Care, cleaning, maintenance

Cleaning the engine compartment

~2min read
Read and follow the introductory information and safety information first⇒Introduction to the subject

The engine compartment of a vehicle is a dangerous area ⇒ Preparations for working in the engine compartment .

If necessary, the engine compartment should be cleaned by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Incorrect cleaning procedures could remove corrosion protection and damage electrical components, among other things. In addition, water could enter directly into the vehicle interior through the plenum chamber ⇒ .

If the engine compartment is extremely dirty, have it cleaned professionally by your authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Plenum chamber

The plenum chamber is located in the engine compartment between windshield and engine, under a perforated cover. Outside air is taken into the vehicle interior from the plenum chamber via the climate control system.

Regularly remove leaves and other loose objects from the plenum chamber cover by hand or with a vacuum cleaner.

Injuries, scalding, accident and fire hazards can occur while working on the engine or in the engine compartment!
  • Before working in the engine compartment, be sure to familiarize yourself with the necessary procedures and generally accepted safety precautions ⇒ Preparations for working in the engine compartment .
  • Volkswagen recommends having the work performed by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.
Spraying or pouring water (e.g. with power washer) into the plenum chamber can cause severe damage to the vehicle.
Wash the engine compartment only in special wash bays so that the oily dirt and fuel residue that are washed off the vehicle will not enter the sewage system. In some areas it illegal to wash the engine compartment anywhere other than at such specified locations.

Test yourself

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