Get Breakdown assistance Guide for Volkswagen California Van Third Generation (2015-2024)

clogged, a service regeneration must be carried out by a correspondingly qualified workshop.

Particulate filter clogged

The yellow indicator lamps

light up together.

Self-regeneration of the particulate filter is no longer possible.

1. Contact a suitably qualified workshop immediately to have a service regeneration carried out.

The particulate filter will become damaged and will have to be replaced by a suitably qualified workshop if the

indicator lamps

are ignored.

Emissions-relevant fault

The yellow indicator lamp lights up.

Fault in an emissions-relevant component that can damage the vehicle.

1. Drive to the nearest suitably qualified workshop.

2. Have the engine and exhaust system checked.

Misfiring

The yellow indicator lamp flashes.

Misfiring that can damage the vehicle.

1. Drive to the nearest suitably qualified workshop.

2. Have the engine and exhaust system checked.

There may be engine faults and fuel consumption may be higher if the indicator lamps are lit up or

flashing.

Introduction

Observe any country-specific legislation when securing your vehicle in the event of a breakdown.

WARNING

In the event of a sudden driving or braking manoeuvre or accident, a loose vehicle tools container, breakdown set

and spare wheel could be flung though the vehicle and cause severe injuries.

● Always ensure that the vehicle toolkit, breakdown set and spare wheel are always properly secured in the vehicle.

WARNING

Unsuitable or damaged tools in the vehicle toolkit can lead to accidents and injuries.

● Never work with unsuitable or damaged tools from the vehicle toolkit.

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Stowage

The vehicle toolkit and the removable ball coupling for the towing bracket may be located in different places

depending on the vehicle model.

Multivan

In the stowage compartment on the rear of the bench seat/bed

1. Open the stowage compartment.

In the luggage compartment over the rear left wheel housing, possibly under a cover→

.

1. Loosen securing strap.

2. If necessary, loosen the bolt to remove the jack.

Kombi, panel van, Caravelle

In the luggage compartment over the rear left wheel housing, possibly under a cover→

.

1. Loosen the securing strap if necessary.

2. If necessary, undo the bolt to remove the vehicle jack.

Dropside with single cab

Behind the driver seat.

1. Loosen securing strap.

Dropside with double cab, panel van Plus

On the left-hand side under the rear bench seat.

1. Loosen securing strap.

NOTICE

In vehicles with a 3-seat bench in the fourth row of seats, the 3-seat bench must be propped up with the support

rod so you can access the vehicle toolkit (→ Rear seats).

After using the jack, crank it back to its original position so that it can be stowed

safely.

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Contents of the vehicle toolkit

The scope of the on-board tool kit depends on the country and equipment. In some countries, there may also be a

tyre pressure gauge in the vehicle. The following section describes the maximum scope:

Fig. 1 Contents of the toolbox (illustration).

1

2

Screwdriver with hexagon socket in the handle for unscrewing or screwing tight slackened wheel bolts. The

screwdriver blade is reversible. The screwdriver is located in the box spanner.

Adapter for the anti-theft wheel bolt. Carry the wheel bolt adapter in the vehicle toolkit at all times. Thecode

number of the anti-theft wheel bolt is stamped on the front of the adapter. You will need this number to

replace the adapter if lost. Make a note of the code number for the anti-theft wheel bolt and keep it in a safe

place – but not inside the vehicle.

3

4

Removable towing eye.

Hook for pulling off the centre covers, wheel covers, the wheel bolt caps and the cover for the screw-in towing

eye at front.

5

6

7

8

Box spanner for wheel bolts.

Jack. Before you return the vehicle jack to the toolbox, fully wind in the claw.

Ratchet for the jack.

Jack extension.

Servicing the jack

There are no maintenance cycles for the jack. Grease the jack with a universal lubricant when necessary.

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Service position

Fig. 1 On the windscreen: Wipers in service position

(illustration).

The wiper arms can be lifted off the windscreen when in the service position→ Fig. 1. Carry out the following steps

to move the wipers to the service position:

1. Park the vehicle.

2. Close the bonnet.

3. Switch the ignition on and then off again.

4. Push the wiper lever downwards briefly.

Wipers move to service position.

Activating the service position via the Infotainment system

1. Park the vehicle.

2. Close the bonnet.

3. Switch on the ignition.

4. Tap the

function button.

Mirrors and

5. Select and tap function button wipers

.

Windscreen wipers in service

6. Tap the position

function button to activate or deactivate the service position.

