Get Checking and refilling Guide for Volkswagen E Golf 4 Door Second Generation (2017-2020)

Checking and refilling

In the engine compartment

Safety notes for working in the engine compartment

The engine compartment of a motor vehicle is a hazardous area. You should only carry out work

in the engine compartment if you know exactly how to perform the required tasks, are aware of

the general safety procedures and have access to the correct equipment, service fluids and

suitable tools. Failing to carry out work correctly can cause serious injuries → . The work

should be carried out by a qualified workshop if you are uncertain. Volkswagen recommends

using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.

Always park the vehicle on a level and stable surface before carrying out any work in the engine

compartment.

Any work on the high-voltage system must only be carried out by workshops which have been

authorised in accordance with Volkswagen guidelines →

.

DANGER

The voltage in the high-voltage system and in the high-voltage battery is a life-threatening

hazard! Touching damaged orange high-voltage cables or the high-voltage battery can lead to a

fatal electric shock. The high-voltage system may also be active when the ignition is switched

off!

●

Never carry out any work on the high-voltage system, the orange high-voltage cables, the

high-voltage components or the high-voltage battery. Any work involving the high-voltage

network must always be carried out by workshops authorised to work on the high-voltage

system.

●

Never damage or remove the orange high-voltage cables, components or battery or

disconnect then from the high-voltage system.

Work in the vicinity of high-voltage components and high-voltage cables or on the high-

voltage battery with machining, shaping and sharp-edged tools or heat sources, for

example, welding, soldering, hot air or thermal adhesives, may only be performed after the

vehicle has been de-energised. The high-voltage battery cannot be de-energised. Only

properly qualified and trained specialist staff may de-energise the vehicle.

●

If there is a fault in the high-voltage system, the drive will be deactivated if necessary and a

corresponding display may appear in the instrument cluster. Should this happen, the drive

remains deactivated until the defect has been remedied by the appropriately qualified and

trained workshop personnel.

It is essential to comply with Volkswagen guidelines when carrying out work of any kind on

the high-voltage system, in particular on the orange high-voltage cables and components or

the high-voltage battery.

WARNING

Unqualified work on the high-voltage system and on high-voltage components can lead to

malfunctions, accidents and injuries.

●

Any work on the high-voltage system, or on systems which could be indirectly affected by it,

must only be carried out by properly trained and qualified expert personnel.

WARNING

Unintentional vehicle movements during service work can cause serious injury.

●

Never work underneath a vehicle if it is not secured against rolling away. If you are working

underneath the vehicle while the wheels are on the ground, the vehicle must be on a level

surface, the wheels chocked, and the vehicle key removed from the ignition lock as required.

●

If you have to work underneath the vehicle, use suitable stands to provide extra support for

the vehicle. The jack is not sufficient for this task and can fail, which can lead to serious

injuries.

WARNING

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

sustained here.

●

The utmost care and attention must be paid when carrying out any work and you must

follow the general safety rules. Never take any risks.

●

Never perform any work in the engine compartment unless you know exactly how to carry it

out. If you are uncertain of what to do, the work should be carried out by a qualified

workshop. Serious injuries can result from work that has not been carried out properly.

●

Never open the bonnet if you see steam or coolant escaping from the engine compartment.

Hot steam or hot coolant can cause serious burns. Always wait until you can no longer see or

hear steam or coolant coming from the engine compartment.

Always allow the electric drive and high-voltage components to cool down before opening

the bonnet.

●

Hot electric drive components can burn the skin.

Once the electric drive has cooled down, the following points should be observed before

opening the bonnet:

●

Switch on the electronic parking brake and move the selector lever to position P or move

the gear lever to the neutral position.

●

Switch off the ignition, remove the vehicle key from the ignition lock and keep it in a safe

place far enough away from the vehicle to prevent any risk of the ignition being switched

on accidentally and supplying power to the electrical system.

●

Always keep children away from the engine compartment and never leave unsupervised.

●

The cooling system is under pressure when the electric drive is hot. Never open the cap of

the coolant expansion tank when the electric drive is hot. Coolant may spray out and cause

serious burns and other injuries.

●

Slowly and carefully turn the cap on the coolant expansion tank anticlockwise while

exerting gentle downward pressure on the cap.

●

Always protect the face, hands and arms from hot coolant or steam with a large, thick

cloth.

When refilling, do not spill any service fluids on engine components or on the exhaust

system. The spilt service fluids can start a fire.

WARNING

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

death!

●

Never short circuit the electric system. The 12-volt vehicle battery could explode.

