Volkswagen ID.7: Handling tires

Volkswagen ID.7 2024-2025 Owners Manual / Handling tires

Introduction

Wheels are the parts of the vehicle that are under the most demand, yet are also the most underestimated. Wheels are very important because the narrow contact surfaces of the tires are the only contact that the vehicle has with the road.

The tire and rim combinations approved by Volkswagen are specifically designed for each other.

The service life of the tire depends on the tire pressure, the driving style, the way the tires are handled, and correct mounting of the tire.

Rims, tires and wheel bolts

Rims, tires, and wheel bolts are determined based on the vehicle model. Whenever another rim is installed, the wheel bolts to be used must have the correct length and bolt head shape. This ensures that the brakes can work correctly and that the vehicle drives smoothly and safely. For technical reasons, standard rims from other vehicles cannot be used. Under certain circumstances, this may even apply to rims for the same vehicle model. You must consult a suitably qualified professional to replace rim/tire combinations. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

The correct wheel bolts must always be used for each vehicle model, and these bolts must always be tightened to the correct torque (→ Wheel bolts) .

WARNING

Incorrect handling of wheels can reduce driving safety and cause serious accidents and fatal injuries.

Regularly check the tire pressure when the tires are cold and always maintain the specified pressure (→ Tire pressure) . If the tire pressure is too low, the tire can heat up so much while driving that the tread separates or the tire ruptures.
Check the tires regularly for damage and wear.
Never exceed the maximum permissible speed and tire load specified for the tires fitted to your vehicle.
Use only radial tires of the same design, size (rolling circumference) and tread pattern for the wheels on an axle.
While driving, if unusual vibrations can be heard or the vehicle pulls to one side, stop immediately and check the wheels and tires for damage.
Never loosen the bolts on rims with a bolted rim ring.

WARNING

New tires or tires that are old, worn, or damaged cannot provide the maximum vehicle control and braking effect.

This can cause accidents and fatal injuries.

Break in new tires because they have reduced traction and braking efficiency when they are new. Therefore drive carefully for the first 600 km (370 miles).
Never drive with tires that are worn or damaged, e.g. punctured, cut, cracked, or bulging.
While driving, if unusual vibrations can be heard or the vehicle pulls to one side, stop immediately and check the wheels and tires for damage.
Do not use any tires or rims if you do not know how they have been used in the past. Used tires and rims may be damaged in a way that may not even be visible.
Only use tires that are more than six years old if absolutely necessary and drive with extreme caution if doing so, even if the tires have never been used.
Replace worn or damaged tires immediately.

WARNING

If the wheel bolts are not tightened enough to meet the specification, the wheel bolts and consequently the wheel could come loose while driving. Exceeding the tightening specification could damage the wheel bolts and threads.

Wheel bolts that are tightened incorrectly or missing could cause you to lose control of the vehicle and lead to serious accidents and fatal injuries.

Always tighten the wheel bolts to the correct tightening torque. If you do not have a torque wrench, tighten the wheel bolts with the lug wrench and then have the tightening torque checked as soon as possible by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
Never drive with missing or loose wheel bolts.
Always use wheel bolts that are correct for the rim and the vehicle model.
Never grease or oil the wheel bolts and the threads in the wheel hub. Even when tightened to the specification, the wheel bolts could become loose while driving.
Ensure the wheel bolts and threads in the wheel hubs are clean, easy to move and free of oil and grease.
Never loosen the bolts on rims with a bolted rim ring.

WARNING

Improper installation of the tires on the rim can result in damage to the rim and cause tires to suddenly lose air or go flat while driving.

This can cause accidents and fatal injuries.