If the checkbox in the function button is ticked , the function is switched on.

Lifting the wiper blades

1. Move the wiper arms to the service position before lifting→

.

2. When lifting a wiper arm, hold itonly in the area of the wiper blade mounting.

Place the wiper arms back onto the windscreen before driving away. With the ignition switched on, briefly press the

wiper lever down to bring the wiper arms back to the original position.

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NOTICE

To avoid damage to the bonnet, windscreen and wiper arms:

● Lift the wiper arms only when in service position.

● Always place the wiper arms back on the windscreen before starting a journey.

Cleaning and replacing wiper blades

The factory-fitted wiper blades are coated with graphite. The graphite coating ensures that the wiper blade moves

quietly over the windscreen. If the graphite coating is damaged, the windscreen wiper will become louder.

Check the condition of the wiper blades on a regular basis.Rubbing wiper blades should be changed if damaged or

cleaned if dirty →

.

Damaged wiper blades should be replaced immediately. Wiper blades are available from a correspondingly qualified

workshop.

Cleaning wiper blades

1. Move the wiper arms to the service position before lifting.

2. When lifting a wiper arm, hold itonly in the area of the wiper blade mounting.

3. Clean the wiper blades carefully using a damp sponge→

4. Carefully place the wiper arms back onto the windscreen.

.

Changing the windscreen wiper blades

Fig. 1 On the windscreen: Changing the windscreen wiper

blades.

1

Release button.

1. Move the wiper arms to the service position before lifting.

2. When lifting a wiper arm, hold itonly in the area of the wiper blade mounting.

3. Press and hold the release button and simultaneously pull off the wiper blade in the direction of the arrow

1

→ Fig. 1

.

4. Insert a new wiper blade with thesame length and designonto the wiper arm. Push it on until it engages.

5. Place the wiper arms carefully back onto the windscreen.

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Changing the wiper blade for the rear window

Fig. 2 At the rear of the vehicle: Changing the rear window

wiper blade.

1

Release button.

1. When lifting a wiper arm, hold itonly in the area of the wiper blade mounting.

2. Lift and fold back the wiper arm.

3. Press and hold the release button→ Fig. 2

1

.

A

4. Tilt the wiper blade in the direction of the wiper arm→ Fig. 2

B

at the same time. You may need to use some force to do this.

and pull it off in the direction of the arrow

5. Insert a new wiper blade with thesame length and designonto the wiper arm in the opposite direction of the

B

arrow → Fig. 2

and push it on until it engages. The wiper blade must be in folded-down position to do this

A

.

6. Carefully place the wiper arm back onto the rear window.

WARNING

Worn or dirty wiper blades reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents and severe injuries.

● Always change windscreen wiper blades if they are damaged or worn and no longer clean the windscreen

properly.

NOTICE

Damaged or dirty windscreen wipers can scratch the windscreen.

● Do not use any detergents containing solvents, hard sponges or other sharp objects, as they can damage the

graphite coating of the wiper blades during cleaning.

● Do not use nail varnish remover, paint thinner or similar products to clean the windows.

Introduction

Before changing bulbs, check whether a bulb or anLED

light unit has failed. You can normally change bulbs yourself. If the exterior lighting is realised using LED technology

(depending on model and vehicle equipment), it is not possible for you to change theLED light units or individual

LEDs yourself. If some LEDs fail, this may be an indication that moreLEDs are on the point of failure. In this case,

have the light units checked and renewed if necessary at a suitably qualified workshop.

You should keep a box with spare light bulbs for the lights that ensure the vehicle is roadworthy in the vehicle at all

494

times. Replacement bulbs are available from a suitably qualified workshop. In some countries it is a legal requirement

to have these spare bulbs in the vehicle.

It may be illegal to drive with a defective bulb in the exterior lighting.

Additional bulb specification

Some bulbs in headlights or in tail light clusters might have factory specifications that are different to standard bulbs.

The designation is inscribed on the bulb, either on the glass part or on the base.

WARNING

Accidents can occur if roads are not sufficiently illuminated and other road users have difficulty seeing the vehicle,

or cannot see it at all.

WARNING

Changing the bulb incorrectly can cause accidents and serious injuries.

● Always read and observe the warnings before carrying out work in the engine compartment (→ In the engine

compartment). The engine compartment of any motor vehicle is a dangerous area. Serious injuries can be

sustained here.

● Please note that halogen bulbs are pressurised and can burst when bulbs are changed.

● Change the defective bulb only once it has cooled down completely.

