
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
In normal driving conditions, the needle will be in the middle section of the scale. The temperature
may also rise when the engine is working hard, especially at high ambient temperatures.
FlashesNeedle
position
Possible
⇒ Fig. 21Cause/remedy
Ⓒ
Warning area
Coolant temperature too high.
Do not drive on!
Stop the vehicle as soon as possible and when safe to do so.
Switch off the engine and leave the engine to cool down.
Until the indicator is back in the normal range. Checking the
coolant level
⇒ Engine coolant.
Ⓑ
Normal area
Coolant level too low.
After the engine has cooled down, check the coolant level and
refill if the level is too low.
⇒ Engine coolant.
If the warning lamp does not go out but the coolant level is
adequate, the problem lies in a fault in the coolant system.
–
Fault in the cooling system.
Do not drive on!
Stop the vehicle as soon as it is possible and safe to do so.
Switch off the engine.
Seek expert assistance.
–Ⓐ
Cold area
The engine has not yet reached operating temperature.
Avoid high engine speeds and high engine loads until the
engine is warm.
Service interval display
Fig. 22 In the instrument cluster display: example of a display in the instrument cluster when a
service is due (illustrationyf .
Fig. 23 In the Infotainment system: example of a display containing service information (illustrationyf .
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The service displays are shown on the instrument cluster ⇒ Fig. 22 and in the Infotainment system
⇒ Fig. 23.
Versions and displays can vary as different versions of the instrument cluster and of the
Infotainment system are available.
In vehicles with fixed oil change service, services take place at predefined intervals.
The service intervals are calculated on an individual basis in vehicles with flexible oil change
service. Advances in technology have brought about a considerable reduction in servicing
requirements. An oil change service need be carried out only when required by the vehicle. The
individual conditions in which the vehicle is used, as well as the driver's personal driving style, are

taken into account. The service reminder is displayed 30 days before the service is due. The
distance is rounded to the nearest 100 km; the remaining time is rounded to full days.
Service alert
If a service or inspection is due soon, a service alert will appear when the ignition is switched on.
The number of kilometres or amount of time shown correspond to the maximum number of
kilometres or maximum time that can still be driven before the next service.
Service event
For a scheduled service or a scheduled inspection, a signal tone will be given when the ignition
is switched on and the spanner symbol will be displayed for several seconds on the
instrument cluster display. One of the following displays will also appear ⇒ Fig. 22:
Inspection now!
Oil service now!
Oil service and inspection now!
Viewing service appointments
You can access the current service schedule when the ignition is switched on, the engine is not
running, and the vehicle is stationary:
•Press and hold button in the instrument cluster ⇒ Instrument cluster until the text
Service appears in the display.
•Release the button. Information on the current scheduled service will be shown in the
display.
Service information ⇒ Fig. 23 can also be displayed in the Infotainment system by pressing the
button or function button and the Vehicle, and Service function
buttons ⇒ Operation and display in the Infotainment system.
Resetting the service interval display
If the service or the inspection was not performed by a Volkswagen dealership, the display can be
reset as follows:
•Switch off the ignition.
•Press and hold the button in the instrument cluster ⇒ Instrument cluster.
•Restart the ignition.
•Release button if one of the following messages appears on the instrument cluster
display:
Reset oil change service?
Reset inspection service?
•Press the button on the instrument cluster ⇒ Instrument cluster to confirm.
Do not reset the service interval display between service intervals otherwise incorrect data may be
shown.
If the oil change service was manually reset, the service interval display then also changes to a
fixed service interval in vehicles with flexible oil change service.
The service message will disappear after a few seconds, when the engine is running, or
when the button on the windscreen wiper lever or the button on the
multifunction steering wheel is pressed ⇒ Instrument cluster operation.
If the 12-volt vehicle battery was disconnected for long periods in vehicles with flexible
service, the system cannot calculate the time at which the next service is due. The information
shown in the service interval display may therefore be incorrect. If this is the case, please observe
the maximum permissible service intervals ⇒ Service.
Instrument cluster operation
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Operating using the wiper lever
⇒ Operating using the multifunction steering wheel
⇒ Button for driver assist systems
⇒ Additional displays and display options
Some menu options can only be opened when the vehicle is stationary.
There are no buttons on the wiper lever in vehicles equipped with a multifunction steering wheel
⇒ Operating using the wiper lever.

