Differential lock for Your Volkswagen California Van Fourth Generation (2024-2025)

Differential lock  
Fig. 1 In the dash panel: button for the differential lock  
(illustration).  
The differential lock ensures a mechanically rigid connection between the wheels on the rear axle so that it is not  
possible for there to be a difference in the rotational speeds of the wheels. When driving off-road, the differential  
lock improves traction in difficult terrain conditions, e.g. holes or surfaces with poor grip and when the vehicle is  
driving uphill  
.
Engaging the differential lock  
1. When travelling at a speed of less than around 45 km/h(around 28 mph), press the → Fig. 1 button →  
.
The symbol in the button lights up continuously→ Fig. 1 as soon as the differential lock is engaged. Depending on  
the equipment, the yellow indicator lamp flashes or lights up in the instrument cluster.  
If the engine is switched off with the differential lock engaged, the differential lock remains engaged for around  
another 30 seconds.  
Switching off the differential lock  
1. Press the → Fig. 1 button again.  
The illuminated yellow symbol in the button→ Fig. 1 and the yellow indicator lamp in the instrument cluster go  
out.  
Do not engage the differential lock  
If you are driving on surfaced roads, e.g. asphalt→  
If the vehicle is being towed.  
.
When the drive wheels are spinning.  
If the brakes are being tested on a rolling road test bed.  
When the spare wheel is not the same as the other tyres mounted on the vehicle .  
Differential lock cannot be engaged  
The differential lock cannot be engaged in the following situations:  
When travelling at a vehicle speed of more than around 45 km/h(around 28 mph).  
If there is a large difference in the rotational speed of the rear wheels.  
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If the drive train is heavily loaded  
If the mechanical teeth of the differential lock are “tooth to tooth”: The symbol in the button and the yellow  
indicator lamp in the instrument cluster flash.  
WARNING  
The steering ability of the vehicle is very restricted when the differential lock is engaged. This could mean that you  
lose control over the vehicle and cause serious injuries.  
Never engage the differential lock when driving on well-surfaced roads or when the vehicle is being towed.  
NOTICE  
Never engage the differential lock if you are driving on a paved road surface. If the differential lock is engaged, the  
axles, gearbox and drive shaft will be subjected to stresses, loading and damage during cornering.  
If the differential lock is switched off when driving through a bend, this may cause a small shudder to pass  
through the vehicle. This is caused by the release of tension forces in the drive train. This is normal and is not  
a indication of damage to the vehicle.  
If you drive through bends with the differential lock engaged, the wheels “rub” on the road surface. You  
might be able to hear this. The “rubbing” of the tyres - especially on solid ground - will lead to increased wear  
on the tyres.  
Introduction  
Depending on equipment, the vehicle has driver assist systems that increase comfort and convenience when  
driving. Some of these driver assist systems use sensors or cameras (also referred to below generally as “sensors”)  
for operation. These are visible to you in some cases and in other cases not.  
The sensors and cameras detect the vehicle surroundings optically or using radar waves.  
Installed sensors  
Depending on equipment, the following sensors may be installed:  
Radar sensor at the front of the vehicle.  
Radar sensors at the rear of the vehicle.  
Camera behind the windscreen.  
Further information on the respective locations can be found in the vehicle overviews  
.
WARNING  
The driver assist systems cannot replace the driver’s attention and operate only within the limits of the respective  
system. The driver assist systems cannot detect all driving situations and may not react or may warn or react with a  
delay or in an undesired way. If you do not pay due attention, there is a risk of accidents and serious or even fatal  
injuries.  
Always remain alert and do not rely solely on the system. The driver is always responsible for all driving tasks.  
Observe the limits of the sensors and the system limits of the individual systems.  
Adapt your speed and distance from the vehicles ahead to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.  
Be ready at all times to override or cancel automatic interventions.  
Observe the information on the instrument cluster display and respond according to the displays if permitted by  
the traffic situation.  
Do not use the driver assist systems if you suspect there is a problem or damage.  
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