VOLKSWAGEN POLO VARIANT 1998 (01) PDF Document

Conversions of wheels and tyres can only be carried out under certain conditions. The following points must be observed:

Legislative Conditions:

• If the size of the wheel and tyre, with an indication of the load index and the speed symbol, is included in the vehicle’s General Operating Permit (GTA) and EU operating permit/type approval, this combination can be fitted without any problem.

• It is not necessary for the wheel and tyre combination specified in the registration certificate to be fitted. All combinations approved in the vehicle GTA or EU operating permit/type approval may be fitted to the vehicle.

• For conversions recommended by VOLKSWAGEN AG, there are no general operating permits in accordance with § 22 StVZO (German road traffic and licensing regulations).

• Unless the wheels and/or tyres are included in the relevant vehicle GTA or EU operating permit/type approval, the vehicle will no longer meet the requirements of the road traffic regulations if converted.

Technical Conditions:

• The wheel and tyre combinations and conversions listed refer exclusively to Volkswagen genuine disc-type wheels.

• Approval of wheel and tyre combinations from the accessories trade is not possible with the provided parts certificate.

• Tubeless radial tyres may only be fitted to rims with a safety hump feature on the shoulder.

• Tyres with run-flat properties may only be used on disc-type wheels with an extended hump and on vehicles with a tyre pressure monitoring system.

• If the listed wheel and tyre combinations are used, the associated tyre inflation pressures must be adhered to. These can be found on the sticker on the inside of the tank flap or in the vehicle’s tables.

• Sufficient clearance to the wheels and tyres at parts of the wheel housing, suspension, and braking system is assured if the notes and specifications are observed.

• Unless otherwise stated, snow chains may only be fitted to the drive wheels. On all-wheel drive vehicles, only the front wheels may be fitted with snow chains (with the exception of some models).

Tyres of the “80” series (e.g., 145/80 R 13 74 S) will replace the “82” series (e.g., 145/82 R 13 74 S). Lawmakers have stipulated that “82” series tyres may be replaced by “80” series tyres without needing an entry in the vehicle documents.

The condition for this is that the “80” series tyres must have the same width, be of the same type (cross-ply or radial belted), and have the same or a higher load index.

If only “80” series tyres are entered in the vehicle documents, “82” series tyres may only be used if an entry has been made in the vehicle documents.

The markings on the tyre sidewall provide important information. Here is a breakdown of what each marking represents:

1. Size code: e.g., 205/55 R 16.

2. Position of TWIs (Tread Wear Indicators): Shows where the wear indicators are in the tread.

3. Manufacturer (trade name): The brand of the tyre.

4. Construction: Indicates if the tyre is “Radial” and “Tubeless”.

5. Load capacity index / speed rating: e.g., 91 H. These indicate the maximum load and speed the tyre can handle.

6. Specified direction of rotation/installation for tyre: For directional tyres.

7. Maximum permissible load: Data for North America.

8. Maximum permissible tyre pressure: Data for North America.

9. Number of plies: Information on the number of plies in the tread and sidewalls and the material used.

10. E number = Approval number: Indicates the tyre fulfils European guidelines.

11. Manufacturer code / date of manufacture (DOT): Identification for the plant, tyre size, model, and date of manufacture.

12. DOT – Department of Transportation: Tyre fulfils standards of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

13. Marking for Brazil

14. Marking for China

15. Country of origin: e.g., Made in Germany.

16. Safety reference for use or fitting of tyre

17. Relative expected service life – abrasion resistance: Based on a US standard test.

18. Rating of wet-braking traction (A, B, or C): According to a US test.

19. Rating of temperature resistance (A, B, or C): According to a US test.

20. Identifying tyres with run-flat properties: e.g., self-supporting run-flat.

21. Tread pattern: e.g., ContiPremiumContact.

The dimensions and ratings are marked on the tyre’s sidewall. For example, a summer tyre might be marked as 195/65 R 15 91 V.

