Types of child seat
Fig. 52 Some typical child seats.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Only use child seats that have been officially approved and are suitable for the child.
Standards for child seats
Regulations ECE-R 44 or ECE-R 129 apply to child seats within the European Union. Both
regulations apply simultaneously. Child seats which have been tested in accordance with these
standards carry an orange ECE approval label. This ECE approval label may include the following
information on the child seat:
•Weight class
•Size class
•Approval category (universal, semi-universal, vehicle-specific or i-Size)
•Approval number
On child seats that are approved under regulation ECE-R 44, the eight-digit approval number on
the ECE approval label must begin with 03 or 04. This shows that the seat is admissible for use.
Older child seats with an approval number beginning with 01 or 02 are not admissible.
Child seat weight classes
ClassChild's weight
Group 0up to 10 kg
Group 0+up to 13 kg
Group 19 to 18 kg
Group 215 to 25 kg
Group 322 to 36 kg
If children are not secured or are inadequately secured, they are at greater risk of serious
or even fatal injury. Please note the following:
•Children who are either under 12 years of age or less than 150 cm tall must not be
carried in the vehicle if they are not secured in a suitable child seat while the vehicle is
in motion. Regulations in some countries may differ, and must be complied with.
•Always secure children in the vehicle in a suitable child seat. The seat used must be
appropriate to the child's height, weight and age.
•Never fasten more than one child into one child seat.
•Under no circumstances should children or babies be held in a passenger's or drivers
lap while driving.
•Never leave a child unsupervised in a child seat.
•Never allow a child to be carried in a vehicle without being properly secured, and never
allow a child to stand up or to kneel on a seat, or to sit incorrectly while the car is in
motion. This is particularly important for children carried on the front passenger seat.
In an accident, children may sustain serious injuries to themselves and others.
•The child seat can only provide maximum protection if the seat belt is routed correctly
around it. Always ensure that the seat belt is routed as specified in the instructions
provided by the child seat manufacturer. If the seat belt is routed incorrectly it may
cause injuries even in a minor accident.
•After an accident, it is vital to replace any child seats that were in use during the
accident, as they could have sustained non-visible damage.
WARNING
Observe the instructions and information relating to vehicles with N1 approval
⇒ Information about vehicles with N1 approval (light commercial vehicle).
NOTICE
1)
•Weight class 0/0+: group 0/0+ or 0/1 rear-facing infant carriers ⇒ Fig. 52 are the best option
for the period from birth to about 18 months.
•Weight class 1: group 1 (up to about four years old) or group 1/2 (up to about seven years old)
with an integral belt system are best for children over the relevant weight limit.
•Weight classes 2/3: groups 2 and 3 include child seats with a backrest, and booster seats with
no backrest. Child seats with a backrest have integrated seat routing and side cushions, and so
provide better protection than booster seats with no backrest. Volkswagen therefore
recommends the use of child seats with a backrest. Group 2 child seats are for children up to
the age of about seven, group 3 child seats for those older than seven.
Not every child will fit in the child seat specified for their weight group. Likewise, not every seat will
fit in every vehicle. Therefore it is vital to check that the child fits properly in their child seat and that
the child seat can be securely fastened in the vehicle.
Child seat approval categories
Child seats can be classified as universal, semi-universal or vehicle-specific (all in accordance with
regulation ECE-R 44), or as i-Size (in accordance with regulation ECE-R 129).
•Universal: child seats with universal approval are approved for use in all vehicles. No type list
is required. ISOFIX child seats with universal approval must also be securing using a strap over
the top of the vehicle seat (top tether).
•Semi-universal: semi-universal approval requires other safety devices for attaching the seat
(that require additional testing) in addition to the standard requirements for universal approval.
Child seats with semi-universal approval come with a type list. The seats should only be used in
vehicles that are included on this list.
•Vehicle-specific: child seats with vehicle specific approval must have undergone dynamic
testing in each model of vehicle for which it is approved. These child seats also come with a
type list.
