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

The interior temperature is slightly higher than expected  
The temperature at which the auxiliary heater heats the vehicle interior could be slightly higher if the temperature  
selector for the heating and fresh air system or manual air conditioning system was set to the highest setting before  
the auxiliary heater was switched on. This also depends on the ambient temperature.  
Noises when the auxiliary heater is switched on  
It is normal for the auxiliary heater to make noises when switched on. The noise does not indicate a malfunction.  
Information on steering  
The steering should be locked every time you leave the vehicle to make it more difficult for the vehicle to be stolen.  
The steering  
The power steering provided by the electromechanical steering system automatically adjusts to the vehicle speed,  
steering wheel torque and steering wheel angle. The electromechanical steering only functions when the engine is  
running. If the start/stop system is activated and the engine is switched off, the steering also works.  
You will need considerably more strength than normal to steer the vehicle if the power steering is reduced or has  
failed completely.  
Mechanical steering column lock  
The steering column is locked mechanically in vehicles with an ignition lock:  
1. Stop the vehicle.  
2. With some equipment levels: Move the selector lever to positionP.  
3. Remove the vehicle key.  
4. Turn the steering wheel slightly until the steering lock clicks into place.  
Unlocking the steering column:  
1. Turn the steering wheel slightly to relieve the load on the steering lock.  
2. Insert the vehicle key into the ignition lock.  
3. Hold the steering wheel in this position and turn the ignition on.  
Electronic steering lock in vehicles with a starter button  
The steering column is locked electronically on vehicles with starter button:  
1. Stop the vehicle and engage the parking lockP if necessary.  
2. Switch off the ignition and then open the driver door. The steering column is locked.  
If you do not want the steering column to be locked, first open the driver door and then switch off the ignition. The  
steering column will remain unlocked as long as the vehicle is not locked.  
Counter steering assistance  
Counter steering assistance provides the driver with power steering in critical driving situations. In combination with  
ESC  
, additional steering power helps the driver when counter steering  
.
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WARNING  
Depending on the vehicle's equipment level, the power steering only functions when the engine is running. If the  
power steering does not work, a stiff steering wheel will greatly reduce steering ability. This can lead to loss of  
vehicle control, accidents, serious injuries and death.  
Never allow the vehicle to roll if the engine is switched off.  
WARNING  
It is no longer possible to steer the vehicle if the steering lock engages. This can lead to loss of vehicle control,  
accidents, serious injuries and death.  
Never remove the vehicle key from the ignition if the vehicle is in motion.  
WARNING  
The counter steering assistance is not a replacement for the driver's attention and works exclusively within the  
system limits. In critical driving situations, uncontrolled vehicle movements may occur despite counter steering  
assistance. If you are inattentive, there is a risk of accidents and serious injury or even death.  
Always remain alert and do not rely solely on the system. The driver is always responsible for all driving tasks.  
Note that the vehicle is not steered by the counter steering assistance.  
Ensure that your speed and driving style are always appropriate for the current visibility, weather and road/traffic  
conditions.  
NOTICE  
When the ignition is switched off during towing, some vehicle functions are not available, e.g. the turn signals, the  
horn, the windscreen wipers and the windscreen washer system.  
Switch on the ignition when the vehicle is being towed.  
Troubleshooting  
Steering fault  
The warning lamp lights up or flashes red.  
The electronic steering lock is faulty.  
1.  
Do not drive on! Seek expert assistance.  
If the warning light lights up red, the steering my be difficult to operate because of a fault in the  
electromechanical power steering.  
If the warning lamp flashes red, the steering column cannot be unlocked.  
Steering fault  
The indicator lamp lights up or flashes yellow.  
If the indicator lamp lights up continuously, restart the engine and drive a short distance slowly. If the indicator lamp  
continues to light up, go to a correspondingly qualified workshop.  
The indicator lamp flashes:  
1. Move the steering wheel slightly back and forth.  
2. Switch the ignition off and then back on again.  
3. Observe the messages on the instrument cluster display.  
4. If the indicator lamp still flashes after restarting the vehicle, do not continue to drive. Seek expert assistance.  
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