Air conditioning system

Introduction

~3min read
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

→ Controls for the air conditioning system
→ Controls for the heating and fresh air system
→ Information on the air conditioning system
→ Vents
→ Air recirculation mode

Dust and pollen filter

The dust and pollen filter with activated charcoal reduces the level of impurities in the outside air entering the vehicle.

The dust and pollen filter must be changed regularly to avoid impairing the performance of the air conditioning system.

The dust and pollen filter must be changed more frequently than stated in the service schedule if the efficiency of the filter declines prematurely due to the vehicle being used in areas with high levels of air pollution.

Additional information and warnings:

  • Exterior views
  • Windscreen wiper/washer
  • Cleaning and caring for the vehicle exterior
Poor visibility through all windows increases the risk of collisions and accidents, which can cause serious injuries.
  • Always ensure that all windows are free of ice, snow and mist to ensure good visibility.
  • Maximum heat output, which is needed to defrost the windows as quickly as possible, is only available when the engine has reached its operating temperature. Do not start your journey until you have good visibility.
  • Always ensure that the heating and fresh air system or the air conditioning system and the heated rear window are used correctly in order to have good visibility.
  • Never use the air recirculation mode for an extended period. 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.
Stale air can quickly make the driver tired and affect their concentration, which in turn can cause collisions, accidents and serious injuries.
  • Never switch off the blowers or switch on the air recirculation mode for an extended period as this prevents fresh air from entering the vehicle interior.

NOTICE

  • Switch off the air conditioning system if you suspect that it has been damaged. This can help to prevent further damage. The air conditioning system should be checked by a qualified workshop.
  • Repairs to the air conditioning system require specialist knowledge and special tools. Volkswagen recommends using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.

If the cooling system is switched off, the outside air that is drawn into the vehicle is not dehumidified. To prevent the windows misting over, Volkswagen recommends that you leave the air conditioning (compressor) switched on. Press the button. The indicator lamp in the button must light up.

Maximum heat output, which is needed to defrost the windows as quickly as possible, is only available when the engine has reached its operating temperature.

Keep the air intake slots in front of the windscreen free of snow, ice and leaves to ensure heating and cooling is not impaired, and to prevent the windows from misting over.

After starting the engine with a discharged vehicle battery or after an emergency start, system settings (time, date, personal convenience settings and programming) may have been changed or deleted. Check and correct the settings as necessary once the vehicle battery has been sufficiently charged.

Test yourself

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