engine VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN 2022 Repair Manual
[x] Cancel search | Manufacturer: VOLKSWAGEN, Model Year: 2022, Model line: TIGUAN, Model: VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN 2022Pages: 341, PDF Size: 6.11 MB
Page 153 of 341

Steering
Information on steering
The steering should be locked every time you leave the vehicle to make it more difficult for the 
vehicle to be stolen.
Steering
The power steering is not hydraulic. It is an electromechanical system. The advantage of this 
steering system is that no hydraulic hoses, hydraulic oil, pumps, filter or other parts are required. 
The electromechanical system reduces fuel consumption. A hydraulic system requires constant oil 
pressure in the system, whereas an electromechanical steering system only needs an energy 
supply while steering.
In vehicles with driving profile selection, the selected driving profile can affect the behaviour of the 
power steering ⇒ Driving profile selection and 4MOTION Active Control.
Electronic steering column lock in vehicles with starter button
The steering column will be locked if the driver door is opened and the ignition is switched off. For 
this, the vehicle should be stationary and, if necessary, the gear selector lever should be in position 
P.
If the ignition is not switched off until after the driver door is opened, the electronic steering column 
will only be locked when the vehicle is locked using the vehicle key or the sensor in the door 
handle.
Mechanical steering column lock (steering lockyf  L Q  Y H K L F O H V  Z L W K  D Q  
ignition lock
The steering column is locked if the vehicle key is removed from the ignition lock when the vehicle 
is stationary. Turn the steering wheel slightly until the steering lock clicks into place.
Insert the vehicle key into the ignition lock to unlock the steering lock. Turn the steering wheel 
slightly to take the load off the steering lock mechanism. Hold the steering wheel in this position and 
turn the ignition on.
Electromechanical steering
The power steering provided by the electromechanical steering system automatically adjusts to the 
vehicle speed, steering wheel torque and steering wheel angle. The electromechanical steering 
only functions when the engine is running.
You will need considerably more strength than normal to steer the vehicle if the power steering is 
reduced or has failed completely.
Counter steering assistance
Counter steering assistance provides the driver with power steering in critical driving situations. 
Additional steering power helps the driver when counter steering ⇒.
The intelligent Hill Descent Control technology cannot overcome the laws of physics, and 
functions only within the limits of the system. Never allow the extra convenience afforded 
by pull-away assist systems to tempt you into taking any risks when driving.
•Unintentional vehicle movements can cause serious injury.
•The Hill Descent Control cannot replace the full concentration of the driver.
•Always adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic 
conditions.
•A Hill Descent Control System may not be able to always hold the vehicle on uphill 
gradients or brake it sufficiently on all slopes going downhill (e.g. if the ground is 
slippery or icyyf .
WARNING
Always be prepared to brake the vehicle. Accidents and injuries could occur if this is not 
ensured.
•The Hill Descent Control system is only a support function and may not be able to 
brake the vehicle sufficiently in all situations when driving downhill.
•The vehicle may accelerate despite the Hill Descent Control system.
WARNING 
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Progressive steering
Depending on the vehicle equipment level, progressive steering can adjust the force of the steering 
movement in a driving situation. Progressive steering only functions when the engine is running.
In urban driving, smaller steering movements are required when parking, manoeuvring, or turning 
sharply.
When driving on country roads or on the motorway, the progressive steering provides a more 
sporty, direct steering response, and a dynamic feel.
Troubleshooting
Warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster
The indicator lamps light up.
Do not drive on! Electromechanical steering not functioning. The steering must be 
checked by a qualified workshop as soon as possible.Electromechanical steering function 
reduced. The steering must be checked by a qualified workshop as soon as possible. If the yellow 
warning lamp remains off after the engine has been restarted and you have driven a short distance, 
you do not need to consult a qualified workshop.The 12-volt battery has been disconnected 
and reconnected. Drive a short distance at a speed of 15 – 20 km/h (9 – 12 mphyf .
The indicator lamps flash.
