Trailer towing
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Headlight adjustment
Towing a trailer can raise the front end of the vehicle enough for the dipped beam to blind other
road users. Use the headlight range control to lower the light cone as required. Vehicles with
automatic headlight range adjustment are adjusted automatically.
Things to note when driving with a trailer
•If the trailer has an overrun brake, apply the brakes gently at first and then firmly. This will
prevent the jerking that can be caused by the trailer wheels locking.
•The combination weight causes the braking distance to increase.
•Engage a lower gear prior to inclines (manual gearbox or Tiptronic mode of the automatic
gearbox) to additionally make use of engine braking. The brake system could otherwise
overheat and fail.
•The vehicle's centre of gravity and, in turn, the vehicle's handling, will change because of the
trailer load and the increased combined towing weight of the vehicle and trailer.
•The weight distribution of a loaded trailer with an unladen towing vehicle is very unfavourable.
When driving in this situation, drive particularly carefully and slowly.
Pulling off on slopes when towing a trailer
A vehicle towing a trailer is liable to roll back a short distance when moving off on a slope,
depending on the angle of the slope and the total weight of the trailer and vehicle.
When towing a trailer, pull off on slopes as follows:
•Depress and hold the brake pedal.
•Press button once to switch off the electronic parking brake ⇒ Electronic parking
brake.
•Manual gearbox: depress the clutch fully.
•Select first gear ⇒ Manual gearbox: selecting a gear or selector lever position D/S⇒ DSG dual
clutch gearbox.
•Pull on the button and hold it in this position to hold the vehicle and trailer with the
electronic parking brake.
•Release the brake pedal.
•Pull away slowly. To do this, slowly release the clutch pedal for a manual gearbox.
•Only let go of the button when the engine has sufficient power to move off.
Trailer stabilisation
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The trailer stabilisation function can detect if an attached trailer is starting to lurch from side to side
and can provide countersteer.
Trailer stabilisation is a subsidiary function of the Electronic Stability Control (ESC).
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Incorrect trailer towing can cause loss of vehicle control and serious personal injury.
•Towing a trailer and transporting heavy or bulky items can change the way the vehicle
handles and increase the braking distance.
•Always drive carefully and think ahead. Brake earlier than in normal driving.
•Always adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic
conditions. Reduce your speed, particularly when going downhill.
•Accelerate carefully and gently. Avoid abrupt and sudden driving and braking
manoeuvres.
•Take special care when overtaking. Reduce your speed immediately if the trailer shows
even the slightest sign of snaking.
•Never try to stop a trailer from snaking by increasing your speed.
•Keep to speed limits which may be lower for vehicles with trailers than for vehicles
without trailers.
WARNING
If a lurching motion is detected, the trailer stabilisation function automatically helps to reduce the
trailer's rocking motion using counter steering assistance.
Requirements for trailer stabilisation
•The vehicle is a factory-fitted towing bracket or a compatible towing bracket is fitted.
•Electronic Stability Control and the traction control system (TCS) are active. The indicator lamp
or in the instrument cluster is not lit up.
•The trailer is electrically connected to the towing vehicle via the trailer socket.
•The vehicle speed is higher than approximately 60 km/h (37 mph).
•The maximum drawbar load is being carried.
•The trailer must have a rigid drawbar.
•Trailers with brakes must have a mechanical overrun system.
Retrofitting a towing bracket
Fig. 194 Dimensions and attachment points for retrofitting a towing bracket.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Do not let the extra safety afforded by the trailer stabilisation function tempt you into
taking any risks when driving – this can cause accidents.
•Always adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic
conditions.
•Accelerate carefully on slippery surfaces.
•Take your foot off the accelerator if one of the systems is active.
WARNING
The trailer stabilisation function may not be able to detect all driving situations correctly.
•Trailer stabilisation is switched off when ESC is deactivated.
•Light trailers that are snaking will not be recognised by the trailer stabilisation function
and stabilised accordingly in all cases.
•A trailer can still jack-knife on slippery roads with little grip, even if the towing vehicle
is equipped with trailer stabilisation.
•Trailers with a high centre of gravity might tip over before snaking starts.
•Sudden braking procedures could occur automatically in extreme driving situations if
the trailer socket is being used without a trailer (e.g. for a bicycle carrier with lighting).