● Never change a bulb unless you know exactly how to carry this out. If you are uncertain of what to do, have the

work carried out by a suitably qualified workshop.

● Do not touch the glass part of the bulb with unprotected fingers. When the light is switched on, heat will cause

fingerprints to evaporate on the bulb, which in turn will cause the reflector to dim.

● There are sharp-edged parts on the headlight housing and on the tail light cluster housing. Protect your hands

when changing bulbs.

NOTICE

Damage to the electrical system can be caused by water entering the system if the rubber cover or plastic caps on

the headlight housing are not properly mounted after a bulb has been changed.

Information on changing bulbs

Always carry out the following actions for changing a bulb in the given order→

:

1. Park the vehicle on a firm and level surface at a safe distance from the flow of traffic.

2. Apply the handbrake .

3. Switch off the lights (→ Dipped beam).

4. Place the turn signal and main beam lever in its neutral position (→ Turn signals).

5. In vehicles with an automatic gearbox: Move the selector lever to positionP (→ Automatic gearbox).

6. Switch off the ignition.

7. In vehicles with a manual gearbox: Select a gear (→ Manual gearbox).

8. Allow the orientation lighting to go out (→ Coming Home and Leaving Home function (orientation lighting).

9. Leave the defective bulbs to cool down.

10. Check to see if a fuse has visibly blown (→ Fuses).

11. Follow the instructions to change the affected bulb. Always use identical bulbs with the same designation. The

designation is inscribed on the bulb, either on the glass part or on the base.

12. Do not touch the glass part of the bulb with unprotected fingers. The heat of the bulb would cause the

fingerprint to evaporate and condense on the reflector. This will impair the brightness of the headlight.

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13. After changing the bulb, check to ensure that the bulb is working properly. If the bulb is not working properly,

the bulb may not have been inserted properly, may have failed again, or the connector may have been fitted

incorrectly.

14. Each time you change a bulb at the front of the vehicle, the headlight settings should be checked by a

correspondingly qualified workshop.

WARNING

Ignoring any of the operating guidelines listed for your personal safety can lead to accidents and severe injuries.

● Always comply with instructions and observe generally valid safety precautions.

NOTICE

Observe the following to avoid damage to the vehicle paint or other components:

● Always take care when removing and fitting lights.

Changing bulbs in the H7 halogen headlights

Fig. 1 In the engine compartment: Covers on the

headlight.

1

3

Dipped beam and turn signal.

Main beam, daytime running lights and side light.

Fig. 2 Bulb holder in the headlight.

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1

3

4

Dipped beam.

Main beam, daytime running lights and side light.

Turn signal.

Preparations for bulb change

1. Follow the instructions in the checklist (→ Exterior lighting).

2. Open the bonnet (→ In the engine compartment).

3. Depending on model only for right-hand headlight: Remove upper part of air filter housing.

Changing a bulb for dipped beam

The actions should only be carried out in the specified order:

2

1

1. Fold the retaining clip→ Fig. 1

up and remove the cover

1

down until the bulb is released and take out to the rear.

.

2. Press the base of the bulb→ Fig. 2

3. Replace the bulb with a new bulb of the same type.

4. Position the bottom of the bulb in the headlight insert and fold up until it locks in position. The lug on the bulb

must face up → Fig. 2 (thin arrow).

1

2

5. Fit the cover → Fig. 1

and press the retaining clip

down.

6. Depending on model only for right-hand headlight: Install upper part of air filter housing.

7. Close the bonnet.

Changing a bulb for turn signal

The actions should only be carried out in the specified order:

2

1

1. Fold the retaining clip→ Fig. 1

2. Pull out the bulb holder→ Fig. 2

up and remove the cover

.

4

with the bulb in the direction of the arrow.

3. Replace the bulb with a new bulb of the same type.

4. Insert the bulb holder into the headlight and press in fully in the opposite direction to the arrow.

1

2

5. Fit the cover → Fig. 1

and press the retaining clip

down.

6. Depending on model only for right-hand headlight: Install upper part of air filter housing.

7. Close the bonnet.

Changing the bulb for main beam, daytime running light and side light

The actions should only be carried out in the specified order:

3

1. Pull off rubber cover→ Fig. 1

.

2

2. Pull out the plug→ Fig. 2

upwards.

497

3

3. Turn the bulb holder→ Fig. 2

with the bulb.

anticlockwise (arrow) as far as it will go and pull it out to the rear together

4. Replace the bulb with a new bulb of the same type.

3

5. Insert the bulb holder→ Fig. 2

2

and turn it clockwise as far as it will go.

