Volkswagen Tiguan (2015 year). Instruction

Lights

Possible cause

Proper response

Not enough windshield washer fluid.

Refill windshield washer reservoir at the next
opportunity

When the ignition is switched on, several warning and indicator lights come on briefly for a function
check. They go out after a few seconds.

NOTICE

Failure to heed warning lights or text WARNINGS can result in vehicle damage.

Windshield wiper lever

Fig. 90 Operating the front windshield wiper.

Fig. 91 Operating the rear wiper.

Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

Move the lever to the desired position

⇒

(A)

Wiper switched off.

Move the lever to the desired position

⇒

(B)

Intermittent wiping for the windshield.

Adjust the interval settings with switch

⇒

fig. 90

(1)

(vehicles without rain sensors) or

the sensitivity of the rain sensor (vehicles with rain sensors).

(C)

Slow wiper speed.

(D)

Fast wiper speed.

(E)

One-tap wiping – brief wiping. Hold the lever pressed down longer to wipe more often.

(F)

Pull the lever toward the steering wheel to activate the windshield washers, then
release.

(G)

Intermittent wiping for the rear window. The wiper wipes about every 6 seconds.

(H)

Press the lever forward as far as it will go to activate the rear window washers, then
release.

NOTICE

To help prevent damage to the wiper blades and the wiper motor when it is cold outside,

always make sure that blades are not frozen to the windshield before operating the wipers.
Using the service position can be helpful in cold weather so the wipers do not freeze to the

windshield

⇒ Windshield wiper service position.

If the ignition is switched off while the wipers are running, the wipers will continue at the

same wiping speed when the ignition is switched on again. Frost, ice, snow, leaves, and other
objects on the windshield can damage the wipers and the wiper motor.

Remove snow and ice from the wipers before you begin driving.
If the wiper blades freeze to the windshield, loosen them carefully. Volkswagen

recommends using a deicing spray.

NOTICE

Never switch on the windshield wipers when the windshield is dry because the windshield can
be scratched.

The windshield wipers work only if the ignition is switched on and the engine hood is closed. The

windshield wipers turn off automatically when the engine hood is opened. The rear windshield wipers
turn off automatically when the rear hatch is opened.

If the front wipers are on, the rear wiper is switched on automatically when backing up.

If the windshield wiper lever is in the rear window intermittent wiping position

⇒

fig. 91

(G)

when

the ignition is switched off and back on or the engine is started, rear window wiper action does not
resume until the windshield wipers are activated. This is to keep the wiper from working when the

window is dry. By switching rear window intermittent wiping off and then back on, you can override this
feature and activate the rear window wiper immediately.

The intermittent wiping for the front windshield depends on the driving speed. The higher the

speed, the faster the wipers move.

If the wiper blades freeze to the windshield, loosen them carefully. Volkswagen recommends

using a deicing spray.

Windshield wiper functions

Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

Wiper performance in different situations:

When the vehicle is not moving:

The wiper speed changes temporarily to the next lower
speed.

During automatic wipe/wash:

While the washer system is working, the Climatronic
switches to recirculation for about 30 seconds to help
prevent the washer fluid odor from entering the vehicle
interior.

During intermittent wiping:

Speed-dependent interval control: The higher the vehicle
speed, the faster the wipers move.

Heated washer nozzles

The heating thaws frozen water nozzles, but not the fluid supply hoses. When the ignition is switched
on, the heat applied to the washer nozzles is automatically regulated depending on the outside air
temperature.

If there is something on the windshield, the wiper will try to wipe it away. If it continues to block

the wiper, the wiper will stop moving. Remove the obstacle and switch the wiper on again.

Windshield wiper service position

Fig. 92 Windshield wiper in service position.

Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

In the service position, the wiper arms can be lifted away from the windshield

⇒

fig. 92

. The wipers are

moved to the service position as follows:

The engine hood must be closed

⇒ Working in the engine compartment.

Switch the ignition off, turn it on briefly, and then off again.

Press the windshield wiper lever down briefly

⇒

fig. 90

(E)

when the ignition is off.

Wipers move into service position.