Steering column twisted. Turn the steering wheel back and forth.Steering column not 
locked or unlocked. Remove the vehicle key from the ignition lock and switch the ignition back on 
again. Follow any messages that are on the instrument cluster display. Do not continue your 
journey if the steering column remains locked when the ignition is switched on. Seek expert 
assistance.
Driving profile selection and 4MOTION Active 
Control
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Selecting a driving profile (ONROADyf
⇒ Selecting a driving profile (4MOTION Action Controlyf
⇒ Adjusting the driving profile to suit your requirements
⇒ Troubleshooting
The driving profile selection contains 
factory-defined driving profiles which 
have different effects on the vehicle 
setup. You can also set your own 
vehicle setup by means of an individual 
driving profile.
Different driving profiles can be selected depending on the vehicle equipment level. The effect on 
the vehicle setup in the individual driving profiles depends on the vehicle equipment.
The settings available depend on the type of drive. Vehicles with a front-wheel drive come with 
ONROAD driving profiles ⇒ Selecting a driving profile (ONROADyf, while vehicles with all-wheel 
If the power steering is not working, the steering wheel is difficult to turn, which makes it 
difficult to steer the vehicle.
•The power steering only functions when the engine is running.
•Never allow the vehicle to roll if the engine is switched off.
•Never remove the vehicle key from the ignition lock when the vehicle is in motion. The 
steering column lock may be activated and it will no longer be possible to steer the 
vehicle.
WARNING
In conjunction with the ESC, counter steering assistance provides the driver with 
assistance when steering in critical driving situations. The driver must steer the vehicle at 
all times. Counter steering assistance does not steer the vehicle.
WARNING
The ignition of the vehicle being towed must be switched on to prevent the steering wheel 
from locking, and so that the turn signals, horn, wipers and window washer system can be 
used.
NOTICE 
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drive come with additional OFFROAD driving profiles ⇒ Selecting a driving profile (4MOTION 
Action Controlyf.
The driving profile can be changed when the vehicle is stationary or while driving ⇒. After 
selecting a driving profile, the vehicle settings (excluding engine settingsyf  D U H  V Z L W F K H G  W R  W K H  Q H Z  
profile mode immediately. When traffic conditions allow, briefly take your foot off the accelerator to 
activate the newly selected driving profile for the engine.
Some settings can be stored in the user accounts of the personalisation function and 
therefore change when the user account changes ⇒ Personalisation.
Selecting a driving profile (ONROADyf
Fig. 128 In the lower section of the centre console: driving profile selection button.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Selecting the driving profile
•Switch on the ignition.
•Press the driving profile selection button ⇒ Fig. 128.
•Touch the  function button in the Infotainment system to display additional information about 
the active driving profile.
•Touch the function button for the required driving profile.
•OR: press the driving profile button ⇒ Fig. 128 again to select the next driving profile.
If the Normal driving profile is selected, the LED in the driving profile selection button will remain 
switched off.
When the ignition is switched off, the set driving profile and the individual settings will remain 
selected.
The driving profiles Sport and Eco will also remain selected after the ignition has been switched 
off. However, settings for the engine or DSG dual clutch gearbox may switch to the Normal driving 
profile when the ignition is switched back on again.
In order to reactivate the sports function, the Sport driving profile must be selected again or the 
selector lever of the DSG dual clutch gearbox must be moved to S⇒ DSG dual clutch gearbox. 
To reactivate the eco functions, select the Eco driving profile again.
Recommended driving situations for each driving profile
•Eco: switches the vehicle into economical mode and helps the driver to drive the vehicle in a 
fuel-efficient manner. Coasting mode is available in the Eco driving profile.
•Comfort: the Comfort driving profile is available only for vehicles with adaptive chassis control 
(DCCyf   7 K H  G U L Y L Q J  S U R I L O H  F U H D W H V  D  F R P I R U W  E D V H G  Y H K L F O H  V H W X S  D Q G  L V  V X L W H G  W R  S R R U  T X D O L W \  
sections of road or long motorway journeys, for example.
•Normal: balanced setting, e.g. for everyday use.
