2021 VOLKSWAGEN TIGUAN ignition

Description and function of the airbags
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The airbags can protect vehicle occupants during frontal and side collisions by reducing their
movement in the direction of the collision.
When an airbag is triggered, it is inflated by a gas generator. This causes the airbag covers to
break, and the airbags inflate forcefully to cover their deployment zones within milliseconds. Once a
vehicle occupant wearing a seat belt starts to sink into the inflated airbag, the gas inside the airbag
starts to escape to cushion the occupant and slow down their movement. This can reduce the risk
of severe and fatal injuries. A triggered airbag will not always prevent other injuries from occurring,
such as swelling, bruising, burning and grazing. The deployment of the airbag can also produce
frictional heat.
Airbags provide no protection for the arms or lower body. Exception: in vehicles with a knee airbag,
the knee area of the driver will be protected.
The most important factors for triggering the airbag are the type of accident, the angle of impact,
the vehicle speed and the type of object with which the vehicle collides. Therefore, visible damage
to the vehicle does not always mean that the airbag should have been triggered.
Whether or not the airbag triggers is determined by the vehicle deceleration rate caused by the
collision and registered by the electronic control unit. If this rate is below the reference value
programmed into the control unit, the airbags will not be triggered, even though the vehicle may be
badly damaged as a result of the collision. Vehicle damage, repair costs or even the lack of vehicle
damage in an accident do not necessarily give an indication of whether an airbag should inflate or
not. It is not possible to define a range of vehicle speeds and reference values, since the
circumstances will vary considerably between one collision and another. It is therefore impossible to
cover every possible kind and angle of impact that would trigger the airbags. Important factors in
the triggering of the airbag include the nature (hard or softyfRIWKHREMHFWWKDWWKHYHKLFOHKLWVWKH
angle of impact, and the vehicle speed.
Airbags only serve as a supplement to the three-point seat belt in some accident situations when
the vehicle braking is sufficient to trigger the airbags. Airbags can only be triggered once and only
in certain situations. The seat belts are always there to provide protection in situations in which the
airbags are not triggered or have already been triggered. For example, if the vehicle collides with a
further vehicle following the initial collision, or is hit by another vehicle.
The airbag system is part of the vehicle's overall passive safety concept. The airbag system can
only work effectively when the occupants are wearing their seat belts correctly and have assumed a
proper sitting position ⇒ Sitting position.
Components of the vehicle safety concept
The following vehicle safety equipment makes up the vehicle's safety concept to reduce the risk of
severe and fatal injuries. Some of this equipment may not be fitted in your particular vehicle. It may
not be available at all in some countries.
•Optimised seat belts for all seats.
•Belt tensioners for the driver and front passenger and also on the rear outer seats if in
conjunction with side airbags.
•Belt tension limiter for the driver, front passenger and, if applicable, for the rear outer seats.
•Belt height adjuster for the front seats.
•Warning lamp and belt status display.
•Front airbags for driver and front passenger.
•Side airbags for the driver, front passenger and, if applicable, for the rear outer seats.
•Curtain airbags on the left and right.
•If applicable, knee airbag for the driver.
•Airbag indicator lamp .
•Indicator lamp PASSENGER AIR BAG in the upper section of the centre console.
•Indicator lamp PASSENGER AIR BAG in the upper section of the centre console.
•Control units and sensors.
•Whiplash-optimised and height-adjustable head restraints.
•Adjustable steering column.
•If applicable, anchor points for child seats on the rear outer seats and on the front passenger
seat.
•If applicable, securing points for the top tether for child seats.
Situations when the front, knee, side and curtain airbags will not be
triggered:
•If the ignition is switched off during a collision.
•If the level of deceleration measured by the control unit is too low during a collision at the front
of the vehicle.
•During a minor side collision.
•During rear collisions.