WARNING
Volkswagen recommends having the towing bracket retrofitted by a qualified workshop. The cooling
system may need to be modified or heat shields may need to be fitted. Volkswagen recommends
using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.
Dimensions
The dimensions ⇒ Fig. 194 must be adhered to for the retro-fitting of a towing bracket. Always
observe the minimum distance given from the middle of the ball coupling Ⓕ to the surface of the
road. This also applies when the vehicle is fully laden, including maximum drawbar load.
Attachment points
989 mm
595 mm
348 mm
At least 65 mm
350 – 420 mm
1,061 – 1,066 mm
Only use towing brackets which have been approved by Volkswagen for your vehicle type.
Troubleshooting
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The ball head on the towing bracket is not locked. Check towing bracket lock ⇒ Electrically
adjustable ball coupling.
Fuel and emission control
Electrical accessories that are not connected properly can cause malfunctions in the
entire vehicle electronics system and also cause accidents and serious injuries.
•Never connect the trailer's electrical system directly to the electrical connections of the
tail lights or to other unsuitable sources of electricity. Only a suitable connector may
be used to connect the trailer.
•A towing bracket should be retrofitted to the vehicle by a qualified workshop.
WARNING
The trailer can become detached from the towing vehicle if the towing bracket is
unsuitable or incorrectly fitted. This can cause serious accidents and fatal injuries.
WARNING
The refill bottle must be disposed of in accordance with regulations governing the protection
of the environment.
Catalytic converter
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
To help ensure long-term functionality in the exhaust system and the catalytic converter:
•Use unleaded petrol only ⇒ Fuel types and refuelling.
•Do not allow the fuel tank to run completely empty.
•Do not overfill engine oil ⇒ Engine oil.
•Do not tow start the vehicle. Use jump leads ⇒ Jump starting.
If you notice misfiring, uneven running or loss of power when the vehicle is moving, reduce speed
immediately. The vehicle should be inspected at the nearest qualified workshop
⇒ Troubleshooting. If this happens, unburnt fuel can enter the exhaust system and escape into the
atmosphere. The catalytic converter can also be damaged by overheating.
The emissions may have a sulphur-like smell even if the emission purification system is
working properly.
Particulate filter
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Function
The particulate filter filters out soot particles in the exhaust gas. Observe the following points to
ensure that the exhaust purification system will work properly for a long time:
AdBlue is an irritant and corrosive fluid that can damage the skin, eyes and breathing
passages upon contact.
•Always observe the instructions for use when using AdBlue. If containers are used
according to the instructions, it is unlikely that a user will come into contact with
AdBlue.
•AdBlue must be kept in the closed original container. Never use empty food
containers, bottles or other containers for this purpose.
•Always store in a safe place out of reach of children.
•If AdBlue gets into the eyes, immediately rinse the eyes with plenty of water for at
least 15 minutes and consult a doctor.
•If AdBlue gets onto the skin, immediately wash the area with plenty of water for at
least 15 minutes and consult a doctor if the skin becomes irritated.
•If AdBlue is swallowed, immediately rinse the mouth out with lots of water for at least
15 minutes. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by a doctor. Seek
medical assistance immediately.
CAUTION
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Overfilling AdBlue may damage the tank system and the vehicle.
•Do not fill with more than the maximum refill quantity indicated on the instrument
cluster display.
•Remove any spilt AdBlue as quickly as possible with a damp cloth and plenty of cold
water.
•If the AdBlue has already formed crystals, use warm water and a sponge to remove.
NOTICE
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Improper use of AdBlue may cause damage to the vehicle that is not covered by the
warranty.
•Only use AdBlue that complies with the standard ISO 22241-1.
•Do not mix with water, fuel or additives.
•Never fill AdBlue in the diesel tank.
•Do not transport the refill bottle in the vehicle habitually. The bottle may develop a leak
following changes in temperature and damage and the AdBlue may damage the
vehicle interior.
NOTICE
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•Only refuel with fuels that are suitable for the vehicle ⇒ Fuel types and refuelling.
•Do not allow the fuel tank to run completely empty.
•Use only suitable engine oil for the vehicle and do not overfill ⇒ Engine oil.
•Do not tow start the vehicle. Use jump leads ⇒ Jump starting.
Periodic regeneration
The soot in the particulate filter is burnt off at high temperatures on a periodic basis.
To assist the regeneration of the particulate filter, Volkswagen recommends that you avoid making
only short journeys.
