check engine light VOLKSWAGEN UP! 2021 Owner´s Manual

Indicator lamps
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Lit upPossible causeSolution
The start/stop system is not available.
Automatic engine stop active.
The start/stop system is available, but an
automatic engine stop is not possible.
Check whether all technical requirements
have been fulfilled. If not, remedy any
shortfalls ⇒ Start/stop system.
Start/stop system cannot start the engine.
Start the engine again manually using the
vehicle key ⇒ Starting and stopping the
engine.
Fault in the alternator.⇒ Vehicle battery
FlashesPossible causeSolution
Start/stop system not available.Proceed to a qualified workshop.
Several warning and indicator lamps will light up briefly as a functional check when the ignition is
switched on. They will switch off after a few seconds.
Start/stop system
Fig. 103 In the upper part of the centre console: button for the start/stop system
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
When the start/stop system is active, the engine is switched off whenever the vehicle is stationary.
The engine then restarts automatically as soon as it is required.
The function is automatically activated every time the ignition is switched on. The instrument cluster
display shows information about the current status ⇒ Indicator lamps.
Always switch off the start/stop system manually when driving through water.
Vehicles with a manual gearbox
•When the vehicle is stationary, disengage the gear and release the clutch pedal. The engine is
stopped.
The intelligent technology of the pull-away assist systems cannot overcome the laws of
physics. Never let the extra convenience afforded by pull-away assist systems tempt you into
taking any risks when driving – this can cause accidents.
•Unintentional vehicle movements can cause serious injury.
•The pull-away assist systems cannot replace the full concentration of the driver.
•Always adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic
conditions.
•A pull-away assist system cannot hold the vehicle in all hill start situations or brake it
sufficiently on all slopes going downhill (e.g. if the ground is slippery or icy).
WARNING
Failure to observe the warning lamps could lead to your vehicle breaking down in traffic, and
to accidents and serious injuries.
•Never ignore any warning lamps that are lit up.
•Stop the vehicle as soon as it is possible and safe to do so.
WARNING
Failure to observe the illuminated indicator lamps could lead to the vehicle being damaged.
NOTICE

•If vehicles are travelling towards you in the same lane.
•If the surrounding vehicles are very dirty and therefore not very reflective.
•If there is a lot of dust.
Air conditioning system
Heating, ventilating, cooling
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Controls
⇒ General information on the heating and fresh air system
⇒ Information on the air conditioning system
⇒ Vents
⇒ Air recirculation mode
Dust and pollen filter
The dust and pollen filter reduces the level of impurities in the outside air entering the vehicle.
The dust and pollen filter must be changed regularly to avoid impairing the performance of the air
conditioning system.
The dust and pollen filter must be changed more frequently than stated in the service schedule if
the efficiency of the filter declines prematurely due to the vehicle being used in areas with high
levels of air pollution.
Additional information and warnings:
•Exterior views ⇒ Exterior views
•Volkswagen information system ⇒ Volkswagen information system
•Windscreen wiper/washer ⇒ Windscreen wiper and washer
•Cleaning and caring for the vehicle exterior ⇒ Caring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior
If the cooling system is switched off, the outside air that is drawn into the vehicle is not
dehumidified. To prevent the windows misting over, Volkswagen recommends that you leave the air
conditioning (compressor) switched on. Press the button. The indicator lamp in the button
must light up.
Maximum heat output, which is needed to defrost the windows as quickly as possible, is only
available when the engine has reached its operating temperature.
Poor visibility through all windows increases the risk of collisions and accidents, which can
cause serious injuries.
•Always ensure that all windows are free of ice, snow and mist to ensure good visibility.
•Maximum heat output, which is needed to defrost the windows as quickly as possible, is
only available when the engine has reached its operating temperature. Do not start your
journey until you have good visibility.
•Always ensure that the heating and fresh air system or the air conditioning system and the
heated rear window are used correctly in order to have good visibility.