Always have tires installed on the rim by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Handling tires

Preventing damage to the tires

Always drive over curbs and other low obstacles slowly and at a right-angle so that both front wheels come into contact with the obstacle at the same time.
Check the tire pressure regularly.
Check tires regularly for damage, e.g. punctures.
Never exceed the load index and maximum speed of the tire (→ Tire labeling and tire classifications) .
Have damaged or worn rims replaced immediately .
Protect tires from coming into contact with corrosive materials such as grease, oil, gasoline, and brake fluid→ .
Replace missing dust caps on the valves immediately.
Remove any objects provided they have not punctured the inside of the tire .
Pay attention to all warnings issued by the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (→ Tire Pressure Monitoring System) .

WARNING

Corrosive fluids and materials can cause visible and invisible damage to the tires, which can cause the tires to fail.

This can cause accidents and fatal injuries.

Always keep chemicals, oils, grease, fuel, brake fluid, and other corrosive materials away from the tires.

Storing tires

Only store tires in a cool, dry location that is as dark as possible.
Do not stand tires that are mounted on rims up vertically.
Protect tires that are not mounted on rims from dirt with suitable covers and store them standing on the tread surface.

Tires that are more than six years old

Tires age due to physical and chemical processes that affect their function. Tires that have been stored and unused for long periods of time age more quickly than tires that are used continuously.

Volkswagen recommends replacing tires that are more than six years old with new tires. This even applies to tires that may appear to be usable and whose tread depth is still greater than the minimum requirement → .

Winter and all season tires lose their characteristics to a large extent due to aging, regardless of the remaining tread depth.

The age of the tire can be determined based on the production date (→ Tire labeling and tire classifications) .

WARNING

Old tires can suddenly lose air or rupture, particularly at high speeds.

This can cause accidents and fatal injuries.

Only use tires that are more than six years old if absolutely necessary and drive with extreme caution if doing so, even if the tires have never been used.

New tires

Drive particularly carefully during the first 600 km (370 mi) with new tires because they must be broken in. Tires that have not yet been broken in have reduced gripping abilities and braking efficiency → .
For all wheels, use only radial tires of the same design, size (rolling circumference), and tread pattern. Exceptions when replacing wheels are different tire and rim sizes on the front and rear axle.
The tread depth of new tires may vary between tire models and manufacturers due to different design features and tread designs.

WARNING

New tires must be broken in because they have reduced traction and braking efficiency when they are new.

This could cause you to lose control of the vehicle and lead to serious accidents and fatal injuries.

Break in new tires. Drive carefully for the first 600 km (370 miles).

The size specifications for new tires may vary significantly from the actual tire dimensions for different tire brands.

Replacing tires

At the factory, the vehicle is equipped by Volkswagen with genuine tires designed to reduce the rolling resistance as much as possible. Volkswagen Genuine tires are marked with the symbol. The specified fuel economy and range can only be achieved using these tires. When purchasing new tires, always make sure the tires are optimized for rolling resistance (→ Eco tips) .
Before buying new reduced rolling resistance tires, seek advice from an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
At a minimum, replace both tires on a single axle.
Only replace old tires with tires that have been approved by Volkswagen for your vehicle model.
Never use tires whose size exceeds the measurement of tires that are approved by Volkswagen→ .

Recalibrating the Tire Pressure Monitoring System

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System must be recalibrated each time one or more wheels is replaced (→ Tire Pressure Monitoring System) .

This also applies if the tires are rotated, for example from front to back. Exceptions when replacing wheels are different tire and rim sizes on the front and rear axle.

WARNING

Wheels must have enough clearance from vehicle components. If there is not enough clearance, tires could rub against components of the suspension, the body, and the brake lines.

This may cause the brake system to fail, the tread to separate, and the tire to rupture, resulting in serious accidents and fatal injuries.

Only use tires with dimensions that do not exceed the dimensions of the tire brands approved by Volkswagen and that do not rub against other components of the vehicle.

WARNING

Dirt can damage the valves and introduce leaks, causing the tire to lose air.

If the tire pressure is too low, the tire can heat up so much while driving that the tread separates or the tire ruptures, which in turn can lead to serious accidents and/or fatal injuries.