In order to reduce the risk of a potentially fatal electric shock and serious injuries while the

vehicle's drive system is active or being activated, never touch high-voltage components,

the high-voltage battery or the high-voltage system, in particular orange high-voltage

cables.

WARNING

There are rotating components in the engine compartment that can cause serious injury.

●

Never reach into the radiator fan or into the area of the radiator fan. Touching the rotor

blades can result in serious injuries. The fan is temperature-controlled and can start

automatically, even when the ignition has been switched off or the vehicle key has been

removed from the ignition lock.

●

If any work has to be performed during the start procedure or when the vehicle’s drive

system is activated, the rotating parts (such as the radiator fan etc.) pose an additional

safety risk, and can potentially cause fatal injuries. Always be particularly careful.

●

Always ensure that no body parts, jewellery, ties, loose items of clothing or long hair can

be caught up in rotating engine components. Before starting work, remove any jewellery

and ties, tie up long hair and pull clothes in tightly to avoid them getting caught in

engine parts.

●

Always take due care and attention when depressing the accelerator. The vehicle could

start moving even if the electronic parking brake is switched on.

●

Always ensure you have not left any objects, such as cleaning cloths and tools, in the engine

compartment. Any forgotten items can cause malfunctions, damage to the electric drive and

fires.

WARNING

Additional insulating materials, such as example blankets in the engine compartment, can

interfere with the operation of the electric drive, and can cause fires and lead to severe injuries.

●

Never cover the electric drive with blankets or other insulating materials.

WARNING

Service fluids and some materials in the engine compartment are highly flammable and can

cause fires and serious injuries!

●

Never smoke in the vicinity of the engine compartment.

Never work near naked flames or sparks.

Never spill service fluids onto the electric drive. They could ignite on hot electric drive

components and thus cause injuries.

●

Observe the following if work on the 12-voltage vehicle electrical system is necessary:

●

Always disconnect the 12-volt vehicle battery. Ensure that the vehicle is unlocked when

the 12-volt vehicle battery is disconnected as otherwise the anti-theft alarm will be

activated.

●

Never work in the direct proximity of heating systems, water heaters or any other naked

flames.

●

Always have a fully functional and tested fire extinguisher to hand.

NOTICE

When refilling or replacing service fluids, ensure that you pour the correct service fluids into the

correct openings. The use of incorrect service fluids could result in serious malfunctions and

engine damage.

NOTICE

After an accident, or after the underside of the vehicle has struck an obstacle, the high-voltage

battery must be checked by appropriately qualified and trained experts.

Any service fluids leaks from the vehicle are harmful to the environment. You should

therefore regularly check the ground underneath your vehicle. If there are spots of oil or

other fluids on the ground, the vehicle should be inspected by a qualified workshop. Any

spilt service fluids must be disposed of properly.

Preparing the vehicle for working in the engine

compartment

Checklist

The following steps should always be carried out in the specified order before working in the

engine compartment →

:

✓ Park the vehicle on a level and stable surface.

✓ Depress and hold the brake pedal until the vehicle’s drive system has been deactivated.

✓ Switch on the electronic parking brake (→ Electronic parking brake, Description).

✓ Move the selector lever to position P (→ Driving mode selection for electric vehicles,

Function).

✓ Deactivate the vehicle’s drive system (→ Deactivating the vehicle’s drive system, Operation).

✓ Remove the vehicle key from the vehicle and keep in a location outside the vehicle to prevent

the vehicle’s drive system from being activated accidentally and supplying power to the

electrical system (→ Deactivating the vehicle’s drive system, Operation).

✓ Allow the electric drive to cool down.

✓ Children and other people should always be kept well away from the engine compartment.

✓ Ensure that the vehicle cannot roll away unexpectedly.

WARNING

Ignoring any of the items on this important safety checklist can lead to severe injuries.

●

Always follow the instructions in the checklist and observe the general safety procedures.

Opening and closing the bonnet

Fig. 1 In the footwell on the driver side: release lever for the bonnet.

Fig. 2 Above the radiator grille: bonnet opening lever.

Opening the bonnet

—Ensure that the wiper arms are positioned on the windscreen before opening the bonnet →

.

—Open the driver door and pull the release lever in the direction of the arrow → Fig. 1 . The

bonnet is released from the lock carrier catch by spring force →

.

—Lift the bonnet, press the opening lever and fully open the bonnet → Fig. 1 . The bonnet is

held in the open position by the gas strut.

