2014-2023 Volkswagen Passat SUV Do it yourself User Manual
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Do it yourself for Your Volkswagen Passat SUV Eight Generation (2014-2023)

Do it yourself  
Vehicle tool kit  
Introduction  
When securing the vehicle in the event of a vehicle breakdown, follow the legal regulations applicable in the respective country.  
WARNING  
A vehicle tool kit, tire mobility set, spare tire, or compact spare tire that is loose or not secured correctly can be thrown around the vehicle interior during sudden  
driving or braking maneuvers or in a collision and cause serious injuries.  
Always make sure the vehicle tool kit, tire mobility set, and spare wheel or compact spare wheel are secured in the luggage compartment.  
WARNING  
An unsuitable or damaged vehicle tool kit can cause accidents and injuries.  
Never work with an unsuitable or damaged vehicle tool kit.  
Placement  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
Introduction.  
There are a number of different storage locations for the tool box in the vehicle, such as under the luggage compartment floor ⇒ Luggage compartment floor or in  
side storage compartment of the luggage compartment.  
Depending on the equipment variant, the vehicle may contain a loose box with the vehicle tool kit in the luggage compartment. This supplemental vehicle tool kit is  
designed for a possible winter tire change and does not need to be carried in the vehicle at all times.  
If used, crank the vehicle jack back down so that it can be securely stowed in the vehicle.  
Vehicle tool kit components  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
Introduction.  
The scope of the tool box depends on the country and equipment. In some countries, there may also be a tire pressure gage in the vehicle. The following  
information describes the full scope of items that may be included.  
Fig. 124 Vehicle tool kit components (general example).  
Screwdriver with hex socket in the handle for removing or installing loose wheel bolts. The screwdriver blade is reversible. The screwdriver may be located  
under the lug wrench.  
Adapter for the anti-theft wheel bolt. Volkswagen recommends always keeping the adapter for the wheel bolts in the vehicle with the vehicle tool kit. The code  
number for the wheel bolt lock is stamped on the front of the adapter. A replacement adapter can be ordered based on this number if the adapter is lost. Note  
the wheel bolt lock code number and keep it separate from the vehicle.  
Towing eye that can be screwed in.  
220  
Extraction hook for removing the center wheel covers, wheel hub covers, or wheel bolt covers.  
Vehicle jack. Before putting the vehicle jack away, crank the vehicle jack claw all the way down.  
Lug wrench.  
Crank.  
Jack maintenance  
Generally, the vehicle jack does not need any maintenance.  
1. If necessary, apply universal lubricant to the vehicle jack.  
Wiper blades  
Service position  
In the service position, the wiper arms can be lifted off of the windshield.  
Fig. 125 Wipers in service position.  
Activate the service position using the windshield wiper lever  
1. Close the hood ⇒ Opening and closing the hood, driver and front passenger door.  
2. Switch the ignition off and on again.  
3. Briefly press the windshield wiper lever towards one-tap wiping⇒ Operating the windshield wiper lever .  
Lifting the windshield wiper arms  
1. Move the windshield wiper arms into the service position before lifting ⇒  
.
2. Lift the wiper arms, making sure to only hold the wiper arms in the area where they attach to the wiper blade.  
3. Carefully place the wiper arms back in position before driving, making sure to only hold the wiper arms in the area where they attach to the wiper blade.  
4. When the ignition is switched on, press the windshield wiper lever briefly towards one-tap wiping to bring the wiper arms back into the original position.  
NOTICE  
To avoid damage to the hood, windshield and wiper arms:  
Lift the wiper arms only in the service position.  
Always place the wiper arms against the windshield before continued driving.  
Cleaning and changing wiper blades  
Wiper blades with a graphite coating are installed at the factory. The graphite coating allows the wiper blade to glide easily over the window. A damaged graphite  
coating creates an increased noise level when wiping the window.  
Check the condition of the wiper blades regularly. If wiper blades are rubbing, replace them if they are damaged or clean them if they are dirty ⇒  
.
Damaged wiper blades should be replaced immediately. Wiper blades can be obtained from suitably qualified professionals. Volkswagen recommends contacting  
an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
221  
Cleaning the wiper blades  
Note for the windshield wipers: move the windshield wiper arms into the service position before lifting ⇒ Service position.  