Switching the front passenger front airbag on and off
Fig. 46 In the dash panel on the front passenger side or in the stowage compartment: key-operated
switch for switching the front passenger front airbag on and off.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
The front passenger front airbag must be disabled if you fit a rear-facing child seat to the
front passenger seat.
Enabling the front passenger front airbag
•Switch off the ignition.
•Open the door on the front passenger side.
•Fold the key bit of the vehicle key all the way out ⇒ Vehicle key set.
•Insert the fully folded-out key bit of the vehicle key into the key-operated switch in the dash
panel ⇒ Fig. 46 to the second point of resistance. Around three quarters of the key bit should
be inserted in the key switch at this point ⇒.
•Turn the vehicle key, without applying force, to the position.
•Remove the vehicle key from the key-operated switch and fold away the key bit ⇒.
•The indicator lamp PASSENGER AIR BAG in the upper part of the centre console
lights up and goes out after approximately 60 seconds ⇒ Indicator lamp.
•Close the door on the front passenger side.
•Check that the PASSENGER AIR BAG indicator lamp in the upper section of the
centre console does not light up when the ignition is switched on ⇒ Indicator lamp.
Disabling the front passenger front airbag
•Switch off the ignition.
•Open the door on the front passenger side.
•Fold the key bit of the vehicle key all the way out ⇒ Vehicle key set.
•Insert the fully folded-out key bit of the vehicle key into the key-operated switch in the dash
panel ⇒ Fig. 46 to the second point of resistance. Around three quarters of the key bit should
be inserted in the key switch at this point ⇒.
•Turn the vehicle key, without applying force, to the position.
•Remove the vehicle key from the key-operated switch and fold away the key bit ⇒.
•Close the door on the front passenger side.
•When the ignition is switched on, the indicator lamp PASSENGER AIR BAG will light
up steadily in the upper section of the centre console ⇒ Indicator lamp.
Ensuring that the front passenger front airbag has been deactivated
The only sure sign that the front passenger front airbag has been deactivated is when the
PASSENGER AIR BAG indicator lamp is displayed continuously in the upper section of
the centre console ( lights up yellow steadilyyf ⇒ Indicator lamp.
If the indicator lamp PASSENGER AIR BAG in the upper section of the centre console is
not lit up steadily, or if it lights up together with the indicator lamp in the instrument cluster,
do not attach any child restraint system to the front passenger seat for safety reasons. The front
passenger front airbag may trigger during an accident.

Side airbags
Fig. 47 On left-hand side of vehicle: deployment zones of side airbags.
Fig. 48 On the side of the front seat: location and deployment zone of the side airbag.
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Depending on the vehicle equipment level, side airbags may also be fitted for the front seats and
rear outer seats ⇒ Fig. 47.
•The side airbags for the front seats are located in the outer seat backrest cushions of the driver
seat and front passenger seat ⇒ Fig. 48.
•If fitted, the side airbags for the rear outer seats are each located between the door entry and
the individual rear seat backrests.
The side airbag locations are identified by the text AIRBAG.
The areas inside the red lines ⇒ Fig. 47 and ⇒ Fig. 48 are covered by the side airbags when
triggered (deployment zonesyf<RXPXVWQHYHUOHDYHRUDWWDFKDQ\REMHFWVLQWKHVHDUHDV ⇒.
During a side collision, the side airbags will be deployed on the side of the vehicle which is
impacted, thus reducing the risk of injury to the areas of the occupants' bodies facing the impact.
The front passenger front airbag should only be switched off in exceptional
circumstances.
•To prevent damage to the airbag system, only switch the front passenger front airbag
on and off when the ignition is switched off.
•It is the driver's responsibility to ensure that the key-operated switch is set to the
correct position.
•Only switch the front passenger front airbag off if, in exceptional circumstances, a
child seat has to be attached to the front passenger seat.
•Switch the front passenger front airbag back on again as soon as the child seat on the
front passenger seat is no longer being used.
WARNING
If the key bit is not inserted far enough, the key switch could be damaged when the key is
turned.
NOTICE
Do not leave the vehicle key in the key switch, as this could result in damage to the interior
door trim, dash panel, key switch or vehicle key when the front passenger door is closed.
NOTICE