•Never use the air recirculation mode for an extended period. If the cooling system is
switched off, the windows can mist up very quickly in air recirculation mode and reduce
visibility considerably.
•Always switch off the air recirculation mode when it is not required.
WARNING
Stale air can quickly cause tiredness and lack of concentration in the driver, which in turn can
cause collisions, accidents and serious injuries.
•Never switch off the blowers or switch on the air recirculation mode for an extended period
as this prevents fresh air from entering the vehicle interior.
WARNING
•Switch off the air conditioning system if you suspect that it has been damaged. This can
help to prevent further damage. The air conditioning system should be checked by a
qualified workshop.
•Repairs to the air conditioning system require specialist knowledge and special tools.
Volkswagen recommends using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.
NOTICE

General information on the heating and fresh air system
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The required interior temperature cannot be lower than the outside temperature as the heating and
fresh air system cannot cool or dehumidify the air.
Settings for optimal road visibility
•Set blower ⇒ Fig. 112② to level 1 or 2.
•Open and position all vents on the dash panel ⇒ Vents.
•Turn the air distribution controller ⇒ Fig. 112③ to the defrost position.
Information on the air conditioning system
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The cooling system for the vehicle interior only works when the engine is running and the blower is
switched on.
The air conditioning system operates most effectively with the windows and the electric panorama
sliding and tilting glass roof closed. However, if the vehicle has heated up after standing in the sun
for some time, the air inside can be cooled more quickly by opening the windows and the electric
panorama sliding and tilting glass roof for a short time.
Settings for optimal road visibility
Switching the cooling system on not only reduces the temperature of the vehicle interior, but also
the humidity. This improves comfort for the vehicle occupants and prevents the windows from
misting when the outside humidity is high.
•Switch off air recirculation mode ⇒ Air recirculation mode.
•Set the blowers to the required level.
•Open and position all vents on the dash panel ⇒ Vents.
•Turn the air distribution controller to the defrost position.
•Press the button to switch the cooling system on. The indicator lamp in the button
lights up.
The cooling system cannot be switched on
The following criteria may prevent the cooling system from being switched on:
•The engine is not running.
•The blower is switched off.
•The air conditioning system fuse has blown.
•The ambient temperature is lower than approximately +2℃ (+36°F).
•The compressor has been temporarily switched off because the coolant temperature is too high.
•There is a different fault in the vehicle. The air conditioning system should be checked by a
qualified workshop.
Things to note
If the humidity and temperature outside the vehicle are high, condensation can drip off the
evaporator in the cooling system and form a pool underneath the vehicle. This is normal and does
not indicate a leak.
The windscreen may mist up after starting the engine due to residual humidity in the air
conditioning system. Switch the defrost function on in order to clear the windscreen of condensation
or mist as quickly as possible.
Vents
Fig. 114 In the dash panel: vents
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction

Fig. 115 In the instrument cluster: variant A: fuel gauge for petrol, variant B: fuel gauge for petrol
Fig. 116 In the instrument cluster display: fuel gauge for petrol
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The fuel gauge can vary according to the vehicle equipment level ⇒ Fig. 115 or ⇒ Fig. 116.
Lit upNeedle position
⇒ Fig. 115
Possible cause ⇒Solution
Red marking ①
Fuel tank nearly empty.
Reserve quantity is being used
⇒ Capacities.
Fill the tank with petrol
as soon as possible ⇒
.
Blue marking ②
Natural gas fuel tank nearly
empty.
Reserve quantity is being used.
Refuel with natural gas
as soon as possible ⇒
.
Flashes for
approximately
10 seconds
Position of the
bar ⇒ Fig. 116
Possible cause ⇒Solution
Reserve fuel
marking flashes for
approximately 10
seconds (four small
segments)
Fuel tank nearly empty.
Reserve quantity is being used
⇒ Capacities.
Fill the tank as soon as
possible ⇒.