1. Lift the wiper arms, making sure to only hold the wiper arms in the area where they attach to the wiper blade.  
2. Clean the wiper blades carefully with a damp sponge ⇒  
.
3. Place the wiper arms carefully on the windshield.  
Changing the windshield wiper blades  
Fig. 126 Changing the windshield wiper blades.  
1. Move the windshield wiper arms into the service position before lifting ⇒ Service position.  
2. Lift the wiper arms, making sure to only hold the wiper arms in the area where they attach to the wiper blade.  
3. Press and hold the release button and remove the wiper blade at the same time in the direction of the arrow fig. 126  
4. Insert a new wiper blade of the same length and type on the wiper arm until it engages.  
5. Place the wiper arms carefully on the windshield.  
.
WARNING  
Worn or dirty wiper blades reduce visibility and increase the risk of accidents and serious injuries.  
Always replace wiper blades if they are damaged or worn and are no longer cleaning the windshield sufficiently.  
NOTICE  
Damaged or dirty wiper blades can scratch the window glass.  
Do not use any cleaning materials containing solvents, hard sponges, and other sharp-edged objects because they can damage the graphite coating on  
the wiper blades.  
Do not clean the windshield and windows with fuel, nail polish remover, paint thinner, or other similar fluids.  
If there is wax residue on the windshield and rear window from car wash systems and other products, this can cause wipers to rub. Remove any wax residue  
with a special cleaner or cleaning towels.  
Exterior lighting  
Introduction  
Before changing a light bulb, check if it is an incandescent bulb or an LED light. Generally, light bulbs can be replaced by yourself. If the exterior lighting on your  
vehicle is equipped with LED technology, it is not possible to change LED lights or individual LEDs by yourself. The malfunction of individual LEDs may be an  
indication that more LEDs will malfunction. If this is the case, have the LEDs checked and/or replaced if necessary by suitably qualified professionals. Volkswagen  
recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Driving with exterior lighting that is inoperative may be against the law.  
Additional bulb specifications  
Some bulbs in the headlights or in the taillights may have certain manufacturer specifications that differ from conventional light bulbs. The respective name will be  
on the bulb socket or glass bulb.  
222  
WARNING  
Accidents can occur if the road is not well lit and the vehicle cannot be seen by others on the road, or is very difficult to see by others.  
WARNING  
Changing the bulbs incorrectly can cause accidents and serious injuries.  
Always read and observe the warnings before performing any work in the engine compartment ⇒ Safety precautions for working in the engine  
compartment. The engine compartment in any motor vehicle is a potentially dangerous area that can cause serious personal injury.  
Be aware that halogen bulbs are under pressure and can break during bulb replacement.  
Only change bulbs when they have cooled down completely.  
Never perform a bulb replacement if you are not familiar with the required procedures. If you are not sure what to do, have the work performed by an  
authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility qualified in this respect. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized  
Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Do not touch the glass bulb with bare fingers. Fingerprints on the bulb will vaporize from the heat when the light is switched on and will cause the reflector  
to “darken”.  
Components with sharp edges are located on the headlight housing and on the taillight housing. Protect your hands during bulb replacement.  
NOTICE  
If the rubber cover or plastic covers on the headlight housing were not installed correctly after a bulb change, this could cause damage to the electrical system,  
especially if water enters.  
Information about replacing bulbs  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
Always perform the following steps for changing a bulb in the specified sequence  
and Introduction.  
:
⇒
1. Park the vehicle a safe distance away from moving traffic on level and solid ground as soon as possible.  
2. Set the parking brake ⇒ Operating the parking brake.  
3. Switch the lights off ⇒ Switching the lights on and off .  
4. Turn off the turn signal if it is activated ⇒ Switching the turn signals on and off .  
5. Automatic transmission: move the selector lever into the P position ⇒ DSG® automated transmission: selecting the selector lever position.  
6. Stop the engine and remove the vehicle key from the ignition lock ⇒ Stopping the engine.  
7. Allow the orientation lighting to turn off ⇒ “Exit lighting” and “Entry lighting” function (orientation lighting) .  
8. Allow the affected light bulbs to cool down.  
9. Check if you can see that a fuse is burnt out ⇒  
Introduction.  
