Get Checking and refilling Guide for Volkswagen Golf 4 Door 2023

the job and have the correct technical informa-

tion and the correct tools.

Checking and refilling

In the engine compartment

Introduction

If you are uncertain about what to do, have the

work performed by an authorized Volkswagen

dealer, an authorized Volkswagen Service Facili-

ty, or another qualified workshop. Serious per-

sonal injury may result from improperly per-

formed work.

·

Always position the vehicle on a firm and level sur-

face before doing any work in the engine compart-

ment.

We strongly recommend that you always have

headlights and H7 bulbs replaced by a qualified

technician. Serious personal injury may result

from improperly performed work.

·

The engine compartment of a vehicle is a hazardous

area. Never do any work on the engine or in the en-

gine compartment unless you

Never open or close the engine hood if steam or

coolant is escaping. Hot steam or coolant can

cause serious burns. Always wait until you no

longer see or hear steam or coolant escaping

from the engine.

— know exactly how to carry out the job,

— have the correct technical information and the

proper tools and supplies, and

— are familiar with the necessary safety precautions

Always let the engine cool down completely be-

fore carefully opening the hood.

·

→

.

If you are uncertain in any way, have the work done

by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or an authorized

Volkswagen Service Facility. Serious personal injury

may result from improperly performed work.

Hot parts of the engine and the exhaust system

will burn skin on contact.

When the engine has cooled down and you are

ready to open the hood:

— Set the parking brake and shift the transmis-

sion to Park (P) (automatic or DSG) or Neutral

(manual only).

WARNING

Unintended vehicle movement during mainte-

nance work can cause serious personal injuries.

— Take the vehicle key out of the ignition.

Never work under the vehicle unless you have

·

— On vehicles with Keyless Access, make sure

that the remote control vehicle key is out of

range of the vehicle and that the vehicle can-

not be started by depressing the starter but-

ton → page 142, Starter button.

safely secured the vehicle from moving. If you

must work under the vehicle with the wheels on

the ground, always make sure that the vehicle is

on level ground, that all 4 wheels are chocked

to keep them from moving, and that the key is

not in the ignition.

— Always keep children and others away from

the engine compartment and never leave

them unsupervised.

If you must work under a vehicle raised on

·

a floor jack, always make sure that the vehicle is

safely supported on safety stands intended for

that purpose that are strong enough to support

the weight of the vehicle. The jack supplied with

the vehicle is not strong enough for this pur-

pose and can collapse causing serious personal

injury.

The engine coolant system is under pressure

when the engine is hot. Never unscrew the

coolant expansion tank cap when the engine is

hot. Hot coolant can spray out and cause severe

burns and other serious injuries.

·

— Turn the cap slowly and very carefully in

a counterclockwise direction while applying

light downward pressure on the top of the

cap.

The Start-stop system must be deactivated.

·

WARNING

— Always protect your face, hands, and arms

from hot escaping coolant or steam by cover-

ing the cap with a large, thick rag.

The engine compartment of any motor vehicle is

a potentially dangerous area and can cause serious

personal injury.

Never spill fluids on the engine or exhaust sys-

tem when refilling. Spilling fluids onto hot parts

of the engine or exhaust system can cause

a fire.

Always use extreme caution when doing any

·

work in the engine compartment. Always follow

commonly accepted safety practices and use

common sense. Never risk personal injury.

Never perform any work in the engine compart-

ment unless you know exactly how to carry out

·

In the engine compartment

241

of the engine and can cause fires, which can lead

to serious injuries.

WARNING

High voltage systems in the engine compartment

can cause electrical shocks or even electrocution,

severe burns, other serious injuries, and even

death!

Never cover the engine with blankets or other

materials.

·

WARNING

Never short-circuit the electrical system. Be es-

pecially careful when using jumper cables. The

vehicle's battery could explode!

·

Operating fluids and some materials in the engine

compartment can catch fire easily, causing burns

and other serious personal injuries!

To reduce the risk of electrical shock and per-

sonal injury while the engine is running or being

started:

·

Never smoke near the engine compartment.

·

Never work next to open flames or sparks.

·

— Never touch ignition cables. Never touch oth-

er components of the high voltage electronic

ignition system.

Never pour or spill operating fluids or other

·

flammable liquids on the engine. These fluids

can ignite on hot engine parts and cause inju-

ries.

Read and heed the important information and

warnings on cleaning the engine compartment

→ page 310, Exterior care and cleaning.

·

Before working on the vehicle's fuel system or

12 Volt electrical system:

·

— Always disconnect the 12 Volt vehicle bat-

tery. Note that if the vehicle is locked when

the 12 Volt vehicle battery is disconnected,

the anti-theft alarm system will sound

→ page 95, Anti-theft alarm system.

WARNING

Moving parts in the engine compartment can

cause serious personal injury on contact.

Never reach into the area around or touch the

·

— Never work near a furnace, water heater, or

other open flame.

radiator fan. Contact with the blades can cause

serious personal injury. Always remember that

the radiator fan is temperature-controlled and

can come on suddenly even when the engine

has been switched off for a while and the key

has been removed from the ignition.

Always have a functional, approved fire extin-

guisher nearby.

·

NOTICE

If you have to perform a check or repair when

·

When changing or topping off fluids, make sure that

you pour the fluids into the correct reservoirs. Add-

ing the wrong type of operating fluids will cause se-

rious malfunctions and engine damage.

the engine is running, there are more risks from

the rotating parts, such as the drive belts, alter-

nator, radiator fan, etc., and from the high-volt-

age ignition system. Always use extreme care.

Fluid leaks and spills are harmful to the envi-

ronment. Regularly check the ground under-

neath your vehicle for this reason. If you find spots

of oil or other fluids, have your vehicle checked by

your authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized

Volkswagen Service Facility. Dispose of leaked oper-

ating fluids properly.

— Always make sure that jewelry, loose clothing

and long hair do not get caught in rotating

engine parts. Before starting any work re-

move your jewelry, take off your necktie, tie

back and cover your hair, and do not wear

clothing that can hang down and get caught

in moving engine parts.

— Always use extreme caution if the accelerator

pedal has to be depressed to perform

a check. The vehicle will start to move if the

transmission is in gear, even if the parking

brake is on.

Never leave any objects in the engine compart-

·

ment, for example cleaning rags and tools. Ob-

jects left behind can cause malfunctions, engine

damage, and even fires.

WARNING

Additional materials in the engine compartment

such as blankets can interfere with the operation

242

Checking and refilling

Preparing to work in the engine

compartment

Opening or closing the engine com-

partment

Please read the introductory information and

heed the Warnings and Notice

241.

and on page

heed the Warnings and Notice

241.

and on page

Checklist

Before any work in the engine compartment, carry

out the following steps in the order in which they

are listed →

:

✓

Park the vehicle in a safe place on a firm, level

surface.

Hold the brake pedal down until the engine is

switched off.

