Brake fluid
Fig. 166 In the engine compartment: cap on the brake fluid reservoir (version 1).
Fig. 167 In the engine compartment: cap on the brake fluid reservoir (version 2).
Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air over the course of time. Too much water in the brake fluid causes damage to the brake system. Water lowers the boiling point of the brake fluid. If the water content in the brake fluid is too high, vapor lock may form in the brake system during heavy braking and full braking. Vapor lock reduces the braking efficiency, increases the braking distance considerably, and can lead to a total failure of the brake system. Your own safety and the safety of others on the road depends on your brake system functioning correctly at all times ⇒ 
.
Brake fluid specifications
Volkswagen has developed a special brake fluid that is optimized for the vehicle's brake system. For optimum performance of the brake system, Volkswagen recommends only using brake fluid that complies with the “VW standard 501 14”.
Before using brake fluid, check that the brake fluid specification on the bottle matches the vehicle requirements.
Brake fluid that complies with the VW standard 501 14 can be obtained from an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
If brake fluid that meets this specification is not available and another high-quality brake fluid must therefore be used, brake fluid that complies with the specification DIN ISO 4925 or the US Standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4 CLASS 6 can be used.
Not all brake fluids that comply with the requirements of DIN ISO 4925 or US Standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4 CLASS 6 have the same chemical composition. Some of these brake fluids can contain chemicals that can destroy or damage components of the vehicle brake system over time.
To help ensure that the brake system functions correctly over the long term, Volkswagen recommends using a brake fluid that expressly conforms to the “VW standard 501 14”.
Brake fluid that complies with the VW standard 501 14 meets the requirements of DIN ISO 4925 or the US Standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4 CLASS 6.
Brake fluid level
The brake fluid level must always be between the MIN and MAX markings on the brake fluid reservoir ⇒ .
The brake fluid level cannot be checked precisely on all models because the hood or engine components may obstruct the view of the fluid level in the reservoir. If you cannot read the brake fluid level clearly, see an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
The brake fluid level decreases slightly when the vehicle is being used as the brake pads wear and the brakes automatically adjust themselves.
Brake fluid level
The red warning light turns on.
Brake fluid level is too low.
-
Do not continue driving! -
Check the brake fluid level.
-
If the brake fluid level is too low, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
Changing brake fluid
Have the brake fluid changed regularly. An authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility can provide information about the interval for changing the vehicle brake fluid. Only have brake fluid added that meets the required specifications. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
WARNING
Low brake fluid, brake fluid that is too old, or using an incorrect type of brake fluid can cause brake malfunctions or reduced braking efficiency. Hard braking when the brake fluid is old can cause vapor lock to form in the fluid due to absorbed moisture. Vapor lock reduces the braking efficiency, increases the braking distance considerably, and can lead to a total failure of the brake system.
-
Have the brake system and brake fluid level checked or have the brake fluid changed regularly.
-
Only have new brake fluid added.
-
Be sure to use the correct brake fluid. Only use brake fluid that expressly complies with the VW standard 501 14. Any other brake fluid or brake fluid that is not high-quality can impair the braking function and reduce the braking efficiency.
-
If brake fluid that complies with the VW standard 501 14 is not available and it is absolutely necessary to use a different brake fluid, only use a high-quality brake fluid that complies with DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 6 or US standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4.
WARNING
Brake fluid is poisonous.
-
To reduce the risk of poisoning, never store brake fluid in beverage containers or other containers. A person could mistakenly drink from the container, even if the container is marked.
-
Always store brake fluid in the sealed original container and keep it out of the reach of children.
NOTICE
Spilled or leaking brake fluid damages vehicle paint and tires.
-
Immediately wipe up any spilled or leaking brake fluid that comes into contact with vehicle components.
Brake fluid can pollute the environment. Collect spilled brake fluid and dispose of it correctly.
Download Manual