10. Change the affected light bulb according to the instructions ⇒  
. A light bulb may only be replaced with the same type of light bulb. The respective name will  
be on the bulb socket or glass bulb.  
11. Never touch a glass light bulb with bare hands. The fingerprints left behind would vaporize from the heat when the bulb is switched on and condense on the  
reflector, which would then reduce the headlight brightness.  
12. Check the bulb function after a bulb is changed. If the bulb does not function, the bulb may not have been inserted correctly, may have fallen out, or the connec  
may not have been plugged in correctly.  
13. After every bulb replacement in the front of the vehicle, have the headlight adjustment checked by suitably qualified professionals. Volkswagen recommends  
contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
WARNING  
Failing to follow these instructions, which are provided for your own safety, can cause accidents and serious injuries.  
Always follow the steps in the instructions and the general safety precautions.  
NOTICE  
To reduce the risk of damage to the vehicle paint or to other vehicle components, please note the following:  
Always be careful when removing and inserting the lights.  
223  
Replacing the bulbs in the halogen headlights  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
and Introduction.  
Fig. 127 In the engine compartment: Rear view of the left-side headlight.  
Fig. 128 In the engine compartment: Rear view of the left-side headlight.  
The headlight does not need to be removed to replace the bulb.  
Replacing a low beam headlight bulb  
Only perform these steps in the specified order:  
1. Follow the checklist and perform the steps. ⇒ Information about replacing bulbs  
2. Open the hood  
⇒ Safety precautions for working in the engine compartment .  
3. Remove the rubber cover fig. 127  
on the rear side of the headlight.  
4. Turn the bulb holder fig. 127  
in the direction of the arrow (arrow  
) until the retaining tab of the bulb holder is situated in the recesses in the bulb housing  
toward the rear (arrow ).  
(small arrows). Then remove the bulb holder  
5. Replace the burned out bulb with a new bulb that is identical to the one being replaced.  
6. Insert the bulb holder fig. 127  
7. Fit the rubber cover fig. 127  
into the headlight and turn it in the opposite direction of the arrow (arrow  
on the rear side of the headlight.  
) as far as it will go.  
8. Close the hood ⇒ Safety precautions for working in the engine compartment .  
Replacing a bulb for a parking light  
Only perform these steps in the specified order:  
224  
1. Follow the checklist and perform the steps. ⇒ Information about replacing bulbs  
2. Open the hood ⇒ Safety precautions for working in the engine compartment .  
3. Remove the rubber cover fig. 127  
4. Remove the bulb holder fig. 127  
on the rear side of the headlight.  
in the direction of the arrow (arrow  
).  
5. Replace the burned out bulb with a new bulb that is identical to the one being replaced.  
6. Insert the bulb holder fig. 127  
7. Fit the rubber cover fig. 127  
into the headlight in the opposite direction to the arrow (arrow  
on the rear side of the headlight.  
) and push it all the way in.  
8. Close the hood ⇒ Safety precautions for working in the engine compartment .  
Replacing a high beam headlight bulb  
Only perform these steps in the specified order:  
1. Follow the checklist and perform the steps. ⇒ Information about replacing bulbs  
2. Open the hood  
⇒ Safety precautions for working in the engine compartment .  
on the rear side of the headlight.  
3. Remove the rubber cover fig. 128  
4. Turn the bulb for the high beam headlight fig. 128  
fig. 128 and remove.  
in the direction of the arrow (arrow  
) and remove it from the headlight. Then release plug connector  
5. Replace the burned out bulb with a new bulb that is identical to the one being replaced.  
6. Connect the connector fig. 128  
high beam headlight fig. 128  
to the bulb for the high beam headlight fig. 128  
, ensuring that it audibly locks into place. Then insert the bulb for the  
into the headlight and turn it in the opposite direction of the arrow (arrow  
) as far as it will go.  
7. Fit the rubber cover fig. 128  
on the rear side of the headlight.  
8. Close the hood ⇒ Safety precautions for working in the engine compartment .  
Replacing a bulb for a turn signal, parking light and daytime running light  
Only perform these steps in the specified order:  
1. Follow the checklist and perform the steps. ⇒ Information about replacing bulbs  
2. Open the hood  
⇒ Safety precautions for working in the engine compartment .  