6. Fit plug → Fig. 2

.

3

7. Fit the rubber cover → Fig. 1

8. Close the bonnet.

.

The illustrations show the left-hand halogen headlight from behind. The right-hand halogen headlight is a

mirror image of the one shown.

Changing the bulbs in the fog lights

Fig. 1 In the wheel housing liner: service flap for fog light

(illustration).

1

Service flap in the wheel housing liner.

Fig. 2 In the front bumper: Fog light from the rear

(illustration).

498

2

Bulb carrier for the fog light.

The actions should only be carried out in the specified order:

1. Follow the instructions in the checklist (→ Exterior lighting).

2. Turn the steering wheel to the left lock when changing the right bulb and to the right lock when changing the

left bulb.

1

3. Use the screwdriver from the vehicle toolkit to open the service flap in the wheel housing liner→ Fig. 1

2

.

4. Release the connector and pull it off the bulb holder→ Fig. 2

.

5. Turn the bulb holder in the direction of the arrow and pull it out to the rear with the bulb.

6. Turn the new bulb holder with the working bulb against the direction of the arrow to the original position until

it clicks into place.

7. Fit the connector on the bulb holder.

The connector must click into place.

8. Close the service flap in the wheel housing liner→ Fig. 1

1

.

Changing the bulbs in the tail light cluster (panel van or Kombi)

Fig. 1 On the left side of the vehicle at the rear: Changing

the bulbs in the tail light cluster.

The actions should only be carried out in the specified order:

1. Observe and follow the instructions in the checklist (→ Exterior lighting).

1

2. Unscrew the securing bolts → Fig. 1

.

3. Push the tail light cluster towards the outside out of the mounting, release the connector, and pull it off the

bulb holder.

2

3

4. Unscrew the securing bolts

and remove the bulb holder

from the tail light cluster.

5. Replace the defective bulb with a new bulb of the same type.

6. Insert the bulb holder into the tail light cluster and screw into position.

7. Carefully insert the tail light cluster into the body so that it is flush with the vehicle bodywork, and screw into

position.

499

Changing the turn signal repeater bulb

Fig. 1 On the side of the vehicle: removing the turn signal

repeater.

Fig. 2 Changing the bulb in the turn signal repeater.

The actions should only be carried out in the specified order:

1. Observe and follow the instructions in the checklist (→ Exterior lighting).

2. Push the turn signal repeater in direction of travel and swing it out at the rear→ Fig. 1.

3. Lever the side turn signal out of the body.

4. Turn the bulb holder in the direction of the arrow and pull the bulb rearwards out of the housing→ Fig. 2.

5. Pull the bulb straight out of the bulb holder.

6. Replace the defective bulb with a new bulb of the same type.

7. Insert the bulb holder into the housing and turn it as far as it will go in the opposite direction to the arrow

→ Fig. 2.

8. Fit the spring clip of the turn signal repeater at front into the body, push it against the spring force in direction

of travel, and engage it at the rear into the body.

500

Introduction

At the time of publication we are unable to provide an complete overview of the locations of the fuses for the

electrical consumers. This is because the vehicle is under constant development, because fuses are assigned

differently depending on the vehicle equipment level and because several electrical consumers may use a single fuse.

You can get more information about the fuse layout from a Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles dealership.

Several pieces of electrical equipment can share a single fuse. Conversely, a single consumer could have more than

one fuse.

Therefore fuses should only be replaced when the cause of the fault has been rectified. If a new fuse blows again

shortly after fitting, have the electrical system checked by a suitably qualified workshop as soon as possible.

WARNING

High voltages in the electrical system can cause electric shocks, serious burns and death.

● Never touch the electrical wiring of the ignition system.

● Avoid causing short circuits in the electrical system.

WARNING

Using unsuitable or repaired fuses and bridging an electrical circuit without fuses can cause a fire and serious

injuries.

● Never fit fuses that have a higher fuse protection limit.

● Replace fuses only with fuses with the same rating and size. Make sure that the colour and markings are identical

to the defective fuse.

● Never repair fuses.

● Never use a metal strip, paper clip or similar objects to replace a fuse.

NOTICE

To avoid damage to the electrical system in the vehicle, switch off the ignition, the lights and all electrical

consumers before changing a fuse.

● Make sure that it is not possible to switch on the ignition when changing a fuse.