Several warning and indicator lamps will light up briefly as a functional check when the ignition is
switched on. They will switch off after a few seconds.
Natural gas engines
Things to note: if the vehicle is parked for an extended period directly after refuelling, it may well
occur that the pointer for the natural gas engine does not indicate the fuel level shown directly after
refuelling. This does not mean that there is a leak in the system but but rather that, for technical
reasons the pressure has been decreased in the natural gas tank.
The small arrow next to the petrol pump symbol ⇒ Fig. 115 in the display instrument shows
you the side of the vehicle on which the tank flap is located.
Only applies for vehicles with a fuel gauge in the instrument cluster ⇒ Fig. 115.
Only applies for vehicles with a fuel gauge in the instrument cluster display ⇒ Fig. 116.
Filling the tank with petrol
a)
b)
Driving the vehicle when the fuel level is too low could lead to your vehicle breaking down in
traffic, 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 assist 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
•To avoid damage to your vehicle, always observe the indicator lamps and associated
warning texts.
•Do not run the tank empty. Irregular filling periods can cause backfiring and allow unburnt
fuel to enter the exhaust system. This could cause damage to the catalytic converter!
NOTICE
a)
b)

Windscreen washer fluid level Windscreen wiper and washer
Engine oil level Engine oil
Engine coolant level Coolant
Brake fluid level Braking, stopping and parking
Tyre pressure Wheels and tyres
equipment, service fluids and unsuitable tools are not available ⇒ Preparation for working in the
engine compartment! The work should be carried out by a qualified workshop if you are
uncertain. Please ensure that the following are checked regularly, preferably every time you fill
the tank:
Vehicle lighting necessary for traffic safety:
- Turn signals
- Side lights, dipped beam headlights and main beam headlights
- Tail light cluster
- Brake lights
- Rear fog light ⇒ Lights
Information on changing bulbs ⇒ Changing bulbs.
Fuel
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Petrol
⇒ Natural gas
Different engines require different fuels. The factory-fitted sticker on the inside of the tank flap
indicates the fuel type that is required for your particular vehicle.
Volkswagen recommends using low-sulphur or sulphur-free fuels, to help reduce fuel consumption
and prevent damage to the engine.
If the engine is not running smoothly or begins to judder, this can indicate poor or inadequate fuel
quality, e.g. water in the fuel. If these symptoms appear, reduce the vehicle speed immediately and
drive to the nearest qualified workshop at medium engine speeds, avoiding high engine loading. If
these symptoms occur immediately after the vehicle has been refuelled, switch the engine off as
soon as it is safe to do so and seek expert assistance. This can help to prevent further damage.
Additional information and warnings:
•⇒BookletService schedule,
•Filling the tank ⇒ Filling the tank
•Engine management and exhaust system ⇒ Engine management system and exhaust
purification system
Petrol
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Petrol types
Vehicles with a petrol engine must be run on unleaded petrol in compliance with the European
standard EN 228 or DIN 51626-1 ⇒. Fuels with a maximum ethanol content of 10% (E10) can
be used for refuelling.
Petrol types are categorised according to their octane number, e.g. 91, 95, 98 or 99 RON (RON =
Research Octane Number). The vehicle may be filled with petrol that has a higher octane number
Incorrect handling of fuel can cause explosions, fire and serious burns and injuries.
•Fuel is highly explosive and inflammable.
•Never handle fuel near open flames, sparks or glowing matter (e.g. cigarettes).
•Keep naked flames, hot parts and sparks at a safe distance.
•Switch off your mobile telephone or two-way radio when dealing with fuel. Electromagnetic
radiation can generate sparks which can in turn start a fire.
•Avoid electrostatic discharge and electromagnetic radiation in the direct vicinity of fuels.
•Never spill fuel in the vehicle or in the luggage compartment.
•Comply with any relevant safety information and legislation concerning the handling of
fuels.
WARNING

than the engine requires. However, this does not provide any advantage in terms of fuel
consumption or engine output.
