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Engine coolant
Introduction
In this section you’ll find information about:
Warning light and engine coolant temperature gauge
Engine coolant specifications
Checking engine coolant level and topping off
Never do any work on the coolant system unless you
know exactly how to CARry out the job,
have the correct technical informati on and th e pro pe r tools, supplies, and operating fluids, and
are familiar with the necessary safety precautions ⇒
If you are uncertain in any way, have the work done by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or an
authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
Serious personal injury may result from improperly performed work.
!
More information:
Trailer towing
Preparations for working in the engine compartment
Parts, accessories, repairs and modifications
WARNING
.
Engine coolant is poisonous!
Always keep the coolant in its original container stored in a safe place.
To reduce the risk of poisoning, never store engine coolant in empty food or beverage
containers or in any other containers that might mislead someone into drinking from them.
Always keep engine coolant out of reach of children.
Always make sure there is enough of t he cor rect coolant additive to provide proper
antifreeze protection at the coldest temperatures that can be expected where the vehicle will
be used.
At extremely cold temperatures, the coolant could freeze, causing the vehicle to break
down. The heater would also not w ork, and vehicle occupants could be without protection at
subfreezing temperatures.
Coolant and coolant additives can pollute the environment. Collect leaking operating fluids and
dispose of them properly in accordance with applicable environmental laws and regulations.
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Warning light and engine coolant temperatur e gaug e
Fig. 289 Engine coolant temperature gauge in the instrument cluster: A Engine cold; B Normal temperature
range; C Warning zone.
Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS
If the indicator in the engine coolant temperature gauge is located in the cold range (A), the engine
has not reached operating temperature. High engine speeds and heavy engine loads should be
avoided.
Under normal driving conditions, the needle should be in the middle of the gauge. The temperature
may go higher when the engine is working hard, especially in hot weather.
When the ignition is switched on, several warning and indicator lights com e on brief l y for a funct i o n
check. They go out after a few seconds.
The following table explains what to do if the engine coolant warnin g light
seconds after the engine is started or lights up or starts flashing while driving.
Temperature
Flashes
gauge needle
⇒ fi
. 289
Possible cause Proper response
does not go out a few
¿
Stop!
Pull off the road and stop as soon as you
can do so safely. Stop the engine and let it
cool down until the temperature needle is in
the normal range again. Check the engine
coolant level and add coolant if needed
If the engine coolant level is correct or the
(C)
Warning zone
Engine coolant
temperature too high.
problem continues after adding coolant and
driving a short distance, do not drive any
farther. Contact the nearest authorized
Volkswagen dealer or authorized
Volkswagen Service Facility.
If the coolant level is correct, the
overheating may be caused by a radiator
fan fault. Check the fuses and replac e as
necessary