While driving

Air recirculation mode

~2min read
First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings

General notes

There are different types of air recirculation mode:
Manual air recirculation mode (heating system, air conditioning (manual), Climatronic).
Automatic air recirculation mode (Climatronic).

The air recirculation mode prevents outside air from entering the vehicle.

If the outside temperature is very high, the manual air recirculation mode should be activated for a short time in order to cool the vehicle interior more quickly.

For safety reasons, the air recirculation mode will switch off if the button is pressed or if the air distribution regulator is switched to .

Switching the manual air recirculation mode on and off

Switching on: press the button. The indicator lamp in the button lights up.

Switching off: press the button. The indicator lamp in the button switches off.

Switching the automatic air recirculation mode on and off

  • Press the button.
  • Touch the function button.
  • Switch automatic recirculation mode on or off by touching the Automatic air recirculation function button.

If the checkbox in the function button is ticked , the automatic recirculation mode is switched on.

Function of the automatic air recirculation mode

In automatic air recirculation mode, fresh air will enter the vehicle interior. The air recirculation mode will switch on automatically if the system detects an increase in the concentration of noxious substances in the outside air. The air recirculation mode will switch off as soon as this level has returned to normal.

The system cannot detect unpleasant odours.

To prevent condensation from forming on the windows, air recirculation mode will not switch on automatically in certain situations.

Stale air can quickly make the driver tired and affect their concentration, which in turn can cause collisions, accidents and serious injuries.
  • Never use the air recirculation mode for an extended period as no fresh air will enter the vehicle interior.
  • If the cooling system is switched off, the windows can mist up very quickly in air recirculation mode and reduce visibility considerably.
  • Always switch off the air recirculation mode when it is not required.

NOTICE

In vehicles with an air conditioning system, do not smoke when the air recirculation mode is switched on. The smoke drawn into the cooling system can leave a residue on the evaporator and the dust and pollen filter with active carbon insert, producing a permanent unpleasant odour.
When reversing the vehicle, or when the wash and wipe system is being used, the air recirculation mode will switch on temporarily to prevent exhaust emissions from entering the vehicle interior.

Test yourself

A quick Volkswagen Golf quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.