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2024-2025 Volkswagen Tiguan 4 Door Driving User Manual

MY CAR USER MANUAL

Driving for Your Volkswagen Tiguan 4 Door Third Generation (2024-2025)

Driving  
Steering  
Steering information  
To make it more difficult to steal the vehicle, the steering must always be locked before leaving the vehicle.  
Steering  
Power steering on an electromechanical steering system adjusts automatically based on the driving speed, the steering  
torque, and the steering angle of the wheels. Electromechanical power steering works only when the engine is running. The  
steering also works if the start-stop system engages and the engine switches off.  
If the power steering system is impaired or malfunctioning, a significantly greater amount of force than normal must be used to  
steer.  
On vehicles with Driving Mode Selection, power steering handling can be influenced by the selected driving mode.  
Mechanical steering lock  
On vehicles with an ignition lock, the steering column is locked mechanically:  
Locking the steering column:  
1. Stop the vehicle.  
2. Depending on the vehicle equipment: move the selector lever into the position.  
3. Remove the vehicle key.  
4. Turn the steering wheel slightly, until you hear the steering lock engage.  
Unlocking the steering column:  
1. To release the steering lock, turn the steering wheel slightly.  
2. Insert the vehicle key in the ignition lock.  
3. Hold the steering wheel in position and switch on the ignition.  
Countersteering assist  
The counter-steering assistance provides the driver with power steering in some critical driving situations. Additional steering  
power, together with the ESC, supports the driver when counter-steering ⇒  
.
Progressive steering  
Depending on the vehicle's equipment, the progressive steering can adapt the force of the steering movement to the driving  
situation. Progressive steering only works when the engine is running.  
In city traffic, less steering movement is needed for parking, maneuvering or for taking sharp bends.  
On highways or on expressways, progressive steering gives a sportier, direct steering experience and noticeable dynamics  
when driving along curved stretches, for instance.  
WARNING  
Depending on the equipment, power steering may only work when the engine is running. If the power steering is not  
functioning, the steering wheel becomes stiff, making it much more difficult to steer. This can result in loss of control of the  
vehicle, accidents, serious injuries or death.  
Never let the vehicle roll when the engine is stopped.  
198  
WARNING  
If the steering lock engages, you can no longer steer the vehicle. This can result in loss of control of the vehicle, accidents,  
serious injuries or death.  
Never remove the remote vehicle key from the ignition switch when the vehicle is in motion.  
WARNING  
The counter-steering assistance is not a replacement for the driver's attention and works only within the system  
limitations. In critical driving situations, uncontrolled vehicle movements can occur despite the counter-steering  
assistance. If you do not pay attention, there is a risk of accidents, serious injuries and death.  
Always stay attentive and do not rely solely on the system. The driver is always responsible for control of the  
vehicle.  
Ensure that the vehicle is not steered by the counter-steering assistance.  
Always adapt your speed and driving style to the visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.  
Troubleshooting  
Steering malfunction  
The red warning light turns on or flashes.  
There is an electromechanical steering or electronic steering lock malfunction.  
Do not continue driving!  
1. Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.  
If the red warning light turns on, it may be difficult to move the steering wheel because the electromechanical steering  
system is malfunctioning.  
Steering malfunction  
The yellow indicator light turns on or flashes.  
The steering is stiffer or more sensitive than usual.  
The indicator light comes on permanently:  
1. Restart the engine and drive the vehicle slowly for a short distance.  
2. If the indicator light stays on, contact a suitably qualified professional and have the system checked. Volkswagen  
recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
The indicator light blinks:  
1. Turn the steering wheel back and forth slightly.  
2. Switch the ignition off and back on.  
3. Pay attention to the messages in the instrument cluster display.  
4. If the indicator light continues to flash after switching the ignition back on, do not continue driving. Contact an authorized  
Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.  
199  
Pedals  
Information on the pedals  
Fig. 116 In the footwell: pedals.  
Accelerator pedal.  
Brake pedal.  
WARNING  
Objects in the driver footwell can prevent the pedals from moving. This can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle  
and increases the risk of serious or fatal injuries.  
Make sure all pedals can always be pressed without obstructions.  
Only use floor mats that are suitable for your vehicle.  
Always attach floor mats securely in the footwell.  
Never place floor mats or other carpet over the installed floor mat.  
Make sure no objects can enter the driver footwell while driving.  
Remove any objects from the footwell when the vehicle is parked.  
Wear shoes that give your feet good grip for operating the pedals.  
WARNING  
Not paying attention to road traffic can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Always comply with the applicable driving regulations and speed limits and think ahead while driving.  
Take regular breaks on long drives. You should take a break at least every two hours.  
WARNING  
Alcohol, drugs, medication, and prescription narcotics can considerably impair perception, reaction times, and driving  
200  
safety, which can result in loss of vehicle control. This can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Do not drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, medication or prescription narcotics.  
WARNING  
If a brake circuit is malfunctioning, the brake pedal may need to travel farther in order to stop the vehicle. A longer braking  
distance could cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Press the brake pedal down farther if braking power is reduced.  
Brakes  
Information on the brakes  
Breaking in brake pads  
During the first approx. 200 to 300 km (approx. 100 to 200 miles), new brake pads do not yet have their full braking efficiency  
and first need to be “worn in” ⇒  
. However, you can compensate for the slightly reduced braking force by pressing firmly o  
the brake pedal. During the break-in period, the braking distance during full braking or automatic braking is longer than with  
brake pads that have been broken in. During the break-in period, avoid full braking and situations that place a heavy load on  
the brakes, such as driving too close to the vehicle ahead.  
Brake pad wear  
Brake pad wear depends on driving conditions and style. When driving frequently in cities and on curves or with a sporty  
driving style, have your brake pads checked frequently by suitably qualified professionals. Volkswagen recommends  
contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
External influences on the brake  
When driving with wet brakes, for example after driving through water, in heavy rain, or after washing your vehicle, the braking  
efficiency can be reduced by moisture or ice on the brake discs. You must “dry” the brakes as soon as possible by braking  
carefully at high speeds. Make sure there is no vehicle behind you and that you do not endanger anyone else on the road ⇒  
.
A coating of salt on the brake discs and brake pads reduces the braking efficiency and increases the braking distance. If you  
do not apply the brakes for long periods of time on salt-covered roads, you must brake carefully to clean off the layer of salt ⇒  
.
Leaving the vehicle parked for long periods of time, low mileage, and avoiding heavy braking can contribute to corrosion on  
the brake rotors and dirty brake pads. If you usually avoid heavy braking or if there is corrosion present, occasional heavy  
braking at high speeds is recommended to clean the brake rotors and pads. Ensure that you do not endanger any other  
vehicles or anyone else on the road ⇒  
.
WARNING  
Driving with worn brake pads or a malfunctioning brake system can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle, accidents and  
serious or fatal injuries.  
If you suspect that the brake pads are worn or the brake system is malfunctioning, immediately find a suitably  
qualified professional and have the brake pads checked and worn brake pads replaced. Volkswagen recommends  
contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
201  
WARNING  
Up to the first approx. 300 km (approx. 200 miles), new brake pads do not yet have their full braking efficiency and first  
need to be "worn in". Insufficient braking efficiency can increase the risk of accidents. This can cause serious or even fatal  
injuries.  
Increase the pressure on the brake pedal if reduced braking efficiency can be felt.  
To reduce the risk of accidents, serious injuries, and loss of vehicle control, drive with extra caution when the brake  
pads are new.  
During the break-in period for new brake pads, do not drive too close to other vehicles and avoid driving situations  
that place a heavy load on the brakes.  
WARNING  
Prolonged braking causes the brakes to overheat. This can considerably reduce braking performance, increase braking  
distance and possibly cause a total brake system malfunction. This can cause a loss of vehicle control, accidents, and  
serious or fatal injuries.  
Never let the brakes “rub” too often and too long or press the brake pedal too often and too long.  
WARNING  
When driving downhill, a lot of force is placed on the brakes and they become hot quickly. Overheated brakes reduces the  
braking efficiency and increase the braking distance considerably. This can cause a loss of vehicle control, accidents, and  
serious or fatal injuries.  
Before driving on a long stretch of road with a steep gradient, reduce your speed by shifting down to a lower gear  
with a manual transmission or in tiptronic mode of the automatic transmission.  
Utilize the engine braking effect to reduce the load on the brakes.  
Before starting a journey, ensure that the air supply to the brakes is not covered, e.g. by aftermarket or damaged  
front spoilers.  
WARNING  
Wet, icy, or salt-covered brakes will take longer to brake and increase the braking distance. This can cause a loss of  
vehicle control, accidents, and serious or fatal injuries.  
Test the brakes carefully.  
Press the brake pedal carefully several times to dry the brakes and clear the ice and salt from them, as long as the  
visibility, weather, road, and traffic conditions permit.  
If you are having the front brake pads checked, the rear brake pads should be checked at the same time. Regularly check  
the thickness of the brake pads visually by inspecting them through the openings in the wheel rims or from underneath the  
vehicle. If necessary, remove the wheels so that the brake pads can be inspected. For further information, contact an  
authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an  
authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Troubleshooting  
202  
/
Brake system malfunctioning  
The red warning light turns on. A message may also be displayed.  
1.  
Do not continue driving! Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility  
immediately for assistance.  
/
Brake pad wear indicator  
The warning light flashes or turns on red or yellow.  
The front brake pads are worn.  
1. Immediately contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility to have the system  
checked. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service  
Facility.  
2. Have all brake pads inspected and replaced, if necessary.  
Braking Performance Reduced  
If the brake pads are worn or if you notice that your vehicle does not brake as usual, e.g. the braking distance suddenly  
increases:  
1. Immediately contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility to have the system  
checked. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service  
Facility.  
2. Have all brake pads inspected and replaced, if necessary.  
Start the engine  
Remote start relay function  
With the remote start relay function,  
the engine can be started remotely, in  
order to heat or cool the vehicle  
interior before the start of a journey.  
The use of the remote start relay function may be regulated or prohibited regionally in some countries. Always observe legal  
and local regulations relating to the use of the remote start relay function.  
Remote start relay conditions  
The following conditions must be fulfilled simultaneously in order for the vehicle interior to be heated or cooled by the remote  
start relay function:  
The vehicle is fully ready to drive.  
The vehicle does not move.  
Sufficient fuel is available and the indicator light  
The parking lock is engaged.  
did not light up before the vehicle was parked.  
All doors, the hood and the trunk lid are fully closed and locked.  
The anti-theft alarm system has not triggered the alarm.  
The panic alarm is not activated.  
The emergency flashers are switched off.  
Two remote starts have not yet been carried out in direct succession.  
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Starting the Remote Start Relay Function  
Fig. 117 On the remote control vehicle key: Button for remote start relay function.  
Button to lock the vehicle.  
Button for remote start relay function.  
You must press the following buttons on the vehicle key within five seconds to start the engine using the remote start relay  
function ⇒  
1. Press the button  
All turn signals will flash.  
:
once fig. 117.  
2. Press the  
button twice fig. 117.  
All turn signals will flash. During remote start, the parking light turns on.  
For vehicles with Keyless Access, all valid vehicle keys which are in the vehicle interior have been blocked for this period  
of time.  
If the remote start relay process is not actively canceled by the driver or automatically canceled, the engine will run for around  
10 minutes. A maximum of two remote starts can be performed in a row, even if one or both remote starts have been  
interrupted within the 10 minute period.  