Shift the transmission to Park (P) (automatic or

DSG) or Neutral (manual only) → page 148, Au-

tomatic and DSG® transmission.

✓

Set the parking brake to help prevent the vehi-

cle from moving → page 178, Using the parking

brake (Golf, Golf GTI).

Fig. 166 In the footwell on the driver side: Inside en-

gine hood release lever.

Stop the engine and remove the key from the

ignition switch or turn off the ignition with the

starter button and remove the key from the ve-

hicle → page 141, Starting and stopping the en-

gine.

✓

Let the engine cool down sufficiently.

Keep children and others away from the vehicle.

Make sure the vehicle cannot move unexpected-

ly.

WARNING

Disregarding the safety-related checklist may re-

sult in serious injuries.

Always review and follow the checklist. Follow

accepted safety practices and use common

sense.

·

Fig. 167 Above the radiator grille: Outside engine hood

release.

Opening the engine hood

— Before you open the hood, make sure that the

windshield wiper arms are resting on the wind-

shield →

.

— Open the driver door and pull the inside hood re-

lease lever in the direction of the arrow

→ fig. 166. The engine hood is released from its

latch by a spring →

.

— Push the outside hood release lever → fig. 167

(arrow) and lift the hood all the way up. A gas-

pressure strut will hold the hood up.

In the engine compartment

243

Closing the engine hood

Display

— Pull the hood down to overcome the resistance of

the gas-pressure strut →

.

Please read the introductory information and

heed the Warnings and Notice

241.

and on page

— Lower the engine hood by hand until it is about

8 in. (20 cm) above its latch and then let it drop

into place to latch it. Do not push down on it af-

terwards!

If the hood does not close completely, open it again

and close it properly.

When the hood is properly closed, you can see that

it fits flush with the other body parts. The display in

the instrument cluster no longer indicates that the

engine hood is open → page 244, Display.

WARNING

If the hood is not closed properly, it could fly up

and block your view while you are driving. This can

lead to a crash and serious personal injuries.

After closing the engine hood, check that the

·

Fig. 168 In the instrument cluster display: Engine hood

open or not properly closed.

hood release lever is properly latched into the

hood latch. The engine hood must be flush with

the surrounding auto body parts.

When the ignition is switched on, several warning

and indicator lights come on briefly for a function

check. They go out after a few seconds.

If you ever notice that the hood latch is not

properly secured when the vehicle is moving,

stop at once and close it.

·

If the engine hood is not closed properly, the vehicle

icon appears in the instrument cluster display indi-

cating the engine hood is open → fig. 168. Stop!

Open and close the engine hood again.

Never let anyone get in the way of the hood

when closing it.

·

NOTICE

The icon may still be displayed even after the igni-

tion is switched off. The instrument cluster display

goes out a short time after the vehicle has been

locked.

Make sure the windshield wipers are switched off

·

and the windshield wiper arms are resting on the

windshield before you open the hood. Otherwise,

the windshield wipers and the hood may be dam-

aged.

WARNING

Always put the windshield wiper arms down

against the windshield before driving the vehicle.

·

Failure to heed warning lights or other warnings

can result in a collision and serious personal injury.

Never ignore warning lights or text WARNINGS.

·

NOTICE

Always stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to

do so.

Before opening or closing the engine hood, make

sure there is enough room to do so, for example

when the vehicle is in a garage.

Operating fluids and equip-

ment

Operating fluids and parts that wear out with use

(such as timing belts, tires, engine coolants, engine

oils, spark plugs, and vehicle batteries) are constant-

ly being improved. For this reason, it is important to

have operating fluids changed and worn parts re-

placed by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or au-

thorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Authorized

244

Checking and refilling

Volkswagen dealers and authorized Volkswagen

Service Facilities are always up-to-date regarding

new developments and changes.

Windshield washer fluid

WARNING

Improper use of operating fluids and equipment

can cause accidents, serious personal injuries,

burns and/or poisoning.

Always store vehicle care products in a safe

place in original containers that are securely

closed.

·

To reduce the risk of poisoning, never use emp-

ty food or beverage containers that might mis-

lead someone into drinking from them.

·

Always keep vehicle care products out of the

reach of children.

·

Fig. 169 In the engine compartment: Cap of the wind-

shield washer fluid reservoir.

Always read and heed all the instructions and all

WARNINGS on the package before using vehicle

care products.

·

Check the windshield washer fluid level regularly

and refill as necessary.

When using products that give off harmful

fumes, always work outdoors or in a well venti-

lated area.

·

There is a filter screen in the filler neck of the wind-

shield washer fluid reservoir. The screen helps to

keep large particles and debris from getting into and

clogging the windshield washer nozzles when add-

ing windshield washer fluid. Take the screen out on-

ly to clean it. If the screen is damaged or missing,

have it replaced immediately, otherwise the system

may become clogged and not work properly.

Never use fuel, turpentine, engine oil, nail polish

·

remover or other volatile fluids for vehicle care.

They are poisonous and highly flammable. They

could cause fires and explosions!

NOTICE

— Open the engine hood → page 241, In the en-

gine compartment.

Only refill with suitable operating fluids. When

·

changing or topping off fluids, make sure that you

pour the fluids into the correct reservoirs. Adding

incorrect fluids will cause serious malfunctions

and engine damage! Under no circumstances

should you mix up operating fluids. Otherwise se-

rious malfunctions and engine damage can occur!

— The windshield washer fluid reservoir can be iden-

tified by the symbol on its cap → fig. 169.

— Check if there is still enough windshield washer

fluid in the reservoir.

— Refill with clear water (not distilled water) and an

appropriate windshield washer fluid that is rec-

ommended by Volkswagen → . Follow the di-

rections on the container.

Accessories and other things installed in front of

·

the cooling air intakes impair the efficiency of the

engine coolant. The engine can overheat under

high outside temperatures or under high engine

loads!

— In cold weather, always use a special windshield

washer antifreeze solution that will help keep the

Leaking operating fluids can pollute the envi-

ronment. Collect leaking operating fluids in

suitable containers and dispose of them properly in

accordance with applicable environmental laws and

regulations.

water from freezing →

.

Recommended cleaners

— For the warmer months, Windscreen Clear Summ-

erG 052 184 A2 or equivalent. Mixing ratio 1:100

(1 part concentrate to 100 parts water) in the

windshield washer reservoir.

— All-season Windscreen ClearG 052 164 M2 or

equivalent. Mixing ratio in winter to 0 °F (-18 °C)

about 1:2 (1 part concentrate to 2 parts water),

otherwise, mixing ratio 1:4 in the windshield

washer reservoir.

Windshield washer fluid

245

Filling capacity

Always wear eye protection.

·

Depending on vehicle equipment, the windshield

washer fluid reservoir holds between 3.1–5.2 quarts

(3–5 liters).

Engine oil is poisonous and must be stored out

of the reach of children.

Store engine oil only in the closed original con-

tainer. This also applies to used oil until dispos-

al.