Noises, slight smells and increased engine speeds may occur during regeneration. The radiator fan
may run on while the vehicle is moving or when the engine has been switched off.
During the periodic regeneration process, the yellow indicator lamp does not light
up.
Troubleshooting
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Irregular engine running and malfunctions
If the engine shows signs of irregular running or malfunctions while you are driving, this may mean
that the fuel is of poor quality. Reduce speed immediately. Drive to nearest qualified workshop at
medium engine speeds and low loads on the engine.
If these symptoms occur directly after refuelling, switch off the engine immediately to avoid any
subsequent damage. You should obtain professional assistance.
Warning and indicator lamps
Lights up together with the red warning lamp : fault in the selective catalytic reduction
system. The engine cannot be restarted! Drive straight to a qualified workshop without switching
off the engine and have the system checked ⇒.AdBlue level too low. The engine cannot
be restarted! Switch off the vehicle and refill the AdBlue minimum quantity according to
⇒ Emission control with AdBlue⇒.Lights up together with the yellow warning lamp
: the selective catalytic reduction system is faulty or not filled with standard-compliant
AdBlue. Drive immediately to a qualified workshop and have the system checked.AdBlue
level too low. Refill AdBlue within the displayed remaining range in accordance with ⇒ Emission
control with AdBlue⇒.The particulate filter is saturated with soot and requires
regeneration. Driving at speeds between 50 - 120 km/h (31 - 75 mph) will support regeneration.
Observe the relevant speed limits and the gear recommendation. The indicator lamp goes out
automatically when the particulate filter has been regenerated. If the indicator lamp is still lit up after
driving for around 30 minutes, seek expert assistance immediately.Lit up: malfunction. Have
the engine checked by a qualified workshop.Flashing: misfiring, which damages the catalytic
converter. Drive immediately to the nearest qualified workshop and have the engine checked.
There may be engine faults and fuel consumption may be higher if the indicator lamps are lit
up or flashing.
Colour display only on an instrument cluster with colour display.
Fuel standards
Petrol
Vehicles with a petrol engine must be run on petrol in compliance with the European standard
EN 228 or the German standard DIN 51626-1 ⇒.
Where petrol complying with the specified standard is not available, Volkswagen dealerships will
have information on what fuels are suitable for the vehicle.
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If the AdBlue level is too low, the vehicle cannot be restarted after the ignition has been
switched off. Starting with jump leads is also not possible.
•Refill AdBlue at the latest when the remaining distance reaches approximately
1,000 km.
•Never allow the AdBlue tank to run empty.
NOTICE
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Diesel
Vehicles with a diesel engine must be run on diesel in compliance with the European standard
EN 590 or the German standard DIN 590 ⇒.
Where diesel complying with the specified standard is not available, Volkswagen dealerships will
have information on what kind of diesel is suitable for the vehicle.
If and when
Vehicle toolkit
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Stowage
⇒ Contents
⇒ Collapsible chock
Observe any country-specific legislation when securing your vehicle in the event of a breakdown.
Stowage
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The vehicle tool kit may be located in various positions in the luggage compartment:
•In a bag on the left or right in the stowage areas of the luggage compartment ⇒ Luggage
compartment equipment.
•In a foam rubber holder under the luggage compartment floor ⇒ Luggage compartment
equipment.
In some models, the luggage compartment may contain a loose box with a vehicle tool kit. This
supplied vehicle tool kit is intended for a possible switch of winter tyres and does not need to be
carried in the vehicle at all times.
After using the vehicle jack, crank it back to its original position so that it can be stored
safely.
Contents
Using fuel that does not comply with these standards may reduce performance and cause
damage to the engine and fuel system.
•Before refuelling, check whether the fuel standard on the pump meets the vehicle's
requirements.
•Use only fuels that meet the required standards in order to prevent damage to the fuel
system and engine failure.
NOTICE
In the event of a sudden driving or braking manoeuvre or accident, a loose vehicle tool kit,
breakdown set and spare wheel or temporary spare wheel could be flung though the
vehicle and cause severe injuries.
•Ensure that the vehicle toolkit, breakdown set and spare wheel or temporary spare
wheel are always secured in the luggage compartment.
WARNING
Unsuitable or damaged tools in the vehicle toolkit can lead to accidents and injuries.
•Never work with unsuitable or damaged tools from the vehicle toolkit.