Volkswagen recommends using fuel with a low sulphur content or sulphur-free fuel for petrol
engines in order to achieve reduced fuel consumption.
Petrol additives
The quality of petrol influences the running properties, performance and service life of the engine.
This is why the vehicle should be refuelled with good quality petrol that has only non-metallic
additives pre-added by the petroleum industry. These petrol additives help to prevent corrosion,
keep the fuel system clean, and prevent the build-up of deposits in the engine.
If good quality petrol containing non-metallic additives is not available, or if engine problems arise,
the necessary petrol additives must be added to the petrol when refuelling ⇒.
Not all petrol additives are effective. The use of unsuitable petrol additives can cause considerable
damage to the engine and catalytic converter. Metallic additives should be avoided at all times.
Petrol additives on sale that are intended to improve knock resistance or increase the octane
number can also contain metallic additives ⇒.
Volkswagen recommends genuine Volkswagen or Audi fuel additives for petrol engines. These
additives and information on how to use them are available from your Volkswagen dealership.
Natural gas engines
Run the petrol tank empty every 6 months until the indicator lamp  lights up. This is necessary to
maintain the required system function for petrol mode and fuel quality.
Natural gas
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Natural gas
Natural gas can be delivered in compressed or liquefied form.
Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is produced by rapid cooling of the natural gas. This decreases the
volume considerably in comparison to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). A vehicle equipped with a
natural gas engine may not be refilled directly with liquefied natural gas as the gas would expand
too much once in the tank in the vehicle.
Vehicles fitted with a natural gas engine may therefore only be refilled and driven using
compressed natural gas ⇒.
Natural gas quality and consumption
Natural gas is available in two grades: H-gas and L-gas.
H-gas has a higher calorific value and a lower nitrogen and carbon dioxide content. The higher the
calorific value of the natural gas the lower the levels of consumption.
The calorific value and the nitrogen or carbon dioxide values may, however, vary within one quality
group. For this reason, the vehicle consumption may vary when using natural gas of the same
quality.
•Before filling up with petrol, check whether the fuel corresponds to the vehicle's
requirements according to the fuel standard information at the pump.
•Only use fuel that complies with EN 228 or DIN 51626-1 and has the correct octane
number. Otherwise, the engine and the fuel system can suffer considerable damage. The
engine can also lose power or fail.
•The use of unsuitable petrol additives can cause considerable damage to the engine and
catalytic converter.
•If, in an emergency, you have to use petrol with an octane number lower than the
recommended number, drive at medium engine speeds and avoid high engine loading.
Avoid high engine speeds and heavy engine loads. Failure to do so can result in engine
damage. Fill the tank with petrol with the correct octane number as soon as possible.
•Fuels that are identified at the fuel pump as containing metallic additives may not be used.
LRP fuel (lead replacement petrol) also contains high concentrations of metallic additives.
Risk of engine damage!
•Just one tankful of leaded fuel, or fuel containing other metallic additives, can seriously
impair the efficiency of the catalytic converter and can also cause considerable damage to
the catalytic converter and engine.
NOTICE

Coolant and coolant additives can pollute the environment. Spilt operating fluids must be
collected and disposed of properly and with respect for the environment.
Warning lamp for coolant
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Several warning and indicator lamps will light up briefly as a functional check when the ignition is
switched on. They will switch off after a few seconds.
Lit upPossible causeSolution
Engine coolant temperature is
too low in vehicles with natural
gas engine.
Avoid high engine speeds and heavy engine loads.
FlashesPossible causeSolution
Coolant temperature too high.
Do not drive on!
Stop the vehicle as soon as possible, and when
safe to do so. Switch off the engine, leave the
engine to cool down.
Coolant level too low.
Do not drive on!
After the engine has cooled down, check the
coolant level and refill engine coolant if the level is
too low ⇒ Checking the coolant level and refilling
coolant.
With display --.- in the
instrument cluster:
fault in the engine cooling
system.