Carefully fold the wiper arms back onto the windshield before driving! Switch the ignition on and press

the windshield wiper lever down briefly

⇒

fig. 90

(E)

. The wiper arms move back to their original

position.

Lifting the wiper blades and tilting them away from the windshield

Put the wiper arms in service position

⇒

Do not handle the wiper blades, handle the wiper arms only at the attachment above the wiper

blades.

NOTICE

To help prevent damage to the engine hood and the windshield wiper arms, lift the wiper

arms away from the windshield only when they are in the service position.

Always carefully fold the windshield wiper arms down against the windshield before driving

the vehicle.

Rain sensor

Fig. 93 Windshield wiper lever: Adjusting rain sensor 1.

Fig. 94 Sensitive rain sensor surface.

Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

When switched on, the rain sensor automatically shortens or lengthens the delay between wiping

intervals depending on how hard it is raining

⇒

. The rain sensor's sensitivity can be adjusted

manually. Manual wiping (vehicles without rain sensors)

Push the lever into the desired position

⇒

fig. 93

(A)

Rain sensor off (windshield wiper lever in home position).

(B)

Rain sensor active – automatic wiping as needed.

(1)

Adjusting the sensitivity of the rain sensor:
– Move switch to the right – high sensitivity.
– Move switch to the left – low sensitivity.

After switching the ignition off and back on again, the rain sensor stays on and works again with the
wiper lever in position

(A)

when the vehicle speed is over 10 mph (16 km/h).

Even if the rain sensor is disabled, it is still necessary to reach this speed to reactivate the wipers
when the windshield wiper lever is in the intermittent wiping position. The wipers then wipe at fixed
intervals instead of wiping as needed, as they do in rain sensor mode.

Possible reasons for changes in the way the rain sensor works

The rain sensor may misread what is happening in the detection zone of its sensitive rain-sensor

surface

⇒

fig. 94

(arrow) and not work for a number of reasons, which include:

Worn out wiper blades: Worn out wiper blades may leave a film of water or wiping streaks; this can

cause the wipers to run longer, to wipe more often, or to wipe continuously at high speed.

Insects: Insects hitting the sensor may trigger the wipers.

Salt streaks: Salt streaks on the windshield from winter driving can cause wiping more often or

continuously on glass that is almost dry.

Dirt: Caked-on dust, wax, any other buildup on the windshield (lotus effect), or car-wash detergent

residue can lower the rain sensor's sensitivity and cause it to react too slowly or not at all.

Crack or chip in the windshield: If a stone hits and chips the windshield while the rain sensor is on,

this will trigger a wiper cycle. After that, the rain sensor will recognize the change and recalibrate itself
to respond to the smaller detection zone. Depending on the size of the chip, the sensor's reaction
pattern may or may not change.

WARNING

The rain sensor cannot always recognize rain and activate the wipers.

Switch the wipers on manually when water on the windshield reduces visibility.

Clean the rain sensor's sensitive surface

⇒

fig. 94

regularly and check the wiper blades for wear

or damage.

To remove wax and coats of polish safely, we recommend using an alcohol-based windshield

cleaner.

Checking and refilling windshield washer fluid

Fig. 95 In the engine compartment: Cap of the windshield washer fluid reservoir.

Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

Check the windshield washer fluid level regularly and refill as necessary.

There is a filter screen in the filler neck of the windshield washer fluid reservoir. The screen helps to
keep large particles and debris from getting into and clogging the windshield washer nozzles when
adding windshield washer fluid. Take the screen out only to clean it. If the screen is damaged or
missing, have it replaced immediately, otherwise the system may become clogged and not work
properly.

Open the engine hood

The windshield washer fluid reservoir can be identified by the symbol on its cap

⇒

fig. 95

Check if there is still enough windshield washer fluid in the reservoir.

Refill with clear water (not distilled water) and an appropriate windshield washer fluid that is

recommended by Volkswagen

⇒

. Follow the directions on the container.