Closing the bonnet

—To close the bonnet, pull it down to overcome the gas strut pressure →

.

—Let the bonnet drop into the lock carrier catch from a height of about 30 cm – do not press it

down!

If the bonnet has not closed properly, lift it and then close it again.

The bonnet is flush with the body parts around it when it is closed properly. The bonnet is no

longer highlighted in the instrument cluster display or the display goes out (→ In the engine

compartment, Function).

WARNING

If the bonnet is not closed properly, it can open suddenly while you are driving and completely

obscure your view of the road. This can lead to accidents and serious injuries.

●

After closing the bonnet, always check that it is properly secured. The bonnet must be flush

with the surrounding body panels.

If you notice that the bonnet is not closed properly while the vehicle is in motion, stop the

vehicle as soon as possible and close the bonnet.

The bonnet should only be opened or closed when you are sure that nobody is in its path.

NOTICE

●

The bonnet should only be opened when the wiper arms are flush to the windscreen and

when they are switched off in order to avoid damage to the bonnet and the wiper arms.

Always return the wiper arms to the windscreen before starting your journey.

Display

Fig. 1 On the instrument cluster display: the bonnet is open or not closed properly (illustration).

A symbol on the instrument cluster display indicates if the bonnet is open or is not closed

properly → Display .

Do not continue driving! If necessary, lift the bonnet and then close it again.

This symbol is also visible when the ignition is switched off and will go out a few seconds after

the vehicle has been locked when all doors are closed.

WARNING

Failure to observe warnings can cause your vehicle to break down in traffic, which can lead to

accidents and serious injuries.

●

Never ignore any warnings.

●

Stop the vehicle as soon as possible and when safe to do so.

The symbol can differ depending on the version of the instrument cluster.

Service fluids and consumables

All service fluids and consumables, e.g. tyres, coolant and batteries, are being constantly developed.

For this reason, service fluids and consumables should be replaced at a qualified workshop.

Volkswagen dealerships are kept up to date on all changes.

WARNING

Unsuitable service fluids and consumables, and the incorrect use of these fluids and consumables,

can cause accidents, serious injuries, burns or poisoning.

●

Service fluids must be kept in their original sealed container.

Never store service fluids in empty food containers, bottles or any other non-original containers

as people finding these containers could drink them.

●

Keep children away from all service fluids and consumables.

Always read and follow the information and warnings on the service fluid packaging.

When using products that give off harmful fumes, always work outdoors or in a well-ventilated

area.

●

Never use fuel, turpentine, engine oil, nail varnish remover or other volatile fluids for vehicle

care. They are toxic and highly flammable. They could cause fires and explosions.

NOTICE

●

Only use suitable service fluids for refilling. Never use the wrong service fluid. Failure to observe

this warning can result in serious malfunctions and engine damage.

Optional equipment and other accessories in front of the air intake reduce the cooling effect of

the coolant. The engine may overheat at high ambient temperatures and high engine loads.

Leaking service fluids can pollute the environment. Spilt service fluids must be collected in

suitable containers and disposed of properly and in an environmentally responsible way.

Washer fluid

Fig. 1 In the engine compartment: cap of washer fluid reservoir.

The washer fluid level should be checked regularly and refilled as necessary.

There is a strainer in the filler throat of the washer fluid reservoir. The strainer keeps large dirt

particles away from the washer jets when refilling. The strainer should only be removed for cleaning.

If the strainer is damaged or is not present when refilling, dirt particles can enter the system and

block the washer jets.

—Open the bonnet (→ In the engine compartment, Operation).

—The washer fluid reservoir is identified by the symbol on the cap → Fig. 1 .

—Check whether there is enough washer fluid in the reservoir.

—To refill, mix clean water (not distilled water) with a windscreen washer fluid recommended by

Volkswagen → . Observe the mixture instructions on the packaging.

—At low outside temperatures, add a special anti-freeze agent so that the fluid cannot freeze →

.

The washer fluid reservoir has a capacity of about 3.0–7.5 litres, depending on the vehicle

equipment.

WARNING

Never mix coolant additive or other unsuitable additives into the windscreen washer fluid. These

may leave an oily film on the window, considerably restricting the field of vision.

●

Use clean, clear water (not distilled water) with a windscreen washer fluid recommended by

Volkswagen.

●

A suitable anti-freeze agent should be added to the windscreen washer fluid if necessary.

NOTICE

●

Never mix other cleaning agents with the cleaning agents recommended by Volkswagen. This

can cause the ingredients to separate and block the washer jets.

