For safety reasons, it is important that the driver positions the exterior and interior mirrors correctly
before starting a journey ⇒ .
Looking in the exterior mirrors and the interior mirror does not allow the driver to see the entire
side and rear area around the vehicle. The area that cannot be seen is known as the blind spot.
There may be objects and other road users in the blind spot.
WARNING
Adjusting the exterior and interior mirrors while the vehicle is moving may cause the driver to
become distracted. This could lead to accidents and serious injuries.
Exterior and interior mirrors should be adjusted only when the vehicle is at a standstill.
When parking, changing lane, or performing an overtaking or turning manoeuvre, always pay careful
attention to the area around the vehicle as objects and other road users may be located in the blind
spot.
Always ensure that the mirrors are positioned correctly and that the rear view is not restricted by
ice, snow, condensation or any other objects.
WARNING
If you estimate the distance from traffic behind you incorrectly, you can cause accidents and serious
injuries.
Curved mirrors (convex or aspheric) enlarge the field of vision and can make objects in the mirror
seem smaller and further away than they actually are.
Using curved mirrors to estimate the distance from other vehicles behind you when changing lanes
can provide inaccurate results and can lead to accidents and serious injuries.
Whenever possible, use the interior mirror to check the exact distance between your vehicle and
following traffic or other objects.
Ensure that you have a good view to the rear of the vehicle.
WARNING
Automatic anti-dazzle mirrors contain an electrolyte fluid which could leak if the mirror is broken.
The leaking electrolyte fluid can cause irritation to the skin, eyes and respiratory organs, especially in
people who suffer from asthma or similar illnesses. Immediately ensure that there is a sufficient
supply of fresh air and get out of the vehicle. If this is not possible, open all of the windows and
doors.
If the electrolyte fluid gets into the eyes or onto the skin, immediately wash the area with plenty of
water for at least 15 minutes and consult a doctor.
WARNING
The start/stop system must always be switched off manually when towing a trailer using towing
brackets that have not been retrofitted by Volkswagen. Otherwise faults can occur in the brake
system, possibly resulting in accidents and serious injuries.
NOTICE
Observe the instructions and information for vehicles with an N1 approval ⇒ Information about
vehicles with N1 approval (light commercial vehicle) .
Always switch off the anti-theft alarm before a trailer is hitched or unhitched or a bicycle carrier is
loaded or unloaded ⇒ Anti-theft alarm . The tilt sensor could otherwise trigger an alarm
unintentionally.
With a new engine, do not tow a trailer during the first 1,000 km ⇒ Running in the engine .
Some retrofitted towing brackets may cover the aperture for fitting the towing eye. If so, the towing
eye cannot be used for towing or tow-starting other vehicles. For this reason, the removed ball head
of a retrofitted towing bracket should be kept in the vehicle at all times.
Technical requirements
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒Introduction
Cooling system
There is an increased load on the engine and the cooling system when towing a trailer. The cooling
system must contain sufficient coolant and be able to cope with the extra load due to trailer towing.
Trailer brake
If the trailer is equipped with its own brake system, comply with the relevant regulations.
Trailer tail light clusters
The trailer tail light clusters must work correctly and meet legal requirements. Do not exceed the
maximum power consumption for the trailer.
Exterior mirrors
If you are unable to see the traffic behind the trailer using the vehicle's standard exterior mirrors,
additional exterior mirrors should be fitted in accordance with any country-specific regulations.
Before setting off, adjust the exterior mirrors so that you have a sufficient view towards the rear.