1. In order to carry out two more remote starts, switch the ignition on and off once.  
Ending the remote start relay  
1. Press the  
button on the remote control vehicle key to switch off the engine fig. 117.  
Driving after a remote start relay  
To be able to drive the vehicle after you have used the remote start relay function, you have to start the vehicle separately.  
1. Vehicles with starter button: Press the brake pedal and the starter button.  
The engine continues to run during this process.  
Settings for automatic air conditioning with remote start relay  
Climatronic: After the engine is started, the air conditioner automatically regulates the temperature of the vehicle interior to  
approx. +22 °C (approx. +72 °F) if it is in automatic mode  
.
Manual air conditioning system: After the engine is started, the air conditioner regulates the temperature of the vehicle interior  
to the most recently selected level.  
If the engine has been started using the remote start relay function, the settings can be changed via the air conditioning  
system controls and the buttons for the windshield and rear window defroster, seat heating or ventilation, depending on the  
vehicle equipment.  
204  
Personal settings will be replaced by the automatic air conditioning settings the next time the vehicle is started using remote  
start relay.  
1. To change the automatic air conditioning settings, contact a suitably qualified professional. Volkswagen recommends  
contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Automatic remote start relay functions  
Depending on the outside temperature and vehicle equipment, the following heating, ventilation and cooling system settings  
are automatically activated in the case of a remote start relay:  
Heated spray jets for windscreen washer system.  
Heated windshield wiper parks.  
Rear window defroster.  
Exterior mirror heating.  
Steering wheel heating.  
Front seat heating.  
Front seat ventilation.  
WARNING  
Careless or unsupervised use of the remote start relay function may cause poisonous gases to enter the vehicle interior.  
This can cause serious injuries and death due to asphyxiation.  
Never start the engine in an enclosed space, e.g. in a garage.  
Only use the remote start relay function when no-one is in the vehicle and immediately before you intend to drive  
the vehicle.  
WARNING  
When the engine is running, the electrical seats are operational. There is a risk of crushing and serious injuries.  
Never start the engine if children or animals are in the vehicle unsupervised.  
Never start the engine if the vehicle is out of visual range.  
WARNING  
Hot vehicle parts and exhaust can ignite flammable or explosive materials in the vicinity. This can lead to a fire and cause  
accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Never start the engine close to flammable or explosive materials.  
Never start the engine if the vehicle is covered with a protective cover.  
Never start the engine if the vehicle is out of visual range.  
Never start the engine if the warning light  
is turned on or blinking.  
Using the remote start relay function may increase fuel consumption and discharge the 12 V vehicle battery.  
During an active remote start relay, some vehicle functions are deactivated, e.g. the low beam headlight and the  
205  
windshield wipers.  
Electronic immobilizer  
The immobilizer helps prevent the engine from being started and the vehicle from being moved with an unauthorized vehicle  
key.  
Vehicles with an Ignition Lock  
In the remote control vehicle key, there is a chip which automatically deactivates the immobilizer if a valid vehicle key is  
inserted into the ignition lock.  
The electronic immobilizer is activated automatically when the vehicle key is removed from the ignition lock ⇒ Ignition switch.  
Vehicles with a Starter Button  
In the remote control vehicle key, there is a chip used to automatically deactivate the electronic immobilizer when there is a  
valid remote control vehicle key in the vehicle interior.  
The electronic immobilizer is automatically engaged as soon as the ignition is switched off ⇒ Starter button.  
You can only start the engine with a suitably coded Volkswagen Original vehicle key. You can obtain coded vehicle keys  
from an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Ignition switch  
Remote Control Vehicle Key Positions in the Ignition Switch  
206  
Fig. 118 Next to the steering wheel on the right-hand side: ignition switch.  
The ignition is switched off. The vehicle key can be removed.  
The ignition is switched on.  
Start the engine ⇒ Start the engine. The vehicle key returns to the position  
once it is released.  
When a vehicle key is not in the ignition lock, the steering lock can be activated.  
NOTICE  
When the ignition is switched on and the engine is switched off, the 12 V vehicle battery could drain and prevent the  
engine from restarting.  
Always switch the ignition off before leaving the vehicle.  
WARNING  
If you leave vehicle keys unattended in the vehicle, children or unauthorized people could lock the doors and/or the trunk  
lid, start the engine, or switch on the ignition and thereby activate electrical equipment, such as the power windows. This  
can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Always switch off the engine and take all vehicle keys with you when you leave the vehicle.  
207  
WARNING  
If you leave children, people requiring assistance or animals unattended in the vehicle, they may accidentally set the  
vehicle in motion or be subjected to very high or low temperatures. There is a risk of accidents and serious or fatal  
injuries.  
Never leave children, people requiring assistance or animals unattended in the vehicle.  
WARNING  
If the vehicle key is removed from the ignition lock while the vehicle is moving, the steering lock may engage and it will not  
be possible to steer the vehicle. This can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Never remove the remote vehicle key from the ignition switch when the vehicle is in motion.  
Always fully extend the key bit of the remote control vehicle key and secure it in this position.  
Only attach light objects weighing up to approx. 100 g (approx. 3.5 oz) to the vehicle key.  
If the vehicle key cannot be removed, engage the selector lever position . Press and release the lock button in the  
selector lever if necessary.  
Depending on the country for vehicles with a DSG automated transmission: When the vehicle key is removed when in  
gear, the engine is switched off and the parking brake is activated automatically.  
Starter button  
The starter button replaces the ignition  
lock (Press & Drive).  
The engine is started by the starter button (Press & Drive).  
The vehicle can only be activated when there is a valid vehicle key inside the vehicle.  
Depending on the vehicle equipment, the function readiness is indicated by the starter button blinking.  
The electronic steering lock is activated when you leave the vehicle by opening the driver door when the ignition is switched o  
⇒ Steering information.  
Switching the ignition on or off  
208  
Fig. 119 In the lower section of the center console: starter button.  
1. Press the starter button once without pressing the brake pedal ⇒  
.
Automatic ignition shut down for vehicles with start/stop system  
If the following conditions are met at the same time, the vehicle ignition is automatically switched off when there is an active  
engine stop and the vehicle is stationary:  
The driver releases their safety belt.  
No pedals are pushed.  
The driver door is opened.  
After automatic ignition deactivation, if the low beam headlights are switched on  
goes off automatically after around 30 minutes.  
the parking light remains switched on an  
The parking light will also go off if the vehicle is locked or the light is switched off manually.  
Engine restart function  
If no valid remote control vehicle key is detected in the vehicle interior after the engine has been inadvertently switched off, th  
engine cannot be started within approximately five seconds.  
Once this time has elapsed, the vehicle can no longer be started without a valid vehicle key inside the vehicle.  
WARNING  
If the brake pedal is pressed when switching on the ignition, the engine will start immediately. This can cause unintentional  
vehicle movement and serious injuries.  
Avoid pressing the brake pedal when switching on the ignition if the engine is not intended to be started.  
WARNING  
If you leave vehicle keys unattended in the vehicle, children or unauthorized people could lock the doors and/or the trunk  
lid, start the engine, or switch on the ignition and thereby activate electrical equipment, such as the power windows. This  
can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Always take all vehicle keys with you when leaving the vehicle.  
209  
WARNING  
If you leave children, people requiring assistance or animals unattended in the vehicle, they may accidentally set the  
vehicle in motion or be subjected to very high or low temperatures. There is a risk of accidents and serious or fatal  
injuries.  
Never leave children, people requiring assistance or animals unattended in the vehicle.  
Always switch the ignition off manually before leaving the vehicle and note any messages in the instrument cluster  
display.  
The vehicle being stationary for long periods with the ignition switched on can cause the 12 V vehicle battery to drain and  
then it will not be possible to start the engine.  
Start the engine  
Start the engine  
1. Switch the ignition on.  
2. Press and hold the brake pedal until the electronic parking brake has been switched off.  
3. Vehicles with an automatic transmission: Move the selector lever to the  
position or engage the parking lock.  
4. Vehicles with ignition lock: Turn the vehicle key in the ignition lock, but do not press the accelerator pedal. Release the  
vehicle key once the engine starts.  
Vehicles with starter button: Press and hold the starter button ⇒ Starter button and do not press the accelerator pedal.  
For the engine to start, a valid vehicle key must be inside the vehicle and the brake must be pressed. Release the starter  
button once the engine starts.  
5. If the engine does not start, stop the starting procedure and try again after approximately one minute.  
6. Vehicles with starter button: If the vehicle was locked with the vehicle key, the starter button will be deactivated. If you are  
in the vehicle and you need to start the engine, first unlock the vehicle or perform an emergency start.  
WARNING  
Starting the engine in unventilated or enclosed spaces may cause poisonous gases to enter the vehicle interior. This can  
cause serious injuries and death due to asphyxiation.  
Never start the engine or let it run in unventilated or enclosed spaces, such as in garages.  
WARNING  
Hot vehicle parts and exhaust can ignite flammable or explosive materials in the vicinity. This can lead to fires and cause  
accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Never start the engine or leave the engine running if oil, fuel or other flammable operating equipment is in the  
vicinity of the vehicle or is escaping from the vehicle.  
Do not use any start boosters.  
210  
WARNING  
An unattended vehicle which is ready to drive may cause accidents and severe injuries.  
Never leave the vehicle unattended when the engine is running, especially if a gear is engaged.  
NOTICE  
Incorrect handling of the vehicle can increase wear to components, such as the starter, or cause damage.  
If the engine does not start, e.g. the fuel tank is empty, never use the starter with a gear engaged to drive or to  
attempt a tow-start.  
If necessary, refill with fuel as per or use jump-start.  
If the engine does not start, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
NOTICE  
Incorrect handling of the vehicle can increase wear to components, such as the engine, or cause damage.  
Avoid restarting the engine while driving or directly after turning off the engine.  
Avoid high engine speeds, full acceleration and heavy engine loads when the engine is cold.  
Be aware that at high altitudes, the air density is lower, which can make it more difficult to start the engine.  
NOTICE  
Uncombusted fuel can damage the catalytic converter.  
Do not tow-start or push-start the vehicle.  
Do not let the engine run to warm up while the vehicle is parked. Begin driving as soon as there is enough visibility  
through the windows. This allows the engine to reach its operating temperature sooner and reduces the emissions.  
Electrical equipment with an increased power draw is temporarily switched off when the engine is started.  
If there is no vehicle key in the vehicle or the key is not detected, a message will appear in the instrument cluster display.  
This can occur if another signal interferes with the remote control vehicle key or if the remote control vehicle key is covered  
by an object, such as a metal case.  
If the vehicle key button cell battery is low or drained, the engine cannot be started with the starter button. Perform an  
emergency start.  
After starting, operating noises may be temporarily higher than usual while the engine is cold. This is normal and not a  
cause for concern.  
Troubleshooting  
Engine control malfunction  
The yellow indicator light turns on.  
Engine control is malfunctioning.  
211  
1. Pay attention to any text shown in the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit display.  
2. Have the engine checked immediately by a suitably qualified professional. Volkswagen recommends contacting an  
authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Engine control malfunction  
The indicator light comes on in the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit.  
The yellow indicator light turns on.  
The driving performance of the vehicle is limited.  
The driving performance has been limited to prevent the engine control components from overheating.  
A corresponding indicator may appear in the instrument cluster display.  
It is possible to continue driving with reduced driving performance.  