3. Remove the rubber cover fig. 128  
on the rear side of the headlight.  
in the direction of the arrow (arrow  
4. Turn the bulb holder fig. 128  
) and remove it from the headlight.  
5. Replace the burned out bulb with a new bulb that is identical to the one being replaced.  
6. Insert the bulb holder fig. 128  
7. Fit the rubber cover fig. 128  
into the headlight and turn it in the opposite direction of the arrow (arrow  
on the rear side of the headlight.  
) as far as it will go.  
8. Close the hood ⇒ Safety precautions for working in the engine compartment .  
The illustrations show the left headlight from behind. The layout on the right headlight is a mirror image of the left.  
It is not possible for you to replace the LEDs for LED headlights. See an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.  
Replacing fuses  
Introduction  
Due to the constant development of the vehicle, equipment-dependent fuse allocations, and the combined protection of multiple electrical equipment items using  
one fuse, a complete overview of the fuse layout is not available at the time of print. Detailed information about fuse allocations can be obtained from suitably  
qualified professionals. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Generally, multiple electrical equipment items can be protected together through by fuse. On the other hand, some equipment items may use multiple fuses.  
Only replace fuses if the cause for the malfunction has been fixed. If a new fuse blows again after a short time, the electrical system must be checked by suitably  
qualified professionals. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
WARNING  
High voltage in the electrical system can cause electric shocks, serious burns, and fatal injuries.  
Never touch the electrical wires in the ignition system.  
Avoid short circuits in the electrical system.  
225  
WARNING  
Using unsuitable fuses, repairing fuses, and bridging a power circuit without fuses can causes fires and serious injuries.  
Never install fuses that have a higher amp rating.  
Replace fuses only with fuses of same rating and size. Make sure that the color and label are identical to the faulty fuse.  
Never repair fuses.  
Never use metal strips, paper clips or similar objects as substitutes for fuses.  
NOTICE  
To prevent the risk of damaging the electrical system in the vehicle, the ignition, the lights, and all electrical equipment must be switched off before a fuse can be  
replaced.  
Make sure that the ignition cannot be switched on while a fuse is being replaced.  
NOTICE  
If a fuse is replaced by another fuse with a higher amp rating, this could also damage the electrical system in another location.  
NOTICE  
Dirt and moisture in the fuse boxes can damage the electrical system.  
Protect open fuse boxes from dirt and moisture.  
NOTICE  
To reduce the risk of vehicle damage:  
Carefully remove and correctly re-mount the covers of the fuse boxes.  
There are more fuses in the vehicle than are specified in this chapter. These should only be replaced by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized  
Volkswagen Service Facility qualified in this respect.  
Fuses in the engine compartment  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
and Introduction.  
Fig. 129 In the engine compartment: cover of the fuse box.  
Opening and closing the fuse box in the engine compartment  
Removing  
1. Open the hood  
⇒ Safety precautions for working in the engine compartment .  
226  
2. Press the lock buttons in the direction of the arrow to release the fuse box cover fig. 129.  
3. Remove the cover upward.  
Installing  
1. Press the cover onto the fuse box. The catch buttons must audibly engage.  
Fuses in the instrument panel  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
and Introduction.  
Fig. 130 On the driver side in the instrument panel: fuse box cover.  
Open and close the fuse box in the instrument panel  
Plastic pliers for pulling out fuses can be found on the inside of the cover.  
Removing  
1. Open the storage compartment on the driver's side in the direction of the arrow fig. 130.  
2. Use some force to pull the storage compartment back and out of the mounts.  
Installing  
1. Push the storage compartment back into the mounts in the instrument panel until you hear the catch engage.  
2. Close the storage compartment on the driver's side in the opposite direction to the arrow fig. 130.  
Replacing blown fuses  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
and Introduction.  
Preparations  
1. Switch off the ignition, lights, and all other electrical equipment.  
Detecting blown fuses  
227  
Fig. 131 Blown fuse (general example).  
A blown flat connector fuse (ATO®, MINI®)ꢀ has metal strips that have burned through, which you can see through the transparent housing from above and from  
the side fig. 131  
.
A blown block fuse (JCASE®)ꢀ is recognizable by the melted metal strip seen through the transparent housing from above fig. 131  
.
Fuse versions  
Standard flat connector fuse (ATO®).  
Small flat connector fuse (MINI®).  