NOTICE

You can damage another position in the electrical system by using a fuse with a higher amp rating.

NOTICE

Dirt and moisture in the fuse boxes can damage the electrical system.

● Protect open fuse boxes against the ingress of dirt and moisture.

NOTICE

To avoid damage to the vehicle:

● Carefully remove the fuse box covers and fit them correctly again after completing work.

This chapter does not refer to all the fuses located in the vehicle. These should be changed only by a

correspondingly qualified workshop.

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Fuses in the dash panel

Fig. 1 On the left next to the steering wheel: cover of the

fuse box in the dash panel.

Opening the fuse cover

1. Reach into the recess and carefully open the cover in the direction of the arrow→ Fig. 1.

Closing the fuse cover

1. fold the cover closed against the direction of the arrow.

In some vehicles, a pair of plastic grippers for removing fuses is located on the inside of the cover of the fuse box in

the dash panel.

502

Fuses in the engine compartment

Opening the fuse box in the engine compartment

Fig. 1 On the left-hand side in the engine compartment:

fuse box cover.

1

2

3

4

5

Screw.

Separator strip.

Partition.

Quick-release fastener.

Fuse cover.

1. Open the bonnet

.

2. If necessary, remove the battery cover.

1

2

3. If it exists, unscrew the bolt→ Fig. 1

and remove the separator strip→ Fig. 1

upwards.

3

4. Remove the partition → Fig. 1

upwards in the direction of the arrow.

4

5. Turn both quick release fasteners→ Fig. 1

by 90°.

5

6. Take hold of the fuse cover→ Fig. 1

at the front, and fold it upwards.

In some vehicles, a pair of plastic grippers for removing fuses is located on the inside of the cover of the fuse box in

the dash panel.

503

Replacing blown fuses

Preparations

1. Switch off the ignition, lights and all electrical consumers.

Detecting a blown fuse

Fig. 1 Blown fuse (illustration).

1. Shine a torch onto the fuse.

You can see if a fuse is blown from the top and side through the transparent housing due to the melted metal strip

→ Fig. 1.

Fuse types

—Standard flat blade fuse (ATO^®).

—Small flat blade fuse (MINI^®).

—Large flat blade fuse (MAXI^®or MAXI+^®).

Colour coding of fuses

Fuses (ATO^®- MINI^®- MAXI^®and MAXI+^®).

Colour

Amp rating

Black

1 amps

Purple

3 amps

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Orange

5 amps

Brown

7.5 amps

Red

10 amps

Blue

15 amps

Yellow

20 amps

White or clear

25 amps

Green

30 amps

Light green

40 amps

Changing a fuse

Fig. 2 Removing or inserting fuse (illustration).

1

Plastic pliers.

505

1

1. If necessary, take the plastic pliers→ Fig. 2

out of the cover of the respective fuse box.

2. Fit the plastic pliers from above→ Fig. 2

1

for small fuses or push the plastic pliers onto the fuse from the

side → Fig. 2

in the case of larger fuses.

3. Remove the fuse.

4. If the fuse has blown, replace it with a new fuse of the same amp rating (same colour and same markings) and

same size →

.

5. Replace the cover.

NOTICE

You can damage another position in the electrical system by using a fuse with a higher amp rating.

Introduction

For technical reasons, your vehicle may not be push-started→

.

If the engine fails to start because the 12-volt vehicle battery is flat, the discharged battery can be connected to the

12-volt battery of another vehicle to start the engine.

Suitable jump leads are required to provide and receive jump starts. The following cable cross-sections must not be

undercut by the current-emitting vehicle.

— Vehicles with a petrol engine:For jump starting the vehicle with a discharged 12-volt vehicle battery, the wire

cross-section of the jump lead must be at least 25 mm²(0.038 in²).

— Vehicles with an electric drive or hybrid drive: For jump starting the vehicle with a discharged 12-volt vehicle

battery, the wire cross-section of the jump lead must be at least 25 mm²(0.038 in²).

— Vehicles with diesel engine:For jump starting the vehicle with a discharged 12-volt vehicle battery, the wire cross-

section of the jump lead must be at least 35 mm²(0.054 in²).

WARNING

Using the jump leads incorrectly or completing the jump start procedure incorrectly can cause the battery to

explode, which can lead to severe injuries. Please note the following in order to reduce the risk of the battery

exploding:

● Always read and observe the warnings and safety information before carrying out any kind of work on the 12-volt

vehicle battery (→ 12-volt vehicle battery).