·

WARNING

Never mix antifreeze or similar additives into the

windshield washer reservoir. This could produce an

oily film on the windshield, which would consider-

ably reduce visibility.

To reduce the risk of poisoning, never drain the

oil into empty food or beverage containers that

might mislead someone into drinking from

them.

·

Use clear water (not distilled water) with

a cleaning solution recommended by Volkswa-

gen.

·

Continuous contact with used engine oil is

harmful to your skin. Always protect your skin

by washing thoroughly with soap and water.

·

If necessary, blend with a suitable windshield

washer fluid antifreeze agent.

·

Engine oil becomes extremely hot when the en-

gine is running and can cause severe burns. Al-

ways let the engine cool down to the touch.

NOTICE

Like all other operating fluids, engine oil can

pollute the environment. Collect leaked or

spilled operating fluids and dispose of them properly

in accordance with applicable environmental laws

and regulations.

Never mix cleaning solutions recommended by

·

Volkswagen with other cleaning agents. If you do,

this could cause sediments or other by-products

that can clog the windshield washer nozzles.

When changing or topping off fluids, make sure

·

that you pour the fluids into the correct reser-

voirs. Adding the wrong type of operating fluids

will cause serious malfunctions and engine dam-

age.

Engine oil

Introduction

WARNING

Improper handling of engine oil can cause severe

burns and other serious injuries.

Engine oil specifications

Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice

on page 246.

The engine oil used must conform to exact specifi-

cations.

new developments and changes. Volkswagen there-

fore recommends that you have the engine oil

changed by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or an

authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Using the proper engine oil is important for the

functionality and service life of the engine. Your en-

gine was factory-filled with a high-quality multi-

grade oil which can usually be used throughout the

entire year.

Engine oil quality is based not only on requirements

for engines and exhaust treatment systems, but also

on fuel quality. Engine oil comes into contact with

fuel and fuel residue in all internal combustion en-

gines, causing engine oil to age and its lubricating

qualities to deteriorate.

Engine oils are constantly being improved. Author-

ized Volkswagen dealers and authorized Volkswagen

Service Facilities are always up-to-date regarding

246

Checking and refilling

Always use an approved oil that expressly complies

with the Volkswagen oil quality standard that ap-

plies to your vehicle's engine.

Approved engine oil

Engines

Engine oil specification

Viscosity grade

1.4 L gasoline engines (Golf)

2.0 L gasoline engines (Golf GTI)

VW 508 00

SAE 0W-20

At the time this Manual was printed, the engine oils

available in the U.S. that meet these Volkswagen

standards are “synthetic” oils. This does not mean,

however, that any “synthetic” engine oil will meet

Volkswagen standards. Always use an approved oil

that expressly complies with the Volkswagen oil

quality standard that applies to your vehicle's en-

gine.

tal of no more than 1/2 quart (0.5 liter) of a high-

quality “synthetic” oil that meets ACEA A3/B4 or

API SN (API SM) specifications and has a viscosity

grade that matches the approved viscosity for

your vehicle's engine listed in the table .

If there is no oil available that has a viscosity

grade of SAE 0W-20, you may add a total of no

more than 1/2 quart (0.5 liter) of an engine oil

that meets the oil quality standard VW 502 00 or

VW 504 00 and has a viscosity grade of

·

General recommendations

If engine oil that meets the applicable Volkswagen

oil quality standard and viscosity grades are not

available in your area, be sure to use a viscosity

grade suitable for the climate, season, and operating

conditions that exist where the vehicle is used. Make

sure the oil and viscosity grades meet the quality

standard listed in the table . If none is available that

meets this engine oil specification, see the informa-

SAE 0W-30, SAE 5W-30, or SAE 5W-40.

— Using oil with a viscosity grade other than

SAE 0W-20 may cause vehicle emissions and

fuel consumption to increase slightly. Only use

other oils in case of emergency!

Use only an engine oil that expressly complies

with the Volkswagen oil quality standard specified

for your vehicle's engine. Using any other oil can

cause serious engine damage that will not be cov-

ered by any Volkswagen Limited Warranty.

·

tion in →

.

Volkswagen recommends

engine oils.

Do not mix any lubricants or other additives into

the engine oil. Doing so can cause engine dam-

age! Damage caused by these kinds of additives

are not covered by any Volkswagen Limited War-

ranty.

NOTICE

If you need to add oil and there is none available

that expressly meets the Volkswagen oil quality

standard your engine requires, you may add a to-

·

frequently if you often drive short distances, in dusty

areas or in stop-and-go traffic, or if you use your ve-

hicle where temperatures stay below freezing for

long periods.

Changing engine oil

Please read the introductory information and

heed the Warnings and Notice

on page 246.

Volkswagen recommends that you have your oil and

oil filter changed by an authorized Volkswagen deal-

er or an authorized Volkswagen Service Facility

The engine oil must be changed according to the in-

tervals specified in your → Warranty and Mainte-

nance.

→

. They have the required expertise and special

tools and will dispose of the old oil properly.

Changing oil at regular intervals is very important

because the lubricating properties of oil decrease

gradually during normal vehicle use. If you are not

sure when to have the oil changed, ask your author-

ized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen

Service Facility.

Detergent additives in the oil will make fresh oil look

dark after the engine has been running a short time.

This is normal and no reason to change engine oil

more often.

Sometimes, engine oil should be changed more of-

ten than specified for normal use. Change oil more

Engine oil

247

WARNING

Engine oil consumption

If you must change the engine oil yourself, be sure

to take the following precautions:

Please read the introductory information and

heed the Warnings and Notice

on page 246.

Always wear eye protection.

·

To reduce the risk of burns from hot engine oil,

let the engine cool down completely before be-

ginning.

To provide effective lubrication and cooling for in-

ternal engine parts, all internal combustion engines

use some oil. Oil consumption varies from engine to

engine and may change over the life of the engine.

Engines tend to use more oil during the break-in pe-

riod than they do afterward, when oil consumption

has stabilized.

When removing the oil drain plug with your fin-

·

gers, stay as far away as possible. Always keep

your forearm parallel to the ground to help pre-

vent hot oil from running down your arm.

Under normal conditions, the rate of oil consump-

tion depends on oil quality as well as viscosity, en-

gine speed (rpm), outside temperature, road condi-

tions, the amount of oil dilution caused by con-

densed water or fuel residue, and oxidation of the

oil. Oil consumption may increase with engine wear

over time, until replacement of worn engine parts

may become necessary.

Drain the oil into a container designed for this

purpose, one large enough to hold at least the

total amount of oil in your engine.

·

To reduce the risk of poisoning, never drain the

·

oil into empty food or beverage containers that

might mislead someone into drinking from

them.

Always use an oil that has been specifically ap-

proved for your vehicle → page 246, Engine oil

specifications.