When refilling service fluids, please ensure that you pour the correct service fluids into the

correct openings. The use of incorrect service fluids could result in serious malfunctions and

engine damage.

Coolant

Introduction to the topic

Do not work on the cooling system unless you are familiar with the task, aware of the general

safety procedures and have the correct equipment, service fluids and suitable tools. Failing to

carry out work correctly can cause serious injuries → . The work should be carried out by a

qualified workshop if you are uncertain. Volkswagen recommends using a Volkswagen dealership

for this purpose.

Information on warning and indicator lamps that light up can be found in the troubleshooting

sections at the end of the chapter (→ Coolant, FAQ).

WARNING

Coolant is toxic.

●

Coolant should only be kept in sealed original containers in a safe place.

Never store coolant in empty food containers, bottles or any other non-original containers

as people finding these containers may then drink the coolant.

●

Coolant must be stored out of the reach of children.

The amount of correct coolant additive used must be sufficient for the lowest ambient

temperature that you expect the vehicle to be exposed to.

●

Coolant can freeze at extremely cold outside temperatures, causing the vehicle to break

down. Vehicle occupants with inadequate winter clothing could then freeze to death as the

heating will also no longer function.

Coolant and coolant additives can pollute the environment. Spilt service fluids must be

collected and disposed of properly and in an environmentally responsible way.

Coolant specification

The cooling system is filled at the factory with a mixture of specially prepared water and at least

40% coolant additive G 13 (TL-VW 774 J).

The proportion of coolant additive must always be at least 40% to protect the cooling system. If

greater frost protection is required in very cold climates, the proportion of anti-freeze additive

can be increased. However, the percentage of coolant additive should not exceed 60%, as this

would reduce the frost protection and the cooling effect.

The coolant additive is dyed purple. The mixture of water and a coolant additive offers anti-

freeze protection down to -25°C (-13°F), protects the alloy parts in the cooling system against

corrosion, prevents limescale deposits and significantly increases the boiling point of the coolant.

When refilling the coolant, a mixture of distilled water and at least 40% coolant additive G 13 or

G 12 plus-plus (TL-VW 774 G) (both of which are dyed purple) must be used in order to obtain the

optimum corrosion protection →

.

Mixing G 13 with the coolant additives G 12 plus (TL-VW 774 F), G 12 (dyed red) or G 11 (dyed

blue-green) will significantly decrease the level of corrosion protection and should therefore be

avoided →

.

NOTICE

Never mix genuine coolant additives with other coolants that have not been approved by

Volkswagen.

Coolant and coolant additives can pollute the environment. Spilt service fluids must be

collected and disposed of properly and in an environmentally responsible way.

Checking the coolant level and refilling coolant

Fig. 1 In the engine compartment: markings on the coolant expansion tank (illustration).

Fig. 2 In the engine compartment: coolant expansion tank cap (illustration).

The warning lamp for the coolant will light up if the coolant level is too low.

Preparations

—Park the vehicle on a firm and level surface.

—Allow the engine to cool down →

.

—Open the bonnet (→ In the engine compartment, Operation).

—The coolant expansion tank is identified by the symbol on the cap → Fig. 2 .

Checking the coolant level

—Check the coolant level at the side markings of the coolant expansion tank when the electric

drive is cold → Fig. 1 . The coolant level must be between the marks.

—Refill coolant if the liquid level in the coolant expansion tank is below the minimum marking

(“min”). When the engine is warm, the engine coolant level may be slightly above the

maximum (“MAX”) mark.

Adding coolant

—Always protect your face, hands and arms from hot coolant or steam by placing a suitable

cloth on the cap of the coolant expansion tank.

—Unscrew the cap carefully →

.

—Refill only new coolant according to the Volkswagen specification (→ Coolant, Refilling) →

.

—Only refill coolant if there is still a remaining quantity of coolant in the expansion tank. If this

is not observed, the engine could be damaged. If you cannot see any coolant in the expansion

tank do not drive on. Seek expert assistance.

—If there is still a remaining quantity of coolant in the coolant expansion tank, refill coolant until

the level remains stable.

—The coolant level must be between the marks on the coolant expansion tank → Fig. 1 . Do not

fill above the top edge of the marked area →

.

—Screw the cap closed tightly.

—If in an emergency you do not have access to coolant with the required specification, do not

use any other coolant additive (→ Coolant, Standards/Directives)! Instead, initially refill with

distilled water →

only. Then add the correct proportion of the specified coolant additive as

soon as possible (→ Coolant, Standards/Directives).