Do not drive on!
Seek expert assistance.
In some vehicles, the coolant temperature display may be displayed on the screen of the
portable navigation device (delivered by Volkswagen) ⇒ Accessories, modifications, repairs and
renewal of parts.
Coolant specification
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The cooling system is filled at the factory with a mixture of specially prepared water and at least
40% coolant additive G 13 (TL-VW 774 J). The coolant additive is dyed purple. This mixture of
water and coolant additive gives the necessary frost protection down to -25°C (-13°F) and protects
the alloy parts of the cooling system against corrosion. The mixture also prevents scaling and
raises the boiling point of the coolant.
In order to protect the coolant system, the proportion of coolant additive must always be at least
40%, even if anti-freeze is not required in warm weather and warm climates.
If greater frost protection is required in very cold climates, the proportion of anti-freeze additive can
be increased. However, the percentage of coolant additive should not exceed 60%, as this would
reduce the frost protection and the cooling effect.
When topping up the coolant, a mixture of distilled water and at least 40% coolant additive - G 13 -
or - G 12 plus-plus - (TL-VW 774 G) (both of which are dyed purple) must be used in order to obtain
the optimum corrosion protection ⇒. Mixing - G 13 - with the coolant additives - G 12 plus - (TL-
VW 774 F), - G 12 - (dyed red) or - G 11 - (dyed blue-green) will significantly decrease the level of
corrosion protection and should therefore be avoided ⇒.
Failure to observe the warning lamps could lead to your vehicle breaking down in traffic, and
to accidents and serious injuries.
•Always observe any warning lamps that are lit up.
•Never ignore any warning lamps that are lit up.
•Stop the vehicle as soon as possible and when safe to do so.
WARNING
Failure to observe the illuminated indicator lamps could lead to the vehicle being damaged.
NOTICE

Coolant and coolant additives can pollute the environment. Spilt operating fluids must be
collected and disposed of properly and with respect for the environment.
Checking the coolant level and refilling coolant
Fig. 123 In the engine compartment: marking on the coolant expansion tank
Fig. 124 In the engine compartment: coolant expansion tank cap
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The warning lamp for the engine coolant will light up if the engine coolant level is too low.
Preparation
•Park the vehicle on a firm and level surface.
•Allow the engine to cool down ⇒.
•Open the bonnet ⇒ .
•The coolant expansion tank has the symbol on its cap ⇒ Fig. 124.
Checking the coolant level
•Check the coolant level at the side marking of the expansion tank when the engine is cold
⇒ Fig. 123.
•Refill the coolant if the liquid level is below the minimum marking (min). When the engine is
warm, the coolant level may be slightly above the top end of the marked area.
Refilling coolant
•Always protect your hands and arms from hot coolant or steam by placing a suitable cloth on
the cap of the coolant expansion tank.
Insufficient anti-freeze in the coolant system can cause the engine to break down and cause
serious injuries.
•Please note that the amount of correct coolant additive used must be sufficient for the
lowest ambient temperature that you expect the vehicle to be exposed to.
•Coolant can freeze at extremely cold outside temperatures, causing the vehicle to break
down. Vehicle occupants with inadequate winter clothing could then freeze to death as the
heating will also no longer function.
WARNING
Never mix genuine coolant additives with other coolants that have not been approved by
Volkswagen. Mixing other coolants could cause serious damage to the engine and cooling
system.
•If the liquid in the coolant expansion tank is brown instead of purple, for example, - G 13 -
has been mixed with another unsuitable engine coolant. The coolant must be changed as
soon as possible if this is the case. Failure to observe this point can result in serious faults
or engine damage.
NOTICE

Explanation of the warnings on the vehicle battery
SymbolMeaning
Always wear eye protection!
Electrolyte is very corrosive and caustic. Always wear protective gloves
and eye protection!
No fires, sparks, naked lights or smoking!
