The Volkswagen Tiguan is renowned for its blend of comfort, performance, and innovative technology. Among its many features, Auto Hold stands out as a particularly useful system for enhancing driving convenience and safety. This guide provides a detailed overview of the VW Tiguan Auto Hold feature, explaining what it is, how it works, its benefits, and how to use it effectively.
Understanding VW Tiguan Auto Hold
Auto Hold is an electronic parking brake system that goes beyond the traditional handbrake. It automatically holds the vehicle stationary when you stop, without requiring you to keep your foot on the brake pedal. This is especially beneficial in stop-and-go traffic, at traffic lights, or on inclines. It’s a feature designed to reduce driver fatigue and enhance the overall driving experience.
How Does Auto Hold Work in Your Tiguan?
The Auto Hold system in your VW Tiguan utilizes the car’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system to function. Here’s a breakdown of how it operates:
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Activation: Auto Hold is typically activated by pressing a dedicated button, usually located on the center console, often near the parking brake switch. An indicator light, often a green “AUTO HOLD” symbol on the instrument cluster, will illuminate to confirm the system is active.
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Engagement: Once activated, Auto Hold engages automatically when the vehicle comes to a complete stop and remains stationary. You can remove your foot from the brake pedal, and the Tiguan will stay put, even on a slope. The system uses the brakes to hold the vehicle in place.
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Release: To move off again, simply press the accelerator pedal. Auto Hold will automatically release the brakes, allowing you to drive away smoothly. There’s no need to manually disengage the system each time you stop and start.
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Deactivation: Auto Hold can be deactivated by pressing the same button used to activate it. The indicator light on the instrument cluster will turn off, signifying that the system is no longer active. It’s also important to note that Auto Hold may automatically deactivate under certain conditions, such as when the parking brake is manually engaged or when the ESC system is significantly intervening.
Alt text: Close-up of the VW Tiguan center console showing the Auto Hold button, highlighted for clarity, indicating its location for easy activation.
Benefits of Using Auto Hold
The Auto Hold feature offers several advantages for VW Tiguan drivers:
- Enhanced Comfort in Traffic: In congested traffic conditions, constantly switching between the accelerator and brake pedal can be tiring. Auto Hold eliminates the need to keep your foot on the brake while stopped, reducing strain and improving driving comfort.
- Smooth Hill Starts: Starting on an incline can be tricky, especially for less experienced drivers. Auto Hold prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards while you move your foot from the brake to the accelerator, making hill starts effortless and safer.
- Reduced Driver Fatigue: By automating the process of holding the vehicle at a standstill, Auto Hold contributes to a less stressful and more relaxed driving experience, particularly on longer journeys or in urban environments with frequent stops.
- Increased Safety: Auto Hold ensures the vehicle remains stationary when stopped, reducing the risk of accidental roll-aways, especially on uneven surfaces or steep gradients. This enhances overall safety for both the driver and other road users.
Alt text: Instrument cluster view of a VW Tiguan, focusing on the green Auto Hold indicator light illuminated to show the system is active and ready to assist the driver.
How to Activate and Use Auto Hold in Your VW Tiguan
Using Auto Hold in your VW Tiguan is straightforward:
- Start the Engine: Ensure your Tiguan is turned on.
- Activate Auto Hold: Locate the Auto Hold button on your center console (refer to your vehicle’s manual for the exact location if needed). Press the button to activate the system. The green Auto Hold indicator light will appear on your dashboard.
- Drive as Usual: Drive your Tiguan as you normally would.
- Stop and Auto Hold Engages: When you come to a complete stop, Auto Hold will automatically engage. You can release the brake pedal, and the vehicle will remain stationary.
- Accelerate to Release: To move forward, simply press the accelerator pedal. Auto Hold will disengage smoothly, and you can continue driving.
- Deactivate Auto Hold (if desired): If you wish to deactivate Auto Hold, press the Auto Hold button again. The indicator light will turn off.
It’s important to familiarize yourself with the Auto Hold feature in a safe environment before using it in heavy traffic. Pay attention to the indicator light and how the system engages and releases to ensure smooth and confident operation.
Conclusion
The Auto Hold feature in the VW Tiguan is a valuable addition that enhances driving convenience, comfort, and safety. By automatically managing the brakes when stationary, it simplifies driving in various conditions, from busy city streets to hilly terrains. Understanding and utilizing Auto Hold can significantly improve your overall driving experience with your VW Tiguan.