WARNING
Fig. 199 Contents of the vehicle tool kit.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The content of the vehicle toolkit is determined by the vehicle equipment level ⇒ Fig. 199. The
following describes the maximum scope.
Vehicle tool kit components:
Screwdriver with hexagon socket in the handle for slackened wheel bolts. The screwdriver
blade is reversible. The screwdriver may be stowed under the box spanner.
Adapter for the anti-theft wheel bolts. Volkswagen recommends that you carry the wheel
bolt adapter in the vehicle tool kit at all times. The code number of the anti-theft wheel bolt is
engraved on the front of the adapter. You will need this number to replace the adapter if lost.
Make a note of the code number for the anti-theft wheel bolt and keep it in a safe place – but
not inside the vehicle.
Removable towing eye.
Wire hook for pulling off the centre cover, wheel covers and the wheel bolt caps.
Vehicle jack. Before you return the jack to the foam rubber holder, you must wind the claw
in fully.
Box spanner for wheel bolts.
Crank.
Collapsible chock ⇒ Collapsible chock.
Vehicle jack: maintenance
There are no maintenance cycles for the vehicle jack. Grease it with universal lubricant when
necessary.
Collapsible chock
Fig. 200 Folding out the collapsible chock.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The collapsible chock is stored with the vehicle tool kit ⇒ Stowage.
Design of the collapsible chock
•Lift up the support plate ⇒ Fig. 200①.
•Insert the two lugs on the securing plate into the slots on the base plate ⇒ Fig. 200②.
Correct usage
The collapsible chock can be used to chock the wheel that is diagonally opposite the wheel that is
being changed.
The collapsible chock must be placed directly in front of or behind the wheel. They must only be
used on a solid surface.
Assembling and using the collapsible chocks incorrectly can cause accidents and
injuries.
•Never use damaged collapsible chocks.
•Never use the collapsible chocks to secure the vehicle if it is located on a slope.
WARNING
⇒ Fig. 204Dipped beam
headlights
Side
lights/daytime
running lights
Turn signalMain beam
headlights
Insert the bulb
holder ③ into
the headlight and
turn it clockwise as
far as it will go.
Insert the bulb
holder ④ into
the headlight and
turn it clockwise as
far as it will go.
Insert the bulb
holder ⑤ into
the headlight and
turn it clockwise as
far as it will go.
Insert the bulb holder
⑥ into the
headlight and turn it
clockwise as far as it
will go.
8.Fit the rubber
cover ①.
Fit the rubber
cover ①.
Fit the rubber cover
②.
9.Close the bonnet ⇒ In the engine compartment.
The illustrations show the left-hand headlight from the rear. The right-hand headlight is a
mirror image of the one shown.
There are various types of headlight, so the position and design of covers, bulbs and bulb
holders may vary from those shown in the illustrations.
It is not possible for customers to change the LEDs in daytime running lights with LED
technology. Go to a qualified workshop.
Changing bulbs in the front bumper
Fig. 205 In the front bumper, right-hand side: remove the fog light.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The actions should only be carried out in the specified order:
1.Observe and follow the instructions on the checklist ⇒ Checklist Information on
changing bulbs.
2.Take the wire hook from the tool kit and insert it in the opening in the cover
⇒ Fig. 205. Pull the cover forwards in the direction of the arrow.
3.Use the screwdriver from the vehicle tool kit to unscrew the securing screw
⇒ Fig. 205①⇒ Vehicle toolkit.
4.Pull the headlight out of the bumper towards the outside of the vehicle.
5.Release the connector and pull it off.
6.Turn the bulb holder anticlockwise as far as it will go and pull it out to the rear
along with the bulb.
7.Replace the defective bulb with a new bulb of the same type.
8.Insert the bulb holder into the headlight and turn it clockwise as far as it will go.
9.Connect the connector to the bulb holder. The connector should click into place.
10.Push the headlight from the outside into the openings and insert into the bumper.
11.Use the screwdriver to tighten the securing bolts ⇒ Fig. 205①.
12.Replace the cover in the bumper ⇒ Fig. 205.
13.Stow the wire hook and screwdriver in the vehicle tool kit.
Changing bulbs in the front bumper (R-Line)
•Please ensure that the electrical connection on the headlight housing is positioned
properly in order to prevent damage to the electrical system caused by water entering
the system.
•When removing and refitting the headlight, make sure that the vehicle's paintwork is
not damaged.
NOTICE