If fuel in the adequate quality available Fuel and emission control?
Are the correct service fluids that comply with Volkswagen specifications available in the
destination country Service fluids and consumables?
Will the navigation function in the factory-fitted Infotainment system and the navigation
data available work in the destination country?
Are special tyres necessary for travelling in the destination country?
Is a fire extinguisher prescribed in your destination country?
Which requirements must be observed regarding reflective vests?
Windscreen washer fluid level Wipers.
Engine oil level Engine oil.
Engine coolant level Engine coolant.
Brake fluid level Brake fluid.
Tyre pressure Wheels and tyres.
Checklist
Therefore, do not do any work in the engine compartment unless you know exactly how to
carry out the jobs, are aware of the general safety procedures and have the correct
equipment, service fluids and suitable tools to hand ⇒ In the engine compartment! In any
other case all work must be carried out by a qualified workshop. Make sure that the
following are checked regularly:
Vehicle lighting Lights required for the vehicle to be roadworthy:
- Turn signals
- Side lights, dipped beam headlights and main beam headlights
- Tail light cluster
- Brake lights
- Rear fog light
- Number plate light.
Servicing the vehicle is not only about vehicle maintenance – it also ensures that your
vehicle remains roadworthy and in perfect working order. You should therefore have your vehicle
serviced according to Volkswagen guidelines. 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 or driving in areas with high
levels of dust. Further information can be obtained from your Volkswagen dealership or a qualified
workshop.
Sitting position
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Dangers of assuming an incorrect sitting position
⇒ Correct sitting position
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
Volkswagen is not responsible for any vehicle damage caused by low-quality fuel,
inadequate servicing work or lack of Genuine Parts.
NOTICE
Observe the instructions and information relating to vehicles with N1 approval
⇒ Information about vehicles with N1 approval (light commercial vehicleyf.
NOTICE

Stop the vehicle at a safe distance away from moving traffic and on a suitable surface .
Switch on the hazard warning lights using the button Centre console.
Switch on the electronic parking brake Electronic parking brake.
Move the gear lever to neutral position or move the selector lever to P, Manual gearbox:
selecting a gear and DSG® dual clutch gearbox.
Stop the engine and remove the key from the ignition Starting and stopping the engine.
Ensure that all occupants exit the vehicle and go straight to a safe place away from
moving traffic, e.g. behind the safety barrier. Heed the country-specific regulations
concerning high-visibility waistcoats.
Take all vehicle keys with you when you leave the vehicle.
Place the warning triangle in position to draw the attention of other road users to your
vehicle.
Allow the engine to cool down and seek expert assistance.
Making you and your vehicle safe
Observe any legislation concerning the safety of a broken-down vehicle. For example, many
countries stipulate that you have to switch on the hazard warning lights and wear a high-visibility
vest ⇒ Equipment for an emergency.
Checklist
To ensure your own safety and that of your passengers, observe the following actions in the
specified order ⇒:
When the hazard warning lights are switched on, for example if you are being towed, you can still
indicate a change in direction or lane change by operating the turn signal. The warning lights will be
interrupted temporarily.
Examples of when to switch on the hazard warning lights:
•When traffic ahead suddenly starts moving more slowly or you reach the tail end of a traffic jam,
to will warn vehicles behind you.
•When there is an emergency.
•When the vehicle breaks down.
•When tow-starting or towing.
Always follow local regulations for the use of the hazard warning lights.
If the hazard warning lights are not working, you must use an alternative method of drawing
attention to the broken-down vehicle. This method must comply with traffic legislation.
Any broken-down vehicle poses a high accident risk for the vehicle occupants and for
other road users.
•Stop the vehicle as soon as possible and when safe to do so.
•Park the vehicle at a safe distance from moving traffic.
•Switch on the hazard warning lights.
•Never leave other persons alone in the vehicle, particularly children or people requiring
assistance. This applies in particular when the doors are locked. People locked in the
vehicle may be subjected to very high or very low temperatures.
WARNING
Ignoring any of the items on this important safety checklist can lead to accidents and
severe injuries.
•Always follow the instructions in the checklist and observe the general safety
procedures.
WARNING
The components of the exhaust system become very hot. This can cause fires and serious
injuries.
•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, fuel.
WARNING
When pushing the vehicle by hand, do not press on the rear lights, the rear spoiler or large
panels. This could damage the vehicle and loosen the spoiler.
NOTICE