•i-Size: child seats classified as i-Size must conform to the installation and safety requirements
prescribed in regulation ECE-R 129. Contact the child seat manufacturer to find out which child
seats are approved for this vehicle in accordance with i-Size.
Regulation ECE-R 129 has not yet been implemented by the state authorities in all countries.
Installing and using child seats
Fig. 53 A typical airbag label on the sun visor.
Fig. 54 A typical airbag label on the B-pillar.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Country-specific regulations
The standards and regulations governing the use of child seats and child seat securing
mechanisms differ from country to country. Not all countries allow you to transport children on the
front passenger seat. Legislation and legal requirements take precedence over the information
given in this owner's manual.
Information on fitting a child seat
Observe the following general information when fitting a child seat. This information is relevant
whatever child seat securing system is being used.
•Read and follow the instructions provided by the child seat manufacturer ⇒.
•Whenever possible, fit all child seats to the rear seat behind the front passenger seat so that
children can exit the vehicle on the kerb side.
•Move the seat belt height adjuster to the highest position.
1)
•Deactivate the front passenger front airbag if fitting a rear-facing child seat on the front
passenger seat.
•When fitting on the front passenger seat, push the front passenger seat back fully and adjust
the seat to the highest position. Adjust the backrest to an upright position ⇒ Sitting position.
•When using child seats from groups 0 or 1 on the rear bench seat, push the rear bench seat
backwards as far as possible ⇒ Sitting position.
•When using child seats from groups 2 or 3 on the rear bench seat, push the rear bench seat
into a central position ⇒ Sitting position.
•Always ensure that there is enough space around the child seat. If necessary, adjust the
position of the seat in front. When doing so, ensure that the driver or front passenger can still
maintain a correct sitting position ⇒ Sitting position.
•The backrest of the child seat must lay as flat as possible against the vehicle seat backrest.
Adjust the seat backrest angle if necessary so that the child seat lies flush against the backrest.
If the child seat, once fitted, touches the vehicle head restraint so that it cannot lie flat against
the backrest, push the vehicle head restraint up as far as it will go or remove it and stow it away
safely in the vehicle ⇒ Sitting position.
Airbag sticker
The vehicle may be provided with stickers giving key information about the front passenger front
airbag. The information on these stickers may vary from country to country. The stickers may be
found:
•On the driver and/or front passenger sun visor ⇒ Fig. 53.
•On the B-pillar on the passenger side ⇒ Fig. 54.
It is essential to note the warning information shown on these stickers before installing a rear-facing
child seat ⇒.
Risks involved in carrying children on the front passenger seat
If you are using a rear-facing child seat, the front passenger front airbag can cause critical or
potentially fatal injuries when it inflates ⇒.
Rear-facing child seat may only be used on the front passenger seat if the front passenger front
airbag has been deactivated. A deactivated front passenger front airbag is indicated by means of
the permanently lit PASSENGER AIR BAG indicator lamp in the driver's field of vision.
Switching off the front passenger front airbag ⇒ Airbag system, PASSENGER AIR BAG
indicator lamp ⇒ Indicator lamp.
If using a front-facing child seat, do not deactivate the front passenger front airbag. When fitting
the child seat ensure ensure that it is as far away as possible from the front passenger front airbag.
The front passenger front airbag can cause severe injuries when it inflates ⇒.
Some child seats are not suitable for use on the front passenger seat. The child seat must be
specially authorised by the manufacturer for use on the front passenger seat in vehicles with front
and side airbags. Volkswagen dealerships keep an up-to-date list of authorised child seats.
If you use a rear-facing child seat on the front passenger seat, the child in it is at
increased risk of sustaining critical or fatal injuries in the event of an accident.
•Deactivate the front passenger front airbag. If the front passenger front airbag cannot
be deactivated no rear-facing child seat may be used.
