuel types and refuelling.
•Do not allow the fuel tank to run completely empty.
•Use only suitable engine oil for the vehicle and do not overfill ⇒ Engine oil.
•Do not tow start the vehicle. Use jump leads ⇒ Jump starting.
Periodic regeneration
The soot in the particulate filter is burnt off at high temperatures on a periodic basis.
To assist the regeneration of the particulate filter, Volkswagen recommends that you avoid making
only short journeys.
Noises, slight smells and increased engine speeds may occur during regeneration. The radiator fan
may run on while the vehicle is moving or when the engine has been switched off.
During the periodic regeneration process, the yellow indicator lamp does not light
up.
Troubleshooting
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Irregular engine running and malfunctions
If the engine shows signs of irregular running or malfunctions while you are driving, this may mean
that the fuel is of poor quality. Reduce speed immediately. Drive to nearest qualified workshop at
medium engine speeds and low loads on the engine.
If these symptoms occur directly after refuelling, switch off the engine immediately to avoid any
subsequent damage. You should obtain professional assistance.
Warning and indicator lamps
Lights up together with the red warning lamp : fault in the selective catalytic reduction
system. The engine cannot be restarted! Drive straight to a qualified workshop without switching
off the engine and have the system checked ⇒.AdBlue level too low. The engine cannot
be restarted! Switch off the vehicle and refill the AdBlue minimum quantity according to
⇒ Emission control with AdBlue⇒.Lights up together with the yellow warning lamp
: the selective catalytic reduction system is faulty or not filled with standard-compliant
AdBlue. Drive immediately to a qualified workshop and have the system checked.AdBlue
level too low. Refill AdBlue within the displayed remaining range in accordance with ⇒ Emission
control with AdBlue⇒.The particulate filter is saturated with soot and requires
regeneration. Driving at speeds between 50 - 120 km/h (31 - 75 mphyf Z L O O V X S S R U W U H J H Q H U D W L R Q
Observe the relevant speed limits and the gear recommendation. The indicator lamp goes out
automatically when the particulate filter has been regenerated. If the indicator lamp is still lit up after
driving for around 30 minutes, seek expert assistance immediately.Lit up: malfunction. Have
the engine checked by a qualified workshop.Flashing: misfiring, which damages the catalytic
converter. Drive immediately to the nearest qualified workshop and have the engine checked.
There may be engine faults and fuel consumption may be higher if the indicator lamps are lit
up or flashing.
Colour display only on an instrument cluster with colour display.
Fuel standards
Petrol
Vehicles with a petrol engine must be run on petrol in compliance with the European standard
EN 228 or the German standard DIN 51626-1 ⇒.
Where petrol complying with the specified standard is not available, Volkswagen dealerships will
have information on what fuels are suitable for the vehicle.
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If the AdBlue level is too low, the vehicle cannot be restarted after the ignition has been
switched off. Starting with jump leads is also not possible.
•Refill AdBlue at the latest when the remaining distance reaches approximately
1,000 km.
•Never allow the AdBlue tank to run empty.
NOTICE
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1yf
Park the vehicle on a firm and level surface at a safe distance from the flow of traffic.
Switch on the electronic parking brake Electronic parking brake.
Turn the light switch to position 0 Lights.
Move the turn signal lever to neutral position Lights.
Move the automatic gearbox selector lever to position P DSG® dual clutch gearbox.
Switch off the ignition and remove the vehicle key from the ignition lock Starting and
stopping the engine.
Manual gearbox: select a gear Manual gearbox: selecting a gear.
Switch off the orientation lighting Lights.
Leave the defective bulbs to cool down.
You can change the following bulbs yourself:
•Bulbs in the halogen headlight: dipped beam, main beam, daytime running light, side light, turn
signal.
•Bulbs in front bumper: fog lights, static cornering light.
•Bulbs in the tail light clusters: rear turn signal, if it does not feature LED technology (depending
on vehicle equipment levelyf .
All other bulbs and lamps in the vehicle should always be changed by an expert.
Additional bulb specifications
Some bulbs in headlights or in tail light clusters might have factory specifications that are different
to standard bulbs. The designation is inscribed on the bulb, either on the glass part or on the base.
LED bulbs on the vehicle
•Brake light, rear fog light, tail light, turn signal and reversing light in the tail light clusters.
•Dipped beam, main beam, daytime running lights, static cornering light, side lights and turn
signal.
•Number plate light.
Owners cannot replace the LEDs themselves. If some LEDs fail, this may be an indication that
more elements are on the point of failure. If this happens, have the bulbs checked and replaced if
necessary at a qualified workshop.
Checklist Information on changing bulbs
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Checklist
Always carry out the following actions for changing a bulb in the given order ⇒:
Accidents can occur if roads are not sufficiently illuminated and other road users have
difficulty seeing the vehicle, or cannot see it at all.
WARNING
Changing the bulb incorrectly can cause accidents and serious injuries.
•When working in the engine compartment, always read and observe the safety
warnings ⇒ In the engine compartment. The engine compartment of any motor vehicle
is a dangerous area. Serious injuries can be sustained here.
•H7/H15 bulbs are pressurised and could explode when they are being changed.
•Only change the defective bulb once it has had time to cool down completely.
•Never change a bulb unless you are familiar with the procedure. If you are uncertain of
what to do, the work should be carried out by a qualified workshop.
•Do not touch the glass part of the bulb with unprotected fingers. When the light is
switched on, heat will cause fingerprints to evaporate on the bulb, which in turn will
cause the reflector to dim.
•There are sharp-edged parts in the headlight housing in the engine compartment and
on the tail light cluster housing. Protect your hands when changing bulbs.
WARNING
Damage to the electrical system can be caused by water entering the system if the rubber
covers or plastic caps on the headlight housing are not properly mounted after a bulb has
been changed.
NOTICE