In cold weather, always use a special windshield washer antifreeze solution that will help keep the

water from freezing

⇒

Recommended cleaners

For the warmer months, Windscreen Clear SummerG 052 184 A1 or equivalent. Mixing ratio

1:100 (1 part concentrate to 100 parts water) in the windshield washer reservoir.

All-season Windscreen ClearG 052 164 A2 or equivalent. the mixing ratio in winter to 0 °F (-18 °C)

about 1:2 (1 part concentrate to 2 parts water), otherwise, mixing ratio 1:4 in the windshield washer
reservoir.

Filling capacity

The windshield washer fluid reservoir holds about 3.2 qts. (3.0 liters).

WARNING

Never mix antifreeze or similar additives into the windshield washer reservoir. This could
produce an oily film on the windshield, which would considerably reduce visibility.

Use clear water (not distilled water) with a cleaning solution recommended by

Volkswagen.

If necessary, blend with a suitable windshield washer fluid antifreeze agent.

NOTICE

Never mix cleaning solutions recommended by Volkswagen with other cleaning agents. If

you do, this could cause sediments or other by-products that can clog the windshield wiper
nozzles.

When refilling, do not confuse one type of operating liquid with another! Otherwise serious

malfunctions and engine damage can occur!

Mirrors

Introduction

In this section you’ll find information about:

Inside mirror

Outside mirrors

For your driving safety, it is important that you properly adjust the outside mirrors and the inside mirror

before you start driving

⇒

The outside mirrors and the inside mirror help you see and adapt your driving to traffic behind you.
Remember that the inside and outside rearview mirrors will not show everything behind you. There
can be blind spots. Blind spots can be significantly larger if the mirrors are not properly adjusted.

More information:

  Exterior views
  Adjusting the seating position
  Memory seat
  Shifting
  Braking and parking

WARNING

Adjusting mirrors when the vehicle is moving can cause driver distraction, accidents, and
serious personal injury.

Always adjust the rearview mirrors when the vehicle is not moving.
Always be aware of what is happening around the vehicle when changing lanes, passing,

turning, or parking. Another vehicle, pedestrian, or object could be in your blind spot.

Always make sure mirrors are properly adjusted and the view to the rear is not reduced by

moisture, ice, snow, or other things.

WARNING

Self-dimming mirrors contain an electrolyte fluid which can leak if the mirror glass is broken.
Electrolyte fluid can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.

Repeated or prolonged exposure to electrolyte fluid can irritate the respiratory system,

especially among people with asthma or other respiratory conditions. Get fresh air
immediately by leaving the vehicle or, if that is not possible, open windows and doors all the
way.

If electrolyte fluid gets into the eyes, flush them thoroughly with large amounts of clean

water for at least 15 minutes; medical attention is recommended.

If electrolyte fluid contacts skin, flush affected area with clean water for at least

15 minutes and then wash affected area with soap and water; medical attention is
recommended. Thoroughly wash affected clothing and shoes before reuse.

If swallowed, and the person is conscious, rinse mouth with water for at least 15 minutes.

Get medical attention immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a
medical professional.

NOTICE

Broken glass in the self-dimming mirrors can cause electrolyte fluid leakage. Liquid electrolyte
leaked from a broken mirror glass will damage any plastic surfaces it comes in contact with.
Clean up spilled electrolyte fluid immediately with clear water and a sponge.

Inside mirror

Fig. 96 Manually adjustable inside mirror.

Fig. 97 Self-dimming inside mirror.

Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

Adjust the inside mirror to make sure that there is good visibility through the rear window.

For example, visibility through the rear window could be impaired if there is a sunshade on the rear
window or clothing on the luggage compartment cover, or if the rear window is covered with ice, snow,
or dirt.

Manually adjustable inside mirror

Home position: Lever on the bottom edge of the mirror points forward.

To adjust to non-glare visibility, move the lever so that it points backwards

⇒

fig. 96

Self-dimming inside mirror (if applicable)

Key to

fig. 97

(1)

Indicator light.

(2)

Switch.

(3)

Sensor for recognizing entry of light.

The self-dimming feature can be switched on and off with the switch on the inside mirror

(2)

. When

self-dimming is activated, the indicator light

(1)

is on.

