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

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.