Never drive without caps on the valves.

NOTICE

Driving over potholes and curbs can cause the tires to become deformed.

Damage to the tires and rims can result.

Avoid strong impacts and drive around obstacles where possible.

NOTICE

The valves may be damaged by dirt.

Never drive without caps on the valves.

NOTICE

The valves can be damaged when replacing wheels.

Do not let wheels that you have removed fall on the rim.

Always dispose of old tires correctly and according to regulations.

If the spare wheel is different from the regular vehicle wheels, e.g. in the case of winter tires or a temporary spare wheel, only use the spare wheel temporarily and in the event of a breakdown, and drive especially carefully. Replace the compact spare wheel with a regular wheel as soon as possible.

Using tires approved by Volkswagen ensures that the dimensions will fit correctly on your vehicle. If other tires are used, the seller must provide a certificate from the tire manufacturer stating that the tires are suitable for the vehicle. Keep the certificate stored safely in the vehicle.

Handling tires

Preventing damage to the rims

Missing hubcaps can cause damage to the rims and wheel bolts.
Always install missing hubcaps before driving.
Always drive over curbs and other low obstacles slowly and at a right-angle so that both front wheels come into contact with the obstacle at the same time.
Replace missing dust caps on the valves immediately.
Check the tire pressure regularly.

Rims with bolted rim ring or accent elements

Rims with a bolted rim ring or accent element consist of multiple pieces. These pieces are connected together with special bolts. Damaged rims must be replaced and may only be repaired by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Rim identification

In some countries, new rims must include information about certain properties. The following information may be on the rim:

Seal of conformity
Rim size
Manufacturer or brand name
Production date (month/year)
Country of origin
Serial number
Raw material batch number
Commodity code

WARNING

Using unsuitable or damaged rims can impair driving safety and cause accidents and serious injuries.

Only use rims permitted for the vehicle.
Check the rims regularly for damage and replace them if necessary.

WARNING

Loosening and tightening bolts incorrectly on rims with bolted rim rings can cause severe accidents and death.

Never loosen the bolts on rims with a bolted rim ring.
Have all procedures on rims with bolted rim rings performed by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Checking the tire pressure
Monitoring the tightening torque
Monitoring the tread depth
Winter tires
Snow chains
How the Tire Pressure Monitoring System Works
Limitations of the Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Calibrating the Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Troubleshooting the Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Checking the tire pressure

Incorrect tire pressures negatively affect vehicle handling and can cause increased tire wear or even a flat tire→ .

Above all, the correct tire pressure is especially important when driving at high speeds.

Check the tire pressure at least once a month.
Check the tire pressure only when tires are cold. The specified tire pressure only applies to a cold tire. The tire pressure on warm tires is higher than on cold tires. Therefore, never release air from a warm tire to adjust the tire pressure.
Always adjust the tire pressures to the vehicle load → fig. 1 .
After adjusting tire pressures, always screw the caps on the valves and note the information about the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
Always use the tire pressures specified on the label. Never exceed the maximum tire pressure specified on the side of the tire.
If the size of the tires installed at the factory differs from the details on the identification label or on the tire pressure label, the correct tire pressure must be determined.

Geolocation of the tire inflation pressure label

The label specifies the correct tire pressure for the approved tires and is either on the driver door pilla→r fig. 2 or on the inside of the charging socket flap.

Fig. 1 Symbols on the tire pressure label.

Tire pressure for the tires on the front axle.
Tire pressure for the tires on the rear axle

Note: check the tire pressure when the tires are cold
Tire pressure when partially loaded
Depending on vehicle equipment: comfort tire pressure when partially loaded
Tire pressure when fully loaded

Fig. 2 On the driver door pillar: tire pressure sticker (may also be on the inside of the charging socket flap).

