While driving

Information on the air conditioning system

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

The cooling system for the vehicle interior only works when the engine is running and the blower is switched on.

The air conditioning system operates most effectively with the windows and the panorama tilting roof closed. However, if the vehicle has heated up after standing in the sun for some time, the air inside can be cooled more quickly by opening the windows and the panorama tilting roof for a short time.

Settings for optimal road visibility

Switching the cooling system on not only reduces the temperature of the vehicle interior, but also the humidity. This improves comfort for the vehicle occupants and prevents the windows from misting when the outside humidity is high.

Air conditioning system (manual)

  • Switch off air recirculation mode .
  • Set the blowers to the required level.
  • Set the temperature selector to the middle position.
  • Open and position all vents on the dash panel .
  • Turn the air distribution controller to the desired position.
  • Press the button to switch the cooling system on. The indicator lamp in the button lights up.

Climatronic

  • Press the button.
  • Set the temperature to +22 °C.
  • Open and position all vents on the dash panel .

The cooling system cannot be switched on

The following criteria may prevent the cooling system from being switched on:

  • The engine is not running.
  • The blower is switched off.
  • The air conditioning system fuse has blown.
  • The ambient temperature is lower than approximately +3℃ (+38°F).
  • The compressor has been temporarily switched off because the coolant temperature is too high.
  • There is a different fault in the vehicle. The air conditioning system should be checked by a qualified workshop.

Things to note

If the humidity and temperature outside the vehicle are high, condensation can drip off the evaporator in the cooling system and form a pool underneath the vehicle. This is normal and does not indicate a leak.

The windscreen may mist up after starting the engine due to residual humidity in the air conditioning system. Switch the defrost function on in order to clear the windscreen of condensation or mist as quickly as possible.

Test yourself

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