battery VOLKSWAGEN UP! 2021 Owner´s Manual

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

Charging, replacing, disconnecting and connecting the vehicle battery
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Charging the battery
The vehicle battery should be charged by a qualified workshop, as the technology used in factory-
fitted batteries requires voltage-limited charging ⇒. Volkswagen recommends using a
Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.
Replacing a vehicle battery
The battery has been developed to suit the conditions of its location and has special safety
features. If a vehicle battery has to be replaced, discuss the electromagnetic compatibility, size and
necessary servicing, output and safety requirements for the new vehicle battery with a Volkswagen
dealership before purchase. Volkswagen recommends that the vehicle battery is changed by a
Volkswagen dealership.
Only maintenance-free vehicle batteries compliant with the standards TL 825 06 and VW 7 50 73
should be used. These standards must be dated April 2008 or later.
Vehicles with start/stop system ⇒ Pull-away assist systems are equipped with a special vehicle
battery. These vehicle batteries may only be replaced by a vehicle battery with the same
specifications.
Disconnecting the vehicle battery
Please note the following if the vehicle battery has to be disconnected from the electrical system in
the vehicle:
•Switch off all electrical consumers and the ignition.
•Unlock the vehicle before disconnecting the battery in order to avoid triggering the alarm.
•First disconnect the negative cable and then the positive cable ⇒.
Connecting the vehicle battery
•Switch off all electrical consumers and the ignition before reconnecting the vehicle battery.
•First reconnect the positive cable and then the negative cable ⇒.
Various indicator lamps may light up after the vehicle battery has been connected and the ignition is
switched on. They will go out if you drive a short distance at a speed of 15–20 km/h (10–12 mph). If
the indicator lamps remain lit up, the vehicle should be checked by a qualified workshop.
If the vehicle battery was disconnected for long periods, the system may not able to calculate or
correctly display the time when the next service is due ⇒ Instruments. Comply with the maximum
permissible service intervals ⇒BookletService schedule,.
Automatic switch-off for electrical consumers
The intelligent vehicle electrical system automatically implements a range of measures to prevent
the battery from discharging under high loads:
•The idling speed is increased so that the alternator provides more electricity.
•The performance of large electrical consumers may be reduced or they may be switched off
completely.
•The power supply to the 12-volt socket and the cigarette lighter is interrupted temporarily while
the engine is being started.
The vehicle electrical system cannot always prevent the vehicle battery from discharging. For
example when the ignition is switched on for an extended period with the engine off, or when the
side or parking lights are on when the vehicle is parked for an extended period.
Any work on the vehicle battery can cause serious chemical burns, explosions and electric
shocks.
•Always wear eye protection and protective gloves.
•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.
•Never tilt the vehicle battery. Electrolyte may spill out of the battery vents and cause
chemical burns.
•Never open a vehicle battery.
•If acid is splashed onto your skin or into your eye, rinse immediately for several minutes
with cold water. Then consult a doctor immediately.
•If acid is swallowed, consult a doctor immediately.
WARNING

How the vehicle battery discharges:
•Long periods at a standstill in which the engine is not running, especially if the ignition is
switched on.
•The use of electrical consumers when the engine is switched off.
Dispose of the vehicle battery as required by legislation. Batteries may contain toxic
substances such as sulphuric acid and lead.
Electrolyte can pollute the environment. Clean up any service fluid leakages and dispose of
them properly.
Vehicle care and maintenance
Caring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Washing the vehicle
⇒ Washing the vehicle with a high-pressure cleaner
⇒ Cleaning windows and exterior mirrors
⇒ Cleaning and changing windscreen wiper blades
⇒ Waxing and polishing the vehicle
⇒ Cleaning and caring for chrome and aluminium trim parts
⇒ Cleaning wheels
⇒ Care of rubber seals
⇒ De-icing the door lock cylinders
⇒ Underseal
⇒ Cleaning the engine compartment
Regular and expert care helps to maintain the value of the vehicle. Proper maintenance may also
be one of the requirements for the approval of warranty claims in the event of corrosion or paint
defects.
Suitable care products are available from Volkswagen dealers.
Additional information and warnings:
•Preparation for working in the engine compartment ⇒ Preparation for working in the engine
compartment
•Cleaning and caring for the interior ⇒ Cleaning and caring for the interior
•Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts ⇒ Accessories, modifications, repairs
and renewal of parts
Incorrectly attaching the battery and using incorrect vehicle batteries can cause short circuits,
fire and serious injuries.
•Always use maintenance-free and leak-proof batteries that have the same properties,
specifications and dimensions as the factory-fitted vehicle battery.
WARNING
A highly explosive mixture of gases is given off when the vehicle battery is being charged.
•Vehicle batteries should only be charged in well-ventilated spaces.
•Never charge a vehicle battery once it has been frozen. Discharged vehicle batteries can
even freeze at temperatures of around 0°C (+32°F).
•A vehicle battery must be replaced if it has been frozen.
•Incorrectly connected cables can cause a short circuit. First connect the positive cable and
then the negative cable.
WARNING
•Never make or break connections between vehicle batteries if the ignition is switched on or
the engine is running. Never use a vehicle battery that does not correspond with the
vehicle's specifications. The vehicle's electrical system or electronic components could be
damaged, which could lead to electrical faults, for example in the start/stop system.
•Never connect equipment that provides electricity, such as solar panels or a battery
charger, to the 12-volt socket or to the cigarette lighter to charge the vehicle battery. This
can damage the vehicle electrical system.
NOTICE