Block fuse (JCASE®).  
Fuse color codes  
Fuses (ATO® - MINI®).  
Color  
Current rating  
Black  
1 A  
Purple 3 A  
Orange 5 A  
Brown 7.5 A  
Red  
10 A  
15 A  
Blue  
Yellow 20 A  
White or clear 25 A  
Green  
30 A  
Light green 40 A  
Fuses (JCASE®)  
Blue  
Pink  
Green  
Red  
20 A  
30 A  
40 A  
50 A  
Yellow 60 A  
Replacing fuses  
228  
Fig. 132 Remove or install a fuse with the plastic pliers (general example).  
1. Remove plastic tongs from either the fuse box or the cover of the fuse box fig. 132  
.
2. Depending on the design of the fuse, slide the appropriately sized clamp on the plastic pliers onto the fuse from above or from the side fig. 132.  
3. Remove the fuse.  
4. If a fuse is blown, replace with a fuse with the same rating (same color and same label) and the same size ⇒  
5. After inserting the new fuse, place the plastic pliers back in the cover, if necessary.  
6. Reinstall the cover or close the fuse box cover.  
.
NOTICE  
If a fuse is replaced by a fuse with a higher current rating, this could damage the electrical system in another location.  
Jump-starting  
Introduction  
For technical reasons the vehicle must not be tow-started ⇒  
.
If the engine cannot start because the 12-volt vehicle battery has drained, the 12-volt vehicle battery on another vehicle can be used to start your vehicle.  
A suitable jumper cable is required for jump-starting.  
The wire diameter for the jumper cable.  
For vehicles with gasoline engine: at least 25 mm 2.  
For a vehicle with a 12 V vehicle battery in the luggage compartment, the jumper cable may only be connected to the jump-start points in the engine compartment.  
WARNING  
Using jumper cables and performing a jump-start incorrectly can cause the 12 V vehicle battery to explode, which can cause serious injuries. To reduce the risk  
of the 12 V vehicle battery exploding, heed the following:  
Always read and heed the warnings and safety precautions before working on the 12 V vehicle battery  
⇒
Introduction.  
Please note that the vehicle battery supplying the power must have the same voltage (12 V) and approximately the same battery capacity (see the label  
on the vehicle battery) as the drained 12 V vehicle battery.  
Never switch the positive battery terminal with the negative terminal or connect the jumper cable incorrectly.  
Position the jumper cable so that it will never contact rotating components in the engine compartment.  
Follow the operating instructions provided by the manufacturer of the jumper cable.  
Follow the operating instructions for the vehicle providing the jump-start.  
WARNING  
During a jump-start, a highly explosive gas mixture builds up at the 12 V vehicle battery.  
229  
Always keep fires, sparks, open flames, and lit cigarettes far away from the 12 V vehicle battery.  
Never use a cell phone while connecting and disconnecting the jumper cable.  
NOTICE  
A drained 12 V vehicle battery can freeze at temperatures around 32 °F (0 °C).  
Never charge a frozen or thawed 12 V vehicle battery.  
Always replace a frozen or thawed 12 V vehicle battery.  
NOTICE  
To avoid the risk of considerable damage to the vehicle electrical system, heed the following:  
Jumper cables that are connected incorrectly can cause a short circuit.  
There must be no contact between the vehicles. Otherwise, current could already be flowing when the positive battery terminals are connected.  
Only use a jumper cable with fully insulated terminal clamps.  
NOTICE  
Tow-starting can cause damages.  
Jump-starting  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
and Introduction.  
Fig. 133 Diagram for connecting the jumper cables.  
Vehicle with the drained 12 V vehicle battery that is receiving the jump-start.  
Vehicle with the 12 V vehicle battery providing power that is providing the jump-start.  
Suitable negative connection: preferably a jump-start point (negative connection), a large metal part that is bolted securely to the engine block, or the engine  
block itself.  
NOTICE  
Take note of the instructions on jump-starting in the other vehicle's Owner's Manual.  
The drained 12 V vehicle battery must be connected correctly to the vehicle electrical system.  
The vehicles must not touch each other. Otherwise, current could begin flowing when the positive battery terminal is connected.  
Make sure the terminal clamps have sufficient contact with metal.  
