Steering
Steering information
To make it more difficult to steal the vehicle, the steering must always be locked before leaving the vehicle.
Steering
Power steering on an electromechanical steering system adjusts automatically based on the driving speed, the steering torque, and the steering angle of the wheels. Electromechanical power steering works only when the engine is running. The steering also works if the start-stop system engages and the engine switches off.
If the power steering system is impaired or malfunctioning, a significantly greater amount of force than normal must be used to steer.
On vehicles with Driving Mode Selection, power steering handling can be influenced by the selected driving mode.
Mechanical steering column lock (steering lock)
On vehicles with an ignition lock, the steering column is locked mechanically:
Locking the steering column:
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Stop the vehicle and, if necessary, move the selector lever to position P.
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Remove the vehicle key.
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Turn the steering wheel slightly, until you hear the steering lock engage.
Unlocking the steering column:
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Turn the steering wheel slightly to release the steering lock.
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Insert the vehicle key in the ignition lock.
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Hold the steering wheel in position and switch on the ignition.
Countersteering assist
The countersteering assist provides the driver with steering assistance in critical driving situations. Additional steering power supports the driver when countersteering ⇒
.
Progressive steering
Depending on the vehicle's equipment, the progressive steering can adapt the force of the steering movement to the driving situation. Progressive steering only works when the engine is running.
In city traffic, less steering movement is needed for parking, maneuvering or for taking sharp bends.
On highways or on expressways, progressive steering gives a sportier, direct steering experience and noticeable dynamics, when driving along curved stretches, for instance.
WARNING
If the power steering is not functioning, the steering wheel becomes stiff, making it much more difficult to steer, which can in turn result in loss of control of the vehicle, accidents, serious injuries or death.
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Depending on the equipment, power steering may only work when the engine is running.
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Never let the vehicle roll when the engine is stopped.
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Never remove the remote vehicle key from the ignition switch when the vehicle is in motion. The steering column lock could engage and you would not be able to steer the vehicle.
WARNING
The countersteering assist together with the ESC assists the driver when steering the vehicle in critical driving situations. The driver must always steer the vehicle in every scenario. The vehicle is not steered by the countersteering assist.
NOTICE
When the vehicle is being towed, switch on the ignition so that the turn signals, horn, windshield wipers, and the windshield washer system can be activated.
Troubleshooting
Steering malfunction
The red warning light turns on or flashes.
There is an electromechanical steering or electronic steering column lock malfunction.
Do not continue driving!
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Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.
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If the red warning light turns on, it may be difficult to move the steering wheel because the electromechanical steering system is malfunctioning.
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If the red warning light blinks, the steering column cannot unlock.
Steering malfunction
The yellow indicator light turns on or flashes.
The steering is stiffer or more sensitive than usual.
The indicator light comes on permanently:
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Restart the engine and drive the vehicle slowly for a short distance.
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If the indicator light stays on, contact a suitably qualified professional and have the system checked. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
The indicator light blinks:
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Turn the steering wheel back and forth slightly.
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Switch the ignition off and back on.
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Pay attention to the messages in the instrument cluster display.
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If the indicator light continues to flash after switching the ignition back on, do not continue driving. Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.
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