Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Owners Manual: Washing the vehicle with a high-pressure cleaner

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer when cleaning your vehicle using a high-pressure cleaner. This applies in particular to the pressure and the spraying distance  .

Maintain sufficient distance from soft materials such as rubber hoses, plastic parts, insulation, as well as to the sensors for the parking distance warning system. The sensors of the parking distance warning system are located in the front and also in the rear bumper  .

Never use concentrated jet nozzles or dirt blasters  .

WARNING

The incorrect use of a high-pressure cleaner can cause visible and invisible long-term damage to tyres and other materials. This can cause accidents and serious injuries.

• Maintain sufficient distance between the washer jet and the tyres.

• Never clean the tyres with concentrated jet nozzles (dirt blasters). The tyres may incur visible and invisible damage even if cleaned briefly with the spray at a distance.

WARNING

After the car has been washed, the braking effect could set in later than normal and extend the braking distance as the brake discs and brake pads will be wet, or iced up in winter.

• You can dry and de-ice the brakes by performing careful braking manoeuvres. Ensure that you do not endanger any other road users or violate any legal regulations when doing so.

NOTICE

• The water may be no warmer than +60°C (+140°F).

• Do not wash the vehicle in direct sunlight in order to avoid damage to the vehicle paintwork.

• The sensors in the bumpers must be kept clean and free of ice to ensure that the parking distance warning system and the Park Assist system work properly. When cleaning with pressure hoses or steam cleaners, the sensors should only be sprayed briefly and the steam/hose nozzle must be kept more than 10 cm away.

• Do not clean windows that are iced over or covered in snow with a high-pressure cleaner.

• Washing the vehicle in cold weather: if rinsing the vehicle with a hose, do not direct the water into the lock cylinders or the gaps round the doors, boot, or bonnet. The locks and seals could freeze.

Questions & answers

Washing the vehicle with a high-pressure cleaner — Volkswagen Golf Mk7

How should I use a high-pressure cleaner on the Golf Mk7?

Keep the nozzle at least 30 cm from the surface. Do not aim directly at window seals, door seals, the sunroof or convertible roof edges, or electrical components.

Can high-pressure washing damage the Golf Mk7?

Yes. Too close or too high a pressure can peel paint, force water past seals, or damage sensors. Follow the pressure washer manufacturer's instructions.

Should I avoid pressure washing Golf Mk7 tyres?

Avoid holding the jet close to a tyre sidewall for too long — high pressure can damage the rubber. A brief rinse at normal distance is fine.