The driving performance limitation is removed in the following scenarios:  
The engine control components are no longer within a critical temperature range.  
Engine speed limited  
The yellow indicator light turns on.  
The engine speed has been limited to reduce the risk of the engine overheating.  
The instrument cluster display shows the engine speed.  
The engine speed limitation is removed in the following scenarios:  
The engine is no longer within a critical temperature range.  
The driver’s foot is removed from the accelerator pedal.  
together with  
Engine speed limitation due to engine control malfunction  
The yellow indicator lights turn on.  
The engine speed limitation is triggered by an engine control malfunction.  
1. Make sure the displayed RPM is not exceeded.  
2. Have the engine checked immediately by a suitably qualified professional. Volkswagen recommends contacting an  
authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Valid vehicle key cannot be detected  
212  
Fig. 120 On the right side of the steering column: emergency start function on vehicles with Keyless Access with push-button  
start.  
A corresponding indicator appears in the instrument cluster display.  
If the remote control vehicle key has a weak or drained button cell battery, the vehicle key may not be able to be detected.  
An emergency start must be performed:  
1. Press and hold the brake pedal.  
2. Immediately after pressing the starter button, hold the vehicle key on the right side of the steering column  
trim fig. 120 (arrow).  
The ignition will switch on automatically and the engine may start.  
The engine cannot be started  
If an unauthorized vehicle key is used or the system is malfunctioning, a corresponding indicator appears in the instrument  
cluster display.  
1. Use an authorized vehicle key.  
2. If the malfunction persists, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Or: the engine cannot be started with the vehicle key or by briefly pressing the starter button while depressing the brake peda  
or the clutch pedal.  
There is a malfunction in the start system:  
1. Turn and hold the remote control vehicle key or press the button for as long as needed for the engine to start.  
2. Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.  
The engine cannot be started remotely  
If at least one of the following conditions are met, the engine remote start function does not start:  
The vehicle is not fully ready to drive.  
213  
Sufficient fuel is not available or the indicator light  
The vehicle is unlocked.  
lit up before the vehicle was parked.  
The hood or the trunk lid is opened.  
One or several vehicle doors are opened.  
The selector lever is not in position ⇒ Selector lever.  
If the 12-volt vehicle battery is too weak or discharged.  
The emergency flashers are switched on.  
The anti-theft alarm system is activated.  
The panic alarm is activated.  
The vehicle moves.  
Two remote starts have already been carried out in direct succession.  
There is a system error.  
Ensure that the necessary conditions are met and then restart the engine if necessary.  
Stopping the engine  
Stopping the engine  
1. Bringing the vehicle to a stop ⇒  
.
2. Park the vehicle.  
3. Vehicles with ignition lock: Switch the ignition off.  
4. Vehicles with starter button: Press the starter button briefly. If the engine cannot be turned off, use the emergency stop  
function.  
5. Pay attention to the messages in the instrument cluster.  
Exit warning  
When the driver door is opened, a warning chime sounds and warning notifications appear in the instrument cluster display to  
warn you that you are exiting a vehicle that can roll.  
WARNING  
When the engine is switched off, certain vehicle systems do not work or only work in a limited way, such as the brake  
booster or power steering. As a result, you must use more force for steering and you must apply more pressure on the  
brake pedal to stop. When the vehicle is moving, this can result in loss of control of the vehicle, accidents and serious or  
fatal injuries.  
Never switch off the engine while the vehicle is in motion.  
WARNING  
When the engine is switched off, the airbags and safety belt pretensioners will not function. This can cause serious or fatal  
injuries in the event of accidents.  
Never switch off the engine while the vehicle is in motion.  
214  
WARNING  
Vehicles with ignition lock: If the vehicle key is removed, the steering lock may engage and it will not be possible to steer  
the vehicle. That can result in loss of control of the vehicle, accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Never remove the remote vehicle key from the ignition switch when the vehicle is in motion.  
WARNING  
Vehicles with starter button: If the ignition is switched off, the steering lock can engage and you would no longer be able to  
steer the vehicle. When the vehicle is moving, this can result in loss of control of the vehicle, accidents, and serious or  
fatal injuries.  
Never switch off the ignition when the vehicle is in motion.  
WARNING  
The parts of the exhaust system become very hot and can ignite flammable materials, for example shrubs, leaves, dry  
grass or spilled fuel. This can lead to a fire and cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Never park the vehicle in such a way so that the exhaust system components come into contact with flammable  
materials under the vehicle.  
Never use additional undercoating or corrosion protection for exhaust pipes, catalytic converters, heat shields, or  
particulate filters.  
NOTICE  
The engine can overheat after turning it off if the vehicle is driven with a high engine load for a long period of time.  
Let the engine run in neutral for approximately two minutes before turning it off.  
In vehicles with an automatic transmission, you can only remove the vehicle key from the ignition lock when the selector  
lever is in the selector lever position.  
After the engine has been switched off, the radiator fan in the engine compartment can keep running for a few more  
minutes. The radiator fan turns off automatically.  
Troubleshooting  
The engine cannot be turned off  
The engine cannot be turned off when the starter button is pressed briefly.  
An emergency stop must be performed:  
1. Press the starter button twice within several seconds or press and hold one time.  
The engine switches off automatically ⇒ Starter button.  
The vehicle key cannot be removed from the ignition lock  
An unauthorized vehicle key was inserted into the ignition lock.  
215  
Remove the vehicle key as follows:  
Vehicles with an automatic transmission::  
1. Press and release the lock button in the selector lever.  
2. Remove the vehicle key from the ignition lock.  
Start/Stop system  
Start-stop system  
Function description  
The start-stop system automatically switches the engine off shortly before and when the vehicle comes to a halt and when  
stationary.  
The engine always restarts automatically when required for the vehicle and the identified situation.  
The function is automatically activated every time the ignition is switched on.  
Indicator lights  
Information about the current status is shown in the instrument cluster display.  
When indicator light  
comes on, the start-stop system is available and the automatic engine stop is active.  
If the  
indicator light is lit, the start-stop system is not available or the start-stop system has automatically started the  
engine.  
Further information about start/stop mode can be found in the Infotainment system by pressing the  
key and the Vehicle, Selection, Vehicle status function keys.  
button or function  
Conditions for Automatically Restarting the Engine  
If you take your foot off the brake pedal or you press the accelerator pedal.  
If the vehicle interior heats up or cools down significantly.  
If the vehicle starts to move.  
If the electrical voltage in the 12-volt vehicle battery falls.  
If the steering wheel is moved.  
Conditions that Can Prevent Automatic Engine Shutdown  
The driver is not wearing their safety belt.  
The driver door is opened.  
The engine hood is open.  
A minimum engine temperature has not been reached.  
The temperature in the vehicle interior is not within the preset temperature values or the humidity is too high.  
The air conditioner's defrost function is switched on.  
The charge level of the 12 V vehicle battery is insufficient.  
The temperature of the 12 V vehicle battery is too low or too high.  
The vehicle is on a large uphill or downhill gradient.  
The steering wheel is significantly turned.  
The reverse gear is engaged.  
216  
Park Assist is activated.  
Selector lever position is engaged.  
If the conditions for automatic engine switch-off are only achieved during a stationary phase, then the engine may also switch  
off at this point, e.g. if the defrost function is switched off.  
Manually deactivating and activating the start-stop system  
Fig. 121 In the lower section of the center console: Button for the start-stop system.  
Manually deactivating the start-stop system:  
1. Press the  
button in the center console.  
When the start-stop system is deactivated, the indicator light on the button comes on fig. 121.  
Always manually deactivate the start-stop system when driving through water.  
Manually activating the start-stop system:  
1. Press the  
Each time you press the  
If the start-stop system has switched the engine off, it restarts as soon as the system is deactivated by pressing the  
button in the center console again fig. 121.  
button, the instrument cluster display will show the status of the start-stop system.  
butto  
In some cases, you may need to restart the engine manually, e.g. if the hood or the driver door is opened. Pay attention to  
the relevant message on the instrument cluster display ⇒  
.
If the temperature is above approx. 38 °C (100 °F), the start-stop system may be automatically deactivated.  
For case of vehicles with Driving Mode Selection, the start-stop system is automatically activated if the Eco driving mode is  
selected.  
217  
WARNING  
If the start-stop system is activated during work in the engine compartment, the motor may start suddenly. This can cause  
accidents and serious injuries.  
Always deactivate the start-stop system when working in the engine compartment.  
WARNING  
When the engine is switched off, certain vehicle systems do not work or only work in a limited way, such as the brake  
booster or power steering. As a result, you must use more force for steering and you must apply more pressure on the  
brake pedal to stop. When the vehicle is moving, this can result in loss of control of the vehicle, accidents and serious or  
fatal injuries.  
Never switch off the engine while the vehicle is in motion.  
WARNING  
When the engine is switched off, the airbags and safety belt pretensioners will not function. This can cause serious or fatal  
injuries in the event of accidents.  
Never switch off the engine while the vehicle is in motion.  
WARNING  
If the ignition is switched off, the steering lock can engage and you would no longer be able to steer the vehicle. When the  
vehicle is moving, this can result in loss of control of the vehicle, accidents, and serious or fatal injuries.  
Never switch off the ignition when the vehicle is in motion.  
NOTICE  
If the start-stop system is used for a very long period of time at very high outside temperatures, this can damage the 12-  
volt vehicle battery.  
Avoid using the start-stop system at very high outside temperatures.  
Troubleshooting  
The engine does not start automatically  
1. Start the engine manually ⇒ Start the engine.  
2. Manually deactivate the start-stop system ⇒ Start-stop system.  
3. Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility to have the system inspected.  
Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Automatic transmission  
Selector lever  
When the ignition is switched on, the  
218  
engaged selector lever position is  
shown in the instrument cluster  
display.  
Selecting a selector lever position  
Fig. 122 In the center console: selector lever of the automatic transmission (general example).  
To change into gear from neutral position , proceed as follows:  
1. Start the engine.  
2. Press the brake pedal.  
3. Push the selector lever into the desired selector lever position fig. 122.  
Description of the selector lever positions  
The drive gears are locked. Only select this gear when the vehicle is stationary.  
To move the selector lever out of this position when the ignition is switched on, press the brake pedal and press the lock butto  
on the selector lever.  
Reverse gear is selected. Only select this gear when the vehicle is stationary. The transmission is in the neutral setting. No  
power is transferred to the wheels and the engine braking effect is not available. gear: normal program.  
The transmission upshifts and downshifts automatically when in the forward driving gears. The shifting time depends on the  
engine load, the personal driving style, and the driving speed.  
gear: sport program.  
The forward gears automatically upshift later and downshift earlier than in gear in order to fully utilize the engine power  
reserves. The shifting time depends on the engine load, the personal driving style, and the driving speed.  
To switch between gears and , tap the selector lever toward the rear  
.
The selector lever will always spring back to the selector lever position  
. This also applies when in the tiptronic shift gate  
⇒ Shifting using tiptronic.  
Selector lever lock  
219  
The selector lever lock prevents you from selecting a gear accidentally when in the or position, causing the vehicle to roll  
To release the selector lever lock, switch the ignition on and press the brake pedal. Then press the lock button on the selector  
lever handle fig. 122 (arrow).  
When skipping past the position, for example by switching from reverse gear to  
, the selector lever is not locked. This  
makes it possible to free the vehicle when it is stuck by “rocking” it. If the lever remains in the position for more than approx  
1 second when the vehicle is traveling at a speed lower than approx. 5 km/h (approx. 3 mph) and the brake pedal has not  
been pressed, the selector lever lock will engage ⇒  
.