WARNING

Hot steam and hot coolant can cause serious burns.

●

Never open the bonnet if you can see or hear steam or coolant coming out of the engine

compartment. Always wait until you can no longer see or hear escaping steam or coolant.

Always allow the electric drive to cool down completely before carefully opening the

bonnet. Hot components can burn the skin.

When the electric drive has cooled down, the following points should be noted before

opening the bonnet:

●

Switch on the electronic parking brake and move the selector lever to position P or move

the gear lever to the neutral position.

●Apply the handbrake firmly and move the selector lever to position P.

●

Deactivate the vehicle’s drive system and remove the vehicle key from the ignition lock if

necessary.

Always keep children away from the engine compartment and never leave unsupervised.

●

The cooling system is under pressure when the engine is hot. Never open the cap of the

coolant expansion tank when the engine is hot. Coolant may spray out and cause serious

burns and other injuries.

●

Turn the cap slowly and very carefully anticlockwise while exerting gentle downward

pressure on the cap.

●

Always protect the face, hands and arms from hot coolant or steam with a large, thick

cloth.

When filling, do not pour any service fluids onto the electric drive. The spilt service fluids

can start a fire. In certain circumstances, the ethylene glycol in the coolant can catch fire.

NOTICE

●

Refill only with distilled water. All other types of water can cause corrosion in the engine

due to the chemical components contained in the water. This can also lead to engine failure.

If any other type of water is refilled, the fluid in the cooling system should be completely

replaced immediately by a qualified workshop.

●

Do not fill coolant above the top of the marked area → Fig. 1 . Otherwise the excess coolant

will be pressed out of the cooling system when the engine is hot and could cause damage.

If a large amount of coolant has been lost, do not refill the coolant until the engine has

cooled completely. Heavy coolant loss is an indication of leaks in the cooling system. The

cooling system should be checked by a qualified workshop as soon as possible. Failure to do

so can result in engine damage.

●

Do not refill coolant if there is no more coolant in the coolant expansion tank. Air could have

entered the cooling system. Do not drive on! Seek expert assistance. Failure to do so can

result in engine damage.

When refilling service fluids, please ensure that you pour the correct service fluids into the

correct openings. The use of incorrect service fluids can result in serious malfunctions and

damage to the electric drive.

Troubleshooting

Coolant

The indicator lamp flashes red.

Engine coolant temperature too high or engine coolant level too low.

The coolant temperature in the engine coolant circuit or the coolant temperature in the high-

voltage coolant circuit is too high. The coolant level of the engine coolant circuit or of the high-

voltage coolant circuit is too low.

Do not continue driving!

Stop the vehicle as soon as possible and when safe to do so.

—Deactivate the vehicle’s drive system.

—Allow the electric drive to cool down until the warning lamp goes out.

—Check the engine coolant level at the coolant expansion tank (→ Coolant, Refilling).

If the engine coolant level is too low:

—Adding coolant (→ Coolant, Refilling)

If the warning lamp does not go out, seek expert assistance.

—Check coolant level at the coolant expansion tank of the high-voltage coolant circuit 2 .

If the coolant level in the high-voltage coolant circuit is too low:

Do not refill coolant.

—Inform a qualified workshop immediately.

and display --.- in the instrument cluster

The indicator lamp flashes red.

Fault in the engine cooling system.

—Stop the vehicle as soon as possible and when safe to do so.

—Seek expert assistance.

lights up together with

The indicator lamps flash red.

Stop the vehicle immediately

Fault in the high-voltage coolant circuit.

—Deactivate the vehicle’s drive system.

—Seek expert assistance.

Brake fluid

Fig. 1 In the engine compartment: cap of the brake fluid reservoir.

Brake fluid will gradually absorb water from the surrounding air over the course of time. The brake

system will be damaged if there is too much water in the brake fluid. The boiling point of the brake

fluid is also considerably reduced by the water content. Heavy use of the brakes may cause a vapour

lock in the brake system if the water content is too high. Vapour locks reduce the braking efficiency,

considerably increase braking distance and can even cause the brake system to fail completely. Your

own safety and that of other road users depends on having a brake system that functions properly at

all times →

.

Brake fluid specification

Volkswagen has developed a brake fluid that has been optimised for the brake system in the vehicle.

To ensure the best possible operation of the brake system, Volkswagen expressly recommends the

use of brake fluid compliant with VW standard 501 14.

Before using a particular brake fluid, check that the specifications printed on the container

correspond to the vehicle requirements.

