Flashes
Possible cause
Proper response
Switch the ignition off and then switch it on again. Heed any messages
shown in the instrument cluster display, if applicable.
On vehicles with Keyless Access ⇒ Starting the engineꢀ, press the starter
Steering column not locked/unlocked.
button briefly twice in a row without depressing the brake or clutch pedal.
Do not drive any farther if the steering column remains locked after you
switch on the ignition. Contact your authorized Volkswagen dealer or an
authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.
When the ignition is switched on, several warning and indicator lights come on briefly for a function check. They go out after a few seconds.
WARNING
Failure to heed warning lights and instrument cluster text messages can cause the vehicle to break down in traffic and result in a collision and serious personal
injury.
Never ignore warning lights or text WARNINGS.
Always stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.
Whenever stalled or stopped for repair, move the vehicle a safe distance off the road, turn on the emergency flashers, switch off the engine, and use other
warning devices to warn approaching traffic.
Park the vehicle where no part of the hot catalytic converter and exhaust system can come into contact with flammable materials under the vehicle, such as
dry grass, brush, spilled fuel, etc.
NOTE
Failure to heed warning lights or text WARNINGS can result in vehicle damage.
Steering system information
Read and follow the introductory information and safety information first ⇒ Introduction to the subjectꢀ
To help prevent vehicle theft, you should always make sure the steering column is locked before leaving the vehicle.
Mechanical steering column lock (vehicles without Keyless Access)
The steering column is locked if the vehicle is stationary and the vehicle key is removed from the ignition switch. Turn the steering wheel slightly until the steering
column lock clicks into place.
To disengage the steering column lock, insert the vehicle key into the ignition switch. Turn the steering wheel slightly to take pressure off the steering column lock.
Hold the steering wheel in this position and turn the ignition switch.
Electronic steering column lock (vehicles with Keyless Access)
The steering column is locked if the driver door is opened with the ignition switched off. The vehicle must be standing still and the transmission must be in Park (P
on an automatic transmission vehicle.
If the driver door is opened before the ignition is switched off, the electronic steering column lock is activated only after the vehicle has been locked with the vehicle
key or via the sensor in the door handle.
Power steering
Power steering automatically adjusts to driving speed, steering torque, and the steering angle of the wheels. Power steering works only when the engine is running
If power steering is reduced or lost completely, it will be much harder to steer and control the vehicle.
Counter-steering assistance
Counter-steering assistance is part of Electronic Stability Control (ESC). This feature makes it easier for the driver to control the vehicle in difficult situations. For
example, if you have to brake hard on a surface that provides uneven traction, the vehicle could pull to the right or left. ESC detects this situation and helps the
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