If the ignition is switched on, the sensor

(3)

automatically darkens the inside mirror depending on the

amount of light shining into the vehicle from the rear.

The self-dimming feature is deactivated when you shift the transmission into Reverse (R) or switch on
the interior lights or the reading light.

Do not attach external navigation devices to the windshield or in the vicinity of the self-dimming inside

mirror

⇒

WARNING

The illuminated display on an external navigation device can cause the self-dimming inside
mirror to malfunction, which can result in crashes and serious injuries.

Malfunctions in the self-dimming function can result in the rearview mirror being unable to

evaluate the exact distance of vehicles in the rear or other objects.

If the light striking the sensor is filtered or blocked (such as by a sunshade), the self-dimming

inside mirror will not work properly or may not work at all.

Outside mirrors

Fig. 98 In the driver door: Adjusting knob for outside mirrors.

Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

Turn the knob

⇒

fig. 98

to adjust the outside mirrors.

Turn the rotary knob to the desired position:

Switch on outside mirror heating. Heats only at outside air
temperatures below +68 °F (+20 °C).

Adjust the left outside mirror by pressing the knob to left/right
and up/down.

Turn the rotary knob to the desired position:

Adjust the right outside mirror by pressing the knob to left/right
and up/down.

Neutral position. Outside mirror folded out, no heating or
adjustment possible.

Synchronous mirror adjustment

In the Settings - Convenience menu select “Mirror adjust: Both mirrors” for synchronous

outside mirror adjustment

Turn the adjusting knob to the L position.
Adjust the left outside mirror. The right (passenger) outside mirror will automatically adjust at the

same time.

If needed, correct the position of the right mirror by turning the adjusting knob to the R position.

Self-dimming outside mirror on the driver side

The self-dimming outside mirror is controlled together with the self-dimming inside mirror

⇒ Inside

mirror.

Memory for front passenger side mirror (when backing up)

  Choose the remote control vehicle key that will be used with the settings about to be made.
  Unlock the vehicle with that remote control vehicle key.
  Set the parking brake.
  Shift the transmission into Neutral (N).

  Switch on the ignition.
  Activate the function Mirror down in the Settings - Convenience menu.
  Shift the transmission into Reverse (R).
  Adjust the passenger outside mirror for a clear view of the curb, for example.
  The adjusted mirror position is automatically stored and assigned to the vehicle key used to unlock

the vehicle. The preselected position will be recalled when the key assigned to that mirror adjustment
position is used again.

Recalling passenger side mirror settings

Turn the adjusting knob for the side mirrors to the R position.
Shift the transmission into Reverse (R) gear with the ignition switched on.

The mirror moves back to the regular position when the vehicle moves forwards faster than about

10 mph (15 km/h) or the adjusting knob is turned to the O or L position.

WARNING

Improper use of the folding outside mirrors can cause personal injury.

Always make sure that nobody is in the way when folding the mirrors in or out.
Make sure that you do not get your finger caught between the mirror and the mirror base

when moving the mirrors.

WARNING

Incorrectly estimating distances with the right outside mirror can cause collisions and
serious injury.

The right outside mirror has a convex (curved) surface. This widens your field of vision.

But vehicles or other objects seen in a convex mirror will look smaller and farther away than
they really are.

If you use the right outside mirror to judge distances from vehicles behind you when

changing lanes, you could estimate incorrectly and cause a crash and serious injuries.

Whenever possible, use the inside mirror to more accurately judge distance and size of

vehicles or other objects seen in the convex mirror.

Always make sure you have a clear view to the rear of the vehicle.

NOTICE

Always fold in the outside mirrors when taking the vehicle through an automatic car wash.
Never fold power mirrors in manually because doing so could damage the electrical drive.

To reduce fuel consumption, use outside mirror heating only when needed.

When first switched on, outside mirror heating works with maximum heat for about 2 minutes.

If power mirror adjustment does not work, the outside mirrors can be adjusted by hand by

pressing on the edges of the mirror surface.