Snow chains are available in a range of sizes for a vehicle type.
Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of
parts
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Running-in
⇒ Accessories and parts
⇒ Service fluids and consumables
⇒ Repairs and technical modifications
⇒ Repairs and faults in the airbag system
⇒ Retrofitting two-way radios
⇒ Information stored in the control units
⇒ Using a mobile telephone in the vehicle without a connection to the external aerial
⇒ Portable navigation device
⇒ Vehicle lifting points
Additional information and warnings:
•Seat belts ⇒ Seat belts
•Airbag system ⇒ Airbag system
•Roof carrier ⇒ Roof carrier
•Ashtray and cigarette lighter ⇒ Ashtray and cigarette lighter
•Electrical socket ⇒ Socket
•Braking, stopping and parking ⇒ Braking, stopping and parking
•Pull-away assist systems ⇒ Pull-away assist systems
•ParkPilot ⇒ ParkPilot
•Cruise Control System (CCS) ⇒ Cruise control system (CCS)
•Preparation for working in the engine compartment ⇒ Preparation for working in the engine
compartment
•Engine oil ⇒ Engine oil
•Engine coolant ⇒ Coolant
•Battery ⇒ Vehicle battery
•Cleaning and caring for the vehicle exterior ⇒ Caring for and cleaning the vehicle exterior
•Cleaning and caring for the interior ⇒ Cleaning and caring for the interior
•Consumer information ⇒ Consumer information
•⇒BookletRadio,
•User's manual for the portable navigation device (delivered by Volkswagen)
The use of snow chains that are unsuitable for your vehicle or the incorrect installation of
snow chains can cause accidents and serious injuries.
•Always use the correct snow chains.
•Follow the assembly instructions provided by the snow chain manufacturer.
•Never exceed the maximum speed permitted for the snow chains that are fitted.
WARNING
•Remove the snow chains when driving on roads that are free of snow. The snow chains will
otherwise impair handling, damage the tyres and wear out very quickly.
•Snow chains that are in direct contact with the wheel can scratch or damage it.
Volkswagen recommends using non-scratch snow chains.
NOTICE

⇒ Catalytic converter
Additional information and warnings:
•Changing gear ⇒ Changing gear
•Filling the tank ⇒ Filling the tank
•Fuel ⇒ Fuel
•Engine oil ⇒ Engine oil
•Battery ⇒ Vehicle battery
•Information stored in the control units ⇒ Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts
•Tow-starting and towing ⇒ Tow-starting and towing
Indicator lamps
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Lit upPossible causeSolution
Engine management system fault
(Electronic Power Control).
The engine should be checked by a qualified
workshop as soon as possible.
Fault in catalytic converter.
Decrease speed. Drive carefully to the next
qualified workshop. The engine should be
checked.
FlashesPossible causeSolution
Misfiring, which damages the catalytic
converter.
Decrease speed. Drive carefully to the next
qualified workshop. The engine should be
checked.
Several warning and indicator lamps will light up briefly as a functional check when the ignition is
switched on. They will go out soon afterwards.
If the indicator lamps  or are lit up, fuel consumption may be higher, and engine
performance reduced.
Catalytic converter
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The catalytic converter is used for exhaust gas post-treatment and helps to reduce exhaust
emissions. To help ensure long-term functionality in the exhaust system and the catalytic converter:
•Use unleaded petrol only.
•Do not allow the fuel tank to run empty.
•Do not overfill engine oil ⇒ Engine oil.
•Do not tow-start the vehicle. Use jump leads ⇒ Starting the engine with jump leads.
If you notice misfiring, uneven running or loss of power when the vehicle is moving, reduce speed
immediately. The vehicle should be inspected at the nearest qualified workshop. If this happens,
unburnt fuel can enter the exhaust system and escape into the atmosphere. The catalytic converter
can also be damaged by overheating.
Even when the exhaust purification system is working perfectly, there may be a smell of
sulphur from the exhaust in some conditions. This depends on the sulphur content of the fuel being
used.
The components of the exhaust system become very hot. This can cause fires.
•Park the vehicle so that no part of the exhaust system can come into contact with any
inflammable material underneath the vehicle, e.g. dry grass.
•Never apply additional underseal or anti-corrosion coatings to the exhaust pipes, catalytic
converters or heat shields.
WARNING
To avoid damage to your vehicle, always observe the indicator lamps and associated warning
texts.
NOTICE
If and when

