check engine light VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN 2013 1.G Owners Manual

Lights
up Possible cause Proper response

One or more driving lights not working or
cornering light malfunction.
Replace burned out bulb or
if all light bulbs are OK, visit an authorized
Volkswagen dealer or authorized
Volkswagen Service facility.
Cornering light system malfunction. See an authorized Volkswagen dealer or
authorized Volkswagen Service Facility Adaptive Front Lighting System
malfunction.
; License plate light not working.
Replace the light bulb that isn't working
Error! Bookmark not defined.. If all light
bulbs are OK, see an authorized
Volkswagen dealer or an authorized
Volkswagen Service facility.



Left or right turn signal.
Check the turn signals on the vehicle and
the trailer. The indicator light blinks twice as fast if a
turn signal is not working on the vehicle or
the trailer.
 Daytime running lights (DRL) on. .
$2,
 High beams switched on or headlight
flashers in use.

When the ignition is switched on, several warning and indicator lights come on briefly for a function
check. They go out after a few seconds.
WARNING
Failure to heed warning lights and instrument cluster text messages can cause the vehicle to
break down in traffic and result in a collision and serious personal injury.
x Never ignore warning lights or text WARNINGS.
x Always stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.
x Whenever stalled or stopped for repair, move the vehicle a safe distance off the road, stop
the engine, turn on the emergency flashers, and use other warning devices to warn
approaching traffic.
x Never park the vehicle in areas where the hot catalytic converter and exhaust system can
come into contact with dry grass, brush, spilled fuel, oil, or other material that can catch fire.
x A broken down vehicle presents a high accident risk for itself and others. Switch on
emergency flashers and set up a warning triangle to warn oncoming traffic.
NOTICE
Failure to heed warning lights or text WARNINGS can result in vehicle damage.
High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights provide bright, uniform lighting to help you see and be
seen. The light comes from an electric arc between two electrodes in the gas-filled bulb. Over time, the
electrodes can wear down and the gap between them will get wider. The HID lamp’s control unit then

WARNING
Improper connections to the vehicle electrical system can cause malfunctions that affect the
entire vehicle electrical system, which can lead to accidents and serious personal injury.
x Have any work on the electrical system done by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or
authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
x Never connect the electrical system for the trailer directly to the electrical connections for
the rear lights or to any other unsuitable power sources. Use only a suitable connector to
provide power to the trailer.
NOTICE
Never attach a trailer to the vehicle or leave it attached to the vehicle when the trailer is
supported by a trailer jack or blocks. Various things (such as a change in trailer or vehicle load
or a flat tire) can lower or raise the vehicle. This subjects the trailer hitch and the trailer to
strong forces that can damage the vehicle or the trailer.
Any problems with the vehicle's electrical system when attached to a trailer should be checked
by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
If the engine is switched off and accessories in the trailer are on and use electricity from the
vehicle, the vehicle battery will be drained as long as the electrical systems of the vehicle and the
trailer are connected.
Loading the trailer

Brake fluid specifications
Volkswagen has developed a special brake fluid that is optimized for the brake system in your
Volkswagen. Volkswagen recommends that you expressly use brake fluid that conforms to quality
standard VW Standard 14 for optimum performance of the brake system. Check the information on
the container for the brake fluid you want to use to make sure it meets the requirements for your
vehicle.
Brake fluid that complies with VW Standard 14 can be purchased from your authorized Volkswagen
dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
If this special brake fluid is not available you may – under these circumstances – use another high-
quality brake fluid that complies with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) DOT 4
⇒ .
Please note, however, that not all brake fluids that comply with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard FMVSS DOT 4 have the same chemical composition. Some of these brake fluids can
contain chemicals that could, over time, degrade or damage internal parts of the vehicle’s brake
system.
Volkswagen therefore recommends that you use brake fluid that expressly complies with VW
Standard 14 for optimum brake system performance over the long term.
Brake fluid level
The fluid level in the transparent brake fluid reservoir must always be between the MIN and MAX
marking ⇒ .
On some vehicles, engine components block the view of the brake fluid reservoir and make it
impossible to see the brake fluid level. If you cannot clearly see the brake fluid level in the brake fluid
reservoir, please see an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
The brake fluid level drops slightly when the vehicle is being used as the brake pads wear and the
brakes are automatically adjusted.
Changing brake fluid
Brake fluid must be changed according to the service schedule in your ⇒ Booklet Warranty and
Maintenance. Have the brake fluid checked by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or an authorized
Volkswagen Service Facility. Refill only with new brake fluid that meets the standards listed above.
WARNING
Brake failure and reduced brake performance can be caused by not having enough brake
fluid in the reservoir or by old or incorrect brake fluid.
x Check the brake system and brake fluid level regularly.
x Always change the brake fluid according to the service schedule in your
⇒ Booklet Warranty and Maintenance.
x Hard braking with old brake fluid may cause vapor lock. Vapor lock reduces braking
performance, increases stopping distances and can even cause total brake failure.
x Always make sure that only the correct brake fluid is used. Only use brake fluid that
expressly conforms to VW Standard 14 or if it is not available, only use a high-quality brake
fluid that conforms to U.S. Standard FMVSS DOT 4 requirements.
x Using another brake fluid, or one that is not of high quality, can impair the function of the
brake system and reduce its effectiveness. If the container does not say that the brake fluid
complies with VW Standard 14, or U.S. Standard FMVSS DOT 4, do not use it.
x The brake fluid must be new.