● Please note that the vehicle battery providing assistance must also have the same voltage of 12 volts and

approximately the same capacity as the flat 12-volt vehicle battery. Refer to the label on the vehicle battery for

information on the capacity.

● Please note that the vehicles must not touch each other, as any contact could mean that electricity could flow as

soon as the positive battery terminals are connected.

● Never confuse the positive battery terminal with the negative battery terminal or connect the jump leads

incorrectly.

● Use only jump leads with fully insulated terminal clamps.

● Position the jump leads so that they never come into contact with any moving parts in the engine compartment.

● Observe the operating instructions provided by the jump lead manufacturer.

● Observe the owner’s manual of the vehicle providing jump starting assistance.

WARNING

A highly explosive mixture of gases is given off when the 12-volt vehicle battery is jump started.

● Always keep fire, sparks, naked flames and lit cigarettes away from the 12-volt vehicle battery.

● Never use a mobile telephone when the jump leads are being connected or disconnected.

506

NOTICE

Discharged 12-volt vehicle batteries can already freeze at temperatures of around 0°C(+32°F).

● Never charge a 12-volt vehicle battery which is frozen or has been frozen.

● Always replace a 12-volt vehicle battery which is frozen or has been frozen.

NOTICE

Tow-starting the vehicle can damage the vehicle.

● Carry out jump starting to start the vehicle.

Jump starting the vehicle

The discharged 12-volt vehicle battery must be properly connected to the vehicle's electrical system.

The vehicles must not touch. Otherwise electricity could flow as soon as the positive terminals are connected.

Ensure that the battery clamps have good metal-to-metal contact with the battery terminals.

Comply with the information on jump starting contained in the owner’s manual for the other vehicle.

WARNING

Jump starting the vehicle incorrectly can cause the 12-volt vehicle battery to explode, which can lead to serious

injuries. Please note the following in order to reduce the risk of the 12-volt vehicle battery exploding:

● Always wear suitable eye protection and gloves and never lean over the 12-volt vehicle battery.

● Attach the connecting cables in the correct order – the positive cable first, followed by the negative cable.

● Never connect the negative lead to parts of the high-voltage system of the fuel system or to the brake lines.

● Do not allow the uninsulated parts of the terminal clamps to touch each other.

● Do not allow leads attached to the positive battery terminal on the 12-volt vehicle battery to touch electrically

conductive parts of the vehicle.

● Avoid electrostatic discharge in the vicinity of the 12-volt vehicle battery. The gas emitted from the 12-volt

vehicle battery could be ignited by sparks.

● Do not perform jump starting if the 12-volt vehicle battery is damaged or if it is frozen or has been frozen.

Attaching the jump leads in vehicles with start/stop system

Fig. 1 How to connect the jump leads.

1

Vehicle with discharged 12-volt vehicle battery that is being jump started.

507

2

3

Vehicle with 12-volt vehicle battery that is supplying power and jump-starting the other vehicle.

Suitable earth connection. A solid metal part that is firmly bolted to the engine block, or the engine block itself.

1. Switch off the ignition in both vehicles .

2. Open the battery cover in the engine compartment, if one is installed.

3. Connect one end of thered jump lead to the positive terminal+ in the vehicle with the discharged battery

1

→ Fig. 1

, →

.

4. Connect the other end of thered jump lead to the positive terminal+ of the vehicle battery providing assistance

2

→ Fig. 1

.

5. Connect one end of the black jump lead to a suitable earth connection, a solid metal part that is securely bolted

3

onto the cylinder block, or to the cylinder block itself → Fig. 1

.

6. Connect the other end of theblack jump lead to a solid metal component that is bolted securely to the cylinder

block of the vehicle with the flat battery, to the cylinder block itself or, if necessary, to the screwed-in towing

3

eye at the front. However, do not connect it to a point near the battery → Fig. 1

, →

.

7. Position the leads in such a way that they cannot come into contact with any moving parts in the engine

compartment.

Attaching the jump leads in vehicles without start/stop system

Fig. 2 How to connect the jump leads.

1

2

3

Vehicle with discharged 12-volt vehicle battery that is being jump started.

Vehicle with 12-volt vehicle battery that is supplying power and jump-starting the other vehicle.

Suitable earth connection. A solid metal part that is firmly bolted to the engine block, or the engine block itself.

1. Switch off the ignition in both vehicles .

2. Open the battery cover in the engine compartment, if one is installed.

3. Connect one end of thered jump lead to the positive terminal+ in the vehicle with the discharged battery

1

→ Fig. 2

, →

.