Driving tips

Introduction

In this section you’ll find information about:

Stowing luggage

Driving with an open rear hatch

Driving a loaded vehicle

Weights and axle weights

Always stow heavy objects in the luggage compartment and make sure that the rear seat backrests
are securely latched. Always use the tie-downs in the luggage compartment and secure the objects
with suitable straps. Never overload the vehicle. Remember that the vehicle load, as well as how it is

distributed, can affect vehicle handling and braking

⇒

More information:

  Rear hatch
  Folding down the passenger seat backrest forward
  Lights
  Luggage compartment
  Roof rack
  Trailer towing
  Tires and wheels

WARNING

Unsecured or incorrectly stowed items can fly through the vehicle, causing serious personal
injury during hard braking or sharp steering or in an accident. Loose items can also be struck
and thrown through the passenger compartment by the front airbags if they inflate. To help
reduce the risk of serious personal injury:

  Always stow all objects securely in the vehicle.
  Always keep storage compartments closed while driving.
  Do not stow hard, heavy, or sharp objects in open bins in the vehicle or on top of the

instrument panel.

Remove hard, heavy, and sharp objects from clothing and bags in the vehicle interior and

stow securely. Always put heavy items in the luggage compartment.

Always secure objects in the passenger compartment properly with suitable straps so that

they cannot move into the deployment area of a side or front airbag during braking, in a
sudden maneuver, or in a collision.

Always make sure that there is nothing on the front passenger seat when the backrest is

folded forward. When the backrest is folded forward, even light objects could be pushed into
the seat cushion and cause the weight-sensing mat in the seat to register enough weight to
turn the airbag on

Always make sure that the PASSENGER AIR BAG

light is on and stays on whenever

the backrest of the front passenger seat is folded forward

Passengers must never ride in an incorrect seating position because objects are being

transported in the vehicle.

Never let anybody sit in a seat that is blocked by objects being carried in the vehicle.

WARNING

Heavy loads will influence the way your vehicle handles and increase stopping distances.
Heavy loads that are not properly stowed or secured can cause loss of control and serious
injury.

Secure the load properly to keep it from shifting.

Always remember when transporting heavy objects that a change in the center of gravity

also changes the way your vehicle handles:

– Always distribute the load as evenly as possible.

– Secure heavy objects properly as far forward in the luggage compartment as possible.

– Always tie down heavy items securely with suitable straps using the tie-downs in the
luggage compartment.

– Securely latch the rear seat backrest in the upright position.

Never exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating or the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating on the

safety compliance sticker on the left door jamb. Exceeding permissible weight can cause the
vehicle to skid and handle differently.

Always adapt your speed and driving to the heavier load and the weight distribution in the

vehicle. Take road, weather, traffic, and visibility conditions into account as well.

Always accelerate gently and avoid sudden braking and driving maneuvers.
Always brake earlier than you would if you were not driving a loaded vehicle.

Stowing luggage

Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

Always stow all luggage securely in the vehicle

Distribute the load in the vehicle and, if applicable, on the roof and in the trailer as evenly as

possible.

Put heavy objects as far forward as possible in the luggage compartment and securely latch the

rear seat backrest in the upright position.

Secure luggage in the luggage compartment using suitable straps and the tie downs

⇒ Tie-downs.

Also see

⇒ Luggage compartment.

Adjust the headlight range, if necessary

⇒ Lights.

Check the pressure in all 4 tires when the tires are still cold. Never reduce air pressure in warm

tires to match cold tire inflation pressure. Heed the information on the tire pressure label

⇒ Tires and

wheels.

Pay especially close attention to your vehicle's Tire Pressure Monitoring System when driving with

a heavy load

⇒ Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

NOTICE

Wires in the rear windows such as for heating or for an antenna can be damaged by objects
that rub against them.

Please review the information on loading a trailer

⇒ Trailer towing and a roof rack ⇒ Roof rack.

Driving with an open rear hatch

Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

Driving with an open rear hatch can lead to serious personal injury. If you have to drive with an open
rear hatch, make sure that all objects and the hatch itself are properly secured and take appropriate
measures to keep toxic exhaust fumes from entering the vehicle.