The appearance of the label may vary depending on the vehicle. Additional tire sizes can be included that are not approved for your specific vehicle. The tire sizes approved for your vehicle can be found in the vehicle registration document or the EC Certificate of Conformity (CoC - paper); alternatively, you can query this with an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Comfort tire pressure

Depending on the vehicle equipment, the label may include a comfort tire pressure→ fig. 1 . The comfort tire pressure allows the driving comfort to be increased. Power consumption may increase when driving with the comfort tire pressure.

WARNING

A tire pressure that is too low can result in a sudden loss of air, separation of the tire tread or bursting of the tire while driving. An incorrect tire pressure shortens the service life of the tire and negatively affects driving behavior.

An incorrect tire pressure can cause accidents and fatal injuries.

Check the tire pressures regularly, at least once a month and also before driving long distances.
Always adjust the tire pressure according to your load.
Never reduce the tire pressure when tires are warm.

WARNING

Excessive speeds and vehicle overloading can cause overheating, sudden tire damage (including tire blow-outs) and separation of the tread.

This can cause accidents and fatal injuries.

Never exceed the maximum load for the tires fitted (→ Tire labeling and tire classifications) .
Never exceed the maximum permitted speed for the tires fitted (→ Tire labeling and tire classifications) .

NOTICE

Careless handling of the tire pressure gage may damage the valve.

When positioning the tire pressure gauge, make sure it is not tilted at the valve stem.

Tire pressure that is too low increases energy consumption.

Monitoring the tightening torque

The correct wheel bolts must always be used for each vehicle model, and these bolts must always be tightened to the correct torque. The wheel bolt tightening torque must be checked regularly with a functional torque wrench. In addition, the tightening torque must be checked immediately after each wheel change with a functional torque wrench. If the wheel bolts are not tightened enough to meet the specification, the wheel bolts and consequently the wheel could come loose while driving. Exceeding the tightening specification could damage the wheel bolts and threads.

Wheel bolts that are corroded and difficult to turn must be replaced and the threads in the wheel hub must be cleaned before checking the tightening torque. Never grease or oil the wheel bolts and the threads in the wheel hub.

Wheel bolt tightening specification

The tightening torque of the wheel bolts is specified in the chapter on replacing wheels (→ Wheels and tires) .

WARNING

Wheel bolts that are tightened incorrectly or missing could cause you to lose control of the vehicle and lead to serious accidents and fatal injuries.

Always tighten the wheel bolts to the correct tightening torque. If you do not have a torque wrench, tighten the wheel bolts with the lug wrench and then have the tightening torque checked as soon as possible by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
Never drive with missing or loose wheel bolts.
Always use wheel bolts that are correct for the rim and the vehicle model.
Never grease or oil the wheel bolts and the threads in the wheel hub. Even when tightened to the specification, the wheel bolts could become loose while driving.
Ensure the wheel bolts and threads in the wheel hubs are clean, easy to move and free of oil and grease.
Never loosen the bolts on rims with a bolted rim ring.

Replacing tires

Different tire and rim sizes on front and rear axle

For technical reasons, it is not possible to rotate the wheels for even wear of all tires.

Your vehicle is equipped with wheels that differ in tire size and rim size depending on the axle. The different wheels must not be interchanged between the front and rear axles, as this may invalidate the vehicle's operating license.

Monitoring the tread depth

Tread depth

Most driving situations require a tire tread that is as deep as possible. All tires, or at least tires on the same axle, must have an even tread depth → . This applies in particular to wet or wintry road conditions.

In most countries, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm (1/16 of an inch). This is measured in the tread grooves next to the wear indicators. Observe any legal regulations specific to the country where you are driving.

Note the legal requirements in the applicable country for minimum tread depths on winter and all-season tires.

Tire wear

Tire wear depends on various factors:

Driving style.
Wheel balancing.
Running gear alignment.

An imbalance can occur while driving, which can be noticed by uneven steering. Tire imbalances also affect tire wear.

In these situations, have the wheels balanced again.