m/k/a995MK Vehicles with manual gearbox: change from first to second gear immediately
after setting off. Change to higher gears rapidly.
m/k/a995MK Vehicles with DSG dual clutch gearbox: accelerate slowly and avoid using the
kickdown function.
Gear-change indicator ⇒ Gear-change indicator.
Eco driving profile ⇒ Driving profile selection and 4MOTION Active Control.
Avoid full throttle
Never fully use the maximum speed of the vehicle. Driving at excessive speeds, e.g. above 130
km/h on the motorway, will increase air resistance and thus the amount of force needed to move
the vehicle.
Reduce idling
Drive off immediately with low revs. If you are stopped for a long period, do not allow the engine to
idle but switch it off, e.g. when in a traffic jam or at a railway crossing.
In vehicles with an activated start/stop system, the engine will switch off automatically when the
vehicle is stopping and when the vehicle is stationary ⇒ Start/stop system .
Refuel with moderation
A full fuel tank increases the weight of the vehicle. A fuel tank that is half to three quarters full is
sufficient for urban journeys in particular.
Avoid short journeys
A cold engine has a very high fuel consumption. The optimum operating temperature is reached
only after driving a few miles. The fuel consumption is above average at very low ambient
temperatures, e.g. in winter ⇒ Fig. 116. Plan journeys economically and combine short distances.
Carry out regular maintenance
Regular maintenance is an essential prerequisite for economical driving and increases the service
life of the vehicle.
Observe the correct tyre pressures
An inadequate tyre pressure does not just mean greater wear, but also increases the rolling
resistance of the tyres and thus the fuel consumption. Use optimised rolling resistance tyres.
Adjust the tyre pressure according to the vehicle load. Observe the information on the tyre pressure
sticker ⇒ Useful information about wheels and tyres
Tyre Pressure Loss Indicator or Tyre Pressure Monitoring System ⇒ Tyre monitoring systems.
Use low viscosity engine oil
Fully synthetic engine oils with a low viscosity decrease frictional resistance in the engine and
spread better and more quickly, especially for cold starts.
Do not drive with unnecessary loads in the vehicle
You can reduce fuel consumption by clearing out the luggage compartment before setting off, for
example by removing empty drink crates or unused child seats.
In order to keep the drag coefficient of the vehicle as low as possible, remove attachments and
add-on parts such as ski, bicycle or roof carriers after use.
Save electrical energy
The alternator is driven by the engine and generates power for convenience consumers such as the
air conditioning system, window heating and ventilation. Saving electrical energy is easy, e.g.:
•At high ambient temperatures, ventilate the car before starting a journey and drive a short
distance with open window. Only then switch on the air conditioning system.
•Switch off convenience systems as soon as they have served their purpose.
Adapt your speed and distance from the vehicles ahead to suit visibility, weather, road
and traffic conditions.
WARNING

Running in the engine
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Any new engine has to be run in during the first 1,500 kilometres. All moving parts have to adapt
themselves to each other. The engine is subject to higher internal friction during the first hours of
operation than later on.
•Do not depress the accelerator fully.
•Do not drive the vehicle at more than 2/3 of the top engine speed.
•Do not drive with a trailer attached ⇒ Trailer towing.
•Increase the driving speed and engine speed gradually.
The style of driving during the first 1,500 kilometres will also affect the engine quality. Even after
this time – and especially with a cold engine – drive the vehicle at moderate speeds in order to
reduce engine wear and to increase the mileage that the engine can cover.
Do not drive at engine speeds that are too low. Always shift down gear if the engine is not running
smoothly.
New tyres ⇒ Wheels and tyres and brake pads ⇒ Notes on driving must be run in carefully.
If the engine is run in gently, its life will be increased and its oil consumption reduced.
Using the vehicle in other countries and continents
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The vehicle has been manufactured specifically for a particular country and complies with the
registration regulations that applied in that country at the time of vehicle production.
If you want to use the vehicle abroad for a short period, all relevant information and instructions
should be followed ⇒ Safety.
If the vehicle is going to be sold in another country or used in another country for an extended
period, the legal requirements applicable in that country must be observed.
In some cases, certain equipment will have to be fitted or removed and functions deactivated. The
service scope and service types could also be affected. This is particularly important if the vehicle is
driven in another climate region for a long period of time.
Because different frequency bands are used in different countries, the factory-fitted Infotainment
system may not work in other countries.
Troubleshooting
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
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
•Volkswagen is not responsible for any vehicle damage caused by low-quality fuel,
inadequate servicing work or lack of Genuine Parts.
•Volkswagen cannot be held responsible if the vehicle does not comply with or only
partly complies with the relevant legal requirements in other countries and continents.
NOTICE