·

Volkswagen recommends that you to check the en-

gine oil level at regular intervals, preferably every

time you fill the fuel tank, and always before a long

trip. Your vehicle may consume engine oil depending

on several variables. A maximum of 1 quart per

1200 miles (1 liter per 2000 km) would be consid-

ered normal. New vehicles may consume more oil

over the first 3000 miles (5000 km).

Engine oil is poisonous and must be stored out

of the reach of children.

·

Continuous contact with used engine oil is

harmful to your skin. Always protect your skin

by washing thoroughly with soap and water.

·

The oil pressure warning light is not an indicator of

low engine oil level. If the warning light stays on or

flashes while driving (above 1500 rpm), a chime will

sound. It indicates that the oil pressure is too low.

Stop the engine in a safe place immediately, check

the engine oil level and add oil if necessary. If the

engine oil level is normal, but the light continues to

flash, do not keep driving or let the engine idle, as

damage may occur.

Before changing the oil, first make sure you

know where you can properly dispose of the

old oil.

Dispose of the old oil in an environmentally-

responsible manner. Never dump the old oil

on garden soil, in wooded areas, in the street, into

streams, rivers, or bodies of water, or down sewage

drains.

If you believe your engine uses too much oil, we rec-

ommend that you consult your authorized Volkswa-

gen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility

so that the cause of your concern can be properly di-

agnosed. Please keep in mind that accurate meas-

urement of oil consumption requires great care and

may take some time. Your authorized Volkswagen

dealer and authorized Volkswagen Service Facility

have instructions for how to measure oil consump-

tion accurately.

Recycle used oil by taking it to a collection fa-

cility for used engine oil in your area, or con-

tact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or an author-

ized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Volkswagen recommends that you always

have your oil and oil filter changed by an au-

thorized Volkswagen dealer or an authorized Volks-

wagen Service Facility. They have the required ex-

pertise and special tools and will dispose of the old

oil properly.

Depending on the way the vehicle is driven

and the operating conditions, oil consumption

can be up to 1 quart per 1200 miles (1 liter per

2000 km). Consumption may be higher for new vehi-

cles during the first 3000 miles (5000 km).

248

Checking and refilling

Checklist

Checking the engine oil level and

adding oil

Perform the steps in the order listed →

:

1. With the engine at operating temperature, park

the vehicle on a level surface to help prevent an

incorrect oil level reading.

Please read the introductory information and

heed the Warnings and Notice

on page 246.

2. Switch off the engine and wait a few minutes

for the engine oil to flow back into the oil pan.

3. Open the engine hood → page 241.

4. Find the oil filler opening and the dipstick. You

can identify these by the

symbol on the en-

gine oil filler cap → fig. 171 and the colored

handle on the dipstick. If you are not sure where

the cap and the dipstick are located, see your

authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized

Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.

5. Remove the dipstick from the guide tube and

wipe the dipstick off using a clean cloth.

6. Reinsert the dipstick into the guide tube and

push it all the way in. If there is an alignment

tab on the top of the engine oil dipstick, make

sure it lines up with the notch in the guide tube,

and that the dipstick goes all the way in.

Fig. 170 Engine oil dipstick with oil level marks.

7. Remove the dipstick again and read the oil level

on the dipstick → fig. 170 as described below:

A : Engine oil level too high. Do not start the

engine → . Contact an authorized Volkswagen

dealer or an authorized Volkswagen Service Fa-

cility for assistance.

B : Do not add any oil → . Continue with step

15.

C : Oil may be added, depending on the oil lev-

el. Continue with step 8 or step 15.

D : You must add oil (about 1 quart / 1.0 liter).

Continue with step 8.

Fig. 171 In the engine compartment: Engine oil filler

cap (cap design may vary depending on vehicle equip-

ment).

8. After reading the oil level, reinsert the dipstick

back into the guide tube and push it all the way

in.

Key to fig. 170:

9. Remove the cap on the engine oil filler opening

→ fig. 171.

A

Engine oil level too high. Do not start the en-

gine → . Contact an authorized Volkswagen

dealer or an authorized Volkswagen Service Fa-

cility for assistance.

10. Only add engine oil that Volkswagen has ap-

proved for that engine → page 246, Engine oil

specifications. Add the oil gradually in small

quantities (no more than 1 pint / 0.5 liter).

B

C

Do not refill oil →

.

11. To help prevent overfilling, you must wait about

1 minute each time you add oil so that the oil

can flow into the oil pan up to the marking on

the dipstick.

You may add oil, as long as the oil level does not

go above the B range.

D

Engine oil level too low. You must add oil (about

1 quart / 1.0 liter). After adding oil, make sure

that the oil level is about in the middle of the

range.

12. Read the oil level on the dipstick again before

adding another small amount, if necessary. Nev-

C

er add too much oil →

.

Engine oil

249

13. After adding oil, the level must at least be in the

center of the → fig. 170 C range and can enter

Depending on equipment, the engine oil tempera-

ture may be displayed in the Volkswagen Informa-

tion System Driving data menu → page 13, Volkswagen

Information System.

range B , but should never enter range

A

→

.

14. After adding oil, securely install the cap on the

engine oil filler opening. Otherwise, oil could

leak out while the engine is running.

Engine oil pressure too low

The red indicator light flashes.

15. Insert the oil dipstick back in the guide tube and

push it all the way in.

—

Stop!

— Switch off the engine.

16. Close the hood →

page 241.

in Introduction on

— Check the engine oil level → page 249.

— If the warning light flashes although the oil level

is normal, do not continue driving or let the en-

gine idle. Otherwise, the engine could be dam-

aged.

WARNING

Engine oil can ignite when it touches hot engine

parts. This can cause fires, burns, and other severe

injuries.

— Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or an

authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Never spill oil on the engine. Oil spilled on

a cold engine can also cause a fire when the en-

gine warms up.

·

Engine oil level too low

Always make certain that you screw the cap of

The yellow indicator light comes on.

·

the engine oil filler opening back on tightly after

adding oil and that the dipstick has been pushed

all the way back into the in the guide tube. This

helps prevent engine oil from leaking onto the

hot engine when the engine is running.

—

Stop!

— Switch off the engine.

— Check the engine oil level → page 249.

— If necessary, contact an authorized Volkswagen

dealer or an authorized Volkswagen Service Facili-

ty for assistance.

NOTICE

Do not start the engine if the engine oil level is in

·

Engine oil system malfunction

range → fig. 170 A . Contact an authorized Volks-

wagen dealer or an authorized Volkswagen Serv-

ice Facility. Otherwise the catalytic converter and

engine can be damaged!

The yellow indicator light flashes.

— Have the engine oil sensor checked by an author-

ized Volkswagen dealer or an authorized Volkswa-

gen Service Facility.

When changing or topping off fluids, make sure

that you pour the fluids into the correct reser-

voirs. Adding the wrong type of operating fluids

will cause serious malfunctions and engine dam-

age.

·

WARNING

Failure to heed warning lights and instrument

cluster text messages can cause the vehicle to

break down in traffic and result in a collision and

serious personal injury.

