Brake fluid specification
Volkswagen has developed a brake fluid that
has been optimised for the brake system in
the vehicle. To ensure the best possible oper-
ation of the brake system, Volkswagen ex-
pressly recommends the use of brake fluid
compliant with VW standard 501 14.
Before using a particular brake fluid, check
that the specifications printed on the con-
tainer correspond to the vehicle require-
ments.
Brake fluid that is compliant with VW stand-
ard 501 14 is available from Volkswagen
dealerships.
If this brake fluid is not available and it is
necessary to use another high-quality brake
fluid instead, brake fluid that is compliant
with DIN ISO 4925 or US standard
FMVSS 116 DOT 4 CLASS 6 can be used.
Not all brake fluids that are compliant with
DIN ISO 4925 or US standard FMVSS 116
DOT 4 CLASS 6 have the same chemical com-
position. Some of these brake fluids may con-
tain chemicals that can damage or destroy
brake system components over time.
Volkswagen therefore recommends the use
of brake fluid that is compliant with
VW standard 501 14 to ensure sustained op-
timal operation of the brake system.
Brake fluid that is compliant with VW stand-
ard 501 14 fulfils the requirements of
DIN ISO 4925 or 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 → page 319.
The brake fluid level cannot be checked accu-
rately in all models as a flap or engine com-
ponents may partially conceal the brake fluid
container. If the brake fluid level cannot be
read exactly, please go to a qualified work-
shop.
The brake fluid level drops slightly during ve-
hicle operation as the brake pads wear and
the brakes are automatically adjusted.
Brake fluid level
The indicator lamp lights up red.
Brake fluid level is too low.
—
Do not drive on!
— Check the brake fluid level.
If the brake fluid level is too low:
— Inform a qualified workshop.
— Have the brake system checked.
Changing the brake fluid
The brake fluid should be changed by a quali-
fied workshop. Volkswagen recommends us-
ing a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.
Only brake fluid that conforms with the re-
quired specification should be used.
WARNING
Brake failure or reduced braking efficiency
can be caused by the brake fluid level being
too low or by brake fluid that is too old or
unsuitable.
·
The brake system and brake fluid level
must be checked regularly.
·
The brake fluid should be changed regu-
larly.
·
Heavy use of the brakes with old brake
fluid can cause a vapour lock. Vapour
locks reduce braking efficiency, consid-
erably increase braking distance and can
cause the brake system to fail complete-
ly.
·
Please ensure that the correct brake flu-
id is used. Only use brake fluid that is ex-
plicitly compliant with VW stand-
ard 501 14.
·
Any other brake fluid or a low-quality
fluid can affect the functioning of the
brakes and reduce braking efficiency.
·
If a brake fluid compliant with VW
standard 501 14 is not available, use
a high-quality brake fluid compliant with
DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 6 or the US stand-
ard FMVSS 116 DOT 4, but only in excep-
tional circumstances.
Brake fluid
319
11A012720AB