•Sport: this setting gives the driver a sporty driving feeling.
•Individual: individual systems can be adjusted to suit personal requirements ⇒ Adjusting the 
driving profile to suit your requirements.
Effects of the driving profiles on the vehicle setup
•Adaptive chassis control (DCCyf
•Steering
•Powertrain (engine and gearboxyf
•Adaptive cruise control (ACCyf
•Dynamic cornering light and dynamic main beam control (Dynamic Light Assistyf
•Air conditioning system
Setting a driving mode while the vehicle is in motion can distract you from the road and 
cause accidents.
WARNING
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•Proactive occupant protection system
In vehicles with a DSG dual clutch gearbox, the system automatically changes to gear 
position S when the Sport driving profile is selected. The system automatically switches to gear 
position D when the Eco driving profile is selected. Since coasting is active in the Eco driving 
profile, the gearbox programme E is additionally displayed on the instrument cluster display.
The driver can adjust certain vehicle functions irrespective of the selected driving profile. For 
example, the driver can switch to gear position S when the Eco driving profile is selected.
Selecting a driving profile (4MOTION Action Controlyf
Fig. 129 In the lower section of the centre console: control for the 4MOTION Active Control in 
vehicles with all-wheel drive.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Key to ⇒ Fig. 129:
MODE button: Selects Onroad driving profiles and opens menu in the Infotainment system.
Snow driving profile.
On-road driving profile.
Off-road driving profile.
Off-road Individual driving profile.
Selecting the driving profile
•Switch on the ignition.
•Turn the control for the 4MOTION Active Control until the LED next to the desired driving profile 
lights up ⇒ Fig. 129.
•To switch through the Onroad driving profiles, press the MODE button or press an Onroad 
driving profile in the Infotainment system.
•Touch the  function button to display additional information about the active driving mode.
•Touch the function button for the required driving profile in the Infotainment system.
When the ignition is switched off, the set driving profile and the individual settings will remain 
selected.
If one of the driving profiles Snow, Off-road or Off-road Individual was the last active profile, the 
most recently active On-road driving profile is activated if the ignition remains switched off for a 
relatively long period.
The driving profile Sport will also remain selected after the ignition has been switched off. However, 
sport functions, e.g., for the engine and gearbox, can be deactivated when switching on the ignition 
again. To reactivate the sports functions, tip the gearbox selector lever to the rear ⇒ DSG dual 
clutch gearbox.
Recommended driving situations for each driving profile
•Snow: The Snow driving profile improves the efficiency of the accelerator on icy or snowy 
roads. In addition, the lane holding when cornering and the power in straight driving are also 
improved. The dynamic of the ACC Adaptive Cruise Control is restricted. The dynamic 
cornering light is adjusted to provide better support in poor visibility. It is not possible to shift into 
the S position in the Snow driving profile.
•Off-road: The Off-road driving profile improves the efficiency of the accelerator when driving 
off-road. The engine brake is always available and gearshifts can be prevented in critical 
situations. In the Off-road driving profile, the Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control are 
active. The dynamic cornering light is adjusted to provide better support in poor visibility. It is 
not possible to shift into the S position in the Off-road driving profile. When the driving profile is 
active, the instrument cluster displays the symbol m/k/s562MK.
Changing the driving profile can alter the vehicle handling. Never allow the driving profile 
selection to tempt you into taking any risks when driving.
•Always adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic 
conditions.
WARNING
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•Press the  button in the Infotainment system.
•Touch the Vehicle function button.
•Touch the Selection function button.
•Touch the Off-road function button.
Selecting instruments and setting units
The display shows various instruments ⇒ Fig. 130.
To change instruments, swipe vertically over the display.
The units can be adjusted for some instruments in the Infotainment system ⇒ Operation and 
display in the Infotainment system.
Instruments in the off-road display (depends on the vehicle's equipmentyf :
•Altitude: The altitude function shows the current height above sea level.
•Steering angle display: the steering angle of the vehicle is displayed in the range between -
49° and 49°. The value is positive for a left steering angle and negative for a right steering 
angle.