The engine oil level should never be in range

→ fig. 170 A . Otherwise oil can be drawn in

by the crankcase ventilation system and enter the

atmosphere via the exhaust system.

Never ignore warning lights or text WARNINGS.

·

Always stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to

do so.

NOTICE

Warning and indicator lights

Failure to heed warning lights or text WARNINGS

can result in vehicle damage.

Please read the introductory information and

heed the Warnings and Notice

on page 246.

When the ignition is switched on, several warning

and indicator lights come on briefly for a function

check. They go out after a few seconds.

250

Checking and refilling

Engine coolant specifications

Engine coolant

Please read the introductory information and

Introduction

heed the Warnings and Notice

on page 251.

Never do any work on the coolant system unless you

— know exactly how to carry out the job,

The cooling system is filled at the factory with

a mixture of specially prepared water and at least

40% coolant additive.

— have the correct technical information and the

proper tools, supplies, and operating fluids, and

Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or author-

ized Volkswagen Service Facility to find out which

engine coolant is suitable for your vehicle. Volkswa-

gen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswa-

gen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facili-

ty.

— are familiar with the necessary safety precautions

→

!

If you are uncertain in any way, have the work done

by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or an authorized

Volkswagen Service Facility.

To protect the engine cooling system, there must al-

ways be at least a 40% proportion of coolant addi-

tive. If greater freeze protection is needed due to

the climate, the proportion of coolant additive can

be increased. However, the proportion of coolant

additive must not exceed 60%, because otherwise

the freeze protection will be reduced and the cool-

ing effect will be decreased.

Serious personal injury may result from improperly

performed work.

WARNING

Engine coolant is poisonous!

Always keep the coolant in its original container

stored in a safe place.

·

The engine coolant additive can be recognized by its

purple color. The mixture of water and coolant addi-

tive provides freeze protection down to -13 °F

(-25 °C), protects the aluminum alloy parts of the

cooling system from corrosion, prevents limescale

deposits, and increases the boiling point of the cool-

ant.

To reduce the risk of poisoning, never store en-

·

gine coolant in empty food or beverage contain-

ers or in any other containers that might mis-

lead someone into drinking from them.

Always keep engine coolant out of reach of chil-

dren.

·

Always make sure there is enough of the correct

·

If the engine coolant is being topped up, a blend of

distilled water and at least 40% of an appropriate

engine coolant additive must be used to ensure opti-

mum corrosion protection → page 251.

coolant additive to provide proper antifreeze

protection at the coldest temperatures that can

be expected where the vehicle will be used.

At extremely cold temperatures, the coolant

·

could freeze, causing the vehicle to break down.

The heater would also not work, and vehicle oc-

cupants could be without protection at sub-

freezing temperatures.

WARNING

Gilt für Verbrennungsmotoren #

Insufficient freeze protection in the engine cooling

system can cause engine malfunctions, which can

result in serious injuries.

Coolant and coolant additives can pollute the

environment. Collect leaking operating fluids

and dispose of them properly in accordance with ap-

plicable environmental laws and regulations.

Make sure that the correct proportion of engine

·

coolant additive based on the lowest outside

temperature that is expected is used in the ve-

hicle.

In extremely low temperatures, the coolant can

·

freeze and the vehicle would be unable to start.

Because the heater will also no longer function

in that situation, vehicle occupants could freeze

if they do not have sufficient warm clothing.

Warning light and engine coolant

temperature gauge

Please read the introductory information and

heed the Warnings and Notice

on page 251.

WARNING

Gilt für Hybridmotoren #

For more information, please see → page 22.

Insufficient freeze protection in the vehicle cooling

system can cause malfunctions in the hybrid drive

system, which can result in serious injuries.

Engine coolant

251

Make sure that the correct proportion of engine

coolant additive based on the lowest outside

temperature that is expected is used in the ve-

hicle.

changed immediately. Otherwise, serious mal-

functions or damage to the electric drivetrain and

cooling system could occur.

·

Engine coolant and coolant additives can harm

the environment. Catch any leaking operating

fluids and dispose of them correctly according to en-

vironmental regulations.

In extremely low temperatures, the coolant can

freeze and the vehicle would be unable to start.

Because the heater will also no longer function

in that situation, vehicle occupants could freeze

if they do not have sufficient warm clothing.

WARNING

Engine coolant specifications

Gilt für Elektroantrieb #

Please read the introductory information and

Insufficient antifreeze in the vehicle cooling sys-

tem can cause malfunctions in the electric drive-

train, which can result in serious injuries.

heed the Warnings and Notice

on page 251.

The cooling system is filled at the factory with

a mixture of specially prepared water and at least

40% coolant additive.

Make sure that the correct proportion of engine

·

coolant additive based on the lowest outside

temperature that is expected is used in the ve-

hicle.

Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or author-

ized Volkswagen Service Facility to find out which

engine coolant is suitable for your vehicle. Volkswa-

gen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswa-

gen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facili-

ty.

In extremely low temperatures, the coolant can

·

freeze and the vehicle would be unable to start.

Because the heater will also no longer function

in that situation, vehicle occupants could freeze

if they do not have sufficient warm clothing.

To protect the engine cooling system, there must al-

ways be at least a 40% proportion of coolant addi-

tive. If greater freeze protection is needed due to

the climate, the proportion of coolant additive can

be increased. However, the proportion of coolant

additive must not exceed 60%, because otherwise

the freeze protection will be reduced and the cool-

ing effect will be decreased.

NOTICE

Never mix Genuine Volkswagen coolant additives

with coolants that are not approved by Volkswagen.

Gilt für Verbrennungsmotoren # If the fluid in the

·

coolant expansion tank is not pink-colored (the

color comes from the mixture of the purple cool-

ant additive with distilled water) but is, for exam-

ple, brown instead, the suitable engine coolant

was mixed with another engine coolant that is

not suitable. In this case, have the engine coolant

changed immediately. Otherwise, serious mal-

functions or damage to the engine and cooling

system could occur.

The engine coolant additive can be recognized by its

purple color. The mixture of water and coolant addi-

tive provides freeze protection down to -13 °F

(-25 °C), protects the aluminum alloy parts of the

cooling system from corrosion, prevents limescale

deposits, and increases the boiling point of the cool-

ant.

Gilt für Hybridmotoren # If the fluid in the coolant

expansion tank is not pink-colored (the color

comes from the mixture of the purple coolant ad-

ditive with distilled water) but is, for example,

brown instead, the suitable engine coolant was

mixed with another engine coolant that is not

suitable. In this case, have the engine coolant

changed immediately. Otherwise, serious mal-

functions or damage to the hybrid drive system

and cooling system could occur.

If the engine coolant is being topped up, a blend of

distilled water and at least 40% of an appropriate

engine coolant additive must be used to ensure opti-

mum corrosion protection → page 251.

WARNING

Insufficient freeze protection in the engine cooling

system can cause engine malfunctions, which can

result in serious injuries.