Obtain sufficient information before driving into off-road terrain with the vehicle.
Do not plan day tours that are too long. Take increased fuel requirements for off-road
driving into account.
Refill tank completely. Fuel consumption is considerably higher off-road.
Check that your tyres are suitable for the off-road journey you have planned.
Recommendation for difficult off-road terrain: always have off-road tyres fitted to your
vehicle.
Check the tyre pressure on all tyres and correct them if necessary. This includes the
temporary spare wheel, if fitted.
Check engine oil level and refill engine oil as necessary. The engine will only be supplied
with engine oil when it is driven on or across a steep slope if the engine oil level is
sufficient.
Completely refill the washer fluid reservoir with water and washer fluid.
Fit the towing eye at the front and rear. It is not always possible to fit a towing eye when
the vehicle is stuck.
Check the vehicle tool kit and add tools according to individual requirements Useful
accessories for off-road driving.
Pack luggage in the vehicle as evenly and as low as possible. Secure all loose items.
Fig. 132 Illustration: angle of tilt.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Centre of gravityThe centre of gravity of a vehicle influences its propensity to roll over. The vehicle
has greater ground clearance for off-road driving, and thus a higher centre of gravity than a normal
vehicle. The high centre of gravity means that there is a greater danger of roll-over when driving.
Always remember this fact when driving and follow the safety tips and warnings given in this
owner's manual.Ground clearanceThis is the vertical distance between the level ground and the
lowest item on the vehicle.Angle of rising gradientThe number of metres in height gained over a
distance of 100 m will be given as a percentage or degree ⇒ Fig. 131. Indication of gradient that
the vehicle can drive up under its own power. This depends on aspects such as the road surface
and engine power.Tilt angleMaximum angle at which the vehicle may be driven across a slope
without the vehicle toppling over (determined by centre of gravityyf ⇒ Fig. 132.Breakover
angleMaximum permitted angle given in degrees that a vehicle driven at low speed can clear a
ramp without the underbody of the vehicle scraping the ramp.Ramp angleCrossover from the
horizontal level surface to an uphill gradient, or from a downhill gradient back to the level surface.
Angle at which the vehicle underbody will come into contact with the edge of the ramp.Fall lineThis
is the vertical drop route.Torsional flexibilityThe vehicle's torsional flexibility when driving over
objects with just one side of the vehicle.
Checklist: Before driving off-road
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Checklist
To ensure your own safety and the safety of your passengers, observe the following points
before driving off-road:
Before driving off-road, Volkswagen recommends attending an off-road driving course, particularly if
you have no or very little experience.
A good driving course will teach you how to handle the vehicle in a variety of off-road situations and
how to drive safely in difficult terrain. Driving off-road demands different skills and driving styles in
comparison to driving on roads. The safety of the driver and the vehicle occupants depends on the
driver.
General rules and driving tips
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Code of conduct for off-road driving
A responsible driver should respect the environment when driving off-road. Remember that driving
through undergrowth and on meadows can destroy animal and plant habitats.
•Always stay on designated routes and paths.
•Do not create any unnecessary noise or dust.
•Leave nature as you found it.
•Avoid sensitive natural habitats.

Clean the turn signals, headlight system, the number plate and all windows.
If necessary, remove the towing eye and the snow chains.
Check the tyres, struts and axles for damage and remove dirt, stones and other foreign
bodies from the tyre tread.
Inspect the vehicle underbody and remove all items that are jammed in the brake system,
on the wheels, in the running gear, in the exhaust system and in the engine, such as
branches, leaves or pieces of wood . If you see any damage or leaks, take your vehicle to a
qualified workshop.
Clean heavy soiling from the radiator grille and the vehicle underbody Vehicle care.
Check the engine compartment to see if any dirt is affecting the engine operation In the
engine compartment.
Switch off OFF-ROAD mode Selecting a driving profile (4MOTION Action Controlyf .
Switch on TCS again Brake support systems.
If your vehicle gets stuck
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Rocking out a vehicle requires a great deal of training and feeling for the vehicle.
If you make a mistake when rocking the vehicle, it can sink deeper and you will need assistance to
get out of the mud.
When you cannot proceed ...
•Carefully dig out all the wheels and check that no other parts of the vehicle are stuck in the
sand.
•Engage reverse gear.
•Reverse over your own tracks, accelerating gently.
If this does not help, place brushwood, floor mats or sacking directly in front of the wheels to
increase grip ⇒.
Rocking the vehicle
Never allow the wheels to spin for long periods as this will cause the vehicle to sink deeper ⇒.
•Switch off TCS ⇒ Brake support systems.
•Position the steering wheel so that it is facing straight ahead.
•Reverse until the point where the wheels just start to spin.
•Quickly select first gear and drive forwards until the wheels start to spin again.
•Repeat driving back and forth until you have enough momentum to free yourself.
•Switch the TCS on after the rocking procedure is completed ⇒ Brake support systems.
•Use the Off-road driving profile.
After off-road driving
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Checklist
Never drive through a ditch if the entry/exit angle is too steep for the vehicle and the ditch
is too deep. The vehicle could slide away, tip over or roll.
WARNING
If you drive into the ditch at a right angle, the front wheels will fall in. The underbody of
your vehicle could get stuck and damaged which means that the vehicle could break
down. It is then almost impossible to get out of the ditch despite having all-wheel drive.
NOTICE
Nobody may stand either in front or behind the vehicle, particularly if you are attempting
to free a stuck vehicle.
•Spinning wheels can propel stones, brushwood, pieces of wood or other objects that
are in front or behind the wheels at enormous speed and cause potentially fatal injury.
•People standing in front of or behind the vehicle could be run over if the stuck vehicle
starts to move suddenly.
WARNING