If the engine does not start, stop the starting process after ten seconds, and try again after approximately one minute.  
If the engine still does not start, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an  
230  
authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Connecting the jumper cables  
Only connect the jumper cables in the sequence A – B – C – D fig. 133.  
Never connect the black jump-start cable to the negative terminal – on the 12 V vehicle battery. Connecting to the negative terminal can lead to an incorrect  
evaluation of the status of the 12 V vehicle battery by the vehicle electronics.  
1. Switch the ignition off on both vehicles ⇒ Starting and stopping the engine.  
2. If necessary, open the cover on the 12 V vehicle battery in the engine compartment  
⇒
Introduction.  
3. Connect one end of the redꢀ jumper cable A to the positive battery terminal + of the vehicle battery with the discharged 12-volt vehicle battery fig. 133  
⇒
.
4. Connect the other end of the redꢀ jumper cable B to the positive battery terminal + of the vehicle supplying the power fig. 133  
.
5. Connect one end of the blackꢀ jumper cable C preferably to a jump-start point (negative connection), otherwise to a large metal part that is bolted securely to th  
cylinder block or to the cylinder block itself of the vehicle supplying the power fig. 133  
.
6. Connect the other end of the blackꢀ jumper cable D to the jump-start point (negative connection), a large metal part bolted to the engine block, or to the engine  
block itself in the vehicle with the drained 12-volt vehicle battery fig. 133 , ⇒  
.
7. Route the jumper cables so that they cannot become caught in moving parts in the engine compartment.  
Starting the engine  
1. Start the engine in the vehicle that is providing current and allow it to run at idle.  
2. Start the engine in the vehicle with the drained 12 V vehicle battery and wait two to three minutes until the motor is running “evenly”.  
Removing the jumper cables  
1. Before disconnecting the jumper cable, switch off the low beam headlights if they are switched on.  
2. In the vehicle with the drained 12 V vehicle battery, switch on the blower for the air conditioner or the heating and fresh air system and the rear window defroste  
This will reduce any voltage surges that may occur when disconnected.  
3. With the engines running, disconnect the jumper cables only in the sequence D – C – B – A fig. 133.  
4. Close the battery cover if necessary.  
5. After successful jump-starting, have the 12 V vehicle battery checked by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
WARNING  
Performing a jump-start incorrectly can cause the 12 V vehicle battery to explode, which can cause serious injuries. To reduce the risk of the 12 V vehicle  
battery exploding, note the following:  
Always wear suitable protective eyewear and protective gloves, and never bend over the 12 V vehicle battery.  
Connect the cables in the correct sequence – first the positive cable, and then the negative cable.  
Never connect the negative cable to parts of the high-voltage system, the fuel system or to the brake lines.  
Make sure that the terminal clamps without insulation do not touch each other.  
Make sure that the cable that is connected to the positive battery terminal on the 12 V vehicle battery does not come into contact with any vehicle  
components that conduct electricity.  
Avoid discharging static electricity near the 12 V vehicle battery. Sparks could form and ignite the flammable gas that is released by the 12 V vehicle  
battery.  
Never jump-start a vehicle if the 12 V vehicle battery is damaged, frozen or thawed.  
NOTICE  
After successful jump-starting, have the 12 V vehicle battery checked by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Towing  
Introduction  
Towing requires practice, particularly if a towing cable is used. Both drivers should be familiar with the special considerations when towing. Inexperienced drivers  
should not tow.  
Follow all applicable laws when towing.  
Always make sure the towing force does not exceed the permitted level and there are no shock loading conditions. There is always the risk of the coupling becomin  
231  
overloaded when driving off-road.  
Towing  
Towing refers to using a vehicle to pull another vehicle that cannot be driven.  
The vehicle can be towed using a tow bar or tow rope:  
The maximum permissible speed is 30 mph (50 km/h).  
The maximum permissible distance is 50 km (30 miles).  
The easiest and safest way to tow is using a tow bar. You should use a towing cable only if a tow bar is not available.  
The towing cable should be elastic to protect both vehicles. Use a cable made of synthetic rubber or a similar elastic material.  