Make sure that the correct proportion of engine

·

Gilt für Elektroantrieb # If the fluid in the coolant

expansion tank is not pink-colored (the color

comes from the mixture of the purple coolant ad-

ditive with distilled water) but is, for example,

brown instead, the suitable engine coolant was

mixed with another engine coolant that is not

suitable. In this case, have the engine coolant

coolant additive based on the lowest outside

temperature that is expected is used in the ve-

hicle.

In extremely low temperatures, the coolant can

freeze and the vehicle would be unable to start.

Because the heater will also no longer function

·

252

Checking and refilling

in that situation, vehicle occupants could freeze

if they do not have sufficient warm clothing.

NOTICE

Never mix Genuine Volkswagen coolant additives

with coolants that are not approved by Volkswagen.

If the fluid in the coolant expansion tank is not

·

pink-colored (the color comes from the mixture of

the purple coolant additive with distilled water)

but is, for example, brown instead, the suitable

engine coolant was mixed with another engine

coolant that is not suitable. In this case, have the

engine coolant changed immediately. Otherwise,

serious malfunctions or damage to the engine and

cooling system could occur.

Fig. 173 Coolant expansion tank cap in the engine

compartment.

If the coolant level drops too low, the engine coolant

level/temperature warning light comes on.

Engine coolant and coolant additives can harm

the environment. Catch any leaking operating

fluids and dispose of them correctly according to en-

vironmental regulations.

Preparations

— Park the vehicle on level ground.

— Always let the engine cool down →

.

— Open the engine hood → page 241, In the en-

gine compartment.

Checking engine coolant level and

topping off

— There is a symbol on the cap of the engine

coolant expansion tank → fig. 173.

Checking engine coolant level

Please read the introductory information and

— When the engine is cold, check the engine coolant

level relative to the marking on the side of the ex-

pansion tank → fig. 172.

heed the Warnings and Notice

on page 251.

— If the coolant level in the tank is below the mini-

mum mark (“min”), add coolant. When the engine

is warm, the engine coolant level may be slightly

above the upper edge of the marked range.

Adding engine coolant

— Always protect face, hands, and arms from hot

escaping coolant or steam by covering the cap

with a large, thick rag.

— Carefully unscrew the cap →

— Add only new engine coolant according to Volks-

wagen specifications () →

.

Fig. 172 Coolant expansion tank in the engine com-

partment.

.

— Only refill coolant if there is coolant in the expan-

sion tank. If there is no coolant visible in the ex-

pansion tank, the engine could be damaged. If

you cannot see any coolant in the expansion tank,

do not drive the vehicle. Seek professional assis-

tance.

— If you can see coolant in the expansion tank, refill

coolant until the level remains stable.

— The engine coolant level must be inside the marks

on the side of the expansion tank → fig. 172. Do

not fill above the top edge of the filling range!

→

Engine coolant

253

— Screw the lid tightly.

— Always protect your face, hands, and arms

from hot escaping coolant or steam by cover-

ing the cap with a large, thick rag.

— Even in an emergency, do not use any other kind

of coolant additive if engine coolant that meets

Volkswagen specifications () is not available! In-

stead, add distilled water only → . As soon as

possible, have the correct coolant ratio restored

using engine coolant that meets Volkswagen

specifications.

Never spill fluids on the engine or exhaust sys-

tem when refilling. Spilling fluids onto hot parts

of the engine or exhaust system can cause

a fire. Under some conditions, the ethylene gly-

col in engine coolant can catch fire.

·

WARNING

NOTICE

Hot steam and hot engine coolant can cause seri-

ous burns.

Use distilled water only when adding coolant! All

other types of water contain chemical compounds

that can cause extensive corrosion damage to the

engine. This can even lead to engine failure. If you

have added non-distilled water, take the vehicle

immediately to an authorized Volkswagen dealer

or an authorized Volkswagen Service Facility to

have the coolant system drained, flushed, and re-

filled completely with the proper coolant.

·

Never open the hood if you see steam or cool-

·

ant escaping from the engine compartment. Al-

ways wait until you no longer see or hear steam

or coolant escaping from the engine.

Always let the engine cool down completely be-

fore carefully opening the hood. Hot compo-

nents will burn skin on contact.

·

Refill engine coolant only up to the top edge of

the marked fill range → fig. 172. Excess engine

coolant may be forced out of the engine cooling

system when it gets hot and cause damage.

·

When the engine has cooled down and you are

ready to open the hood:

·

— Firmly apply the parking brake and shift the

transmission to Park (P).

In the case of significant engine coolant loss, refill

engine coolant only when the engine is complete-

ly cooled down. Significant engine coolant loss is

a sign of leaks in the cooling system. Have the en-

gine cooling system checked immediately by an

authorized Volkswagen dealer or an authorized

Volkswagen Service Facility. Otherwise the engine

may be damaged!

— Take the vehicle key out of the ignition.

— On vehicles with Keyless Access, make sure

that the remote control vehicle key is out of

range of the vehicle and that the vehicle can-

not be started by depressing the starter but-

ton → page 142, Starter button.

— Always keep children and others away from

the engine compartment and never leave

them unsupervised.

Do not refill engine coolant if there is no coolant

in the expansion tank. Air could enter the cooling

system. Do not drive the vehicle! Seek expert as-

sistance. Failure to do so can result in engine

damage.

·

The engine coolant system is under pressure

·

when the engine is hot. Never unscrew the

coolant expansion tank cap when the engine is

hot. Hot coolant can spray out and cause severe

burns and other serious injuries.

When changing or topping off operating fluids,

make sure that you pour the fluids into the cor-

rect reservoirs. Serious malfunctions and engine

damage can result if you pour operating fluids in-

to the wrong reservoir.

— Turn the cap slowly and very carefully in

a counterclockwise direction while applying

light downward pressure on the top of the

cap.

254

Checking and refilling

Brake fluid

Fig. 174 In the engine compartment: Brake fluid reservoir cap (cap design may vary depending on vehicle equip-

ment).

Brake fluid absorbs water from the air over time.

Too much water in the brake fluid will damage the

brake system. Water also lowers the boiling point of

the brake fluid. Too much water in the brake fluid

can cause vapor lock during heavy brake use or hard

braking. Vapor lock reduces braking performance, in-

creases stopping distances and can even cause total

brake failure. Your safety and the safety of others

depends on brakes that are working properly at all

Volkswagen therefore recommends that you use

brake fluid that expressly complies with VW Stand-

ard 501 14 for optimum brake system performance

over the long term.

Brake fluid level

The fluid level in the transparent brake fluid reser-

voir must always be between the MIN and MAX

marking →

.

times →

.

On some vehicles, engine components may partially

block the view of the brake fluid reservoir and make

it impossible to see the brake fluid level. If you can-

not clearly see the brake fluid level in the brake fluid

reservoir, please see an authorized Volkswagen deal-

er or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Brake fluid specifications

Volkswagen has developed a special brake fluid that

is optimized for the brake system in your Volkswa-

gen. Volkswagen recommends that you use brake

fluid that expressly conforms to quality standard VW

Standard 501 14 for optimum performance of the

brake system. Check the information on the contain-

er for the brake fluid you want to use to make sure it

meets the requirements for your vehicle.