4. Connect the other end of thered jump lead to the positive terminal+ of the vehicle battery providing assistance

2

→ Fig. 2

.

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5. Connect one end of the black jump lead to the negative terminal- of the vehicle battery providing assistance

2

→ Fig. 2

.

6. Connect the other end of theblack jump lead to a solid metal component that is bolted securely to the cylinder

block of the vehicle with the flat battery, to the cylinder block itself or, if necessary, to the screwed-in towing

3

eye at the front. However, do not connect it to a point near the vehicle battery → Fig. 2

, →

.

7. Position the leads in such a way that they cannot come into contact with any moving parts in the engine

compartment.

Starting the engine

1. Start the engine of the vehicle providing assistance and let it run at idle.

2. Start the engine of the vehicle with the discharged 12-volt vehicle battery and wait 2 or 3 minutes until the

engine is running smoothly.

If the engine does not start immediately, switch off the starter after about 10 seconds and try again after about 1

minute. If the engine still does not start, seek expert assistance.

Removing the jump leads

1. Before disconnecting the jump leads, switch off the dipped beam headlights.

2. Turn on the air conditioning system or the heating and fresh air system blower and the rear window heating in

the vehicle with the discharged 12-volt vehicle battery. This helps to minimise voltage peaks which are

generated when the leads are disconnected.

3. When the engine is running, the jump leads should be removed only in the orderD – C – B – A.

4. Fit the cover to the positive terminal on the 12-volt vehicle battery.

5. Go to a correspondingly qualified workshop and have the 12-volt vehicle battery checked.

Introduction

Towing requires some experience, especially when using a tow rope. Both drivers should be familiar with the

technique required for towing. Inexperienced drivers should not attempt to tow.

Make sure that no excessive pulling forces occur and take care to avoid jerking movements. When towing offroad,

there is always a risk of overloading the anchorage points.

Observe any legal requirements when towing.

Towing

Towing is where a vehicle that cannot be driven is pulled with the aid of another vehicle.

The vehicle can be towed with a tow-bar or a tow-rope. The gearbox is not lubricated sufficiently at higher speeds

and over long distances:

—The maximum permitted towing speed is 50 km/h(30 mph).

—The maximum permitted towing distance is 50 km.

It is easier and safer to tow a vehicle with a tow bar. Only use a tow rope if you do not have a tow bar.

The tow rope should be slightly elastic to reduce the strain on both vehicles. It is advisable to use a tow rope made of

synthetic fibre or similarly elastic material.

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Towing with a breakdown truck

If you need to raise your vehicle on one axle for towing, you must do so only on the following axles, depending on the

gearbox/drive combination:

Front-wheel drive

Manual gearbox

Front axle

Automatic gearbox

Front axle

All-wheel drive (4Motion)

Manual gearbox

Front axle

Automatic gearbox

Front axle

WARNING

If a vehicle is being towed, the vehicle handling and braking effect will change significantly.

WARNING

Never tow a vehicle that has no power supply.

● Never switch off the ignition when the vehicle is being towed. Otherwise the steering column lock could engage

suddenly. You will no longer be able to steer the vehicle. This can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle, accidents

and serious injuries.

●

● If the power supply of the towed vehicle fails, stop towing immediately and seek assistance from a suitably

qualified workshop.

NOTICE

Towing with a tow-rope or tow-bar can damage the vehicle.

● Tow the vehicle carefully with a tow-rope or tow-bar.

● If possible, have the broken-down vehicle transported by a breakdown truck.

NOTICE

When pushing the vehicle by hand, the tail light clusters, side spoilers on the rear window and large panels can be

damaged and the rear spoiler may become detached.

● When pushing the vehicle by hand, do not press on the tail light clusters, side spoilers on the rear window, large

panels and the rear spoiler.

NOTICE

The vehicle can be damaged, e.g. paintwork, when removing and fitting the cover and towing eye.

● Remove and install the cover and the towing eye carefully so as to avoid damage to the vehicle.

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NOTICE

Use of a towing eye that is not suitable for the vehicle can damage the vehicle.

● Always use the towing eye supplied in the vehicle toolkit of your vehicle or a towing eye that is suitable for the

vehicle for towing.

Notes on towing

It is still possible to activate the turn signals in a vehicle that is being towed, even if the hazard warning lights are

switched on. To do this, operate the turn signal lever in the required direction while the ignition is switched on. The

hazard warning lights will not flash while the turn signal is being used. The hazard warning lights will start flashing

automatically as soon as the turn signal lever is moved back to the neutral position.