•Compass: the compass shows the current driving direction.
•Coolant temperature display: the display corresponds to the temperature display on the 
instrument cluster ⇒ Coolant temperature display. At high engine loads and with high outside 
temperatures, the needle will move clockwise. This is no cause for concern unless the 
indicator lamp in the instrument cluster is lit up or flashing.
•Oil temperature display: the needle is in the middle when the engine has reached operating 
temperature. If the needle is in the bottom left area, this means that the engine has not yet 
reached its operating temperature. At high engine loads and with high outside temperatures, the 
needle will move clockwise. This is no cause for concern unless the  indicator lamp in 
the instrument cluster is lit up or flashing ⇒ Engine oil.
Adapting the display areas to the driving situation
The displayed instruments can be selected depending on the driving situation, the ambient 
conditions and the off-road conditions:
•Sandy terrain: oil, steering angle and coolant temperature display
•Inclines: steering angle and coolant temperature display, altimeter
•Alpine terrain: steering angle display, altimeter, compass
Off-road driving situations
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Safety notes for driving off-road
⇒ Explanation of some technical terms
⇒ Checklist: Before driving off-road
⇒ General rules and driving tips
⇒ Useful accessories for off-road driving
⇒ Changing gear
⇒ Up hill and down dale
⇒ Driving through water
⇒ Off-road driving in snow
⇒ Driving in sand and mud
⇒ Driving in steep terrain
⇒ Traversing a slope
⇒ Driving through ditches
⇒ If your vehicle gets stuck
⇒ After off-road driving
You can also drive four-wheel drive vehicles off-road in addition to normal roads. It is very important 
to read the contents of this section before driving off-road.
The vehicle is not built for expeditions.
The examples given in this chapter are an aid for safe off-road driving. However, we cannot predict 
whether these guidelines will be valid for all situations that could occur.
The large variety of landscapes and the associated risks and dangers make it impossible to 
describe all possible driving situations. The examples are only general guidelines designed to help 
you drive off-road safely. It is crucial that you know what to expect when you drive into off-road 
terrain you are unfamiliar with. This will enable you to assess potential danger in advance.
Accidents and injuries can occur if the driver is distracted. Operating the Infotainment 
system can distract you from the road.
•Always drive carefully and responsibly.
WARNING 
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Explanation of some technical terms
Fig. 131 Illustration: angle of gradient.
The terrain might look harmless, but there could be hidden dangers. Potholes, hollows, 
ditches, precipices, obstacles, shallows, soft and boggy surfaces are often not 
recognisable as such and can be covered either fully or partly by water or grass or 
branches lying on the ground. Driving off-road over such terrain could cause accidents, 
serious injury and also a vehicle breakdown.
•Check any unknown sections of the route on foot carefully before driving.
•Never choose an unsafe route or take a risk which could endanger you or your 
passengers. If you are in any doubt about the safety of the route, turn back and choose 
another route.
•Always adjust your speed and driving to match vehicle load levels and off-road, 
visibility and weather conditions.
WARNING
•Always avoid traversing a slope ⇒ Traversing a slope.
•Vehicle occupants should never leave the vehicle via the doors facing down the hill 
when parked sideways on a steep hill. The combined centre of gravity of the vehicle 
and its payload (vehicle occupants and payloadyf  F D Q  V K L I W  D Q G  F D X V H  W K H  Y H K L F O H  W R  U R O O  
over and roll down the incline. Always leave the vehicle slowly via the doors which 
open up the incline ⇒ Traversing a slope.
WARNING
The cruise control system has been designed for use on surfaced roads only. The cruise 
control system is not suitable for use off-road and may even be hazardous. If you use the 
cruise control system while driving off-road, you may lose control over the vehicle and 
sustain severe injuries.
•Never use the cruise control system when driving off-road.
WARNING
The area monitoring system (Front Assistyf  Z D V  G H Y H O R S H G  I R U  X V H  R Q  S D Y H G  U R D G V  R Q O \   
The area monitoring system is not suitable for use off-road and may even be hazardous. If 
you use the area monitoring system while driving off-road, you may lose control over the 
vehicle and sustain severe injuries.
