Volkswagen Polo Owners Manual: Introduction

Volkswagen Polo Owners Manual / Starting the engine, changing gear and parking / Changing gear / Introduction

This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

→ Warning and indicator lamp
→ Pedals
→ Manual gearbox: selecting a gear
→ Automatic gearbox: selecting a gear
→ Changing gear using Tiptronic
→ Driving with an automatic gearbox
→ Fault in the function of the automatic gearbox
→ Gear-change indicator

Notes in this chapter concerning the automatic gearbox are applicable both for the automatic gearbox and the dual clutch gearbox DSG^®.

The following will occur if reverse gear is selected and the ignition is switched on:

The reverse light comes on.

The Climatronic switches automatically to air recirculation mode when the vehicle is reversing.

The rear window wiper is switched on if the windscreen wipers are switched on.

The ParkPilot may switch on.

Additional information and warnings:

Overview of the centre console

Instruments

Windscreen wiper/washer

Braking, stopping and parking

Pull-away assist systems

ParkPilot

Heating, ventilating, cooling

Engine management system and exhaust purification system

Manual opening and closing

Tow-starting and towing

WARNING

Rapid acceleration can cause loss of traction and skidding, particularly on slippery roads. This can cause you to lose control of the vehicle, which can lead to accidents and serious injuries.

The kickdown function or fast acceleration should only be used if the visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions permit.

WARNING

Never ride the brake pedal. Do not overuse the brake pedal. Constant braking will cause the brakes to overheat. This can considerably reduce the brake effect, increase the braking distance and, in certain circumstances, cause the brake system to fail completely.

NOTICE

Never let the brakes rub by applying light pressure to the brake when it is not necessary to brake. This will increase levels of wear.

Before driving down a long, steep gradient, reduce speed and change to a lower gear or move the selector lever to a lower position. This will make use of the engine braking effect and relieve the load on the brakes. The brakes could otherwise overheat and possibly fail. The brakes should only be used to slow or stop the vehicle.

Changing gear

...

Warning and indicator lamp

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings Lit up Possible cause Solution Dual clutch gearbox DSG® ov ...

Other materials:

Frontal collisions and the laws of physics
Fig. 45 Unbelted occupants in a vehicle heading for a brick wall Fig. 46 Unbelted occupants in a vehicle striking a brick wall First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings The physical principles involved in a frontal collision are relatively simple. As soon a ...

What happens to vehicle occupants who have not fastened their seat belts
Fig. 47 An unbelted driver is thrown forwards Fig. 48 The unbelted rear passenger is thrown forwards, hitting the belted driver First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings Many people believe that they can brace their weight with their hands in a minor collisi ...

Checklist
Observe the following information both before and during every journey to ensure your own safety, and the safety of all passengers and other road users : Check that all lights and turn signals are working properly. Check the tyre pressure Wheels and tyres Wheels and tyres Tyres ...