Incorrect wheel alignment impairs driving safety and increases tire wear. If there is high degree of tire wear, have the wheel alignment checked by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Tire Wear when Driving with a Sporty Driving Style

Driving quickly around curves, rapid acceleration, and heavy braking increase tire wear.

If you drive with a sporty driving style, check the tread depth every 5000 to 10,000 km( approx. 3107 to 6214 miles).

Tread wear indicator in tires

Fig. 1 In the tread grooves: wear indicator.

The tread wear indicator is 1.6 mm (1/16 in) above the base of the tread → fig. 1 . Markings on the sides of the tire indicate the location of the tread wear indicator → fig. 1 .

The tread wear indicator indicates if a tire is worn out. At the latest, the tire must be replaced if the tread depth is worn down to the tread wear indicator.

When you check the tread depth, you must check the wear indicators of all tread grooves.

WARNING

Worn tires are a safety risk and make it difficult to control the vehicle well. They increase the braking distance and the risk of skidding.

Worn tires have significantly less grip. Particularly on wet roads, the vehicle is more likely to "hydroplane".

Worn tires could cause loss of vehicle control, serious accidents and death.

Replace tires with new tires when the tires are worn down to the tread wear indicator.

Winter tires

Summer tires offer very little holding force on icy or snowy roads. Winter or all-season tires improve vehicle handling and braking performance in winter road conditions. Volkswagen recommends using winter tires on the vehicle at temperatures below +7 ºC (+45 ºF) or in winter road conditions. This also applies to vehicles with all-wheel drive (4MOTION).

The effectiveness of winter tires or all-season tires is greatly reduced when the tire tread is worn down to a depth of 4 mm (approx. 5/32 in).

The following applies when using winter tires:

Follow all applicable laws in the country of operation.
Use winter tires on all four wheels at the same time.
Only use in winter road conditions.
Only use the tire sizes permitted for the vehicle.
Only use winter tires that have the same belt construction, size, and tread pattern. Exception .
Follow the speed restriction based on the speed rating.

Speed restriction

Winter tires have a speed restriction based on their speed rating (→ Tire labeling and tire classifications) .

A speed warning can be set in the Vehicle settings menu in the Infotainment System under the Tires menu.

On V winter tires, the speed restriction and required tire pressure depend on the engine. Always ask an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility about the permitted speed and required tire pressure.

Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

WARNING

In winter road conditions, do not let the improved driving characteristics of winter tires tempt you to take safety risks, as otherwise you may lose control of the vehicle, resulting in serious injuries.

Adapt your speed and driving style to the visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.

When temperatures are above +7 ºC (+45 ºF), summer tires provide better vehicle handling. There is less road noise, the tires wear more slowly, and economy is better.

For vehicles with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System, the system must be recalibrated after changing to winter tires (→ Tire Pressure Monitoring System) .

The speed limit and tire load of winter tires may differ from those of summer tires.

You can contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for permitted winter tire sizes. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Snow chains

Note the legal requirements and the permitted maximum speed when driving with snow chains.

Snow chains improve driving and braking handling when on roads covered with ice or snow.

Snow chains may only be mounted on the rear wheels and only on the following tire/rim combinations:

If possible, use fine-mesh snow chains that include a chain lock no larger than 9 mm( approx. 3/8 in).

Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for more information about wheel, tire, and snow chain sizes. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Snow chains may only be used on tire/rim combinations that are approved for snow chain operation.

If using snow chains, remove the wheel covers and rim accent rings before mounting the snow chains. However, the wheel bolts must be covered with caps for safety reasons. Caps can be obtained from an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Using snow chains on the compact spare tire or collapsible spare tire

Using snow chains on the compact spare tire or collapsible spare tire is not permitted for technical reasons.

The vehicle is equipped with wheels that differ in tire size and rim size depending on the axle. The different wheels must not be interchanged between the front and rear axles, as this may also invalidate the vehicle's operating license.

