WARNING
New brake pads have not achieved the optimum braking efficiency yet.
Up to the first approx. 200 to 300 km (approx. 100 to 200 miles), new brake pads do not yet have their full braking efficiency and first need to be “worn
in”. You can make up for the reduced braking efficiency by pressing the brake pedal harder.
To reduce the risk of accidents, serious injuries, and loss of vehicle control, drive with extra caution when the brake pads are new.
During the break-in period for new brake pads, do not drive too close to other vehicles and avoid driving situations that place a heavy load on the brakes.
WARNING
Prolonged braking causes the brakes to overheat. This can considerably reduce braking performance, increase braking distance and possibly lead to a total
brake system malfunction.
Never let the brakes “rub” too often and too long or press the brake pedal too often and too long.
WARNING
Overheated brakes reduces the braking efficiency and increase the braking distance considerably.
When driving downhill, a lot of force is placed on the brakes and they become hot quickly.
Before driving on a long stretch of road with a steep gradient, reduce your speed by shifting down to a lower gear with a manual transmission or in
tiptronic mode of the automatic transmission. This utilizes the engine braking efficiency and reduces the load on the brakes.
Aftermarket or damaged front spoilers can affect the air supply to the brakes and cause them to overheat.
WARNING
Wet, icy, or salt-covered brakes will take longer to brake and increase the braking distance.
Test the brakes carefully.
Always press the brake pedal carefully several times to dry the brakes and clear the ice and salt from them, as long as the visibility, weather, road, and
traffic conditions permit.
If you are having the front brake pads checked, the rear brake pads should be checked at the same time. Regularly check the thickness of the brake pads
visually by inspecting them through the openings in the wheel rims or from underneath the vehicle. If necessary, remove the wheels so that the brake pads can be
inspected. For further information, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an
authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
Driving a loaded vehicle
Heed the following for good vehicle handling when the vehicle is loaded:
Stow all cargo securely ⇒ Transporting.
Accelerate with extra care and caution.
Avoid sudden braking and driving maneuvers.
Brake earlier than usual.
If necessary, read and heed the information about roof racks ⇒ Roof rack.
If necessary, note the information about driving with a trailer ⇒ Trailer towing.
WARNING
Sliding loads can considerably impair the driving stability and safety of your vehicle, increase the braking distance when you brake hard or perform an
emergency stop, and thus increase the risk of accidents and serious injury.
Correctly secure the load to prevent it from sliding.
Use suitable tie-downs or securing straps on heavy objects.
Engage the rear seat backrests and, if necessary, the adjustable rear seats securely.
Driving with an open trunk lid
Driving with an open trunk lid can be especially dangerous. Secure all objects and the open trunk lid correctly and take sufficient precautions to reduce the amount
of poisonous exhaust that enters the vehicle.
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