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

The 12-volt vehicle battery will discharge if the hazard warning lights are left on over a long
period of time – even when the ignition is switched off.
Depending on the vehicle equipment, the brake lights flash rapidly if you brake sharply or
initiate full braking at a speed of more than 80 km/h (50 mphyf7KLVLVDSDUWLFXODUO\HIIHFWLYHZD\RI
attracting the attention of vehicles behind you. If you then continue to brake, the hazard warning
lights will be switched on automatically at speeds under approximately 10 km/h (6 mphyf2QFHWKH
vehicle starts to accelerate, the hazard warning lights will switch off again.
Equipment for an emergency
Fig. 58 In the boot lid: holder for the warning triangle.
First aid kit
Depending on the vehicle equipment, the first aid kit may be located in a stowage compartment or a
holder in the luggage compartment, under the luggage compartment floor or in the vehicle interior.
Depending on the equipment in the vehicle, the first aid kit may be located in various locations in
the luggage compartment:
•In a bag on the left or right in the stowage areas of the luggage compartment ⇒ Stowage 
areas.
•In a foam rubber holder under the luggage compartment floor ⇒ Transporting.
The first aid kit must comply with legal requirements. Please observe the use-by date of the
contents.
After use, replace the content if necessary and stow the first aid kit safely again.
Warning triangle
Depending on the equipment, the warning triangle may be located in the boot lid. When the boot lid
is open, turn the lock for the bracket ⇒ Fig. 58 by 90° anticlockwise in the direction of the arrow,
open the bracket and remove the warning triangle.
The warning triangle must comply with legal requirements.
Return the warning triangle to its holder after use and lock it into place.
High-visibility waistcoat
Depending on the vehicle equipment, the high-visibility waistcoat may be located in a stowage
compartment in the front door trim or in the stowage compartment on the front passenger side
⇒ Driver door, ⇒ Front passenger side.
The high-visibility waistcoat triangle must comply with legal requirements.
Fire extinguisher
Depending on the vehicle equipment, a fire extinguisher may be located in a holder in the footwell
under the front passenger seat.
The fire extinguisher must comply with legal regulations, must always be ready for use and must be
checked regularly (see inspection seal on the fire extinguisheryf.

The symbol can differ depending on the version of the instrument cluster.
Information call, breakdown call and Emergency Call Service
Fig. 60 In the roof console: control for voice services.
Depending on the equipment in the vehicle, a control may be installed in the roof console. Pressing
the buttons , and ⇒ Fig. 60 enables you to access the following voice services:
information call, breakdown call and Emergency Call Service.
The required connection is established by a factory-fitted control unit. A connection to a telephone
call centre will be established when you trigger one of the voice services.
Indicator lamp
The control is equipped with an indicator lamp ⇒ Fig. 60 (arrowyf7KLVGLVSOD\VWKHIROORZLQJ
statuses:
•Off: all voice services are disabled.
•Flashing red for around 20 seconds after the ignition is switched on: at least one voice service
is disabled.
•Lit up red: system error. Voice service availability is restricted. Volkswagen recommends
consulting a specialist workshop.
The intelligent technology used in the active bonnet pedestrian protection system cannot
overcome the laws of physics, and functions only within the limits of the system. Never let
the extra convenience afforded by the active bonnet pedestrian protection system tempt
you into taking any safety risks.
•Always adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic
conditions.
•Do not drive faster than up to 80 km/h (50 mphyfZKHQWKHDFWLYHERQQHWKDVEHHQ
triggered.
WARNING
Failure to observe illuminated warning lamps and text messages can lead to your vehicle
breaking down in traffic, and can cause accident and serious injury.
•Never ignore any illuminated warning lamps or text messages.
•Stop the vehicle as soon as it is possible and safe to do so.
WARNING
Incorrect repairs and modifications can cause malfunctions and damage to the vehicle
and impair the effectiveness of the driver assist systems. This can result in accidents and
severe injuries.
•Repairs and modifications to your vehicle should only be carried out by a qualified
workshop.
WARNING
Incorrect closing of the triggered active bonnet can cause accidents and serious injuries,
particularly to the hands.
•A triggered active bonnet must be repaired only by a qualified workshop. Never
attempt to close the bonnet yourself.
WARNING
Incorrect closing of the triggered active bonnet can damage the vehicle.
•Do not press the active bonnet closed under any circumstances, e.g. by pressing down
on the bonnet with your hand. The bonnet and its hinges could be damaged as a result.
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 protectionyf
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 Lockyf
The vehicle may lock itself automatically at speeds of approximately 15 km/h (9 mphyfDQGDERYH
⇒ 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