For this reason, snow chains must not be used with a compact spare wheel or collapsible spare wheel on the vehicle.

WARNING

Using unsuitable snow chains or installing snow chains incorrectly can cause serious accidents and death.

Always use the correct snow chains.
Only use snow chains on the tire/rim combinations approved by Volkswagen.
Follow the installation instructions provided by the snow chain manufacturer.
Never drive faster than intended according to the specifications of the snow chain manufacturer or permitted by law when snow chains are mounted.

NOTICE

If snow chains are used on routes that are not snowy, they will impair the driving characteristics, damage the tires, and be quickly destroyed.

Remove snow chains when driving on roads without snow.

NOTICE

Snow chains that come into contact with the rim directly can scratch or damage the rim.

To prevent damage, use snow chains with integrated rim protection.

On vehicles with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System, the system must be reprogrammed after snow chains are mounted (→ Tire Pressure Monitoring System) .

Troubleshooting

Damage to tires and rims can often occur where it is not visible→ .

If you suspect that a wheel is damaged, slow down and stop as soon as traffic allows and it is safe to do so.

Vehicle pulls to one side or unusual vibrations

The vehicle pulls to the left or right when driving, or there are unusual vibrations. This could indicate tire damage or too low a tire inflation pressure.

Check the tires!

Slow down immediately and stop the vehicle as soon as the traffic situation allows and it is safe to do so.

Check the tires and rims for damage.
Do not continue driving if there is tire damage.
Replace the damaged wheel (→ Wheel change) . If necessary, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.
Or: seal the damaged tire using the tire mobility set and inflate it with air (→ Tire mobility set) .
If no exterior damage is visible, drive slowly and carefully to the nearest authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility to have the vehicle checked. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Foreign object stuck in the tire

A foreign object is stuck in the tire or between the tread segments.

On vehicles with run-flat tires (AirStop tires): leave the object in the tire and contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Sealant that has been applied to the inside of the tire running surface will surround the object and seal the tire temporarily.

If an object has punctured through to the inside of a tire, leave the object in place. Objects stuck between the tire tread segments can be removed.
Replace the damaged wheel (→ Wheel change) . If necessary, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.
Or: seal the damaged tire using the tire mobility set and inflate it with air (→ Tire mobility set) .
Check and adjust the tire pressure.
Contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Tires lose traction

The vehicle loses traction when driving along curved stretches, and swerves. The braking distance is longer and the anti-slip regulation (ASR ) and the anti-lock brake system (ABS) take control earlier.

The tire may be too worn down to guarantee sufficient traction (→ Tread depth and wear indicator) .

Go slowly and carefully to the nearest suitably qualified professional to have the vehicle checked. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Wheel bolts can only be undone with difficulty

Wheel bolts can corrode over time. This means that the wheel bolts can only be undone with difficulty.

Contact professional assistance, or drive slowly and carefully to the nearest qualified professional to have the vehicle checked. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

WARNING

Unusual vibrations or the vehicle pulling to one side while driving may indicate tire damage.

Tire damage could cause loss of vehicle control, accidents and serious or fatal injuries.

Slow down immediately and stop the vehicle as soon as the traffic situation allows and it is safe to do so.
Check the tires and rims for damage.
Never continue driving with damaged tires or rims. Instead, seek professional assistance.
If no exterior damage is visible, drive slowly and carefully to the nearest authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility to have the vehicle checked. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

How the Tire Pressure Monitoring System Works

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System warns the driver if tire pressures are too low.

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System uses the ABS sensors to monitor the RPM and therefore the rolling circumference of the individual wheels during travel.

If a tire loses air or the tire pressure is too low, the rolling circumference is reduced and the RPM increases.

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System shows a change in the rolling circumference of the tires via the indicator light in the instrument cluster.

The following situations can also cause the RPM to change:

The tire pressure has changed
The tire has structural damage
One side of the vehicle has a heavier load than the other
Snow chains are installed on the tires
Only one wheel was replaced on each axle

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System will not work if the ESC or ABS is malfunctioning (→ Braking assistance systems) .