Towing with a tow truck  
If your vehicle will be raised by one axle when towing, only the axle listed below may be raised, depending on the transmission and engine combination:  
Front-wheel drive  
Automatic transmission Front axle  
Manual transmission Front axle  
All-wheel drive (4MOTION)  
Automatic transmission Front axle  
Manual transmission Front axle  
WARNING  
The vehicle handling and braking efficiency will change considerably when it is towed.  
WARNING  
Never tow a vehicle that has no electrical power.  
Never turn off the ignition with the starter button while towing. Otherwise, the electronic steering column lock could engage suddenly. The vehicle cannot  
be steered if this happens. This can result in crashes, serious injuries, and a loss of control of the vehicle.  
Never remove the remote control vehicle key from the ignition lock while towing. Otherwise, the mechanical steering column lock or steering lock could  
engage suddenly. The vehicle cannot be steered if this happens. This can result in crashes, serious injuries, and a loss of control of the vehicle.  
If the vehicle loses power while it is being towed, stop towing the vehicle immediately and see an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized  
Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.  
NOTICE  
Towing with a towing cable or tow bar can cause damage to the vehicle.  
Tow the vehicle carefully when using a towing cable or tow bar.  
If possible, have the immobilized vehicle transported with a recovery vehicle.  
NOTICE  
When pushing the vehicle by hand, the taillights, side spoiler on the rear window, and large sections of sheet metal could be damaged and the rear spoiler could  
detach.  
When pushing the vehicle by hand, do not press on the taillights, side spoiler on the rear window, large sections of sheet metal, or the rear spoiler.  
NOTICE  
Removing and installing the towing eye and the cover can cause vehicle damage, such as paint damage.  
Remove and install the towing eye and cover carefully to reduce the risk of vehicle damage.  
NOTICE  
Using a towing eye that is not suitable for the vehicle can damage the vehicle.  
When towing, always use the towing eye enclosed with your own vehicle in the vehicle tool kit, or another towing eye suitable for the vehicle.  
232  
Instructions for towing  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
and Introduction.  
A vehicle being towed can still signal a turn using the turn signals even if the emergency flashers are switched on. To do this when the ignition is switched on,  
activate the turn signal for the desired direction. The emergency flashers will stop while the turn signal is active. The emergency flashers will activate again once the  
turn signal lever returns to the neutral position.  
When may this vehicle not be towed?  
The vehicle must not be towed in the following situations:  
If the 12 V vehicle battery is drained.  
The indicator in the instrument cluster display does not function perfectly.  
The towing distance is greater than 30 miles (50 km).  
The selector lever of the automatic transmission cannot be moved to neutral (position N).  
The parking brake lever cannot be released.  
The steering column lock cannot be released.  
If the wheel clearance or the steering function can no longer be secured after an accident.  
If the vehicle cannot be towed on its own wheels due to one of the conditions listed, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service  
Facility and have the vehicle transported by a rescue vehicle, if necessary. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized  
Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Towing  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
and Introduction.  
Secure the tow rope or tow bar only at the permitted points:  
Towing lug.  
Preparations  
Make sure the tow rope is not twisted. Otherwise it could disconnect from the towing eye while towing.  
Switch the ignition and emergency flashers on in both vehicles. However, do not do this if it is prohibited by law.  
Read and comply with the information and instructions for towing given in the Owner's Manual for the other vehicle.  
Towing vehicle (front)  
1. Only start to drive when the tow rope is taut.  
2. Be especially careful when accelerating.  
3. Avoid sudden braking and driving maneuvers.  
4. Do not exceed the permitted towing weight of the vehicle.  
Vehicle being towed (rear)  
1. Make sure the ignition is switched on so that the steering wheel is not locked and so that the turn signal and windshield wiper can be used if needed.  
2. Release the parking brake.  
3. The brake booster and power steering only work when the engine is running. Otherwise, the brake pedal needs to be pressed much harder and more force is  
required to steer.  
4. Make sure the tow rope is always taut.  
5. Select selector lever position N.  
WARNING  
Never secure the tow rope or the tow bar to axle or suspension components. They can be damaged and cause accidents and serious injuries.  
Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility and have the vehicle taken away on a recovery vehicle, if  
necessary.  
NOTICE  
The vehicle can only be towed if the charge level of the 12-volt vehicle battery is sufficient and the steering column lock can be released. If there is a loss of  
power or the electrical system is malfunctioning, the engine may need to be jump-started in order to release the steering column lock.  
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