Practical tips
Frequently asked questions
If you suspect that there is a fault in the vehicle or if your vehicle has been damaged, read and
observe the following information before contacting a Volkswagen dealership or qualified
workshop. You may also find useful information in the index under the headings Things to note or
Checklist.
IrregularitySome possible causesPossible solution
Engine does not start.
Vehicle battery is discharged.
– Jump start the engine ⇒ Starting the
engine with jump leads.
– Recharge the vehicle battery
⇒ Vehicle battery.
An incorrect vehicle key is
being used.
Use a valid vehicle key ⇒ Vehicle key
set.
The fuel level is too low.Fill the tank ⇒ Filling the tank.
Vehicle cannot be locked
or unlocked with the
vehicle key.
– The battery in the vehicle
key is discharged.
– The vehicle key is too far
away from the vehicle.
– Replace battery ⇒ Vehicle key set.
– Move closer to the vehicle.
– Synchronise vehicle key ⇒ Vehicle
key set.
– Unlock or lock vehicle manually
⇒ Manual opening and closing.
Unusual noises.
Cold engine, brake assist
systems, electronic steering
column lock, auxiliary heater,
filling up with natural gas.
Refer to the index under entries for
Noises.
Unusual handling.
Assist systems are active.Refer to the index under entries for
Assist systems.
An incorrect tyre pressure is
being used.
Check tyre pressure ⇒ Wheels and
tyres.
Damage to the tyre or wheel.
Check the rims and tyres regularly for
damage ⇒ Wheels and tyres and
replace as necessary ⇒ Changing a
wheel.
The vehicle has no
vehicle jack, spare wheel
or breakdown set.
Equipment depends on type
of vehicle.
No direct solutions possible as it
depends on the equipment level.
Contact a Volkswagen dealership if
necessary ⇒ Vehicle toolkit.
The road ahead is not lit
up properly.
– Headlight has been masked
for driving on the left or on the
right.
– Headlight not adjusted
correctly.
– Bulbs have failed.
– Dipped beam headlight not
switched on.
– Mask the headlights accordingly for
driving on the left or right ⇒ Lights.
– Adjust headlight range ⇒ Lights.
– Change bulbs ⇒ Changing bulbs.
– Switch dipped headlights on
⇒ Lights.
Electrical consumers not
working.
Low vehicle battery charge.Recharge vehicle battery ⇒ Vehicle
battery.
Low fuel level.Fill the tank ⇒ Filling the tank.
Fuse blown.Check fuse and replace as necessary
⇒ Fuses.
Fuel consumption is
higher than indicated.
– Short distances driven.
– Uneven acceleration.
– Avoid driving short distances.
– Think ahead when driving.
– Accelerate evenly.
An electrical consumer is
switched on.
Switch off all consumers that are not
needed.
Fault in engine management
system.
Have the fault rectified ⇒ Engine
management system and exhaust
purification system.
Tyre pressure too low.Adjust the tyre pressure ⇒ Wheels
and tyres.
Driving in hilly regions.No direct solutions possible.
Driving with a heavy load.No direct solutions possible.
Driving at high engine speed.Select a high gear.
In an emergency
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Making you and your vehicle safe
⇒ First aid kit, warning triangle and fire extinguisher
Additional information and warnings:

The vehicle battery will discharge if the hazard warning lights are left on over a long period of
time – even when the ignition is switched off.
If you brake hard at speeds over approximately 80 km/h (50 mph), the brake lights will flash
to warn the traffic behind. If you then continue to brake, the hazard warning lights will be switched
on automatically at speeds under approximately 10 km/h (6 mph). The brake light will light up
continuously. Once the vehicle starts to accelerate, the hazard warning lights will switch off again.
First aid kit, warning triangle and fire extinguisher
Fig. 141 In the luggage compartment: warning triangle stowage compartment under the floor
covering
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Warning triangle
In some vehicle models, a warning triangle like the one shown may be stowed in a compartment in
the luggage compartment under the floor covering ⇒ Fig. 141.
First aid kit
The first aid kit must comply with legal requirements. Comply with the expiry dates of the contents.
Fire extinguisher
A fire extinguisher may be located in a holder in the footwell in front of the front passenger seat.
The fire extinguisher must comply with the valid legal requirements. It must be fully functional and
checked regularly. See the test certificate on the fire extinguisher.
Manual opening and closing
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Locking or unlocking the driver door and front passenger door manually
⇒ Locking the front passenger door and rear doors manually
⇒ Unlocking the tailgate manually
If the vehicle key or central locking system fails, the doors and tailgate can be locked and, to a
certain extent, unlocked manually.
Additional information and warnings:
Ignoring any of the items on this important safety checklist can lead to accidents and severe
injuries.
•Always follow the instructions in the checklist and observe the general safety procedures.
WARNING
The components of the exhaust system become very hot. This can cause fires and serious
injuries.
•Park the vehicle so that no part of the exhaust system can come into contact with any
inflammable material underneath the vehicle, e.g. dry grass, fuel.
WARNING
In the event of a sudden driving or braking manoeuvre or accident, loose objects can be flung
though the vehicle and cause severe injuries.
•Always secure or stow the fire extinguisher, high-visibility waistcoat, first aid kit and
warning triangle safely in the vehicle.
WARNING

Changing bulbs in the side turn signals
Fig. 169 Removing the side turn signal bulb
Fig. 170 Side turn signal: changing the bulb
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The actions should only be carried out in the specified order:
1.Observe and follow the instructions on the checklist ⇒ Information on changing bulbs.
2.With one hand, push the side turn signal to the front ⇒ Fig. 169①.
3.Manually lever the side turn signal out of the vehicle body ②.
4.Pull the bulb and bulb holder out in the direction of the arrow ⇒ Fig. 170①.
5.Pull the bulb straight out of the bulb holder.
6.Replace the defective bulb with a new bulb of the same type.
7.Replace the bulb holder.
8.Insert the side turn signal into the body, with the side facing the rear of the vehicle first.
Push it in until the spring on the other side of the side turn signal engages.
Starting the engine with jump leads
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ How to start the engine using jump leads
If the engine fails to start because the vehicle battery is flat, the flat battery can be connected to the
battery of another vehicle to start the engine. Before using jump leads, check the window on the
vehicle battery ⇒ Vehicle battery.
Jump leads must comply with DIN 72553 (see manufacturer's documentation). On petrol engine
vehicles, the conductor must have a cross-section of at least 25 mm.
Additional information and warnings:
•Pull-away assist systems ⇒ Pull-away assist systems
•Preparation for working in the engine compartment ⇒ Preparation for working in the engine
compartment
•Battery ⇒ Vehicle battery
Before inserting the screwdriver, slide a piece of paper (or similar) in between the screwdriver
and the bumper in order to prevent any damage to the paintwork on the bumper.
NOTICE
2