•Never use the area monitoring system when driving off-road.
WARNING
Driving the vehicle when the fuel level is too low could lead to your vehicle breaking down 
off-road, accidents and serious injuries.
•When the fuel level is too low, the fuel supply to the engine could be irregular, 
especially when driving up or down hills and inclines.
•The steering, all driver assist systems and brake support systems will not function if 
the engine sputters or stops completely due to a lack of fuel or irregular fuel supply.
•Always fill the tank when it is still 1/4 full. This reduces the risk of running out of fuel 
and breaking down.
WARNING
Any rain entering the vehicle when the windows or glass roof are open can soak the 
interior equipment and cause damage to the vehicle. Always keep the windows and glass 
roof closed when driving off-road.
NOTICE 
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Obtain sufficient information before driving into off-road terrain with the vehicle.
Do not plan day tours that are too long. Take increased fuel requirements for off-road 
driving into account.
Refill tank completely. Fuel consumption is considerably higher off-road.
Check that your tyres are suitable for the off-road journey you have planned. 
Recommendation for difficult off-road terrain: always have off-road tyres fitted to your 
vehicle.
Check the tyre pressure on all tyres and correct them if necessary. This includes the 
temporary spare wheel, if fitted.
Check engine oil level and refill engine oil as necessary. The engine will only be supplied 
with engine oil when it is driven on or across a steep slope if the engine oil level is 
sufficient.
Completely refill the washer fluid reservoir with water and washer fluid.
Fit the towing eye at the front and rear. It is not always possible to fit a towing eye when 
the vehicle is stuck.
Check the vehicle tool kit and add tools according to individual requirements Useful 
accessories for off-road driving.
Pack luggage in the vehicle as evenly and as low as possible. Secure all loose items.
Fig. 132 Illustration: angle of tilt.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Centre of gravityThe centre of gravity of a vehicle influences its propensity to roll over. The vehicle 
has greater ground clearance for off-road driving, and thus a higher centre of gravity than a normal 
vehicle. The high centre of gravity means that there is a greater danger of roll-over when driving. 
Always remember this fact when driving and follow the safety tips and warnings given in this 
owner's manual.Ground clearanceThis is the vertical distance between the level ground and the 
lowest item on the vehicle.Angle of rising gradientThe number of metres in height gained over a 
distance of 100 m will be given as a percentage or degree ⇒ Fig. 131. Indication of gradient that 
the vehicle can drive up under its own power. This depends on aspects such as the road surface 
and engine power.Tilt angleMaximum angle at which the vehicle may be driven across a slope 
without the vehicle toppling over (determined by centre of gravityyf  ⇒ Fig. 132.Breakover 
angleMaximum permitted angle given in degrees that a vehicle driven at low speed can clear a 
ramp without the underbody of the vehicle scraping the ramp.Ramp angleCrossover from the 
horizontal level surface to an uphill gradient, or from a downhill gradient back to the level surface. 
Angle at which the vehicle underbody will come into contact with the edge of the ramp.Fall lineThis 
is the vertical drop route.Torsional flexibilityThe vehicle's torsional flexibility when driving over 
objects with just one side of the vehicle.
Checklist: Before driving off-road
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Checklist
To ensure your own safety and the safety of your passengers, observe the following points 
before driving off-road:
Before driving off-road, Volkswagen recommends attending an off-road driving course, particularly if 
you have no or very little experience.
A good driving course will teach you how to handle the vehicle in a variety of off-road situations and 
how to drive safely in difficult terrain. Driving off-road demands different skills and driving styles in 
comparison to driving on roads. The safety of the driver and the vehicle occupants depends on the 
driver.
General rules and driving tips
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Code of conduct for off-road driving
A responsible driver should respect the environment when driving off-road. Remember that driving 
through undergrowth and on meadows can destroy animal and plant habitats.
•Always stay on designated routes and paths.
•Do not create any unnecessary noise or dust.
