Volkswagen Touran Owners Manual: Brake fluid

Fig. 138 In the engine compartment: cap of the brake fluid container (variant 1)

Fig. 139 In the engine compartment: cap of the brake fluid container (variant 2)

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

Brake fluid will gradually absorb water from the surrounding air. The brake system will be damaged if there is too much water in the brake fluid. The boiling point of the brake fluid is also considerably reduced by the water content. Heavy use of the brakes may cause a vapour lock in the brake system if the brake fluid or if the water content is too high. Vapour locks reduce levels of braking power, considerably increase braking distance and can even cause the brake system to fail completely. Your own safety and that of other road users is determined by a brake system that functions properly at all times  .

Brake fluid specification

Volkswagen has developed brake fluid that is optimal for the brake system in your vehicle. To ensure the brake system works optimally, Volkswagen recommends the use of brake fluid compliant with VW standard 501 14. If this brake fluid is not available or another brake fluid id used for different reasons, a brake fluid may be used that is compliant with the US standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4 or DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4  .

Brake fluid that is compliant with VW standard 501 14 fulfils the requirements of the US standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4 and DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4. This does not mean however that a brake fluid that is compliant with US standard FMVSS 116 DOT 4 or DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 will automatically conform to the requirements of the VW standard 501 14. Compare the information with the data on the packaging of the brake fluid and ensure that only the correct brake fluid is ever used for your vehicle.

Suitable brake fluid is available from a Volkswagen dealership.

Brake fluid level

The brake fluid level must always be between the MIN and MAX marking of the brake fluid container or above the MIN marking  .

The brake fluid level cannot be checked accurately in all models as engine components conceal the brake fluid container. If the brake fluid level cannot be read exactly, please go to a qualified workshop.

The brake fluid level drops slightly when the vehicle is being used as the brake pads wear and the brakes are automatically adjusted.

Changing brake fluid

The brake fluid must be changed as described in the service schedule. The brake fluid should be changed by a qualified workshop. Volkswagen recommends using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose. Only brake fluid that conforms with the required specification should be refilled.

WARNING

Brake failure or reduced braking effect 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 change should be carried out regularly according to the service schedule.

• Heavy use of the brakes may cause a vapour lock if the brake fluid is left in the system for too long. Vapour locks reduce levels of braking power, considerably increase braking distance and can cause the brake system to fail completely.

• Please ensure that the correct brake fluid is used. Only brake fluids that are compliant with VW standard 501 14 or FMVSS 116 DOT 4 or DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 should be used. Any other brake fluid can affect the brake function and reduce brake effectiveness. The brake fluid should not be used if the specification VW standard 501 14, FMVSS 116 DOT 4 or DIN ISO 4925 CLASS 4 is not on the brake fluid container.

• The refilled brake fluid must be new.

WARNING

Brake fluid is toxic.

• In order to reduce the risk of poisoning, never use bottles or other containers to store brake fluid. These containers could encourage other people to drink out of them, even if they are labelled otherwise.

• Brake fluid must be stored in the original containers out of the reach of children.

NOTICE

Brake fluid will damage the vehicle paint. Brake fluid must be wiped off the vehicle paint immediately.

Brake fluid can pollute the environment. Any spilt service fluids must be cleaned up and disposed of properly.