In which situations may the vehicle not be towed?

Do not have the vehicle towed in the following situations:

—The 12-volt vehicle battery is discharged.

—The instrument cluster display does not work properly.

—The distance to be towed is further than 50 km(around 31 miles).

—In vehicles with a manual gearbox: In vehicles with a manual gearbox, the clutch cannot be depressedfully and

neutral selected.

—In vehicles with an automatic gearbox: The selector lever of the automatic gearbox cannot be moved to neutral(N

position).

—The handbrake cannot be released.

—The steering column lock cannot be released.

—The vehicle’s gearbox is damaged or does not contain any lubricant.

—If the steering function or the operating clearance of the wheels cannot be ensured after an accident.

If the vehicle cannot be towed on its own wheels due to one of the above conditions, seek assistance from a

correspondingly qualified workshop and have the vehicle transported on a breakdown truck if necessary.

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Towing

Attach the tow-rope or the tow-bar only to the points provided for this purpose:

—Towing eye.

—On vehicles with a ball coupling: Ball coupling.

Preparations

—Ensure that the tow-rope is not twisted. Otherwise a towing eye may become unscrewed during towing.

—Switch on the ignition and hazard warning lights on both vehicles. However, observe any regulations to the

contrary.

—Comply with the information on towing contained in the owner’s manual for the other vehicle.

Pulling vehicle (front)

1. The tow-rope must be taut before you drive off properly.

2. Press the accelerator carefully.

3. Avoid sudden braking and driving manoeuvres.

4. In vehicles with a manual gearbox: Engage the clutch very smoothly when driving off.

Pulled vehicle (rear)

Make sure that the ignition is switched on so that the steering wheel is not locked and you can operate the turn

signals and the wipers when necessary.

1. Release the handbrake.

2. Ensure that the tow-rope is always taut.

3. In vehicles with a manual gearbox: Disengage the gear.

4. In vehicles with an automatic gearbox: Select the N selector lever position.

The brake servo and power steering function only when the engine is running. Otherwise you must press the brake

pedal with significantly more force and also use more effort for steering.

WARNING

Never attach the tow-rope or tow-bar to axle or running gear components. These can be damaged as a result and

this can cause accidents and serious injuries.

● Seek expert assistance and have the vehicle transported on a breakdown truck if necessary.

NOTICE

The vehicle can be towed only if the charge level of the 12-volt vehicle battery is sufficient and the steering column

lock can be released. If the power supply fails or if there are faults in the electrical system, you may need to use

jump leads to start the engine in order to release the steering column lock.

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Fitting the rear towing eye

On vehicles with factory-fitted towing bracket, there isno fixed towing eye under the bumper cover. For towing,

swing out or fit the ball coupling or use the permanently mounted ball coupling .

NOTICE

Vehicles with a factory-fitted towing bracket must useonly tow-bars that are specially designed for fitting to a ball

coupling. If you use an unsuitable tow-bar the ball coupling and the vehicle could be damaged.

● Use a tow-rope instead for towing.

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Fitting the towing eye at front

Depending on the country and vehicle equipment, the mounting for the towing eye is located behind the cover in the

bumper.

1. Before towing, check whether a mounting with screw thread is available for the towing eye.

2. If this is not the case, seek technical assistance for towing and have the vehicle transported on a breakdown

truck if necessary.

The towing eye must always be kept in the vehicle.

Observe the notes on driving while towing (→ Tow-starting and towing).

Fitting the towing eye at front

Fig. 1 In the front right bumper: Remove the cover.

Fig. 2 In the front right bumper: screwing in the towing

eye.

1. Take the towing eye and the hook out of the vehicle toolkit.

2. Insert the hook through the opening in the cover→ Fig. 1, pull out the cover and remove.

3. Remove the cover, allow it to hang on the vehicle or place it in the vehicle if necessary.

4. Turn the towing eye as shown by the arrow into the threaded hole and tighten as far as possible→ Fig. 2 , →

Use a suitable object to screw the towing eye fully and securely into the mounting.

.

5. After you have finished towing, remove the towing eye by unscrewing it in the opposite direction to the arrow

using a suitable object.

6. Insert the cap in the respective recess and press in until it engages.

7. If necessary, clean the towing eye and place it back in the vehicle toolkit.

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Breakdown assistance for Your Volkswagen California Van Third Generation (2015-2024)

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