Driving tips

This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

• Preparing for a journey and driving safely
• Driving abroad
• Driving through water on roads

Depending on where the vehicle is used, it could be a good idea to have an engine and transmission guard installed. An engine and transmission guard can reduce the risk of damage to the vehicle’s underbody and engine oil sump, for example when driving over kerbs, driveways or unsurfaced roads. If you wish to have one fitted, Volkswagen recommends contacting your Volkswagen dealership.

• Sitting correctly and safely ⇒ Adjusting the seat position
• Transporting items
• Starting the engine, changing gear and parking
• Driving with respect for the environment
• Consumer information

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings .

Observe the following information both before and during every journey to ensure your own safety, and the safety of all passengers and other road users ⇒ :

• Check that all lights and turn signals are working properly.
• Check the tyre pressure ⇒ Wheels and tyres and fuel level ⇒ Fuel gauge.
• Ensure that you have a good, clear view through all of the windows.
• Secure any objects and luggage in the stowage compartments, the luggage compartment or on the roof ⇒ Transporting items.
• Ensure that you are able to operate the pedals freely at all times.
• Secure any children travelling in the vehicle in a restraint system suitable for their weight and size ⇒ Child seats.
• Adjust the front seats, head restraints and mirrors properly in accordance with the size of the occupants ⇒ Adjusting the seat position.
• Wear shoes that provide good grip for your feet when using the pedals.
• The floor mat in the footwell on the driver side must leave the pedal area free and must be securely fastened.
• Assume a correct sitting position before setting off and maintain this position while driving. This also applies to all passengers ⇒ Adjusting the seat position.
• Fasten your seat belt correctly before setting off and keep it properly fastened throughout the journey. This also applies to all passengers ⇒ Seat belts.
• Each vehicle occupant must sit in a seat of their own and must have their own seat belt.
• Never drive if your driving ability is impaired, e.g. by medication, alcohol or drugs.
• Do not allow yourself to be distracted from the traffic, e.g. by passengers, telephone calls, opening menus and making adjustments to settings.
• Always adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.
• Observe traffic regulations and speed limits.
• When travelling long distances, stop and take a break regularly - at least every 2 hours.
• Secure animals in the vehicle using a system that is suitable for their weight and size.

Regular servicing of your vehicle not only maintains its value, it also ensures that your vehicle remains roadworthy and in perfect working order. Servicing work should therefore be carried out in accordance with the service schedule. Some work may have to be carried out before the due date of the next service if the vehicle is subjected to severe operating conditions. Severe operating conditions are, for example, frequent stop and go driving, frequent driving with a trailer and driving in areas with high levels of dust. Further information can be obtained from your Volkswagen dealership or qualified workshop.

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings .

In some countries, special safety standards and emissions-related legislation apply that may differ from the construction of the vehicle. Volkswagen recommends that you visit your Volkswagen dealership before travelling abroad to find out about any legal requirements and the following issues at your destination:

• Does the vehicle need any technical modifications for driving abroad, e.g. masking or switching the headlights over?
• Are the necessary tools, diagnostic equipment and spare parts available for service and repair work?
• Are there any Volkswagen dealerships in the destination country?
• For petrol engines: is unleaded petrol with the correct octane number available?
• For diesel engines: is diesel with a low sulphur level available?
• For autogas engines: is autogas that complies with DIN EN 589 available?
• Is the correct engine oil and are the other service fluids available in accordance with Volkswagen specifications for the destination country?
• Does the factory-fitted navigation system work in the destination country with the navigation data available?
• Are special tyres required for driving in the destination country?

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings .

Please follow these rules to help prevent damage to your vehicle when driving through water, for example if the road is flooded:

• Check the depth of the water before driving through it. The water level must be no higher than the lower edge of the vehicle body ⇒ .
• Do not drive faster than walking speed.
• Never stop the vehicle, reverse or switch off the engine while in water.
• Oncoming vehicles create waves that could increase the water level for your vehicle to such an extent that it is not safe to drive through the water.
• When driving through water, always switch off the start/stop system.