WARNING  
If the brake pedal is released while the engine is running and gear  
or is engaged, the vehicle will start moving. This  
can cause unintentional vehicle movement and accidents and serious injuries.  
When the engine is running and the  
or gear is engaged, hold the vehicle with the brake pedal.  
As the driver, never leave the driver seat when the engine is running and a gear is engaged.  
If you have to leave the vehicle while the engine is running, always set the electronic parking brake and move the  
selector lever to the position.  
WARNING  
Engaging the incorrect gear can cause you to lose control of the vehicle, which could lead to accidents and serious  
injuries.  
Never press the accelerator pedal when engaging a gear.  
Never shift into reverse gear or engage the parking lock while the vehicle is moving.  
WARNING  
If the vehicle is left in selector lever position on inclines, the vehicle will roll downhill even if the engine is switched on.  
This can cause accidents and serious injuries.  
Never leave the vehicle in selector lever position  
.
NOTICE  
If the electronic parking brake is not switched on while the vehicle is stationary and the brake pedal is released while the  
parking lock is engaged, the vehicle may move forward or backward a few centimeters. This can cause damage to the  
vehicle.  
Always set the electronic parking brake first before releasing the brake pedal.  
If is engaged by mistake while driving, take your foot off the accelerator pedal. Wait until the engine is at idle speed in  
neutral before shifting into a drive gear.  
If the selector lever is left for a long period of time in any position other than in the parking lock  
switched off, the 12 V vehicle battery will drain.  
when the engine is  
220  
Shifting using tiptronic  
The tiptronic mode allows you to shift  
gears manually on an automatic  
transmission.  
When shifting in the tiptronic program, the gear currently engaged is maintained. This applies until the system shifts gears  
automatically due to the current driving situation.  
Using tiptronic with the selector lever  
Fig. 123 In the center console: selector lever in the tiptronic position.  
1. Push the selector lever to the right out of the  
2. Tap the selector lever forward or to the rear  
selector lever position and into the tiptronic shift gate.  
to upshift or downshift fig. 123.  
The lock button on the selector lever must not be pressed when tapping the selector lever within the tiptronic shift gate.  
When accelerating, the transmission automatically upshifts to the next gear shortly before the maximum permissible  
engine RPM is reached.  
When downshifting manually, the transmission only shifts if it is no longer possible to over-rev the engine.  
Driving with an automatic transmission  
The transmission shifts up and down  
automatically when in the forward  
driving gears.  
Driving on an incline  
The steeper the incline, the lower the gear that you should select. Lower gears increase the engine braking effect. Never let  
the vehicle roll down mountains or hills in the neutral setting.  
1. Reduce your speed.  
221  
2. Push the selector lever to the right out of the  
3. Tap the selector lever back to downshift.  
selector lever position and into the tiptronic shift gate.  
Stopping and starting to drive uphill  
The steeper the hill, the lower the gear that you should select.  
Hill Start Assist should be used when stopping or starting uphill when the engine is running.  
Hill Start Assist is switched off by applying the electronic parking brake.  
If you stop on a hill with a gear selected, always press the brake pedal or set the electronic parking brake to prevent the  
vehicle from rolling away. Only release the brake pedal or the electronic parking brake once you start driving.  
Kick-down  
The kick-down function makes maximum acceleration possible in selector lever position or or in the tiptronic position.  
When you press the accelerator pedal all the way down, the automatic transmission downshifts into a lower gear, depending  
on the vehicle speed and engine RPM. This utilizes the full acceleration power of the vehicle ⇒  
.
With the kick-down function, the automatic upshift to the next gear only occurs if the maximum predefined engine RPM is  
reached.  
WARNING  
Fast acceleration or switching off the ASR can cause traction loss and sliding. This could cause loss of vehicle control,  
accidents, and serious or fatal injuries, especially on slippery roads, such as on wet, icy or dirty roads.  
Always adapt your driving style to the flow of traffic.  
Only use the kick-down function or accelerate quickly when the visibility, weather, road, and traffic conditions allow  
it, and when other road users will not be endangered by the vehicle's acceleration and driving style.  
Switch the ASR back on after acceleration.  
WARNING  
Prolonged braking causes the brakes to overheat. This can considerably reduce braking performance, considerably  
increase braking distance and possibly lead to a total brake system malfunction. Accidents and serious or fatal injuries  
could result.  
Never let the brakes “rub” too often and too long or press the brake pedal too often and too long.  
NOTICE  
If the vehicle rolls with the engine switched off, the transmission is not lubricated. This can cause the automatic  
transmission to overheat and can damage it.  
If you stop on inclines when a gear is engaged, do not press the accelerator pedal to prevent the vehicle from  
rolling away.  
Never let the vehicle roll in the selector lever position, especially when the engine is stopped.  
NOTICE  
If the brake pads “rub” when the brake pedal is pressed lightly, wear is increased.  
222  
Never let the brakes “rub” by pressing the pedal lightly when braking is not really necessary.  
Troubleshooting  
The engine is not starting  
The green indicator light turns on.  
The brake pedal was not pressed, for example when trying to shift to another gear using the selector lever.  
1. Press the brake pedal to select a gear.  
Driving is restricted by the lock button  
The green indicator light blinks.  
The lock button in the selector lever is not engaged.  
1. Check if the lock button is locked.  
2. Lock the lock button into place if necessary.  
Driving is restricted by the selector lever lock  
The green indicator light blinks. A message is also displayed.  
In rare cases, the Automatic Shift Lock (ASL) may not lock in vehicles with a DSG ® automated transmission.  
The engine will then be disabled to prevent the vehicle from going into motion unintentionally.  
1. Press and release the brake pedal again.  
Transmission overheating  
The yellow indicator light turns on.  
An audible warning may also sound. Where applicable, a message will appear in the instrument cluster display.  
The DSG® automated transmission can become too hot, for example due to frequently starting up on slopes.  
1. At the next opportunity, stop and let the transmission cool down with the parking lock  
engaged and the engine running  
⇒
.
2. If the indicator light does not turn off, do not continue driving.  
3. Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance. Otherwise, the  
transmission could become severely damaged.  
Transmission overheating  
The red warning light turns on.  
An audible warning may also sound. Where applicable, a message will appear in the instrument cluster display.  
The DSG® automated transmission can become too hot, for example due to frequently starting up on slopes.  
Do not continue driving!  
1. Let the transmission cool down with the parking lock engaged and the engine running ⇒  
.
2. If the warning light stays on, stop driving.  
3. Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance. Otherwise, the  
transmission could become severely damaged.  
223  
Selector lever lock emergency release  
Fig. 124 In the center console: manually release the Automatic Shift Lock (ASL) (variant 1).  
Fig. 125 In the center console: manually release the Automatic Shift Lock (ASL) (variant 2).  
If there is a loss of power, for example due to the 12 V vehicle battery being drained, and the vehicle should be towed, then th  
selector lever lock must be released manually. Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service  
Facility for assistance.  
The emergency release is located under the shift gate cover.  
224  
Remove the cover on the shift gate:  
1. Set the electronic parking brake. If you cannot set the electronic parking brake, the vehicle must be secured another way  
to prevent it from rolling.  
2. Switch the ignition off.  
3. Pull the cover near the selector lever boot upward carefully with the wires connected fig. 124 or fig. 125.  
4. Fold the cover upward over the selector lever.  
Manually release the selector lever lock:  
1. Press the release lever in the direction of the fig. 124 or fig. 125 arrow and hold in this position.  
2. Press the lock button forward into the selector lever handle and move the selector lever to the  
position.  
3. After releasing the cover manually, carefully press into the center console while making sure the wires are in the correct  
position.  
Emergency program  
If all of the selector lever position displays have a gray background on the instrument cluster display, this means there is a  
system malfunction. The DSG® automated transmission runs in emergency mode. The vehicle can still be driven in  
emergency mode, but only at a reduced speed and not in all gears.  
With the DSG® automated transmission, it may no longer be possible to drive in reverse gear in some cases.  
In all cases, have the DSG ® automated transmission checked immediately by suitably qualified professionals. Volkswagen  
recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Vehicle is not moving even when a drive gear is engaged  
If the vehicle does not move in the desired direction, the system may not have engaged the drive position correctly.  
1. Press the brake pedal and select the drive position again.  
2. If the vehicle still does not move in the desired direction, there is a system malfunction. See an authorized Volkswagen  
dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance to have the system checked.  
WARNING  
If the parking lock is released and the electronic parking brake is switched off, the vehicle may start to move  
unexpectedly on inclines or hills. This can cause accidents and serious injuries.  
Never release the parking lock once the electronic parking brake is switched off.  
NOTICE  
If the vehicle rolls with the engine off and the selector lever in position  
DSG® automated transmission will be damaged.  
for a long period of time or at high speed, the  
Do not allow the vehicle to roll for a long period of time or at high speed with the engine off and in the  
the case of towing.  
gear, e.g. in  
NOTICE  
If the transmission gets too hot or overheats, this may lead to increased wear or damage to the component.  
Drive faster than approx. 20 km/h (approx. 12 mph) or immediately stop the vehicle safely the first time the vehicle  
225  
indicates that the transmission is overheating.  
Stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible and switch off the engine if the message and audible warning are  
repeating approximately every 10 seconds.  
Let the transmission cool down.  
Only start driving again when the audible warning is no longer sounding.  
Avoid starting the vehicle and driving slowly, like at walking speed, while the transmission is overheated.  
Driving on slopes  
Hill start assist  
Hill start assist helps when starting to  
drive uphill by actively holding the  
vehicle in place.  
Functional requirements  
The following requirements must be met at the same time:  
The vehicle must be stationary and held with the brake pedal until you start driving.  
The engine must be running “evenly”.  
A gear or a position is engaged for driving uphill.  
To start driving, take your foot off the brake pedal and press the accelerator pedal immediately. The brakes will release  
gradually as you start driving.  
The holding function of the Hill Start Assist remains active only for a short time. Drive off within approx. two seconds.  
When is it active?  
Hill Start Assist is immediately deactivated if one of the conditions specified below in is no longer met:  
The driver’s door is opened.  
If the engine is running “unevenly” or in the event of an engine fault.  
The engine is switched off or it stalls.  
The selector lever is in the neutral position  
.
CAUTION  
If you do not pull away immediately after releasing the brake pedal, the vehicle may roll backward under certain  
circumstances. This can cause injuries or damage to objects.  
If this is the case, press the brake pedal or set the electronic parking brake immediately.  
Press the brake pedal for a few seconds before you start to drive if you are driving on an incline in heavy traffic and  
you would like to prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards when starting to drive.  
Downhill speed control  
Downhill speed control helps the driver  
when traveling on slopes.  
226  
System function  
The DSG® automated transmission selects the optimum gear itself, depending on the present gradient and current speed.  
The selector lever must be in the  
selector lever position. Downhill speed control is not active in Tiptronic mode.  
As the downhill speed control can only downshift as far as third gear, you may need to switch to Tiptronic mode on very steep  
downhill stretches. In Tiptronic mode, manually shift into second or first gear to use the engine's braking efficiency and reduce  
the load on the brakes.  
While downhill speed control is active, the start-stop system is automatically deactivated.  
Automatically activating downhill speed control  
If the gradient is greater than approximately 6%.  
And: if the selector lever is in the  
selector lever position.  