Brake fluid that is compliant with VW standard 501 14 is available from Volkswagen dealerships.

If this brake fluid is not available and it is necessary to use another high-quality brake fluid instead,

brake fluid that is compliant with DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 6 or US standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4 can be

used.

Not all brake fluids that are compliant with DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 6 or US standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4

have the same chemical composition. Some of these brake fluids may contain chemicals that can

damage or destroy brake system components over time.

Volkswagen therefore recommends the use of brake fluid that is compliant with VW standard 501 14

to ensure sustained optimal operation of the brake system.

Brake fluid that is compliant with VW standard 501 14 fulfils the requirements of DIN ISO 4925

CLASS 6 or US standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4.

Brake fluid level

The brake fluid level must always be between the MIN and MAX markings on the brake fluid reservoir

and above the MIN marking →

.

The brake fluid level cannot be checked accurately in all models as a flap or engine components may

partially conceal the brake fluid container. If the brake fluid level cannot be read exactly, please go to

a qualified workshop.

The brake fluid level drops slightly during vehicle operation as the brake pads wear and the brakes

are automatically adjusted.

Brake fluid level

The indicator lamp lights up red.

Brake fluid level is too low.

—

Do not continue driving!

—Check the brake fluid level.

If the brake fluid level is too low:

—Inform a qualified workshop.

—Have the brake system checked.

Changing the brake fluid

The brake fluid should be changed by a qualified workshop. Volkswagen recommends using a

Volkswagen 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 with old brake fluid can cause a vapour lock. Vapour locks reduce

braking efficiency, 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 fluid can affect the functioning of the brakes and reduce

braking efficiency.

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.

12-volt vehicle battery

Introduction to the topic

The 12-volt vehicle battery is a component of the electrical system and in event of the high-

voltage system failing, supplies the safety-relevant systems of the vehicle with energy. In the

scope of maintenance work, the 12-volt vehicle battery is checked and where required, replaced.

You should only carry out work on the electrical system if you know exactly how to perform the

required tasks, are aware of the general safety procedures and have access to the correct

equipment, service fluids and suitable tools. Failing to carry out work correctly can cause serious

injuries → . All work should be carried out by a qualified workshop. Volkswagen recommends

using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.

Information on warning and indicator lamps that light up can be found in the troubleshooting

sections at the end of the chapter (→ 12-volt vehicle battery, FAQ).

Location of 12-volt vehicle battery

The 12-volt vehicle battery is located in the engine compartment.

Explanation of the warnings on the 12-volt vehicle battery

Always wear eye protection!

Electrolyte is very corrosive and caustic. Always wear protective

gloves and eye protection!

No fire, sparks, naked lights or smoking!

A highly explosive mixture of gases is given off when the 12-volt

vehicle battery is charging!

Always keep children away from electrolyte and the 12-volt vehicle

battery!

Always observe the owner's manual!

WARNING

Any work on the 12-volt 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 12-

volt vehicle battery and also disconnect the negative cable from the 12-volt vehicle battery.

●

Children should always be kept away from electrolyte and the 12-volt vehicle battery.

Always wear eye protection and protective gloves.

Electrolyte is very aggressive. It can burn the skin and can cause blindness. When working

with the 12-volt vehicle battery, ensure that your hands, arms and face in particular are

protected from acid spillage.

●

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 terminals.

Never use a damaged 12-volt vehicle battery. It can explode. Damaged 12-volt vehicle

batteries must be replaced as soon as possible.

●

Never use a frozen 12-volt vehicle battery. Discharged 12-volt vehicle batteries can already

freeze at temperatures of around 0°C (+32°F). Frozen 12-volt vehicle batteries must be

replaced immediately.

NOTICE

Do not expose the 12-volt vehicle battery to direct daylight for an extended time.

●

The ultraviolet radiation can damage the battery housing.

NOTICE

Protect the 12-volt vehicle battery against frost if the vehicle is left standing for extended

periods.

●

The 12-volt battery can freeze and be destroyed as a result.

When you activate the vehicle’s drive system after the 12-volt battery has been totally

discharged or replaced or after a successful jump start, you may find that system

settings (time, date, personal convenience settings and programming) have been

changed or deleted. Check and correct the settings as necessary once the 12-volt vehicle

battery has been sufficiently charged.

Checking the electrolyte level of the 12-volt vehicle battery

Fig. 1 Battery window on the top of the 12-volt vehicle battery (illustration).

