Checking the coolant level and refilling coolant Checking engine coolant level The coolant may be above the marked area upon delivery of new vehicles or after repairs to the cooling system. This is normal. The coolant does not have to be sucked off. – When the engine is cold, check the coolant level at the side markings of the coolant ex- pansion tank. → Fig. 140 Please refer to and on page 165 and at the start of the chapter on page 175. – Have coolant added if the fluid level in the coolant expansion tank is below the minimum marking (“min”). When the engine is warm, the engine coolant level may be slightly above the upper mark(“max”).
Warning lamp If the engine coolant level is too low, the warning lamp will flash. Fig. 140 In the engine compartment: markings on the coolant expansion tank (illustration). Do not drive on! Stop as soon as practicable and safe to do so. Seek expert assistance. Adding coolant If the coolant level is too low and there is no qualified workshop nearby, the following matters when adding the coolant by yourself: – Always protect your hands and arms from hot coolant or steam with a large, thick cloth if you have to open the cap of the coolant tank. – Unscrew the lid carefully → . Fig. 141 In the engine compartment:
coolant ex- pansion tank cap (illustration) – Fill only with in coolant according to Volkswa- gen’s specification( → page 174) → . If the engine coolant level is too low, the warning lamp will flash. – Do not add coolant if there is no longer any coolant visible in the coolant expansion tank. This may damage the engine! If there is no coolant in the engine coolant expansion tank, do not drive on, seek expert assistance. Preparations – Park the vehicle on a firm and level surface. – If there is any coolant left in the coolant ex- pansion tank, add the coolant until the level remains stable. – Allow the engine to cool down → . – Open the bonnet → page 165.
– The coolant expansion tank is identified by the symbol on the cap → Fig. 141 . – The coolant level must be within the marked area of the engine coolant expansion tank. → Fig. 140 Do not fill coolant above the top edge of the marked area on the coolant tank → . – Close the cap tightly. – If in an emergency you do not have access to coolant with the required specifica- tion → page 174, do not use any other coolant additive, the qualified workshop shall be con- tacted immediately for treatment, and the Owner's manual 176