The brake fluid level drops slightly when the vehicle

is being used as the brake pads wear and the brakes

are automatically adjusted.

Changing brake fluid

Brake fluid that complies with VW Standard 501 14

can be purchased from your authorized Volkswagen

dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Brake fluid must be changed according to the serv-

ice schedule in your → Warranty and Maintenance.

Have the brake fluid checked by an authorized

Volkswagen dealer or an authorized Volkswagen

Service Facility. Refill only with new brake fluid that

meets the standards listed above.

If this special brake fluid is not available you may –

under these circumstances – use another high qual-

ity brake fluid that complies with U.S. Federal Motor

Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 116 DOT 4 Class 6

→

.

WARNING

Please note, however, that not all brake fluids that

comply with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety

Standard (FMVSS) 116 DOT 4 Class 6 have the same

chemical composition. Some of these brake fluids

can contain chemicals that could, over time, degrade

or damage internal parts of the vehicle’s brake sys-

tem.

Brake failure and reduced brake performance can

be caused by not having enough brake fluid in the

reservoir or by old or incorrect brake fluid.

Have the brake system and brake fluid level

checked regularly.

·

Have the brake fluid changed according to the

service schedule in your → Warranty and Main-

tenance.

·

Brake fluid

255

Hard braking with old brake fluid may cause va-

por lock. Vapor lock reduces braking perform-

ance, increases stopping distances and can even

cause total brake failure.

To reduce the risk of poisoning, never use food,

beverage, or other non-original containers to

store brake fluid. Someone might be misled by

the original label on the container, or by the

shape of the container, and drink the brake flu-

id. This could occur even if you relabel the con-

tainer as “brake fluid.”

·

Only use brake fluid that expressly conforms to

VW Standard 501 14.

·

If a brake fluid that conforms to VW Standard

501 14 is not available, only use a high-quality

brake fluid that conforms to U.S. Standard

FMVSS 116 DOT 4 Class 6 requirements.

Store brake fluid out of the reach of children.

NOTICE

Brake fluid will damage vehicle paint, plastic parts,

and tires. Wipe any brake fluid off vehicle paint and

other vehicle parts immediately.

Brake fluid in an opened container can quickly

become unusable. Refill your brake fluid reser-

voir only with new brake fluid from an unop-

ened container.

·

Brake fluid can pollute the environment. Brake

fluid that has leaked out must be collected

and disposed of properly, following all applicable en-

vironmental regulations.

WARNING

Brake fluid is poisonous.

Always read and follow the information and

WARNINGS in this Owner's Manual!

Vehicle battery

Introduction

WARNING

Working on the batteries or the electrical system

in your vehicle can cause serious acid burns, fires,

explosions, or electrical shocks. Always read and

heed the following WARNINGS and safety precau-

tions before working on the batteries or the elec-

trical system.

The standard 12 Volt vehicle battery is part of the

vehicle electrical system.

Never do any work on the vehicle electrical system

unless you

— know exactly how to carry out the job,

Before working on the electrical system, always

·

— have the correct technical information and the

proper tools, and

switch off the ignition and all electrical con-

sumers and disconnect the negative (-) cable

from the standard 12 Volt battery.

— are familiar with the necessary safety precautions

→

!

When you change a light bulb, always switch off

the light first.

·

If you are uncertain in any way, have the work done

by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized

Volkswagen Service Facility. Serious personal injury

may result from improperly performed work.

Always keep children away from battery acid

and vehicle batteries in general.

·

Always wear eye protection. Never let battery

acid or lead particles come into contact with

your eyes, skin, or clothing.

·

Location of the vehicle battery

The 12 Volt vehicle battery is in the engine compart-

ment.

Sulfuric battery acid is very corrosive. It can

·

burn unprotected skin and cause blindness. Al-

ways wear protective gloves and eye protection.

To reduce your risk of injury, never tilt the bat-

teries, as this could spill acid through the vents

and burn you.

Explanation of the warnings on the vehicle battery

Always wear eye protection!

Battery acid is highly corrosive. Always wear

protective gloves and eye protection!

If you get battery acid in your eyes or on your

·

skin, immediately rinse with cold water for sev-

eral minutes and then get immediate medical

attention. If you swallow any battery acid, get

medical attention immediately.

Fire, sparks, open flame, and smoking are

prohibited!

When a battery is charged, it produces hydro-

gen gas which is highly explosive!

When disconnecting the batteries from the ve-

hicle electrical system, always disconnect the

·

Always keep children away from battery acid

and vehicle batteries!

256

Checking and refilling

negative cable (-) first and then the positive ca-

ble (+).

Checking the vehicle battery elec-

trolyte level

Always switch off all electrical consumers be-

fore reconnecting 12 Volt batteries. Reconnect

the plus cable (+) first and then the negative ca-

ble (-). Never reverse the polarity of the connec-

tions. This could cause a fire.

·

Please read the introductory information and

heed the Warnings and Notice

256.

and on page

A highly explosive mixture of gases is given off

when the battery is being charged.

·

Check the electrolyte level of the battery regularly if

the vehicle has high mileage (km), in places with

a warm climate, and if the vehicle has an old battery.

Otherwise the vehicle battery does not require

maintenance.

Do not smoke and avoid fires, sparks, and open

flames when working. Never create sparks or

electrostatic charges when handling cables and

electrical equipment. Never short circuit the

battery terminals. High-energy sparks can cause

serious personal injury.

Preparations

— Prepare the vehicle for work in the engine com-

partment → page 241, In the engine compart-

ment.

Never use or attempt to charge a damaged or

frozen battery, or a battery that was frozen but

has thawed. Charging a frozen or thawed bat-

tery could cause explosions and chemical burns!

Replace damaged or frozen vehicle batteries

immediately. A dead battery can freeze at tem-

peratures around +32 °F (0 °C).

·

— Open the engine hood →

page 241.

in Introduction on

Checking the vehicle battery acid level

— If the lighting conditions are poor, use a flashlight

so that you can clearly see the battery acid level

indicator and tell what color it is. Never use an

open flame or an unprotected light source.

If the battery has a vent line or tube, make sure

that it is properly connected to the battery.

WARNING

— The round battery window (“acid level indicator”)

on the top of the battery changes color, depend-

ing on the battery's electrolyte level.

California Proposition 65 Warning

Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories

·

contain lead and lead components, chemicals

known to the State of California to cause cancer

and reproductive harm. Wash your hands after

handling.

Light yellow or colorless Battery electrolyte level is

too low. The vehicle battery may need to be

replaced. Have it checked by an authorized

Volkswagen dealer or an authorized Volkswa-

gen Service Facility.

NOTICE

Black Battery electrolyte level is satisfactory.

