Volkswagen Golf Owners Manual: Introduction

This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

 → Warning and indicator lamps  

 → Electronic parking brake  

 → Parking  

 → Information on the brakes  

 → Brake support systems  

 → Switching TCS or TCS with ESC on and off  

 → Brake fluid  

The brake support systems are the anti-lock brake system (ABS), the brake assist system (BAS), the electronic differential lock (EDS), the traction control system (TCS) and the electronic stabilisation programme (ESC).

Additional information and warnings:

• Towing a trailer  

• Pull-away assist systems  

• Wheels and tyres  

• Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts  

WARNING

Driving with worn brake pads or with a faulty brake system can cause accidents and serious injuries.

• If the warning lamp lights up either individually or together with a text message in the display of the instrument cluster, go to a qualified workshop immediately and have the brake pads checked and any worn brake pads replaced.

WARNING

Incorrect parking can cause serious injuries.

• Never remove the vehicle key from the ignition lock when the vehicle is in motion. The steering lock may be activated and you will no longer be able to steer or control the vehicle.

• Never park the vehicle where parts of the exhaust system can come into contact with inflammable material underneath the vehicle, e.g. leaves, dry grass, spilt fuel.

• Always switch on the electronic parking brake when the vehicle is parked.

• Never leave children or people requiring assistance alone in the vehicle. They could switch off the electronic parking brake, or move the selector lever or gearshift lever, and thus set the vehicle in motion. This can lead to accidents and serious injuries.

• Always take all vehicle keys with you every time you leave the vehicle. The engine can be started and electrical equipment such as the window controls can be operated. This can cause serious injury.

• Never leave children or people requiring assistance alone in the vehicle. They could become trapped in the vehicle in an emergency and may not be able to get themselves to safety. For example, locked vehicles may be subjected to very high or very low temperatures, according to season. This can cause serious injuries and illness or fatalities, especially for small children.

NOTICE

• To avoid unintentional movement when parking the vehicle, first switch on the electronic parking brake and then remove your foot from the brake pedal.

• Always take care when driving in car parks with protruding kerbstones or bollards. Objects that protrude from the ground can damage the bumper and other components when parking the vehicle. In order to avoid any damage, stop the vehicle before the wheels can touch the bollards or kerbs.

• Drive carefully through dips in the road, over driveways, ramps, kerbstones and other objects. Low-lying vehicle components such as the bumper, spoiler and parts of the running gear, engine or exhaust system could be damaged.