•Leave nature as you found it.
•Avoid sensitive natural habitats. 
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Water, compass, maps and torch with spare batteries.
Winch, tow bar or rope with sufficient strength.
Mobile telephone, shovel, blankets and rubber boots.
Electric air compressor for connection to the 12-volt sockets in the vehicle to inflate the 
tyres.
A wooden board approx. 4 cm thick and approx. 1 metre long or an aluminium frame of 
similar size: this will help to free a vehicle stuck in the mud and provide a platform for a 
vehicle jack.
Snow chains, additional spare wheels, a breakdown set, jack and box spanner.
•Give way to drivers coming uphill or who are overtaking.
Driving tips
Special rules apply when driving off-road:
•Never drive off-road alone. Always drive off-road in a team of at least two other off-road 
vehicles. Unexpected situations can always occur. We recommend that you carry equipment 
you can use for calling for help.
•Stop your vehicle when you reach difficult sections, and walk along the path ahead to 
reconnoitre it.
•Drive slowly over the brows of hills so the vehicle does not lose contact with the ground as this 
could cause damage, leaving you unable to manoeuvre.
•Drive slowly when the route is difficult. Shift up a gear when on slippery ground and always 
keep the vehicle in motion.
•Always look for flat and firm surfaces. The ground is predominantly soft when driving off-road 
meaning the tyres could sink into the ground. This will reduce ground clearance and the wading 
depth.
•Even when driving at low speeds, always keep your distance from other vehicles. If the first 
vehicle suddenly gets stuck, the following vehicle can stop without getting stuck.
Useful accessories for off-road driving
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The checklist contains just a few items of equipment that can be very useful for off-road driving. If 
you have an instruction manual or fitting instructions for these accessories you should always take 
them with you and consult them as necessary when driving off-road.
Checklist
Useful items when driving off-road:
Changing gear
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The choice of gear depends on the terrain off-road.
Before attempting to drive through difficult terrain it can be helpful to stop and consider which gear 
you should select. After some time driving off-road, you will learn which gear to select in conjunction 
with the low range and the differential lock for different types of terrain.
Basic points
•With the correct gear selected, the vehicle will normally not have to be braked so much using 
the foot brake when driving downhill as the engine braking effect will normally be sufficient.
•You should only depress the accelerator as much as is required. If you accelerate too hard, the 
wheels could lose traction and you could lose control of the vehicle.
DSG dual clutch gearbox
•Select position D when driving in normal, flat off-road terrain.
•Adjust your speed when driving on soft or slippery ground, and select the highest suitable 
position for the Tiptronic.
•If driving through mud, sand, water or hilly terrain, select the Tiptronic in the positions 3 or 
2⇒ DSG dual clutch gearbox.
•Always ensure that there is enough ground clearance underneath the vehicle. Serious 
damage to the underbody could occur if the vehicle is scraped. This damage could 
cause the vehicle to break down and thus make it impossible to drive on.
•Do not slip the clutch or rest your foot on the clutch when driving off-road. When 
travelling over uneven ground, you could press the clutch by mistake, and lose control 
of the vehicle. A slipped clutch also prevents power being transferred from the engine 
to the gearbox. Driving with the clutch partially engaged causes premature wear to the 
clutch lining.
NOTICE
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•Use the Off-road display ⇒ Off-road display.
Up hill and down dale
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Use off-road mode ⇒ Selecting a driving profile (4MOTION Action Controlyf.
You should drive through rocky terrain at walking pace.
If you are not able to drive around a stone, drive carefully onto the stone with one front wheel and 
drive over it slowly ⇒.
Escaping engine oil and brake fluid can pollute the environment. Spilt service fluids must be 
collected and then disposed of properly and in an environmentally responsible way.
Driving through water
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Driving through flooded terrain could damage the vehicle ⇒ Checklist: Before driving off-road.
You can drive the vehicle carefully through water with a depth reaching to the bottom edge of the 
body, for example puddles or shallow water. Never stop in the water, do not drive in reverse, and 
never switch off the engine.