In addition, if the cruise control system (CCS ) is switched off: if the speed is slower than approx. 80 km/h (approx.  
50 mph).  
Or: The brake is pressed.  
If the cruise control system (CCS) is also active: if the saved speed is exceeded.  
In addition, if Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC ) is switched off: if the speed is slower than approx. 80 km/h (approx.  
50 mph).  
Or: The brake is pressed.  
If the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is also active: if the saved speed is exceeded.  
Downhill speed control deactivates automatically  
When the gradient decreases.  
If the transmission upshifts because the engine speed is greater than approximately 4500 rpm.  
If the cruise control system (CCS) is also active: if the saved speed can be maintained.  
If the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) is also active: if the saved speed can be maintained.  
WARNING  
The downhill speed control is not a replacement for the driver's attention and works only within the system limitations. The  
downhill speed control cannot detect all driving situations and may not react, or may react with a delay, or may react in a  
way that is not desired. If you are careless, there is a risk of accidents due to unintentional vehicle movement. This can  
cause serious or fatal injuries.  
Always stay attentive and do not rely solely on the system. The driver is always responsible for control of the  
vehicle.  
Be aware that the downhill speed control cannot hold the vehicle on the incline or brake sufficiently going downhill  
in every situation, for example if the ground is slippery or icy.  
Always be ready to brake, in particular if the ground is slippery or icy.  
Manually brake the vehicle if the vehicle moves faster despite downhill speed control.  
Always adapt your speed and driving style to the visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.  
Hill Descent Control  
Hill Descent Control helps the driver  
when traveling on slopes.  
227  
System function  
Hill descent control maintains the speed on all four wheels when driving forward or in reverse on steep inclines through  
automatic braking interventions. The wheels will not lock up because the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) remains active.  
When starting to drive downhill at speeds less then 30 km/h (approx. 19 mph), the speed is limited to minimum 2 km/h  
(approx. 1 mph) and maximum 30 km/h (approx. 19 mph). The driver can increase or decrease the vehicle speed within these  
speed limits by pressing the accelerator or brake pedal.  
However, there must be enough traction. Hill descent control cannot function as expected, if for example the hill is icy or if the  
surface is greasy.  
Displays  
Depending on the driving situation, one of the following indicator lights will light up in the instrument cluster:  
Hill Descent Control is active.  
Hill Descent Control is not active.  
If hill descent control is not active, the indicator light turns gray. The system is activated, but it is not regulating.  
When is it active?  
Hill descent control is automatically activated under the following conditions:  
The vehicle engine must be running.  
The speed must be less than 30 km/h (approx. 19 mph), the  
The gradient must be at least 10%.  
indicator light appears in the instrument cluster display.  
The brake pedal or accelerator pedal must not be pressed.  
Hill Descent Control is deactivated if the speed is higher than 30 km/h (approx. 19 mph), when the brake pedal or accelerator  
pedal is pressed, or the gradient is less than 5%.  
WARNING  
Hill Descent Control is not a replacement for the driver's attention and works only within the system limitations. Hill  
Descent Control cannot detect all driving situations and may not react, or may react with a delay, or may react in a way  
that is not desired. If you are careless, there is a risk of accidents due to unintentional vehicle movement. This can cause  
serious or fatal injuries.  
Always stay attentive and do not rely solely on the system. The driver is always responsible for control of the  
vehicle.  
Be aware that Hill Descent Control cannot hold the vehicle on the incline or brake sufficiently going downhill in  
every situation, for example if the ground is slippery or icy.  
Always be ready to brake, in particular if the ground is slippery or icy.  
Manually brake the vehicle if the vehicle moves faster despite Hill Descent Control.  
Always adapt your speed and driving style to the visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.  
Driving Mode Selection and 4MOTION Active Control  
Introduction  
Via the driving modes, the driver can  
adapt various properties of vehicle  
systems to the current driving situation,  
the desired driving comfort, and for an  
228  
economic driving style. The suspension,  
steering, drive, and the air conditioner  
are some of the vehicle systems that  
can be adjusted.  
Different driving modes are available depending on the vehicle equipment. The influence of vehicle systems on the individual  
driving modes depends on the vehicle equipment.  
Differentiation according to the type of drive  
Only vehicles with all-wheel drive can be equipped with 4MOTION Active Control.  
Selecting the driving mode  
The driving mode can be selected when the ignition is switched on and the vehicle is stationary or while driving.  
WARNING  
Adjusting driving modes while driving can distract from traffic. This can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Always drive attentively and responsibly.  
If you select a driving mode while driving, the vehicle systems, except for Drive, will be switched over to the new driving mode  
immediately.  
1. When the traffic situation allows it, briefly take your foot off the accelerator pedal to enable the newly selected driving  
mode to be applied to the Drive vehicle system as well.  
Selecting the driving mode via the rotary switch  
Fig. 126 In the center armrest: 4MOTION Active Control rotary switch.  
MODE button: select onroad driving modes and open the menu in the Infotainment system.  
Snow driving mode  
Onroad driving mode  
Offroad driving mode  
Offroad Custom driving mode  
1. Turn the dial until the LED next to the preferred driving mode comes on fig. 126.  
229  
2. To switch to the onroad driving modes, press the  
Infotainment system.  
button on the dial fig. 126  
or tap Onroad driving mode in the  
Displaying information about the driving mode  
1. To display additional information about the selected driving mode, tap in the Infotainment system.  
Selecting the Custom driving mode  
1. Press the  
on the dial or turn the dial until the LED next to the Onroad driving mode comes on.  
2. To open the Custom menu, tap Adjust in the Infotainment system.  
Selecting the Offroad Custom driving mode  
1. Turn the dial until the LED next to the Offroad Individual driving mode lights up.  
Or: if the Offroad Custom driving mode is already selected, press  
on the dial fig. 126  
.
2. To open the Custom menu, tap Adjust in the Infotainment system.  
Driving mode properties  
Onroad: You can select the Eco, Comfort, Normal, Sport and Custom driving modes under the Onroad category.  
The Comfort driving mode is only available in vehicles with DCC.  
Eco: the vehicle switches to a fuel-efficient vehicle setup and supports the driver with fuel economy messages. The  
transmission automatically shifts to E in the Eco driving mode.  
the vehicle system and offers a balanced calibration, for example for everyday use.  
feel. If the Sport driving mode is selected, vehicles with an automatic transmission switch to S.  
adapt individual vehicle systems according to your preferences. Offroad: with the Offroad driving mode, acceleration  
Normal: this driving mode shows the basic settings of  
Sport: this gives the driver a sporty  
Individual: you can  
can be better controlled with the accelerator pedal when driving off-road. The engine's braking efficiency is always  
available and shifting can be blocked in critical situations. The hill start assist and hill descent control are active in the  
Offroad driving mode. The dynamic cornering light is adjusted to better assist the driver when visibility is poor.  
Offroad  
Custom: an Offroad driving mode that you can expand and adjust according to your preferences. The instrument cluster  
display tells you if an Offroad driving mode has been selected.  
Snow: using the Snow driving mode can improve the  
traction on slippery or snowy ground by having a more precise transmission of power.  
NOTICE  
Using 4MOTION Active Control driving modes while driving normally may lead to increased fuel consumption and tire  
wear and an increased noise level.  
Avoid using Offroad driving modes in normal road conditions.  
Standard behavior of the driving mode and the vehicle systems  
The Normal driving mode represents the basic settings for the vehicle systems when the ignition is switched on.  
Behavior of the driving mode when switching the ignition off and on  
If you switch the ignition off and then on again, the previously selected driving mode remains selected.  
If you have previously selected the Snow, Offroad or Offroad Individual driving mode and then switch the ignition off and on  
again, the previously selected onroad driving mode will be set.  
Behavior of the Drive vehicle system when the ignition is switched off and on  
The settings for the Drive vehicle system are reset to the Normal driving mode settings when you switch the ignition off and on  
again.  
The other vehicle systems will retain their settings.  
230  
You can change the Drive vehicle system back to the preferred driving mode.  
1. Select your desired driving mode again.  
Or: In order to reactivate the settings in the Sport driving mode, move the automatic transmission selector lever  
backwards into driving mode S.  
Troubleshooting  
gear cannot be engaged  
In the driving modes Offroad and Snow, it is not possible to switch to the  
gear. Information is shown in the instrument cluste  
display if an Offroad driving mode has been selected.  
1. A different driving mode must be selected in order to switch to the  
gear.  
The driving mode or the vehicle systems do not behave as expected  
1. Pay attention to the standard behavior of the driving mode and the vehicle systems ⇒ Standard behavior of the driving  
mode and the vehicle systems.  
Offroad display  
Fig. 127 In the Infotainment system: Offroad display.  
The Offroad display provides digital instruments that display additional information about the vehicle and its environment. This  
enables you to make a more precise assessment of the current driving situation.  
Open the Offroad display  
1. Press the MENU button in the Infotainment system.  
2. Tap the Vehicle function key.  
3. Tap the Selection function key.  
4. Tap the Offroad function key.  
Selecting instruments and adjusting units  
The infotainment system displays various instruments fig. 127.  
1. To switch between instruments, swipe up over the display.  
The units on some instruments can be adjusted in the Infotainment system ⇒ Vehicle settings menu.  
Instruments in the Offroad display  
The selection of instruments depends on the vehicle equipment.  
231  
Compass: The compass shows your current direction of travel.  
Steering angle display: Shows the steering angle of the vehicle. For a left lock, the value is positive. For a right lock, it i  
negative.  
Altimeter: The altimeter shows your current height above sea level.  
Coolant temperature display: The display corresponds to the temperature display in the instrument cluster.  
Oil temperature display: The display corresponds to the oil temperature display in the instrument cluster.  
Adjusting the display areas to the driving situation  
The instruments displayed can be selected according to the driving situation and the environmental and terrain conditions:  
Sandy terrain: Oil and coolant temperature display, steering angle display.  
Inclines: Steering angle display, coolant temperature display, altimeter (depending on country).  
Alpine terrain: Steering angle display, altimeter (depending on country), Compass.  
Off-road driving situations  
Introduction  
The examples described in this chapter are to be understood as general guidelines aimed to help the driver in driving safely  
on off-road terrain. These tips will not necessarily apply to every possible situation that may occur. Before driving on unknown  
terrain, it is crucial to find out information about the condition of the terrain ahead. You can assess potential dangers in  
advance. The driver is responsible for deciding whether their vehicle is suitable for the terrain ahead and if the terrain can be  
driven on.  
Driving off-road requires different skills and handling practices compared to driving on developed roads.  
This vehicle is not designed for traveling with an “expedition driving style”.  
With 4MOTION Active Control in a four-wheel drive vehicle, various vehicle tuning adjustment can be selected to the driver's  
preference ⇒ Selecting the driving mode.  
Switch off the driver assistance systems and parking systems when off-roading.  
Checklist  
The following steps should be taken before the first trip to operate and drive the vehicle safely off-road.  
Observe the general safety precautions when driving off-road ⇒ Safety precautions for driving off-road.  
Fold up or remove the ball mount.  
Adjust the seating position so there is clear visibility in front of the vehicle and fasten safety belts ⇒ Seating position.  
Always wear suitable and well-fitted footwear that gives the feet good traction on the pedals.  
A responsible driver also treats nature with care when driving off-road. Driving over shrubs and meadows can destroy the  
habitats of animals and plants.  