The electrolyte level of the 12-volt vehicle battery should be checked regularly in high-mileage

vehicles, in hot countries and in older 12-volt vehicle batteries. The 12-volt vehicle battery is

otherwise maintenance-free.

Preparations

—Preparing the vehicle for working in the engine compartment (→ In the engine compartment,

Description).

—Open the bonnet (→ In the engine compartment, Operation).

Checking the electrolyte level (12-volt vehicle batteries with battery

window)

—Ensure that enough light is available for you to clearly see the colour indicator in the round

battery window on the top of the 12-volt vehicle battery (arrow) → Fig. 1 . Never use naked

flames or glowing objects as a light source.

—The colour displayed in the round battery window changes according to the electrolyte level in

the 12-volt vehicle battery.

Light yellow or without colour The electrolyte level of the 12-volt vehicle battery is too low. The

12-volt vehicle battery should be checked and replaced by a

qualified workshop if necessary.

Black

The electrolyte level of the 12-volt vehicle battery is correct.

WARNING

Any work on the 12-volt vehicle battery can cause serious chemical burns, explosions and

electric shocks.

●

Always wear eye protection and protective gloves.

●

Electrolyte is very aggressive. It can burn the skin and can cause blindness. When working

with the 12-volt vehicle battery, ensure that your hands, arms and face in particular are

protected from acid spillage.

●

Never tilt the 12-volt vehicle battery. Electrolyte may spill out of the battery vents and

cause chemical burns.

●

Never open a 12-volt vehicle battery.

If acid is spilt in your eye or on your skin, rinse immediately for several minutes with cold

water. Then consult a doctor immediately.

●

If electrolyte is swallowed, consult a doctor immediately.

Charging, replacing, disconnecting and connecting the 12-

volt vehicle battery

If you suspect that the 12-volt vehicle battery is damaged or faulty, go to a qualified workshop

and have the 12-volt vehicle battery checked.

Charging the 12-volt vehicle battery

The 12-volt vehicle battery should be charged by a qualified workshop, as the technology used in

factory-fitted 12-volt vehicle batteries requires voltage-limited charging → . Volkswagen

recommends using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.

Replacing the 12-volt vehicle battery

The 12-volt vehicle battery has been developed to suit the conditions of its installation location

and has special safety features. If a 12-volt vehicle battery has to be replaced, discuss the

electromagnetic compatibility, size and necessary servicing, output and safety requirements for

the new 12-volt vehicle battery with a Volkswagen dealership before purchase. The ventilation

opening of the 12-volt vehicle battery must always be on the negative terminal side: the

ventilation opening on the positive terminal side must always be sealed.

Only maintenance-free 12-volt vehicle batteries compliant with the standards TL 825 06 and

VW 7 50 73 should be used. These standards must be dated October 2014 or later.

Always have the 12-volt vehicle battery replaced by a qualified workshop, as the vehicle

electronics must be adapted as part of the replacement process. Only qualified workshops have

the technology required to carry out this adjustment correctly. Volkswagen recommends that the

12-volt vehicle battery is replaced by a Volkswagen dealership.

Disconnecting the 12-volt vehicle battery

Please observe the following if the 12-volt vehicle battery has to be disconnected from the

electrical system in the vehicle:

—Switch off all electrical consumers and the ignition.

—Unlock the vehicle before disconnecting the battery in order to avoid triggering the anti-theft

alarm.

—First disconnect the negative cable and then the positive cable →

.

Connecting the 12-volt vehicle battery

—Switch off all electrical consumers and the ignition before reconnecting the 12-volt vehicle

battery.

—First reconnect the positive cable and then the negative cable →

.

Various indicator lamps may light up after the 12-volt vehicle battery has been connected and

the ignition is switched on. They will go out if you drive a short distance at a speed of

approximately 15 – 20 km/h (10 – 12 mph). If the indicator lamps remain lit up, the vehicle

should be checked by a qualified workshop.

If the 12-volt vehicle battery was disconnected for an extended period, the system may not able

to calculate or correctly display the time when the next service is due (→ Instrument cluster,

Description). Observe the maximum permissible service intervals (→ Maintenance, Description).

Vehicles with Keyless Access: (→ Keyless Access, Description): if the ignition cannot be switched

on after connecting the 12-volt vehicle battery, lock and unlock the vehicle from the outside.

Then try to switch on the ignition again. Please seek expert assistance if the ignition cannot be

switched on.

Automatic switch-off for electrical consumers

The intelligent vehicle electrical system automatically implements a range of measures to

prevent the 12-volt vehicle battery from discharging under high loads:

—The performance of large electrical consumers may be reduced or they may be switched off

completely.

