Vehicle battery -> Introduction for Your Volkswagen Caddy SUV Fifth Generation (2020-2025)

Brake fluid level  
The indicator lamp lights up red.  
Brake fluid level is too low.  
Do not drive on! Check the brake fluid level.  
If the brake fluid level is too low, inform a qualified workshop. Have the brake system checked.  
Brake fluid change  
The brake fluid should be changed by a qualified workshop. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles recommends using a  
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles dealership for this purpose. Only brake fluid that conforms with the required  
specification should be used.  
WARNING  
Brake failure or reduced braking efficiency can be caused by the brake fluid level being too low or by brake fluid that  
is too old or unsuitable.  
The brake system and brake fluid level must be checked regularly.  
The brake fluid should be changed regularly.  
Heavy use of the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the brake fluid is left in the system for too long. Vapour locks  
reduce levels of braking power, considerably increase braking distance and can cause the brake system to fail  
completely.  
Please ensure that the correct brake fluid is used. Only use brake fluid that is explicitly compliant with VW  
standard 501 14.  
Any other brake fluid or a low-quality one can affect the functioning of the brakes and reduce their effectiveness.  
If a brake fluid compliant with VW standard 501 14 is not available, use a high-quality brake fluid compliant with  
DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 6 or the US standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4, but only in exceptional circumstances.  
The refilled brake fluid must be new.  
WARNING  
Brake fluid is toxic.  
In order to reduce the risk of poisoning, never use bottles or other containers to store brake fluid. There is always  
a risk of someone drinking from such containers, even if they are labelled appropriately.  
Brake fluid must always be stored in its original sealed container and kept out of the reach of children.  
NOTICE  
Brake fluid that has leaked or been spilt can damage the vehicle paintwork, plastic parts and tyres. Wipe off brake  
fluid that has leaked or been spilled immediately from all parts of the vehicle.  
Brake fluid can pollute the environment. Any spilt service fluids must be cleaned up and disposed of  
properly.  
Introduction  
The vehicle battery is a component of the electrical system in the vehicle.  
Never carry out any work on the electrical system if you are not familiar with the necessary procedures and the  
general safety requirements and only unsuitable tools are available . The work should be carried out by a  
qualified workshop if you are uncertain. Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles recommends using a Volkswagen  
Commercial Vehicles dealership for this purpose. Serious injuries can be caused if work is carried out incorrectly.  
Information on warning and indicator lamps that light up can be found in the troubleshooting sections at the end of  
491  
the chapter (→ 12-volt vehicle battery).  
Number and location of the vehicle battery  
The vehicle battery is located on the left of the engine compartment.  
Explanation of the warnings on the vehicle battery  
Always wear eye protection!  
Electrolyte is very corrosive and caustic. Always wear protective gloves and eye protection!  
No fires, sparks, naked lights or smoking!  
A highly explosive mixture of gases is given off when the vehicle battery is charging!  
Always keep children away from electrolyte and the vehicle battery.  
Always observe the owner's manual!  
WARNING  
Any work on the vehicle battery and the electrical system can cause serious chemical burns, fire or electric shocks.  
Always read the following warnings and safety information before carrying out any kind of work:  
Switch off the ignition and all electrical consumers before carrying out any work on the vehicle battery and also  
disconnect the negative cable from the vehicle battery.  
Children should always be kept away from electrolyte and the vehicle battery.  
Always wear eye protection.  
Electrolyte is very aggressive. It can burn the skin and can cause blindness. When working with the battery,  
ensure that your hands, arms and face in particular are protected from acid spillages.  
Do not smoke during the work, and never work near naked flames or sparks.  
When handling cables and electrical equipment, avoid generating sparks and electrostatic charge.  
Never short circuit the battery poles.  
Never use a damaged vehicle battery. It can explode. Damaged vehicle batteries must be replaced as soon as  
possible.  
Damaged or frozen vehicle batteries must be replaced immediately. Discharged vehicle batteries can even freeze  
at temperatures of around 0°C (+32°F).  
In vehicles with a second battery under the driver's seat or a third battery in the luggage compartment: Ensure  
that the gas discharge hose is correctly attached to the vehicle battery.  
NOTICE  
Do not allow direct sunlight onto the vehicle battery for an extended period as the UV rays could damage the  
battery housing.  
If the vehicle is left standing in cold conditions for a long period, protect the vehicle battery from frost. If it  
freezes it will be damaged.  
Vehicles with a start/stop system are fitted with a special vehicle battery. The installation of a different vehicle  
battery could cause problems with the vehicle electronics. When replacing the vehicle battery, only insert a  
battery with specifications that correspond exactly with those of the original battery.  
492