•Move the front passenger seat as far back and as high as possible in order to create
the largest possible distance between the child seat and the front passenger front
airbag.
•Move the backrest to the upright position.
•Move the seat belt height adjuster to the highest position.
•Use only child seats that have been approved by the child seat manufacturer for use on
a front passenger seat with front and side airbags.
DANGER
Child seats present a risk of injury if incorrectly installed.
•Always read and follow the installation instructions and warning information provided
by the child seat manufacturer.
WARNING
Securing systems
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Different countries use different securing systems for safely fitting child seats in the vehicle.
Key terms for securing systems
•ISOFIX: ISOFIX is a standardised securing system for fitting child seats in the vehicle quickly
and safely. The ISOFIX attachment system creates a rigid connection between the child seat
and the car body.
Compatible child seats have two rigid attachment arms that click into ISOFIX attachment points at
the bottom of the backrest (on the outer rear seats). The ISOFIX securing system as described
here is specific to Europe ⇒ Securing child seats with ISOFIX. An upper strap (top tether) and/or
support foot may sometimes have to be used in addition to the ISOFIX anchor points described
above.
•Three-point automatic seat belt. It is better to secure child seats using the ISOFIX system, if
available, rather than with a three-point automatic seat belt ⇒ Securing child seats with a seat
belt.
Additional securing points:
•Top tether: the strap at the top of the child seat is routed over the vehicle seat backrest and
hooked to an anchor ring on the back of the rear seats ⇒ Securing child seats with top tether
upper strap. Top tether anchor points are marked with an anchor symbol.
•Support foot: some child seats are propped up with a support foot resting on the floor of the
vehicle. This support foot helps prevent the child seat tipping forward in a crash. Child seats
with a support foot can be used only on the front passenger seat and the outer rear seats ⇒.
Recommended child seat securing systems
Volkswagen recommends that child seats are secured as follows:
•Infant carrier or rear-facing child seat: ISOFIX and support foot.
•Front-facing child seat: ISOFIX and top tether and possibly support foot also.
Securing child seats with ISOFIX
Fig. 55 On vehicle seat: markings identifying the ISOFIX anchoring points for child seats.
Using a front-facing child seat on the front passenger seat presents a risk of injury.
•Move the front passenger seat as far back and as high as it can be set, to create the
largest possible distance between the child seat and the front passenger front airbag.
•Move the backrest to the upright position.
•Set the belt height adjuster of the seat belt to the highest position.
•Use only child seats that have been approved by the child seat manufacturer for use on
a front passenger seat with front and side airbags.
WARNING
To help avoid injuries caused by inflation of a head airbag or side airbag:
•Ensure that no children are seated within the airbag deployment zone ⇒ Airbag
system.
•Do not place any objects in the side airbag deployment zones.
WARNING
Incorrect use of the support foot can cause severe or fatal injuries.
•Ensure that the support foot is always correctly and safely installed.
WARNING
Stop the vehicle at a safe distance away from moving traffic and on a suitable surface .
Switch on the hazard warning lights using the button Centre console.
Switch on the electronic parking brake Electronic parking brake.
Move the gear lever to neutral position or move the selector lever to P, Manual gearbox:
selecting a gear and DSG® dual clutch gearbox.
Stop the engine and remove the key from the ignition Starting and stopping the engine.
Ensure that all occupants exit the vehicle and go straight to a safe place away from
moving traffic, e.g. behind the safety barrier. Heed the country-specific regulations
concerning high-visibility waistcoats.
Take all vehicle keys with you when you leave the vehicle.
Place the warning triangle in position to draw the attention of other road users to your
vehicle.
Allow the engine to cool down and seek expert assistance.
Making you and your vehicle safe
Observe any legislation concerning the safety of a broken-down vehicle. For example, many
countries stipulate that you have to switch on the hazard warning lights and wear a high-visibility
vest ⇒ Equipment for an emergency.