Off-road driving in snow
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Fit snow chains to the front wheels only before driving on snow-covered terrain.
Terrain might look harmless, but there could be hidden dangers. This is particularly true of sections 
where there are no tyre tracks.
•You should never drive straight over large obstacles, e.g. boulders or tree stumps, or 
drive over such obstacles with one side of the vehicle. Obstacles which require more 
ground clearance than is available could damage vehicle components when you drive 
over them and thus cause the vehicle to break down.
•Even obstacles that are smaller than the ground clearance selected could come into 
contact with the vehicle underbody and thus cause damage which could lead to a 
vehicle breakdown. This applies in particular if there is a ditch or soft ground either in 
front of or behind the obstacle. This also applies in cases when you drive too quickly 
over the obstacle causing the vehicle to bounce.
NOTICE
Strong flowing water can develop enormous power and sweep the vehicle away. This can 
lead to very dangerous situations which can cause accidents and serious or even fatal 
accidents.
•Never allow the vehicle to stand still in water.
•Water in the engine compartment can cause the vehicle to breakdown in the water.
•Soft ground surface, underwater obstacles and shallows can cause accidents and can 
cause the vehicle to breakdown in the water. This could lead to critical situations.
WARNING
If you drive through water, parts of the vehicle, such as the engine, drive train, running 
gear and vehicle electrics, could sustain severe damage.
•When driving through water, always select a section where the ground is solid and 
where the depth of the water does not exceed the maximum permitted wading depth of 
the vehicle.
•Never drive through salt, salty surfaces or salt water as salt can cause corrosion. Rinse 
all components that have been exposed to salt or salt water thoroughly with fresh 
water.
NOTICE 
Page 165 of 341

•Accelerate only to the speed you need to climb the slope. Too much acceleration can cause the 
wheels to spin and lead to a loss of control of the vehicle. Too little acceleration increases the 
probability of stalling the engine.
•Never attempt to stop or turn on a slope.
•Avoid allowing the engine to stall.
•Do not change gear or engage the clutch when climbing a slope.
•Use the Off-road display ⇒ Off-road display.
If you cannot continue to drive up a hill
•Never turn the vehicle around on an incline.
•If the engine has stalled, depress the footbrake and start the engine again.
•Select the reverse gear and reverse back in a straight line slowly.
•Use the foot brake to keep a constant speed until you have reached a safe place.
Driving downhill
Never exceed the inclination angle of the vehicle! If, in an emergency, you have to traverse the 
slope when driving down it and the vehicle threatens to tip over, steer downhill along the maximum 
gradient.
There is an increased risk of rolling over when driving downhill. Concentrate on steering the vehicle 
in particular when driving downhill.
Use the off-road display on steep downhill stretches ⇒ Off-road display.
•Drive down steep inclines in first gear.
•Use the foot brake sparingly in order not to lose control of the vehicle.
•If it is possible and not dangerous, drive straight down the slope on the maximum gradient (in 
the fall lineyf .
•Do not press the clutch and do not select neutral.
Traversing a slope
Fig. 133 Steering downhill along the maximum gradient.
Never try driving up or down an incline if it is too steep for the vehicle. The vehicle could 
slide away, tip over or roll.
•The gradient of the slope up or downhill may be no greater than the maximum 
permissible gradient for the vehicle.
•Always drive up and downhill along the maximum gradient only.
•Never turn the vehicle when driving up or downhill. The vehicle could tip over or slide 
away sideways.
•If the engine stops or if you cannot drive on for any reason: stop the vehicle and 
depress the brake pedal. Start the engine again. Select the reverse gear, release the 
brake pedal and using the engine braking effect to carefully reverse in a straight line 
along the fall line. Keep the vehicle speed low and constant.
•If you are unable to start the engine, keep your foot steady on the brake pedal and 
allow the vehicle to roll back down the track you made when driving up the hill. Keep 
the vehicle speed low and constant.
•Never let the vehicle coast out of gear backwards down a slope. You could lose control 
over the vehicle.
WARNING