WARNING

Driving with an unlatched or open rear hatch can lead to serious personal injury.

Never transport objects larger than those that fit completely in the luggage compartment,

because the rear hatch cannot be fully closed properly.

After closing the rear hatch, always pull up on it to make sure that it is properly closed

and cannot open suddenly when the vehicle is moving.

Always stow all objects securely in the luggage compartment. Loose objects can fall out

of the luggage compartment and injure others on the road behind you.

Drive carefully; anticipate what other drivers will do.
Avoid abrupt or sudden acceleration, steering, or braking, because the unlatched rear

hatch can move suddenly.

Always mark objects sticking out from the luggage compartment clearly for others to see.

Obey all applicable legal requirements.

Never use the rear hatch to “clamp” or “hold” objects that stick out of the luggage

compartment.

Always remove any luggage rack or other rack mounted on the rear hatch (along with any

luggage on the rack) before driving with an open rear hatch.

WARNING

Driving with an open rear hatch can cause poisonous carbon monoxide in the engine exhaust
to get into the passenger compartment.

Carbon monoxide causes drowsiness, inattentiveness, poisoning, and loss of

consciousness. It can lead to accidents and severe personal injuries.

Always keep the rear hatch closed while driving to help keep poisonous exhaust fumes

from being drawn into the vehicle.

Never transport objects that are too large to fit completely into the luggage area, because

then the rear hatch cannot be fully closed.

If you absolutely must drive with an open rear hatch, do the following to reduce the risk of

carbon monoxide poisoning:

– Close all windows and the power sunroof.

– Switch off the climate control system's air recirculation feature.

– Open all air vents in the instrument panel.

– Set the fresh air fan to the highest speed.

NOTICE

The open rear hatch changes the vehicle length and height.

Driving a loaded vehicle

Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

For good handling when driving a loaded vehicle, please observe the following:

Securely stow all luggage

⇒ Stowing luggage.

  Drive especially carefully and accelerate gently.
  Avoid sudden braking and driving maneuvers.
  Brake earlier than you would if you were not driving a loaded vehicle.

If applicable, observe information about driving with a trailer

⇒ Trailer towing.

If applicable, observe information about driving with a roof rack

⇒ Roof rack.

WARNING

Heavy loads can change the way your vehicle handles and increase stopping distances.
Heavy loads that are not properly stowed or secured can shift suddenly, causing loss of
control and serious injury.

Secure the load properly to keep it from shifting.

Always remember when transporting heavy objects that they change the vehicle's center

of gravity and also the way it handles.

– Always distribute the load as evenly as possible.

– Secure heavy objects as far forward in the luggage compartment as possible.

– Secure luggage in the luggage compartment using suitable straps and the tie downs

⇒

Tie-downs. Also see Luggage compartment.

  Always tie down heavy items securely with suitable straps.
  Securely latch the rear seat backrest in the upright position.
  Never exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating or the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating on the

safety compliance sticker on the left door jamb. Exceeding permissible weight can cause the
vehicle to skid and handle differently.

Always adapt speed and driving to the heavier load and the weight distribution in the

vehicle. Take road, weather, traffic, and visibility conditions into account as well.

Always accelerate gently and avoid sudden braking and driving maneuvers.
Always brake earlier than you would if you were not driving a loaded vehicle.

Weights and axle weights

Please first read and note the introductory information and heed the WARNINGS

The actual gross weight of any vehicle depends on the engine, basic equipment, any factory-installed
optional equipment for the given model, and any accessories that have been installed. The Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the Gross front and Rear Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR) for a
given vehicle are printed on the vehicle's Safety Compliance Certification Label on the driver door
jamb.

The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating includes the weight of the vehicle itself with all of its factory-
installed equipment, plus a full tank of gasoline, the engine oil and coolant, all vehicle occupants
(150 lbs/68 kg per seating position) and cargo.

The Gross Axle Weight Ratings specify the maximum allowable load for each axle.

The cargo payload may not be increased by using a roof rack without commensurately reducing the

weight from vehicle occupants

⇒

Volkswagen Tiguan (2015 year). Instruction - part 9