Checklist
To ensure your own safety and that of your passengers, observe the following actions in the
specified order ⇒:
When the hazard warning lights are switched on, for example if you are being towed, you can still
indicate a change in direction or lane change by operating the turn signal. The warning lights will be
interrupted temporarily.
Examples of when to switch on the hazard warning lights:
•When traffic ahead suddenly starts moving more slowly or you reach the tail end of a traffic jam,
to will warn vehicles behind you.
•When there is an emergency.
•When the vehicle breaks down.
•When tow-starting or towing.
Always follow local regulations for the use of the hazard warning lights.
If the hazard warning lights are not working, you must use an alternative method of drawing
attention to the broken-down vehicle. This method must comply with traffic legislation.
Any broken-down vehicle poses a high accident risk for the vehicle occupants and for
other road users.
•Stop the vehicle as soon as possible and when safe to do so.
•Park the vehicle at a safe distance from moving traffic.
•Switch on the hazard warning lights.
•Never leave other persons alone in the vehicle, particularly children or people requiring
assistance. This applies in particular when the doors are locked. People locked in the
vehicle may be subjected to very high or very low temperatures.
WARNING
Ignoring any of the items on this important safety checklist can lead to accidents and
severe injuries.
•Always follow the instructions in the checklist and observe the general safety
procedures.
WARNING
The components of the exhaust system become very hot. This can cause fires and serious
injuries.
•Park the vehicle so that no part of the exhaust system can come into contact with any
inflammable material underneath the vehicle, e.g. dry grass, fuel.
WARNING
When pushing the vehicle by hand, do not press on the rear lights, the rear spoiler or large
panels. This could damage the vehicle and loosen the spoiler.
NOTICE
Vehicle key
Fig. 61 Vehicle key.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Key to ⇒ Fig. 61:
Central locking button: unlock the vehicle.
Unlock only the boot lid.
Central locking button: lock the vehicle.
Fold the key bit in and out.
Indicator lamp.
Indicator lamp
The indicator lamp in the vehicle key flashes when you press a button.
Press the buttons on the key only if the corresponding function is actually needed. Pressing
a button when the function is not required could lead to the vehicle being unlocked unintentionally
or the alarm going off. This also applies even when you are not within the effective range.
Changing the button cell
Swallowing batteries with a diameter of 20 mm, or other button cells, can result in severe
or even fatal injuries within a very short period of time.
•Always keep the vehicle key, key ring with batteries, spare batteries, round cells and
other batteries that are larger than 20 mm out of the reach of children.
•Call for medical help immediately you suspect that someone has swallowed a battery.
DANGER
Careless or unsupervised use of the vehicle key can lead to accidents or injuries.
•Always take all vehicle keys with you every time you leave the vehicle. Children or
unauthorised persons could lock the doors and the boot lid, start the engine or switch
on the ignition and operate electrical equipment such as the electric windows.
•Never leave children or people requiring assistance alone in the vehicle. They could
become trapped in the vehicle in an emergency and may not be able to get themselves
to safety. For example, locked vehicles may be subjected to very high or very low
temperatures depending on the season. This can cause serious injuries and illness or
fatalities, especially among small children.
•Never switch off the ignition while the vehicle is in motion. The steering column lock or
steering lock mechanism may be activated and you will no longer be able to steer the
vehicle.
WARNING
Every electric vehicle key contains electronic components. Protect the key from damage,
moisture and excessive vibration.
NOTICE
Central and manual locking
Introduction
This chapter contains information on the followingsubjects:
⇒ Indicator lamp
⇒ Central locking system
⇒ Locking and unlocking the vehicle from the outside
⇒ Locking and unlocking the vehicle from the inside
⇒ Locking and unlocking the vehicle with
⇒ SAFELOCK
⇒ Anti-theft alarm
⇒ Interior monitoring system and anti-tow alarm
⇒ Locking the vehicle after the airbag has been triggered
⇒ Troubleshooting
The central locking system locks all doors and the boot lid of the vehicle. The vehicle cannot be
locked if the driver door is open.