A highly explosive mixture of gases is given off when the vehicle battery
is charging!
Always keep children away from acid and the vehicle battery!
Additional information and warnings:
•⇒BookletService schedule,
•Pull-away assist systems ⇒ Pull-away assist systems
•Preparation for working in the engine compartment ⇒ Preparation for working in the engine
compartment
•Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts ⇒ Accessories, modifications, repairs
and renewal of parts
After starting the engine with a discharged vehicle battery, or after the battery has been
changed, system settings (time, date, personal convenience settings and programming) may have
been changed or deleted. Check and correct the settings as necessary once the vehicle battery has
been sufficiently charged.
Warning lamp
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Lit upPossible causeSolution
Fault in the alternator.Proceed to a qualified workshop. The
electrical system should be checked.
Switch off all electrical equipment that is not
required. The vehicle battery will not be
charged by the alternator while the vehicle is
in motion.
Any work on the vehicle battery and the electrical system can cause serious chemical burns,
fire and electric shocks. Always read the following warnings and safety information before
carrying out any kind of work:
•Switch off the ignition and all electrical consumers before carrying out any work on the
vehicle battery and also disconnect the negative cable from the vehicle battery.
•Children should always be kept away from electrolyte and the vehicle battery.
•Always wear eye protection.
•Electrolyte is very aggressive. It can burn the skin and can cause blindness. When
working with the battery, protect your hands, arms and particularly your face from acid
spillages.
•Do not smoke during the work, and never work near naked flames or sparks.
•When handling cables and electrical equipment, avoid generating sparks and electrostatic
charge.
•Never short circuit the battery poles.
•Never use a damaged vehicle battery. It can explode. Damaged vehicle batteries must be
replaced as soon as possible.
•Damaged or frozen vehicle batteries must be replaced immediately. Discharged vehicle
batteries can even freeze at temperatures of around 0°C (+32°F).
WARNING
•Do not allow direct sunlight onto the vehicle battery for an extended period as the UV rays
could damage the battery housing.
•If the vehicle is left standing in cold conditions for a long period, protect the vehicle battery
from frost. If it freezes it will be damaged.
NOTICE
Operation of the vehicle for a very long time at very high outside temperatures can lead to
vehicle battery damage.
NOTICE

Lit upPossible causeSolution
Start/stop system cannot start the
engine.⇒ Pull-away assist systems
Several warning and indicator lamps will light up briefly as a functional check when the ignition is
switched on. They will switch off after a few seconds.
Checking the electrolyte level of the vehicle battery
Fig. 125 In the engine compartment: possible position of the window on top of the vehicle battery
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The electrolyte level of the vehicle battery should be checked regularly in high-mileage vehicles, in
hot countries and in older vehicle batteries. The vehicle battery is otherwise maintenance-free.
Vehicles with a start/stop system ⇒ Pull-away assist systems are fitted with special vehicle
batteries. For technical reasons, it might not be possible to check the electrolyte level in these
vehicle batteries.
Preparation
•Preparing the vehicle for working in the engine compartment ⇒ Preparation for working in the
engine compartment.
•Open the bonnet ⇒ .
Checking the electrolyte level
•Ensure that enough light is available for you to see the colours clearly. Never use naked flames
or glowing matter (e.g. cigarettes) as a light source.
•The colour display in the round window ⇒ Fig. 125 on the top side of the vehicle battery will
change according to the electrolyte level.
Colour displayAction
Light yellow or colourless
The electrolyte level of the vehicle is too low. The vehicle battery
should be checked and replaced by a qualified workshop if
necessary.
BlackThe electrolyte level of the vehicle battery is correct.
Failure to observe the warning lamps could lead to your vehicle breaking down in traffic, and
to accidents and serious injuries.
•Never ignore any warning lamps that are lit up.
•Stop the vehicle as soon as possible and when safe to do so.
WARNING
Failure to observe the illuminated indicator lamps could lead to the vehicle being damaged.
NOTICE