Leaking operating fluids resulting from vehicle damage can contaminate the environment. Catch any leaking operating  
fluids and dispose of them correctly according to environmental regulations.  
Take any suitable equipment with you for driving off-road.  
Safety precautions for driving off-road  
Refer to ⇒  
and  
.
232  
WARNING  
ABS and ESC cannot replace the driver's attention, can only operate within the limitations of the system and were  
developed only for driving on developed roads. ABS and ESC are not suitable for use off-road. If you are careless, there is  
a risk of accidents, serious injuries and death.  
Always stay attentive and do not rely solely on the systems. The driver is always responsible for control of the  
vehicle.  
Always adapt the speed and driving style to the predominant terrain. Unfavorable ground conditions can lead to  
vehicle instability even with ABS and an activated ESC, e.g. under hard braking or in corners.  
WARNING  
Driving off-road can be difficult and dangerous and lead to critical driving situations for vehicle occupants. It can lead to  
loss of control over the vehicle, damage to the vehicle, failure of the vehicle far away from any assistance, accidents and  
serious or fatal injuries.  
Never choose a dangerous route and do not take risks.  
Turn around and choose a different route if you can go no further or you have doubts about the safety of the route.  
Explore the terrain on foot beforehand even if it looks easy to negotiate.  
Drive with extreme caution and anticipation when driving off-road.  
Never drive faster than is appropriate for the predominant terrain, road conditions, traffic and weather.  
WARNING  
Driving over embankments, ramps or hillsides at excessively high speeds can cause the vehicle to lose contact with the  
ground. The vehicle can roll over if the wheels are turned inward when coming back into contact with the ground. This  
could cause you to lose control of the vehicle and lead to accidents with serious or fatal injuries.  
Do not drive off-road at excessive speeds.  
If the vehicle does lift off the ground, always align the front wheels so they face straight ahead.  
WARNING  
Utility vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than other types of vehicles.  
In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt.  
The vehicle has a higher center of gravity and has a greater risk of rolling over while driving than a “regular”  
passenger vehicle that is not suited for offroad driving.  
Never drive too fast, especially around curves, or perform any extreme driving maneuvers.  
Always adapt the speed and driving style to the predominant terrain.  
Luggage and other objects transported on the roof of the vehicle also increases the center of gravity and thus the  
risk of a rollover accident.  
WARNING  
233  
Sections of terrain that seem safe could be very dangerous and put vehicle occupants in danger. Potholes, depressions,  
ditches, hollows, obstacles, shallow areas, and soft and swampy ground are often not detected as such and can be  
completely or partially covered by snow, water, grass, or branches on the ground. Driving over such sections of terrain  
can cause failure of the vehicle, accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Before driving on unknown terrain, explore the route carefully on foot.  
Never choose unsafe routes and do not take risks.  
Turn around and choose a different route if you have doubts about the safety of the route.  
Always adapt the speed and driving style to the load, visibility, terrain and weather conditions.  
WARNING  
Driving at an angle on a hill can be dangerous. The combined center of gravity of the vehicle and its load (passengers and  
cargo) can cause it to shift and cause the vehicle to tip over and roll down the hill. This can cause vehicle damage,  
accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Always avoid driving at an angle on a hill ⇒ Driving at an angle on a hill.  
If it is necessary, always exit the vehicle carefully using the doors on the side of the vehicle that is facing uphill  
⇒ Driving at an angle on a hill.  
If the vehicle stops at a side angle on a hill, never exit the vehicle through the doors that are facing in the downhill  
direction.  
WARNING  
The driver assistance systems were developed only for driving on developed roads. The driver assistance systems are  
not suitable for use off-road and can thus be dangerous in off-road situations. This could cause you to lose control of the  
vehicle and lead to accidents with serious or fatal injuries.  
Never use driver assistance systems off-road.  
WARNING  
Driving with an insufficient fuel level can lead to a vehicle breakdown off-road. The steering and braking support systems  
will not work if the engine is “sputtering” or malfunctioning due to fuel shortage or irregular fuel supply. This can cause  
accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Always refuel your vehicle with enough fuel before driving off-road.  
NOTICE  
If the windows and sunroof are open, rain could enter the vehicle and soak the interior, causing vehicle damage.  
Always keep the windows and power sunroof closed when driving off-road.  
Explanations of technical terms  
Refer to ⇒  
and Safety precautions for driving off-road .  
234  
Fig. 128 General example: incline angle  
Fig. 129 General example: tilt angle  
Center of gravity The center of gravity of a vehicle influences the risk of rollover accidents. When driving off-road, the  
vehicle has a larger ground clearance and thus a higher center of gravity compared to “normal” road vehicles. Due  
to the higher center of gravity, there is an increased risk that the vehicle could roll over while driving. Always  
consider this fact while driving and always observe the safety tips and warnings listed in this Owner's Manual.  
Ground clearance The distance between the road surface and the lowest point of the vehicle underbody.  
Incline angle The maximum angle the vehicle can drive up an incline on its own. A rising difference in altitude (incline) on a  
100 m (330 ft) stretch is given in percentage or degrees fig. 128. The maximum incline angle the vehicle can  
handle depends on the road surface and the engine power, among other things.  
Tilt angle The maximum angle that the vehicle can drive diagonally or perpendicularly to the fall line on a hill without tipping  
over (depends on the center of gravity) fig. 129.  
Ramp angle Maximum angle that the vehicle can drive over a ramp at slow speeds without the vehicle underbody coming  
into contact with the edge of the ramp.  
235  
Slope angle The transition from the horizontal plane on an incline or from the slope back to level ground. Maximum angle  
that the vehicle can handle without the vehicle underbody coming into contact with the edge of the slope.  
Fall line The line that is the most direct path downhill.  
Axle articulation The torsional flexibility of a vehicle when driving over an object on one side.  
Checklist “before driving off-road”  
Refer to ⇒  
and Safety precautions for driving off-road .  
Checklist  
For your safety and the safety of your passengers, always observe the following points before driving off-road:  
Learn about the quality of the upcoming terrain before driving off-road.  
Fill up the fuel tank. Fuel consumption is significantly higher off-road than it is on developed roads.  
Check if the tire profile and the type of all the tires is sufficient for the planned off-road trip.  
Check and adjust the tire pressure on all tires.  
Check the engine oil level and add engine oil if necessary. When the vehicle is on sloping ground, the engine will only  
supplied with engine oil if the engine oil level is sufficient.  
Fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir completely with water and windshield washer fluid.  
Stow any luggage as low as possible in the vehicle and distributed evenly. Secure all loose objects safely.  
General rules and driving instructions  
Refer to ⇒  
and Safety precautions for driving off-road .  
Volkswagen recommends to never drive off-road alone. At least two off-roading vehicles should drive together off-road.  
An unexpected situation could occur at any time. Therefore, it is especially wise to have equipment that can be used to  
call for emergency assistance.  
Stop and explore the path on foot, especially before critical passages.  
Drive over bumps slowly so that the vehicle does not lift up, which could cause damage and prevent you from  
maneuvering the vehicle.  
Drive slowly through difficult sections of the route. Upshift on slippery ground and always keep the vehicle in motion.  
There is usually a lot of soft ground on off-road terrain, where the tires could sink into the ground. This reduces the  
ground clearance and the wading depth. Whenever possible, drive on level and solid ground.  
Even at low speeds, always maintain a safe distance to other vehicles. If the first vehicle suddenly becomes stuck, the  
vehicle following it would be able to stop in time without also getting stuck.  
NOTICE  
Severe damage to the underbody can occur if the vehicle hits the ground. This damage can cause vehicle breakdowns  
and make it impossible to continue driving.  
Always make sure there is enough ground clearance under the vehicle.  
Shifting gears correctly  
Refer to ⇒ and Safety precautions for driving off-road .  
Correct gear selection depends on the terrain.  
Before driving on a difficult stretch of the route, it may be helpful to stop and consider which gear to select. After several off-  
roading trips, you can learn which gear in conjunction with gear reduction is best suited for certain areas of terrain.  
236  
When the correct gear is selected, the vehicle must normally be braked less with the brake pedal because the engine  
braking effect will be sufficient in the majority of cases.  
Only accelerate as much as is necessary. Too much acceleration can cause the wheels to spin and thus loss of control o  
the vehicle.  
Use the D selector lever position on normal, level stretches of off-road land.  
Adjust your speed when driving on soft or slippery ground and drive at the highest possible gear in tiptronic mode.  
Drive using tiptronic in gear 1 when on steep hills or on a steep incline.  
Drive using tiptronic in gears 3 or 2 when on mud, sand, water, or hilly areas ⇒ Selector lever.  
Use the off-road display ⇒ Offroad display.  
Driving over brush and rock  
Refer to ⇒ and Safety precautions for driving off-road .  
1. Select a suitable driving mode ⇒ Selecting the driving mode and drive no faster than walking speeds over rocky ground.  
2. If you are unable to drive around a stone, drive carefully onto the stone with one of the front wheels and then drive slowly  
over it ⇒  
.
Even objects that are lower than the available ground clearance can come into contact with the vehicle underbody and cause  
vehicle damage and malfunctions. This is especially true if there is a depression or soft ground in front of or behind the object  
This is also true if the vehicle drives too fast over an object and then the suspension compresses.  
NOTICE  
If driven over, objects that are higher than the ground clearance will damage vehicle components on the underbody. This  
damage can cause vehicle breakdowns and make it impossible to continue driving.  
Never drive over a very large object such as boulders or tree trunks if it is under the vehicle or on one side.  
Driving through still or flowing water  
Refer to ⇒  
and Safety precautions for driving off-road .  
Driving through flooded terrain or bodies of water could cause vehicle damage.  
You can carefully drive through water that comes up to the lower edge of the vehicle body.  
1. Note the maximum wading depth of the vehicle.  
2. Only drive through water in an area where the ground is solid underneath it remains lower than the maximum permissible  
wading depth.  
3. Note the additional information for driving through water on paved roads ⇒ Driving through water on roads.  
Before driving through water  
Stop, get out and assess the situation ⇒  
:
1. Measure the depth of the water all the way over to the other side. Make sure that the ground is firm enough and identify  
any dips and obstacles ⇒  
.
2. Make sure that it is possible to safely enter and exit the water.  
3. Check the ramp angle and firmness of the banks.  
4. Select a suitable driving mode ⇒ Selecting the driving mode.  
Driving through still or slow-flowing water  
237  
As long as the ground is firm enough, you can drive your vehicle through still or slow-flowing water ⇒  
1. Drive into the water slowly and in the direction of the current. Never exceed the ramp or tilt angle.  
2. Drive at a constant speed all the way to the opposite bank.  
.
Driving at a constant speed prevents engine damage caused by the ingress of water. It also allows an air pocket to form in  
front of the engine, which fuels the engine with the oxygen it requires. If you drive into the water too fast or drive through the  
water too fast, you will create a bow wave in front of the vehicle. Water from this bow wave may find its way into the engine's a  
intake port and seriously damage the engine.  
Driving through fast-flowing water  
The strength and speed of the current and the depth of the water can be dangerous and unpredictable ⇒  
. Vehicles can  
be swept away by the current. Even vehicles with generous ground clearance can get stuck if the ground beneath their tires is  
swept away. Flowing water backs up against one side of the vehicle, making the water deeper on that side.  
Do not take any risks. Look for a shallower place to cross the water or turn back.  