Reference Pressure

The reference pressure for the Tire Pressure Monitoring System is the recommended tire pressure for the tires installed at the factory when the tires are cold at maximum load. The reference pressure corresponds to the details on the tire pressure label (→ Tire pressure) .

If the tire pressure has been correctly adjusted on all four tires, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System must be recalibrated (→ Tire Pressure Monitoring System) . This adapts the reference pressure to the current tire pressure.

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System may not react at first or may not react at all when you are driving in a sporty manner, or on snow-covered or unpaved roads, when you are driving with snow chains, or in certain other situations.

A change in the tread circumference of a tire is signaled by the Tire Pressure Monitoring System indicator in the instrument cluster (telltale).

The tire pressure recommended for the tires originally installed on the vehicle is on a sticker on the driver door jamb

Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should be checked monthly when cold and inflated to the inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tires of a different size than the size indicated on the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label, you should determine the proper tire inflation pressure for those tires).

As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system( TPMS) that illuminates a low tire pressure telltale when one or more of your tires is significantly under-inflated. Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle's handling and stopping ability.

Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver's responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even if under-inflation has not reached the level to trigger illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.

Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is not operating properly. The TPMS malfunction indicator is combined with the low tire pressure telltale. When the system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for approximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated. This sequence will continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists.

When the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may not be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions may occur for a variety of reasons, including the installation of replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS malfunction telltale after replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS to continue to function properly.

WARNING

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System is not a replacement for the driver's attention and works only within the system limitations. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System cannot detect all driving situations and may not react, or may react with a delay, or may react in a way that is not desired. If you are careless, there is a risk of accidents, serious injuries and death.

Always stay attentive and do not rely solely on the Tire Pressure Monitoring System. The driver is always responsible for maintaining the correct tire pressures.
Observe the system limitations (→ Tire Pressure Monitoring System) .
Regularly check the tire pressure when the tires are cold and always maintain the specified pressures as stated on the tire inflation pressure label for the tires fitted on the vehicle (→ Tire pressure) .
Check the tires regularly for signs of wear or damage and replace worn or damaged tires immediately.
Never exceed the maximum permissible speed and tire load specified for the tires fitted to your vehicle.

WARNING

If you drive with insufficient tire pressure, the tire could become so hot that the tread could separate, the tire could rupture, and you could lose control of the vehicle.

Tire pressure that is too high or too low shortens the service life of the tire and affects driving behavior.

Different tire pressures or low tire pressures can increase tire wear, decrease vehicle stability, increase braking distance, and result in tire damage, tire failure and loss of vehicle control.

This can cause serious accidents and fatal injuries.

Always pay attention to the warnings given by the Tire Pressure Monitoring System. If the warning light turns on, stop the vehicle immediately but safely with regard for other traffic and check all of the tires (→ Tire pressure) .
The driver is responsible for maintaining the correct tire pressure. Regularly check the tire pressure when the tires are cold and always maintain the specified pressures as stated on the tire inflation pressure label for the tires fitted on the vehicle (→ Tire pressure) . The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) can only function correctly when all tires are inflated to the correct pressure when they are cold.
If the tire is not "flat" and the tire does not need to be replaced immediately, drive slowly to the nearest authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility to have the tire pressure checked and corrected (→ Tire pressure) . Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
Always set up the Tire Pressure Monitoring System correctly (→ Tire Pressure Monitoring System) .

WARNING

Excessive speeds and vehicle overloading can cause overheating, sudden tire damage (including tire blow-outs) and separation of the tread.

This can cause accidents and fatal injuries.

Never exceed the maximum load for the tires fitted (→ Tire labeling and tire classifications) .
Never exceed the maximum permitted speed for the tires fitted (→ Tire labeling and tire classifications) .