The vehicle electrical system cannot always prevent the 12-volt vehicle battery from discharging.

For example when the ignition is switched on for an extended period with the engine off, or

when the side or parking lights are on when the vehicle is parked for an extended period.

12-volt vehicle battery is discharged

—Through use of electrical consumers when the vehicle’s drive system has been deactivated.

WARNING

Incorrectly securing the battery and using incorrect 12-volt vehicle batteries can cause short

circuits, fire and serious injuries.

●

Always use maintenance-free and leak-proof 12-volt vehicle batteries that have the same

properties, specifications and dimensions as the factory-fitted 12-volt vehicle battery.

WARNING

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

charged.

●

12-volt vehicle batteries should only be charged in well-ventilated spaces.

●

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

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

●

The 12-volt vehicle battery must be replaced if it has ever frozen.

Incorrectly connected cables can cause a short circuit. First connect the positive cable and

then the negative cable.

NOTICE

●

Never connect equipment that supplies electric power, such as solar panels or a battery

charger, to the 12-volt socket or to the cigarette lighter to charge the 12-volt vehicle

battery. This can damage the vehicle electrical system.

12-volt vehicle batteries may contain toxic substances such as sulphuric acid and lead.

Dispose of the 12-volt vehicle battery in accordance with the relevant regulations.

Electrolyte can pollute the environment. Clean up any service fluid leakages and dispose of

them properly.

Troubleshooting

12-volt vehicle battery

The indicator lamp lights up red and the text message

displayed.

1

2

V

b

a

t

e

r

y

n

o

t

c

h

a

r

g

i

n

g

.

S

t

o

p

v

e

h

i

c

l

e

.

i

s

Do not continue driving! Stop the vehicle as soon as possible and when safe to do so.

The 12-volt vehicle battery will not be charged while the vehicle is in motion.

—Switch off any electrical consumers that are not required.

—Inform a qualified workshop.

—Have the electrical system checked.

12-volt vehicle battery

The indicator lamp lights up yellow and the text message

! is displayed.

Fault in the connection between the vehicle electrical system and the 12-volt vehicle battery.

E

r

o

r

:

1

2

V

b

a

t

e

r

y

.

U

n

a

b

l

e

t

o

r

e

s

t

a

r

t

.

W

o

r

k

s

h

o

p

If the vehicle’s drive system is deactivated in this situation it cannot be switched back on again.

Start the vehicle using jump leads if necessary (→ Jump starting, Description) or seek expert

assistance.

—Go to a qualified workshop.

—Have the electrical system checked.

12-volt vehicle battery

The indicator lamp lights up yellow and the text message

! is displayed.

E

r

o

r

:

1

2

V

b

a

t

e

r

y

d

i

a

g

n

o

s

t

i

c

s

.

W

o

r

k

s

h

o

p

Fault in the system for monitoring the 12-volt vehicle battery.

—Go to a qualified workshop.

—Have the electrical system checked.

12-volt vehicle battery

The indicator lamp lights up yellow and the text message

! is displayed.

E

r

o

r

:

P

l

e

a

s

e

r

e

p

l

a

c

e

1

2

V

b

a

t

e

r

y

.

W

o

r

k

s

h

o

p

The 12-volt vehicle battery has almost reached the end of its service life.

—Go to a qualified workshop.

—Have the 12-volt vehicle battery checked and replaced if necessary (→ 12-volt vehicle battery,

Replacing).

12-volt vehicle battery

The indicator lamp lights up yellow and the text message

! is displayed.

P

l

e

a

s

e

h

a

v

e

t

h

e

1

2

V

b

a

t

e

r

y

c

h

e

c

k

e

d

.

W

o

r

k

s

h

o

p

Fault in the connection between the vehicle electrical system and the 12-volt vehicle battery.

—Go to a qualified workshop.

—Have the electrical system checked.

12-volt vehicle battery

The indicator lamp lights up yellow and the text message

displayed.

1

2

V

b

a

t

e

r

y

l

o

w

.

C

h

a

r

g

e

b

y

d

r

i

v

i

n

g

.

i

s

12-volt vehicle battery has poor charging capacity, caused for example by low temperatures.

—Drive a short distance to recharge the 12-volt vehicle battery.

Checking and refilling for Your Volkswagen E Golf 4 Door Second Generation (2017-2020)

Related Topics

Popular Owner Manuals

Latest Owner Manuals