After driving through water  
1. Check the vehicle for damage.  
2. Gently apply your brakes to dry them off.  
WARNING  
Flowing water generates enormous power and can carry a vehicle away. This can cause accidents and serious or fatal  
injuries.  
Never let the vehicle stop in water.  
WARNING  
Soft ground, obstacles under the water, shallows, or water in the engine compartment can lead to critical driving situations  
and vehicle failure. This can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Do not exceed the wading depth of your vehicle.  
Always make sure there is enough ground clearance under the vehicle.  
NOTICE  
If you drive through salty water, vehicle components such as the engine, drivetrain, suspension, or vehicle electrical  
system could become severely damaged.  
Never drive over salt, salty surfaces, or through salt water, because salt can cause corrosion.  
Using fresh water, immediately rinse down any parts of the vehicle that may have come into contact with salt or  
salty water.  
NOTICE  
Objects in the water can enter the openings of the extended spray nozzles of the headlight washer system. The spray  
nozzles then cannot move back to their basic position.  
Do not use the headlight washer system when you are driving through water.  
238  
Driving in sand and mud  
Refer to ⇒ and Safety precautions for driving off-road .  
ESC and ASR must be switched on ⇒ Braking assistance systems.  
1. Select a suitable driving mode ⇒ Selecting the driving mode.  
2. Select a suitable gear and stay in that gear until solid ground is reached ⇒ Shifting gears correctly.  
3. Always drive through sand or mud at a constant speed, do not perform manual shifts and do not stop.  
The tires can lose their grip in sand or mud.  
Do not change the speed or direction.  
If the vehicle slides, steer in the direction in which it is sliding to regain control of the vehicle.  
If the tires are no longer gripping the ground, turn the steering wheel back and forth quickly. This can briefly create better  
tire traction between the ground at the front wheels.  
WARNING  
The vehicle could slide out of control if driven through sand and mud. This can cause accidents and serious or fatal  
injuries.  
Always drive carefully when you have to drive through sand, mud, or slush.  
Turn around or choose a different route if you can go no further or you have doubts about the safety of the current  
route.  
Never select a dangerous route or undertake a risk that would endanger other vehicle occupants.  
WARNING  
Incorrect tire pressures cause increased tire wear and impair vehicle handling. This can cause overheating, sudden tire  
damage including tire blow-outs, and stripping of the tread, which can then result in loss of vehicle control. This can cause  
accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
If you reduce the tire pressures to drive through sand, inflate the tires back to the correct pressure afterwards.  
Recommendations if the vehicle is stuck  
Refer to ⇒ and Safety precautions for driving off-road .  
The vehicle becomes stuck when the wheels have sunk so deeply into the ground that the vehicle can no longer move forwar  
or backward under its own power.  
To rock the vehicle out of sand or mud, training and a lot of strength are necessary. If one makes a mistake when rocking a  
vehicle out of place, the vehicle can sink even farther and additional assistance will be needed to continue.  
Never let the wheels spin for a long time, because this will only make the vehicle sink deeper into the ground ⇒  
.
Preparations  
1. Carefully dig out all of the wheels and make sure no other vehicle components are stuck in sand or mud.  
2. Select the reverse gear.  
3. Press the accelerator pedal gently and reverse in the same track.  
If this does not help, place brushwood, floor mats, or burlap cloth directly behind the tires to create traction to help the vehicle  
239  
to move ⇒  
.
Rocking the vehicle out of place  
1. Switch off ASR ⇒ Braking assistance systems.  
2. Adjust the steering wheel so that it is straight.  
3. Drive in reverse until the wheels begin to spin straight.  
4. Engage the first gear immediately and begin to drive forward until the wheels begin to spin again.  
5. Drive back and forth in this way until there is enough momentum to release the vehicle.  
6. Reactivate ASR after the vehicle is rocked out of place.  
WARNING  
Spinning wheels can greatly accelerate stones, brushwood, pieces of wood, or other objects under the wheels. Persons in  
front or to the rear of the vehicle could be injured. In the event of sudden vehicle movement, persons in front or to the rear  
of the vehicle could be injured or run over. This can cause serious or fatal injuries.  
Make sure that no one is present in front or to the rear of the vehicle when attempting to move a stuck vehicle out  
of place.  
Driving on steep terrain  
Refer to ⇒  
and Safety precautions for driving off-road .  
Driving on inclines or slopes  
Before driving up an incline or down a hill, stop, exit the vehicle, and assess the situation:  
Go along the path and check the ground for sufficient firmness, obstacles, or other hidden hazards ⇒  
Look to see how the path continues after the incline.  
.
If the route is too steep, too uneven, or the ground is too loose, then do not drive on this path and choose another route.  
Drive uphill or downhill slowly and continuously on a straight path.  
Never stop or turn around on a hillside.  
Only accelerate enough to overcome the incline. Too much acceleration can cause the wheels to spin and the driver to  
lose control of the vehicle. Too little acceleration increases the likelihood of stalling the engine.  
Vehicles with an automatic transmission Do not shift gears while driving on an incline.  
Use the off-road display ⇒ Offroad display.  
If the vehicle can no longer drive up an incline  
Never turn around on an incline.  
If the engine has stopped, press the brake pedal and restart the engine.  
Select reverse gear and drive slowly and carefully along the same path.  
Maintain a consistent speed using the brake pedal until you reach safe and level ground.  
Driving downhill  
There is increased risk of rollover accidents when driving downhill. Concentrate very carefully on steering the vehicle when  
driving downhill.  
Drive in first gear when driving down steep hills.  
240  
Use the brakes gently to reduce the risk of losing control of the vehicle.  
Never exceed the tilt angle of the vehicle.  
If it is possible and not dangerous, drive straight downhill along the fall line (maximum slope).  
Use the off-road display and the hill hold assist when driving on steep hills ⇒ Offroad display.  
WARNING  
If you drive on an uphill or downhill gradient that is too steep for the vehicle, the vehicle could slip, slide away or roll over.  
This could cause loss of vehicle control, accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Ensure that the incline angle or tilt angle is not larger than the maximum permissible value for the vehicle.  
When driving uphill or downhill, always follow the fall line.  
Never change direction or turn round when driving uphill or downhill. The vehicle could tip over or slide.  
If the engine stalls or if your vehicle can go no further, carry out the tasks described → page , If the vehicle can no  
longer drive up an incline.  
If the engine will not start, press the brake pedal down, applying constant pressure, and allow the vehicle to roll  
back the same way you came. Keep to a steady, low speed.  
Never allow the vehicle to coast backward down the incline.  
Driving at an angle on a hill  
Refer to ⇒  
and Safety precautions for driving off-road .  
Fig. 130 General example: steering downhill along the fall line.  
241  
Fig. 131 General example: exit through the side of the vehicle that is facing uphill.  
Driving at an angle on a hill is dangerous when driving off-road ⇒  
Before driving, always check if there are other safer routes available.  
If you must drive at an angled position:  
.
The vehicle’s center of gravity should be as low as possible. Larger or heavier individuals should sit on the more elevated  
side of the vehicle. Luggage on the roof should be removed and heavy objects should be secured, because the vehicle  
could tip over due to objects suddenly sliding out of place ⇒  
.
The ground must be as firm as possible. The vehicle can skid sideways and tip over more easily on slippery or soft  
ground. Always make sure the angle will not become too large from bumps in the road. The vehicle can tip and roll over  
when the tilt angle is too large.  
If the vehicle is positioned at a high angle, the wheels on the lower side of the vehicle must never drive over depressions  
or dips in the ground. The wheels on the higher side of the vehicle must never drive over elevated objects, such as  
stones, tree trunks, or other obstacles.  
If it seems the vehicle is about to tip, immediately steer toward the downhill direction and accelerate lightly fig. 130. If it  
not possible to steer downhill, steer uphill and accelerate lightly.  
WARNING  
A vehicle that is driven or positioned sideways to the incline of a hill can slip out of control, roll over and roll down the hill.  
This can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Never attempt to drive at an angle on a hill, especially if the hill is too steep for the vehicle.  
Never select a dangerous route or undertake a risk that would endanger the vehicle occupants.  
Turn around and choose a different route if you can go no further or you have doubts about the safety of the route.  
Never underestimate the risks and dangers of driving at an angle on a hill.  
Never let the wheels on the lower side of the vehicle drive through depressions or dips in the ground.  
Never let the wheels on the higher side of the vehicle drive over elevated objects, such as stones, tree trunks, or  
other obstacles.  
Before driving at an angle on a hill, make sure that you can steer toward the fall line. If that is not possible, choose  
another path.  
242  
If it seems the vehicle is about to tip, immediately steer toward the downhill direction and accelerate lightly  
fig. 130.  
WARNING  
It is dangerous to exit the vehicle positioned with a substantial sideways tilt on a hill. The overall center of gravity could  
shift to the side and the vehicle can lose hold, tip or flip over and roll down the hill. This can cause accidents and serious  
or fatal injuries.  
Avoid abrupt and uncontrolled movements in the vehicle.  
If it is necessary, always exit the vehicle carefully using the doors on the side of the vehicle that is facing uphill  
fig. 131.  
Never leave the vehicle through a door on the downhill side.  
When exiting the vehicle, ensure that the upwards opening door does not shut and cause injury due to its own  
weight or passenger inattention.  
Driving through ditches  
Refer to ⇒  
1. Check if the slope and tilt angle is small enough to drive over the ditch with the vehicle. The tilt angle must not be too larg  
when driving through the ditch ⇒  
and Safety precautions for driving off-road .  
.
2. Find a suitable point to drive through the ditch.  
3. If possible, cross the ditch at a sharp angle ⇒  
.
WARNING  
If the slope and tilt angle is too steep for the vehicle and the ditch is too deep, the vehicle could tip, slide away and roll  
over. This can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Do not attempt to drive across a ditch if the ramp angle or tilt angle is too steep and the ditch is too deep for the  
vehicle.  
NOTICE  
If driving into the ditch at a right angle, the front wheels will fall in. The vehicle could bottom out, be damaged, and no  
longer be drivable.  
Do not attempt to drive across a ditch if the ramp angle or tilt angle is too steep and the ditch is too deep for the  
vehicle.  
Note that it will most likely be impossible to drive out of the ditch, even with all-wheel drive.  
After off-road driving  
Refer to ⇒  
and Safety precautions for driving off-road .  
Checklist  
Clean the vehicle.  
Check the vehicle for damage.  
243  
Check the tires for damage and remove any thick dirt, stones, and foreign objects from the tread.  
Inspect the vehicle underbody and remove any and all objects that are stuck in the brake system, wheels, suspensions  
exhaust system and in the engine, such as twigs, leaves, or pieces of wood ⇒  
. If any damage or leaks are  
discovered, seek assistance from suitably qualified professionals. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized  
Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Inspect the engine compartment for any contamination that may be impairing engine operation ⇒ Safety precautions f  
working in the engine compartment.  
WARNING  
Any objects stuck under the vehicle underbody present a hazard. Fuel lines, the brake system, seals and other  
suspension parts can be damaged or flammable materials, such as dry leaves, can ignite near hot vehicle components.  
This could cause an accident, a fire and serious or fatal injuries.  
Always inspect the vehicle underbody for stuck objects and remove them after every off-road trip.  
Never drive the vehicle if objects are stuck on the underbody, in the brake system, in the wheels, in the suspension,  
in the exhaust system, or in the engine.  
Remove flammable materials, such as dry leaves, from the vehicle underbody.  