Do not expose the vehicle battery to direct sun-

light for an extended period of time as ultraviolet

rays may damage the battery housing.

·

WARNING

Working on the batteries can cause serious acid

burns, explosion, or electrical shock.

If the vehicle is left standing in the cold for a long

time, protect the vehicle battery from freezing.

A battery will be permanently damaged by freez-

ing.

·

Always wear eye protection and protective

gloves.

·

Sulfuric battery acid is very corrosive. It can

burn unprotected skin and cause blindness. Al-

ways wear protective gloves and eye protection.

·

Emergency starting and starting the engine

with a very weak vehicle battery or after the

Never tilt the vehicle battery. Acid could spill

out of the battery vents and burn you.

·

vehicle battery has been replaced may change or de-

lete system settings (including time, date, driver

personalization, and programming). Check the set-

tings and correct as necessary once the vehicle bat-

tery has built up a sufficient charge.

Never open a vehicle battery.

·

If you get battery acid in your eyes or on your

skin, immediately rinse with cold water for sev-

eral minutes and then get immediate medical

attention.

If you swallow any battery acid, get medical at-

tention immediately.

·

Vehicle battery

257

do not go out, contact an authorized Volkswagen

dealer or an authorized Volkswagen Service Facility

and have the vehicle checked.

Charging, replacing, disconnecting,

and connecting the vehicle battery

If the battery was disconnected for a long time, the

next scheduled service may not be correctly calcu-

lated and displayed → page 15, Instrument cluster.

The maximum permissible service and maintenance

intervals are shown in the → Warranty and Mainte-

nance.

Please read the introductory information and

heed the Warnings and Notice

256.

and on page

Charging the vehicle battery

Vehicle batteries should be charged by an authorized

Volkswagen dealer or an authorized Volkswagen

Service Facility because the factory-installed battery

Vehicles with Keyless Access

If the ignition will not start after reconnecting the

vehicle battery, lock the vehicle from the outside

and unlock it again → page 89, Unlocking or locking

the vehicle with Keyless Access. Then try to start the

ignition again. If the ignition cannot be switched on,

contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer, an author-

ized Volkswagen Service Facility, or another qualified

workshop for assistance.

requires a charger with overload protection →

.

Replacing the vehicle battery

The battery in your vehicle is specially developed for

its location, with special dimensions and safety fea-

tures. Before buying a new battery, ask an author-

ized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen

Service Facility what batteries are suitable with re-

gard to electro-magnetic compatibility, dimensions,

required maintenance, performance, and safety

specifications.

Automatic electrical load deactivation

If the vehicle battery drain is high, the intelligent on-

board electrical system management automatically

takes steps to help prevent battery drain.

Only use maintenance-free vehicle batteries meet-

ing standards TL 825 06 and VW 7 50 73. These

standards must date from October 2014 or later.

— The idle speed is increased so that the alternator

provides more power.

Particularly in vehicles with a special vehicle battery,

for example, vehicles with the Start-stop system

→ page 146, Start-stop system, always replace the

vehicle battery with a battery with the same specifi-

cations.

— The power to devices that consume a lot of elec-

tricity is cut back or switched off completely.

— When the engine is started, the power supply to

the 12 Volt sockets is temporarily interrupted.

The onboard electrical system management cannot

always keep the battery from being drained. For ex-

ample, the battery will drain if the engine is not run-

ning, but the ignition is switched on or the parking

lights are left on for a long time when parked.

Have the battery replaced by an authorized Volkswa-

gen dealer or an authorized Volkswagen Service Fa-

cility.

Disconnecting the vehicle battery

If the battery must be disconnected from the vehi-

cle's electrical system, note the following:

What drains the vehicle battery?

— Long periods when the engine is not running, es-

pecially when the ignition is on.

— Switch off all electrical systems and devices and

the ignition.

— Using electrical systems or devices when the en-

gine is switched off.

— Unlock the vehicle before disconnecting the bat-

tery; otherwise the alarm system will go off.

— Leaving the vehicle unlocked for several days

when not in use.

— First disconnect the negative cable (-) and then

the positive cable (+) →

.

— Leaving the selector lever for a long period of

time in any position other than Park (P) when the

ignition is switched off → page 149, Automatic or

DSG® transmission selector lever.

Connecting the vehicle battery

— Prior to reconnecting the battery, switch off all

electrical systems and devices and the ignition.

— Connect the positive cable (+) first and then the

WARNING

negative cable (-) →

.

Failure to use the proper battery with proper

mounting and connections may cause short cir-

cuits, fires, and serious personal injuries.

After the battery is connected and the ignition is

switched on, different indicator lights may light up.

They should go out after you drive a short distance

at 10–12 mph (15–20 km/h). If the indicator lights

Always use only maintenance-free or cycle-free,

·

leak-proof batteries with the same specifica-

258

Checking and refilling

tions and dimensions as the original equipment

battery. Specifications are listed on the battery

housing.

Alternator malfunction

— Switch off unnecessary electrical loads. The vehi-

cle battery will not be charged by the alternator

as you drive.

WARNING

When the vehicle battery is charged, it produces

highly explosive hydrogen gas.

— See an authorized Volkswagen dealer or an au-

thorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Have the

electrical system checked.

Charge vehicle batteries only in well-ventilated

areas.

·

WARNING

Never charge a frozen or thawed battery.

A dead battery can freeze at temperatures

around +32 °F (0 °C).

·

Failure to heed warning lights and instrument

cluster text messages can cause the vehicle to

break down in traffic and result in a collision and

serious personal injury.

You must replace the vehicle battery if it was

frozen.

·

Never ignore warning lights or text WARNINGS.

·

Incorrectly connected cables can cause a short-

circuit. First connect the positive cable (+) and

then the negative cable (-).

·

Always stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to

do so.

NOTICE

Failure to heed warning lights or text WARNINGS

can result in vehicle damage.

Never disconnect the vehicle battery or connect

·

2 vehicle batteries to each other when the igni-

tion is switched on or the engine is running. Doing

this may damage the electrical system or elec-

tronic components.

Never use a vehicle battery that does not meet

the specifications for the vehicle battery for your

vehicle. Using the wrong battery can damage the

electrical system or electronic components and

cause electrical malfunctions.

·

Never connect power generating equipment, such

as a solar panel or battery charger, to the 12 Volt

socket in order to charge the vehicle battery. This

can damage the vehicle's electrical system.

Dispose of the vehicle battery according to

regulations. Vehicle batteries contain poison-

ous substances such as sulfuric acid and lead.

Battery acid can pollute the environment.

Catch leaking operating fluids and dispose of

them properly.

Tips and troubleshooting

Please read the introductory information and

heed the Warnings and Notice

256.

and on page

When the ignition is switched on, several warning

and indicator lights come on briefly for a function

check. They go out after a few seconds.

Vehicle battery

259

Checking and refilling for Your Volkswagen Golf 4 Door 2023

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