WARNING
Low brake fluid, brake fluid that is too old, or using an incorrect type of brake fluid can cause brake malfunctions or reduced braking efficiency. Hard braking
when the brake fluid is old can cause vapor lock to form in the fluid due to absorbed moisture. Vapor lock reduces the braking efficiency, increases the braking
distance considerably, and can lead to a total failure of the brake system.
Have the brake system and brake fluid level checked or have the brake fluid changed regularly.
Only have new brake fluid added.
Be sure to use the correct brake fluid. Only use brake fluid that expressly complies with the VW standard 501 14. Any other brake fluid or brake fluid that
is not high-quality can impair the braking function and reduce the braking efficiency.
If brake fluid that complies with the VW standard 501 14 is not available and it is absolutely necessary to use a different brake fluid, only use a high-
quality brake fluid that complies with DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 6 or US standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4.
WARNING
Brake fluid is poisonous.
To reduce the risk of poisoning, never store brake fluid in beverage containers or other containers. A person could mistakenly drink from the container,
even if the container is marked.
Always store brake fluid in the sealed original container and keep it out of the reach of children.
NOTICE
Spilled or leaking brake fluid damages vehicle paint and tires.
Immediately wipe up any spilled or leaking brake fluid that comes into contact with vehicle components.
Brake fluid can pollute the environment. Collect spilled brake fluid and dispose of it correctly.
12 V vehicle battery
Introduction
The 12-volt vehicle battery is a component of the electrical system and serves to supply energy to the vehicle.
You may only perform procedures on the electrical system yourself if you are familiar with the necessary procedures and the general safety precautions, and if the
correct equipment and operating fluids and suitable tools are available. Work performed incorrectly can result in serious injuries ⇒
. Have all work performed by
suitably qualified professionals. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
Information about warning and indicator lights can be found in the troubleshooting section at the end of the chapter ⇒ Troubleshooting.
12 V vehicle battery location
The 12-volt vehicle battery may be located in the electric motor compartment or behind a cover in the luggage compartment, depending on vehicle equipment.
Detailed warnings for the 12 V vehicle battery
Always wear eye protection.
are forbidden. A highly explosive mixture of gases forms when charging the 12 V vehicle battery.
V vehicle battery. Always heed the Owner's Manual.
Battery acid is highly corrosive. Always wear protective gloves and eye protection.
Fire, sparks, open flame, and smoking
Always keep children away from battery acid and the 12
WARNING
Performing work on the 12 V vehicle battery and the electrical system can cause serious injuries, fires, or electric shocks. Always read and heed the following
warnings and safety precautions before performing any procedures:
Before performing any work on the 12 V vehicle battery, switch off the ignition and all electrical equipment and disconnect the 12 V battery negative
cable.
Always keep children away from battery electrolyte and the 12 V vehicle battery.
Always wear eye protection and safety gloves.
Battery acid is highly corrosive. It can burn skin and cause blindness. When handling 12 V vehicle batteries, always protect your hands, arms, and face
from spraying battery acid.
Do not smoke while working and never work near open flames or sparks.
Avoid creating sparks when working with wires and electrical equipment or when discharging static electricity.
Never short circuit the battery terminals.
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