Volkswagen Polo Owners Manual: Introduction

This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

 → Ignition lock  
 → Starting the engine  
 → Stopping the engine  
 → Electronic immobilizer

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

Immobilizer display

If the vehicle key is not valid or there is a fault in the system then Immobilizer active! may be displayed in the instrument cluster. The engine cannot be started.

Push starting or tow starting

For technical reasons, your vehicle must not be push-started or tow-started. Use jump leads to start the engine instead.

Additional information and warnings:

• Vehicle key set  

• Changing gear  

• Braking, stopping and parking  

• Steering  

• Pull-away assist systems  

• Filling the tank  

• Fuel  

• Manual opening and closing  

• Starting the engine with jump leads  

• Tow-starting and towing  

WARNING

Switching the engine off while the vehicle is moving makes it more difficult to stop the vehicle. This can lead to loss of control of the vehicle and to accidents and severe injuries.

• Braking and steering support systems, the airbag system, the belt tensioners and other items of safety equipment in the vehicle are only active when the engine is running.

• The engine should only be switched off when the vehicle is stationary.

WARNING

The risk of serious injury can be reduced with the engine running or when starting the engine.

• Never start or run the engine in unventilated or closed spaces. The exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, an odourless and colourless toxic gas. Carbon monoxide can cause loss of consciousness and death.

• Never leave the engine running if you leave the vehicle unattended. The vehicle could move suddenly or something unexpected may happen that may cause damage and serious injuries.

• Never use a start booster. Start boosters may explode and cause the engine to suddenly run at high revs.

WARNING

The components of the exhaust system become very hot. This can cause fires and serious injuries.

• Never park the vehicle where parts of the exhaust system can come into contact with inflammable material underneath the vehicle, e.g. leaves, dry grass, spilt fuel.

• Never apply underseal or anti-corrosion coatings to the exhaust pipes, catalytic converter, diesel particulate filter or the heat shields on the exhaust system.