Here is what the markings mean:

1. Tyre width: The first number (e.g., 195) is the width of the tyre in millimeters.

2. Aspect ratio: The second number (e.g., 65) is the height of the tyre’s sidewall as a percentage of its width.

3. Tyre construction: “R” indicates a radial construction.

4. Rim diameter: The number after “R” (e.g., 15) is the diameter of the wheel rim in inches.

5. Load index (LI): The next number (e.g., 91) is a code for the maximum load the tyre can carry.

6. Speed rating code: The letter (e.g., V) indicates the maximum speed the tyre is designed for.

7. Winter/all-season code: Winter or all-season tyres are marked with “M+S”.

Speed Rating / Maximum Speed Table:

Speed rating code	Maximum speed in km/h
L	120
M	130
N	140
P	150
Q	160
R	170
S	180
T	190
U	200
H	210
V	240
ZR	above 240
W	270
Y	300

Load Rating Code / Maximum Load Table:

Load rating code	Maximum load of tyre in kg
75	387
78	425
79	437
80	450
81	462
82	475
83	487
84	500
85	515
86	530
87	545
88	560
89	580
90	600
91	615
92	630
93	650
94	670
95	690
96	710
97	730
98	750
99	775
100	800
101	825
102	850
103	875
104	900
110	1060
112	1120

Proper tyre storage is essential to maintain their condition and service life.

Storage Room Conditions:

The storage room should be dark, dry, cool, and ventilated.

Storage of Tyres:

• Complete Wheels (Tyres on Rims): These can be stored flat, stacked one upon the other. Ensure the tyres are clean and dry. The inflation pressure should be increased to a maximum of 3 bar.

• Tyres without Wheels: These are best stored standing vertically. If stacked for long periods, they can be pressed together, making them difficult to fit. If stored vertically, it is recommended to turn them every 14 days to avoid flat spots.

Warning: Stored tyres must not come into contact with fuel, oil, grease, or chemicals under any circumstances. The material can be damaged by chemical reactions that are not always visible, leading to dangerous situations when driving.

Tyre Ageing:

Tyres age due to physical and chemical processes. Stored tyres harden and become brittle faster than tyres in constant use. Regular use and flexing activate softeners in the rubber, preventing hardening. The age of a tyre can be determined from the DOT designation on the sidewall.

Recommendations:

• It is recommended not to use summer and winter tyres that are older than 6 years. The original properties deteriorate due to the ageing process, with winter tyres especially losing adhesion properties.

• When fitting new tyres, the spare tyre may also be used if it is in flawless condition and not more than 6 years old.

• All VW vehicles are factory-fitted with four identical tyres and wheels.

Renewing Tyres:

Tyres must always be renewed when:

• The legal minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm is reached.

• There is visible mechanical damage.

Winter Tyres:

• For driving in winter, it is recommended to equip the vehicle with winter tyres in the sizes recommended in the parts certificates.

• All tyre sizes listed in the vehicle documents can also be used as winter tyres.

• To achieve the best possible handling, winter tyres must be fitted on all wheels.

• The suitability of winter tyres with less than 4-5 mm tread depth for winter operation is limited. Some countries require a tread depth of at least 4 mm.

• It is recommended that winter tyres be replaced after no more than six years.

• The tyre pressure for winter tyres must be 0.2 bar more than the applicable pressure for standard tyres but not more than 3.5 bar.

Snow Chains:

• Snow chains must be fitted to driven wheels only.

• It is not possible to use snow chains with all wheel and tyre combinations. Check the vehicle tables of the parts certificate for notes.

• If no particular type is specified, small-link chains may be used. These, including the fastener, may not protrude more than 15 mm beyond the tread and inner wall.

• The maximum speed permitted by law when driving with snow chains is 50 km/h.

• Snow chains should be removed when there is no snow on the road to avoid adverse effects on handling and unnecessary wear.