Low tire pressures increases energy use and tire wear.

New tires may expand slightly the first time they are driven at high speeds, which can trigger a tire pressure warning.

Only replace old tires with tires that have been approved by Volkswagen for the vehicle model.

Do not rely on the Tire Pressure Monitoring System alone. Inspect the tires regularly to make sure the tire pressure is correct and check the tires for any signs of damage, such as punctures. Remove any objects stuck in the tire tread as long as they have not punctured the inside of the tire.

Limitations of the Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Regular Maintenance

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System is not intended to replace regular inspection and maintenance of the tires. The driver is responsible for ensuring that the correct tire pressure is used at all times, even if the Tire Pressure Monitoring System is not showing a warning that the tire pressure is too low.

The tire pressure of all tires must be checked once a month when the tires are cold and must correspond to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications on the tire inflation pressure label.

This also applies to the tire pressure of the spare wheel or compact spare wheel.

The recommended tire pressure for the tires installed at the factory is specified on the tire inflation pressure label (→ Tire pressure) .

Unresolved Malfunctions

If the Tire Pressure Monitoring System displays a malfunction, the tire pressure cannot be monitored correctly. A malfunction in the Tire Pressure Monitoring System can have a number of causes, e.g. a wheel or a tire being replaced. After replacing a wheel or tire, you must check whether the indicator light displays a system malfunction to make sure that the Tire Pressure Monitoring System is working properly (→ Tire Pressure Monitoring System) .

Sporty driving

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System may be delayed or not be displayed at all when driving with a sporty style, on winter or unpaved roads, or when driving with snow chains.

Calibrating the Tire Pressure Monitoring System

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System must be recalibrated under the following conditions:

If the tire pressures were adjusted.
If one or more wheels were changed.
If the wheels were rotated, for example from front to rear.

The Tire Pressure Monitoring System must only be recalibrated if all tires are inflated to the correct pressure when they are cold. In order to measure the tire pressure on cold tires, the vehicle must be left to stand for 3 hours or only be driven slowly over short distances during this time.

After being warned about a low tire pressure, switch the ignition off and back on. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System can only be recalibrated after this is done.

Switch the ignition on.
Switch the Infotainment system on.
Tap .
Tap Vehicle .
Tap Status .
Tap Tires .
Tap SET .
If all four tires meet the required tire pressure values, tap OK . After travel times of at least 20 minutes and at different vehicle speeds, the system adapts to the new values and monitors them.

WARNING

If the Tire Pressure Monitoring System has been calibrated with a tire pressure that is too high or low, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System may give false warnings or fail to give a warning when the tire pressure is dangerously low.

This can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.

Ensure that the tire pressure is correct on all wheels before calibrating the Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

Troubleshooting the Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Tire pressure low

The yellow indicator light turns on.

The tire pressure of one or more tires has decreased or the tire is structurally damaged.

Stop the vehicle immediately where it is safe to do so.
Check the tires for visible damage.
If there is no visible damage on the tires, drive at reduced speed to the nearest gas station and check the tire pressure. Adjust it if necessary.
If one of the tires is damaged, change the damaged wheel . If necessary, contact an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility for assistance.
Or: seal the damaged tire using the tire mobility set and inflate it with air .
Recalibrate the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (→ Tire Pressure Monitoring System) .
If the malfunction persists, contact a suitably qualified professional. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System malfunction

The yellow indicator light flashes for approximately one minute and then stays on.

There is a system malfunction.

Stop the vehicle immediately where it is safe to do so.
Switch the ignition off and back on again.
Recalibrate the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (→ Tire Pressure Monitoring System) .
If the malfunction persists, contact a suitably qualified professional. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Driving on unpaved roads for a long period of time or sporty driving can deactivate the Tire Pressure Monitoring System temporarily. If there is a malfunction, the indicator light flashes for approximately one minute and then stays on. However, the indicator light will turn off if the road conditions or driving style changes.