How to start the engine using jump leads
Fig. 171 How to connect the jump leads when starting vehicles without start/stop system:
discharged battery Ⓐ and battery providing assistance Ⓑ
Fig. 172 How to connect the jump leads when starting vehicles with start/stop system: discharged
battery Ⓐ and battery providing assistance Ⓑ
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Vehicle with discharged battery that is being jump-started.
Vehicle with vehicle battery that is supplying power and jump-starting the other vehicle.
Suitable earth connection. A solid metal part that is firmly bolted to the engine block, the
engine block itself or, where fitted, the screwed-in towing eye at the front ⇒ Tow-starting and
towing.
Using the jump leads incorrectly or completing the jump start procedure incorrectly can cause
the battery to explode, which can lead to severe injuries. Please note the following in order to
reduce the risk of the battery exploding:
•All work on the vehicle battery and the electrical system can cause serious chemical
burns, fire and electric shocks. Always read the warnings and safety information before
carrying out any kind of work on the vehicle battery ⇒ Vehicle battery.
•The vehicle battery providing assistance must have the same voltage as the discharged
vehicle battery (12 volt) and approximately the same capacity (see markings on battery).
•Never charge a vehicle battery once it has been frozen. Discharged vehicle batteries can
even freeze at temperatures of around 0°C (+32°F).
•The battery should be replaced if it is or has ever been frozen.
•A highly explosive mixture of gases is given off when the vehicle battery is jump started.
Always keep fire, sparks, naked flames and lit cigarettes away from the vehicle battery.
Never use a mobile telephone when the jump leads are being connected or disconnected.
•Only charge the battery in a well-ventilated space as the battery emits a highly explosive
mixture of gases when the vehicle is being jump started.
•Position the jump leads so that they never come into contact with any moving parts in the
engine compartment.
•Never confuse the negative and positive terminals or connect the jump leads incorrectly.
•Observe the jump lead manufacturer's instructions.
WARNING
Please note the following in order to avoid considerable damage to the vehicle electrical
system:
•A short circuit can be caused if the jump leads are wrongly connected.
•The vehicles must not touch each other, otherwise electricity could flow as soon as the
positive terminals are connected.
NOTICE

The discharged vehicle battery must be properly connected to the vehicle's electrical system.
The vehicles must not touch. Otherwise electricity could flow as soon as the positive terminals are
connected.
Ensure that the battery clamps have good metal-to-metal contact with the battery terminals.
If the engine does not start immediately, switch off the starter after about 10 seconds and try again
after about half a minute.
The steps should only be carried out in the specified order.
Attaching the jump leads
•Switch off the ignition in both vehicles ⇒ Starting and stopping the engine.
•If necessary, open the battery cover in the engine compartment ⇒ Vehicle battery.
•Connect one end of the red jump lead to the positive terminal ⇒ Fig. 171⊕ or ⇒ Fig. 172⊕ in
the vehicle with the discharged battery Ⓐ ⇒.
•Connect the other end of the red jump lead to the positive terminal ⊕ in the vehicle providing
assistance Ⓑ.
•In vehicles without start/stop system: connect one end of the black jump lead to the negative
terminal ㊀ in the vehicle providing assistance Ⓑ ⇒ Fig. 171.
•In vehicles with start/stop system: connect one end of the black jump lead Ⓧ to a suitable
earth connection, to a solid metal part that is securely bolted onto the cylinder or to the cylinder
block itself ⇒ Fig. 172.
•Connect the other end of the black jump lead Ⓧ to a solid metal component bolted on to the
engine block, or onto the engine block in the vehicle with the discharged battery. Do not
connect it to a point near the battery Ⓐ ⇒.
•Position the leads in such a way that they cannot come into contact with any moving parts in the
engine compartment.
Starting the engine
•Start the engine of the vehicle providing assistance and let it run at idle.
•Start the engine of the car with the discharged vehicle battery and wait two or three minutes
until the engine is running smoothly.
Removing the jump leads
•Before disconnecting the jump leads, switch off the dipped beam headlights if they are switched
on.
•Turn on the heater blower and rear window heater in the vehicle battery with the discharged
battery. This helps minimise the voltage peaks generated when the leads are disconnected.
•With the engines running, disconnect the jump leads in the exact reverse order to the
instructions given above.
•Close the battery cover.
Tow-starting and towing
 Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒  Notes on tow-starting
⇒ Notes on towing
Jump starting the vehicle incorrectly can cause the battery to explode, which can lead to
serious injuries. Please note the following in order to reduce the risk of the battery exploding:
•All work on the vehicle battery and the electrical system can cause serious chemical
burns, fire and electric shocks. Always read the warnings and safety information before
carrying out any kind of work on the vehicle battery ⇒ Vehicle battery.
•Always wear suitable eye protection and never lean over the vehicle battery.
•Attach the connector cables in the correct order – the positive cable first, followed by the
negative.
•Never connect the negative cable to parts of the fuel system or to the brake lines.
•The non-insulated parts of the battery clamps must not be allowed to touch. The jump lead
attached to the positive vehicle battery terminal must not touch metal parts of the vehicle.
•Check the window on the vehicle battery using a torch if necessary. If the display is light
yellow or colourless, do not jump start the vehicle. Seek expert assistance.
•Avoid electrostatic discharge in the vicinity of the vehicle battery. The gas emitted from the
vehicle battery could be ignited by sparks.
•Do not use jump leads to start the engine if the vehicle battery is damaged or if it is or has
ever been frozen.
WARNING