If your vehicle pulls to one side, follow these steps to diagnose and remedy the issue. Experience shows that in 90% of all complaints, the tyres are the cause.

Test Conditions and Preliminary Checks:

1. Check all suspension components on the front and rear axles for damage.

2. Check tyre pressure and correct if necessary.

3. Check the tyres for external damage (punctures, cuts, bubbles, flat spots).

4. Ensure all tyres are of the same type, manufacture, and tread pattern, with even wear and tread depth.

5. Perform a road test on a road that is level, straight, ungrooved, and does not drop off to one side. There must be no crosswind.

Strategic Rotation for Non-Directional Tyres:

If the complaint is justified, perform the following steps:

1. Perform a road test to determine if the vehicle pulls to one side and if so, which side.

2. If it pulls, interchange the front wheels.

3. Perform another road test.

• If the vehicle travels in a straight line, the problem is solved.

• If the vehicle pulls to the other side, proceed to the next step.

• If the vehicle pulls to the same side, interchange the front and rear tyres and perform another road test. If it still pulls, check vehicle alignment.

4. If it pulled to the other side in step 3, reverse one front tyre on its rim (so the direction of rotation is reversed).

5. Perform another road test. If it still doesn’t travel in a straight line, interchange the front and rear wheels and test again. If issues persist, check vehicle alignment or contact Product Support.

Strategic Rotation for Unidirectional Tyres:

1. Perform a road test to determine if the vehicle pulls to one side and if so, which side.

2. If it pulls, interchange the front and back wheels with tyres.

3. Perform another road test.

• If the vehicle travels in a straight line, the problem is solved.

• If it does not travel in a straight line, first renew one tyre on the front axle and re-test. If the issue persists, renew the other tyre on the front axle. If it still pulls, check the front and rear wheel alignment.

Follow these instructions to ensure wheel bolts and wheels are properly secured.

Preparation for Changing/Fitting Wheels:

1. Check that the contact surfaces on the brake disc are free of corrosion and dirt.

2. Check that the contact surface on the centring seat of the brake disc is free of corrosion and dirt.

3. Check that the contact surface on the inner side of the wheel (rim) and the centring seat of the rim are free of corrosion and dirt.

4. The concave seats in the holes for the wheel bolts and the threads of the wheel bolts must be free of corrosion, dirt, oil, or grease.

5. Check that the wheel bolts can be easily screwed in by hand. The thread must not come into contact with the bore in the brake disc.

6. Damaged, badly corroded, or difficult-to-remove wheel bolts must be renewed.

Fitting Wheels:

1. Preserve the wheel centring seat if required by the manual.

2. When fitting the wheel, screw in all wheel bolts uniformly by hand.

3. Tighten the wheel bolts in a diagonal sequence to approx. 30 Nm.

4. Lower the vehicle to the floor and tighten all wheel bolts diagonally to the specified torque using a torque wrench. Do not use an impact driver when screwing in the bolts.

The following table shows the approved wheel and tyre combinations for the VOLKSWAGEN POLO VARIANT 1998.