Messages about driving  
General driver information  
Anticipatory driving  
An inconsistent driving style increases consumption. When the driver actively pays attention to traffic, this can prevent  
frequent acceleration and braking maneuvers. Maintaining enough distance to the vehicle driving ahead helps you to drive  
with better anticipation.  
Avoiding full acceleration  
Excessively high speeds increase the rolling resistance and air resistance and with that, the power needed to move the  
vehicle. Never drive at the maximum vehicle speed.  
Checking tire pressures  
Low tire pressures cause wear as well as increased rolling resistance of tires, and this increases consumption. Use tires with  
optimal rolling resistance.  
Adapt the tire pressures to the load:  
Follow the specifications on the tire pressure label ⇒ Checking the tire pressure.  
Tire Pressure Monitoring System ⇒ How the Tire Pressure Monitoring System Works .  
Using synthetic engine oil  
Full synthetic engine oils with a low viscosity reduce the frictional resistance in the engine and distribute significantly better an  
faster when cold-starting the engine.  
WARNING  
If you drive at high speed and without sufficient safety distance, accidents and serious or fatal injuries can result.  
Always adapt your speed and remain a safe distance to vehicles driving ahead according to the visual, weather,  
road, and traffic conditions.  
244  
Breaking in the engine  
A new engine needs to be broken in  
during the first 1500 km (approx.  
1000 miles). All moving parts should  
be able to work together. During the  
first few hours of operation, the engine  
has a higher internal friction than it will  
later.  
Up to 1000 km (approx. 600 miles)  
Do not accelerate fully.  
Do not use more than two thirds of the maximum engine RPM.  
Do not drive with a trailer.  
Between 1000 and 1500 km (approx. 600 to 1000 miles)  
1. Increase the speed and engine RPM gradually.  
The driving style during the first 1500 km (approx. 1000 miles) also affects the engine's quality. Even after that – especially  
when the engine is cold – the engine should be driven at moderate engine speeds to reduce engine wear and increase the  
possible mileage.  
New tires and brake pads must be carefully broken in.  
NOTICE  
Driving at too low an RPM can cause increased wear and damage to the engine.  
Do not drive at an insufficient engine speed.  
Downshift if the engine stops running “smoothly”.  
If the new engine is broken in gently, its service life is increased while, at the same time, reducing engine oil consumption  
Gear recommendation  
Fig. 132 Gear recommendation on the instrument cluster display.  
Currently selected gear.  
245  
Recommended gear for you to select.  
Depending on the vehicle equipment, a recommendation to select a fuel-saving gear can be displayed as a number in the  
instrument cluster while you are driving fig. 132.  
Vehicles with an automatic transmission: To do this, the transmission must be in the tiptronic program.  
If the optimal gear is currently selected, no gear recommendation is made. The gear that is currently selected is displayed.  
CAUTION  
The gear recommendation is simply an aid and cannot replace the driver's attention and responsibility. Selecting an  
unsuitable gear for the driving situation may lead to accidents and injuries.  
Always select the correct gear for the relevant driving situation, such as when overtaking or driving uphill.  
An optimally selected gear helps to save fuel.  
For vehicles with manual transmission, the gear recommendation display is turned off when you press the clutch pedal.  
For vehicles with automatic transmission, the gear recommendation display is turned off when you leave the tiptronic  
position.  
Eco tips  
The correct driving style can help to  
reduce consumption, pollution, and  
wear on the engine, brakes, and tires.  
The following tips will help you  
conserve the environment and your  
money.  
Fig. 133 Fuel consumption in mpg at two different ambient temperatures.  
Using the freewheel function  
246  
Vehicles with an automatic transmission: If neither the accelerator nor the brake pedal are pressed while the Eco driving mode  
is selected and gear is engaged, the vehicle will roll (“coasting feature”) using almost no energy.  
How to save energy when shifting gears  
Early upshifting saves energy at an engine RPM of 2,000. Do not wait as long as possible to upshift gears and avoid high  
engine speeds.  
Vehicles with an automatic transmission: Accelerate slowly and avoid using the kick-down function.  
If possible, use the  
driving mode.  
Reducing to idle speed  
Start driving immediately at low speeds. When stationary for a long time, do not shift to idle, but rather stop the engine, for  
example when in a traffic jam or at a railroad crossing.  
On vehicles with an activated start-stop system, the engine can turn off automatically when the vehicle is stopped and when  
stationary.  
Refuel in moderation  
A full fuel tank increases the vehicle weight. A fuel tank that is half to three-quarters full is best suited for city driving.  
Avoid short trips  
A cold engine has a very high consumption rate. The optimal operating temperature is only reached after several kilometers  
(miles). When outside temperatures are very low, for example in winter, the consumption is much higher than average  
fig. 133. Plan trips economically and combine short trips.  
Have maintenance performed regularly  
Regular maintenance is required for fuel-efficient driving and increases the service life of the vehicle.  
Removing unnecessary weight  
Clearing out the luggage compartment, for example by removing empty crates or unneeded child restraints, can reduce  
consumption.  
To keep the vehicle's air resistance as low as possible, remove attachments after use.  
Saving energy  
The alternator, which is powered by the engine, generates power for the electrical equipment, such as the climate control  
system, window heating, or ventilation. Saving energy is simple, for example:  
When temperatures are high, air out the vehicle before driving and drive short distances with the windows open. Then  
turn on the climate control system.  
Turn off electrical equipment when it is no longer needed.  
NOTICE  
If the vehicle rolls down mountains or hills in neutral , the transmission is not lubricated. This can cause the automatic  
transmission to overheat and can damage it.  
Never leave the vehicle in neutral gear, especially when the engine is stopped.  
An authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility can provide you with more information about  
correct maintenance and replacement parts that are particularly energy efficient, such as new tires.  
247  
In driving situations when less power is required, the engine cylinders can deactivate automatically on vehicles with  
Active Cylinder Management (ACT), depending on the vehicle equipment. When the engine is switched off, no fuel is  
injected into the relevant cylinders, meaning that overall fuel consumption is reduced.  
Driving a loaded vehicle  
Heed the following for good vehicle handling when the vehicle is loaded:  
Stow all cargo securely ⇒ Transporting.  
Accelerate with extra care and caution.  
Avoid sudden braking and driving maneuvers.  
Brake earlier than usual.  
If necessary, read and heed the information about roof racks ⇒ Roof rack.  
If necessary, note the information about driving with a trailer ⇒ Trailer towing.  
WARNING  
Sliding loads can considerably impair the driving stability and safety of your vehicle, and increase the braking distance  
when you brake hard or perform emergency braking. This can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Correctly secure the load to prevent it from sliding.  
Use suitable tie-downs or securing straps on heavy objects.  
Engage the rear seat backrests and, if necessary, the adjustable rear seats securely.  
Driving with an open trunk lid  
Driving with an open trunk lid can be especially dangerous. Secure all objects and the open trunk lid correctly and take  
sufficient precautions to reduce the amount of poisonous exhaust that enters the vehicle.  
WARNING  
If driving with the trunk lid unlocked or open, loose objects can fall out of the vehicle and injure other road users. This can  
cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Always drive with the trunk lid closed.  
Store all objects in the luggage compartment securely.  
Always drive carefully and anticipate upcoming traffic situations.  
Avoid abrupt or sudden driving and braking maneuvers because the open trunk lid can move in an uncontrolled  
manner.  
If there is a roof rack with cargo on the trunk lid, always remove it before driving with an open trunk lid.  
WARNING  
Objects protruding from the luggage compartment change the vehicle length and may possibly endanger other road  
users. This can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Follow the legal regulations.  
Mark objects sticking out of the luggage compartment so they will be visible to others on the road.  
248  
Never use the trunk lid to secure or wedge objects.  
WARNING  
Among other substances, engine exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless poisonous gas. If  
driving with the trunk lid open, poisonous exhaust may enter the vehicle interior, leading to a loss of consciousness,  
carbon monoxide poisoning, accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
To prevent poisonous exhaust from entering the vehicle, always drive with the trunk lid closed.  
Close all windows.  
Close the power sunroof.  
Switch off recirculation mode.  
Open all the air vents in the instrument panel.  
Switch the blower to the highest blower level.  
Always drive with the trunk lid closed if the load can be transported with the trunk lid closed.  
NOTICE  
Opening the trunk lid changes the height and possibly the length of the vehicle. This can cause damage to the vehicle if  
driving carelessly.  
Be aware of the changed outer dimensions, such as when driving through underpasses.  
Driving through water on roads  
Note the following to reduce the risk of vehicle damage when driving through water, for example on flooded roads:  
The water must not be any higher than the bottom of the vehicle body ⇒  
Do not driver faster than walking speeds.  
.
Never stop the vehicle, drive in reverse, or stop the engine in water.  
Oncoming vehicles create waves that can raise the water level for your vehicle enough that it is not safe to drive through  
Always manually deactivate the start-stop system when driving through water ⇒ Start/Stop system.  
WARNING  
When driving through water, mud, slush, etc., the braking effect may be delayed due to damp or icy brake rotors and  
brake pads in the winter, and this can extend the braking distance. This could cause a loss of vehicle control, accidents  
and serious or fatal injuries.  
Perform careful braking maneuvers to dry and remove ice from the brakes.  
Do not endanger road users or disregard legal regulations during braking maneuvers.  
Avoid abrupt and sudden braking maneuvers directly after driving through water.  
NOTICE  
Driving through water can greatly damage or corrode parts of the vehicle, e.g. electronics.  
249  
Never drive through salty water.  
Using fresh water, immediately rinse any parts of the vehicle that may have come into contact with salty water.  
Protect electronic components against contact with water.  
Operating the vehicle in different countries and continents  
Approval regulations  
The vehicle was manufactured by the factory for a specific country and meets those requirements and approval regulations  
that were valid at the time of vehicle manufacture ⇒  
.
If the vehicle will be used temporarily or for a brief period in another country, then read and observe the following  
information.  
Safety standards and regulations  
Some countries have special safety standards and regulations that differ from the vehicle configuration. Volkswagen  
recommends obtaining information about legal regulations from an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen  
Service Facility before driving in other countries.  
Selling in other countries  
If the vehicle is sold in another country or will be used for an extended period in another country, then the applicable legal  
regulations in that country must be observed.  
Certain equipment may need to be installed or removed and functions may need to be deactivated. The scope and types of  
service may also be affected. This particularly applies if the vehicle is being operated for an extended period in a different  
climate region.  
Functions of the Infotainment system  
Due to the many different frequency bands around the world, the Infotainment system installed at the factory may not function  
in other countries.  
Volkswagen is not responsible for damage to the vehicle caused by substandard fuel, insufficient service, or not using  
Volkswagen Genuine parts.  
Volkswagen is not responsible if the vehicle does not meet all of the applicable legal requirements in other countries and  
continents.  
WARNING  
At high altitudes, the air density is lower. Due to the reduced air density, engine power may be reduced and when in  
operation for extended periods at high altitudes, vehicle components may be damaged. Lower engine power can result in  
accidents, e.g. when overtaking, and may result in serious or fatal injuries.  
Before driving abroad, obtain information from a suitably qualified professional, particularly for altitudes above  
3000 m (around 9843 ft) above sea level. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer  
or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
250  

Related Topics

Steering
Pedals
Brakes
Start the engine
Start/Stop system
Automatic transmission
Driving on slopes
Hill Descent Control
Driving Mode Selection and 4MOTION Active Control
Offroad driving situations
Messages about driving

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