Lights
up Possible cause Proper response
D
Power steering assist is reduced.
Stop, restart the engine, and drive a short
distance. If the yellow warning light does not
come on again, you do not need to have the
steering system checked.
Otherwise, have the steering checked
immediately by an authorized Volkswagen
dealer or an authorized Volkswagen Service
Facility.
Vehicle battery was disconnected and
has been reconnected.
Drive a short distance at about 10 - 12 mph
(15 - 20 km/h).


Flashes Possible cause Proper response
D Electronic steering column lock
malfunction.

WARNING
Poor visibility increases the risk of collisions and other accidents that cause serious
personal injuries.
x Always make sure all windows are clear of ice, snow and condensation for good visibility
to the front, sides, and rear.
x Maximum heating output and defrosting performance are not possible until the engine has
reached operating temperature. Wait until you have good visibility before driving off.
x Always make sure you know how to properly use the heating and ventilation systems as
well as the rear window defroster that you will need for good visibility.
x Never use air recirculation for long periods of time. When the air conditioner is off and
recirculation mode is on, condensation can quickly form on the windows and greatly reduce
visibility.
x Always switch off recirculation mode when it is not needed.
WARNING
Stale air causes driver fatigue and reduces driver alertness, which can cause accidents,
collisions and serious personal injury.
x Never switch off the fan for a long period of time and never use air recirculation a long
period of time because no fresh air will enter the passenger compartment.
NOTICE
x If you think the air conditioner is not working properly or may be damaged, switch it off to
help prevent more damage. Have the air conditioner checked by an authorized Volkswagen
dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
x Air conditioner repair requires specialized knowledge and special tools. Volkswagen
recommends that you see an authorized Volkswagen dealer or an authorized Volkswagen
Service Facility.
x Do not smoke when air recirculation is switched on. Smoke drawn into the ventilation
system can leave residue on the evaporator and on the dust and pollen active carbon filter,
resulting in permanent odors whenever the air conditioner is switched on.
If the air conditioner is switched off, the fresh outside air will not be dehumidified. To help keep
the windows from fogging over, Volkswagen recommends leaving the air conditioner (compressor)
switched on. Press the AC button. The indicator light in the button must come on.
When it is very hot and humid outside, water condensation can drip from the air conditioner
evaporator and form a puddle under the vehicle. This is normal and does not indicate a leak.
Keep the air intake slots in front of the windshield free of ice, snow and leaves in order to
maintain proper functioning of the heating and ventilation systems.
Maximum heating output and defrosting performance are not possible until the engine has
reached operating temperature.

WARNING
Moving parts in the engine compartment can cause serious personal injury on contact.
x Never reach into the area around or touch the radiator fan. Contact with the blades can
cause serious personal injury. Always remember that the radiator fan is temperature-
controlled and can come on suddenly even when the engine has been switched off for a while
and the key has been removed from the ignition.
x If you have to perform a check or repair when the engine is running, there are more risks
from the rotating parts, such as the drive belts, alternator, radiator fan, etc., and from the
high-voltage ignition system. Always use extreme care.
– Always make sure that jewelry, loose clothing and long hair do not get caught in
rotating engine parts. Before starting any work remove your jewelry, take off your necktie,
tie back and cover your hair, and do not wear clothing that can hang down and get caught
in moving engine parts.
– Always use extreme caution if the accelerator pedal has to be depressed to perform a
check. The vehicle will start to move even if the electronic parking brake is on.
x Never leave any objects in the engine compartment, for example cleaning rags and tools.
Objects left behind can cause malfunctions, engine damage, and even fires.
WARNING
Operating fluids and some materials in the engine compartment can catch fire easily, causing
burns and other serious personal injuries!
x Do not smoke.
x Never work next to open flames or sparks.
x Never pour or spill operating fluids or other flammable liquids on the engine. These fluids
can ignite on hot engine parts and cause injuries.
x If work on the fuel system or the electrical system is necessary:
– Always disconnect the 12 Volt vehicle battery. Make sure the vehicle is unlocked when
you disconnect the battery, or the alarm will go off. Never touch the electrical wiring of the
ignition system.
– Never work near heaters, water heaters, or other open flames.
x Always have a functional, approved fire extinguisher nearby.
NOTICE
When changing or topping off fluids, make sure that you pour the fluids into the correct
reservoirs. Adding the wrong type of operating fluids will cause serious malfunctions and
engine damage.
Fluid leaks are harmful to the environment. Regularly check the ground underneath your vehicle
for this reason. If you find spots of oil or other fluids, have your vehicle checked by your authorized
Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Dispose of leaked operating fluids
properly.
Warning light