Model engine output	Tyres	Tyre size	Wheel	Offset in mm	Snow chains	Remarks
Up to 44 kW petrol engines	Standard tyres	185/60 R 14 82H	6 J x 14	38	No
		175/70 R 13 82S	5 1/2 J x 13	38	No
		185/60 R 14 82S	6 J x 14	38	No
	Modification	185/55 R 15 81S	6 J x 15	38	No
	Winter tyres	175/70 R 13 82Q	5 1/2 J x 13	38	Yes
		General information on: • Winter tyres • Snow chains
55 kW petrol engine, up to 55 kW diesel engine	Standard tyres	185/60 R 14 82/83T	6 J x 14	38	No	The winter tyres 175/65 R 14 82Q are not always entered in the vehicle documentation. If necessary, they must be subsequently entered.
		185/60 R 14 82S	6 J x 14	38	Yes*
	Modification	185/55 R 15 82S	6 J x 15	38	Yes*
		175/65 R 14 82Q	6 J x 14	38	Yes
	Winter tyres	185/60 R 14 82Q*	6 J x 14	38	Yes
		Tyre makes recommended by Volkswagen
66 kW TDI	Standard tyres	185/60 R 14 82/83H	6 J x 14	38	Yes*	• Summer tyres • Winter tyres * Valid only for vehicles from 09.99. Use only small-link snow chains.
		185/60 R 14 82T	6 J x 14	38	Yes*
	Modification	185/55 R 15 81T	6 J x 15	38	Yes*
		175/65 R 14 82Q	6 J x 14	38	Yes
74 kW, 81 kW TDI	Standard tyres	185/60 R 14 83H	6 J x 14	38	Yes*
		185/60 R 14 82H	6 J x 14	38	Yes*
	Modification	185/55 R 15 81H	6 J x 15	38	Yes*

Below are the wheel specifications for the various wheel and tyre combinations available for your VOLKSWAGEN POLO VARIANT 1998.

5 1/2 J x 13 Wheels

For 40 kW and 44 kW vehicles:

Part Number: 191 601 025 D

• Size: 5 1/2 J x 13
• Wheel offset in mm: 38
• Wheel load in kg: 410

Part Number: 1H0 601 025 A

• Size: 5 1/2 J x 13
• Wheel offset in mm: 38
• Wheel load in kg: 450

6 J x 14 Wheels

For 40 kW and 44 kW vehicles (up to VIN 6K W 530 000):

Part Number: 1L0 601 025 J

• Size: 6 J x 14
• Wheel offset in mm: 38
• Wheel load in kg: 530

For 40 kW and 44 kW vehicles (from vehicle ID No. 6K W 530 001):

Part Number: 6K9 601 027

• Size: 6 J x 14
• Wheel offset in mm: 38
• Wheel load in kg: 530

For all vehicles:

Part Number: 321 601 025 H

• Size: 6 J x 14
• Wheel offset in mm: 38
• Wheel load in kg: 500

Part Number: 357 601 025 A/Q

• Size: 6 J x 14
• Wheel offset in mm: 38
• Wheel load in kg: 530

Part Number: 6K0 601 025 M

• Size: 6 J x 14
• Wheel offset in mm: 38
• Wheel load in kg: 450

Part Number: 6K0 601 025 S

• Size: 6 J x 14
• Wheel offset in mm: 38
• Wheel load in kg: 450

6 J x 15 Wheels

Part Number: 6K0 601 025 Q

• Size: 6 J x 15
• Wheel offset in mm: 38
• Wheel load in kg: 450

Part Number: 6K0 601 025 AB

• Size: 6 J x 15
• Wheel offset in mm: 38
• Wheel load in kg: 450

Tyre size	Make	Tread pattern
175/65 R 14 86T	Firestone	F 580
	Michelin	Agillis
185/60 R 14 82T	Continental	Eco Contact EP
	Michelin	MXT Energy
	Pirelli	P 3000
185/60 R 14 82H	Continental	CH 90
	Dunlop	D8 M2
	Michelin	MXV3A Energy
185/55 R 15 81H	Michelin	MXV3A Energy
	Firestone	FH 700
185/55 R 15 82H	Pirelli	P 6000
	Firestone	FH 700

Tyre size	Make	Tread pattern
175/65 R 14 82Q/T	Dunlop	SP Winter Sport M2
	Goodyear	Ultra Grip 5
185/60 R 14 82Q	Michelin	XM + S Alpin
185/60 R 14 82T	Continental	TS 780 Winter Contact
	Goodyear	Ultra Grip 5
	Michelin	Alpin
	Vredestein	Snowtrac
185/60 R 14 82H	Continental	TS 770 Winter Contact