The vehicle can only be locked if the ignition has been switched off or the driver has switched off
the engine before leaving the vehicle.
Automatic locking (anti-theft protection)
The vehicle will lock itself again automatically after around 45 seconds if one of the following
conditions applies:
•The vehicle was unlocked but not opened.
•The ignition was not switched on.
•The boot lid was not opened.
•The vehicle has been unlocked using the lock cylinder.
•The vehicle was locked with the central locking button in the vehicle interior.
Indicator lamp
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The central locking indicator lamp is located in the driver door ⇒ Driver door.
Vehicle locked: red LED flashes at short intervals for approximately two seconds, and then more
slowly. The indicator lamp does not flash if the vehicle was locked with the central locking button in
the driver door ⇒ Locking and unlocking the vehicle from the inside.
Central locking system
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The central locking system enables you to lock or unlock all the doors, the boot lid and the tank flap
from one point.
Settings for the central locking system can be adjusted in the Infotainment system ⇒ Operation and
display in the Infotainment system.
Automatic locking (Auto Lock)
The vehicle may lock itself automatically at speeds of approximately 15 km/h (9 mph) and above
⇒ Operation and display in the Infotainment system. The indicator lamp in the central locking
button will light up yellow when the vehicle is locked.
Improper use of the central locking system could lead to serious injury.
•The central locking system locks all doors. Locking the vehicle from the inside can
prevent accidental opening of the doors and unauthorised persons from entering the
vehicle. However, locked doors can delay assistance to passengers inside the vehicle
in the event of an accident or emergency.
•Never leave children or people requiring assistance alone in the vehicle. All doors can
be locked from the inside using the central locking button. This may mean that people
lock themselves in the vehicle. People locked in the vehicle may be subjected to very
high or very low temperatures.
•Temperatures inside a locked vehicle may reach extremes of heat or cold, according to
season. This can cause serious injuries and illness or fatalities, especially to small
children.
•Never leave anyone inside a locked vehicle. People in the vehicle could become
trapped in an emergency and may not be able to get themselves to safety.
•Doors and the boot lid should therefore be opened or closed only when you are sure
that nobody is in their path.
WARNING
Display
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
A symbol in the instrument cluster display ⇒ Driver information indicates if one or more doors are
not closed properly. Do not drive on! Open the relevant door and then close it again.
This symbol is also visible when the ignition is switched off and will go out a few seconds after the
vehicle has been locked when all doors are closed.
The symbol can differ depending on the version of the instrument cluster.
Childproof lock
Fig. 68 Childproof lock: rear left door, rear right door.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Key to ⇒ Fig. 68:
Child lock is switched off.
Child lock is switched on.
The childproof lock prevents the rear doors being opened from the inside.
When the childproof lock is activated, the door can only be opened from the outside.
The opening/closing paths of the doors and boot lid are potential danger areas where
injury can occur.
•The doors and boot lid should therefore be opened or closed only when you are sure
that nobody is in their path.
WARNING
Careless manual opening and closing of the doors can cause serious injury.
•If the vehicle is locked from the outside, the doors and electric windows cannot be
opened from the inside.
•Never leave children or people requiring assistance alone in the vehicle. They could
become trapped in the vehicle in an emergency and may not be able to get themselves
to safety.
•Temperatures inside a locked vehicle may reach extremes of heat or cold, according to
season. This can cause serious injuries and illness or fatalities, especially to small
children.
WARNING
When carrying out manual opening or closing, remove parts carefully and fit them again
correctly in order to avoid damage to the vehicle.
NOTICE
If the doors are not closed properly, they can open suddenly while the vehicle is in motion.
This can lead to severe injuries.
•Stop as soon as possible and close all doors.
•After closing the doors, always check that they are all properly secured in the lock
carrier.
WARNING