When the hood is properly closed, you can see that it fits flush with the other body parts. The indicator
light in the instrument cluster will go out
WARNING
If the hood is not closed properly, it could fly up and block your view while you are driving.
This can lead to a crash and serious personal injuries.
x After closing the engine hood, check that the hood release lever is properly latched into
the hood latch. The engine hood must be flush with the surrounding auto body parts.
x If you ever notice that the hood latch is not properly secured when the vehicle is moving,
stop at once and close it.
x Never let anyone get in the way of the hood when closing it.
NOTICE
x Make sure the windshield wiper arms are resting on the windshield before you open the
hood. Otherwise, the windshield wipers and the hood may be damaged.
x Always put the windshield wiper arms down against the windshield before driving the
vehicle.
NOTICE
Before opening or closing the engine hood, make sure there is enough room to do so, for
example when the vehicle is in a garage.

Lights
up Possible cause Proper response
B
Engine control/monitoring system
malfunction (engine Malfunction Indicator
Light - MIL).
Ease off the accelerator. Carefully drive to the
nearest authorized Volkswagen dealer or
authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Have
engine checked.


Flashes Possible cause Proper response
B Misfire, which can damage the catalytic
converter.
Ease off the accelerator. Carefully drive to the
nearest authorized Volkswagen dealer or
authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Have
engine checked.

When the ignition is switched on, several warning and indicator lights come on briefly for a function
check. They go out after a few seconds.
NOTICE
Failure to heed warning lights or text WARNINGS can result in vehicle damage.
As long as the indicator lights x or EPC are on, expect engine malfunctions, increased fuel
consumption and loss of engine efficiency.
Catalytic Converter

Frequently asked questions
If you suspect a malfunction or vehicle damage, read and follow the following advice before contacting
an authorized Volkswagen dealer or an authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. You may also find
helpful information under “Characteristics” and “Checklist” in the index.

Description Possible causes among
others Possible remedy
Engine does not start.
Vehicle battery dead. – Perform jump start
– Charge vehicle battery
The wrong remote control
vehicle key is used.
Use a valid remote control vehicle key

Fuel level too low. Refuel
Vehicle cannot be locked
or unlocked using remote
control vehicle key.
– Battery in remote control
vehicle key dead.
– Too far away from vehicle.
– Buttons pressed outside
operating range.
– Replace battery in the remote control
key
– Move closer to vehicle.
– Synchronize remote control vehicle
key
– Lock or unlock vehicle manually
Unusual noises.
Cold engine, braking support
systems, electronic parking
brake.
Check the “Noises” entry in the
keyword index.
Driver seat and outside
mirrors when vehicle is
unlocked.
Convenience settings are
stored. Correct convenience settings
Memory-seat settings are
stored.
– Reassign seat setting
– Clear memory-seat memory
Front seats cannot be
adjusted with power
controls.
Vehicle battery dead. Charge vehicle battery
Fuse blown. Check fuse and replace if necessary
Features do not work as
described in this manual.
Settings were adjusted in the
Volkswagen Information
System.
Check and reset to factory settings if
necessary
Headlights do not light up
the road as they should.
– Headlights incorrectly
adjusted.
– Light bulbs burned out.
– Low beams not switched on.
Have the headlight range adjusted by
an authorized Volkswagen dealer or an
authorized Volkswagen Service
Facility. Adjust headlight range .
– Change light bulbs
– Switch on low beams
Electrical consumers do
not work.
Vehicle battery charge too low. Charge vehicle battery
Remaining fuel level too low. Refuel .
Fuse blown. Check fuse and replace if necessary

Fuel consumption higher
than indicated.
– Short hauls.
– “Jumpy gas pedal”.
– Avoid short distance driving.
– Drive defensively.
– Accelerate smoothly.
Electrical loads switched on. Switch off unnecessary loads.
Engine control malfunctioning. Have the malfunction corrected