•Switch on the ignition and the hazard warning lights.
•Once both vehicles are in motion, release the clutch.
•As soon as the engine starts, press the clutch and put the gear into neutral. This helps to
prevent driving into the towing vehicle.
However, if the vehicle still has to be tow-started (automated manual
gearbox):
•Switch on the ignition and the hazard warning lights.
•Place the selector lever in position N.
•When both vehicles are in motion and the brake pedal indicator lamp goes out, move the
selector lever to position D.
•As soon as the engine starts, press the brake pedal and move the selector lever to position N.
This helps to prevent driving into the towing vehicle.
Notes on towing
First read and observe the introductoryinformation and safety warnings⇒
Introduction
Tow rope or tow bar
It is easier and safer to tow a vehicle with a tow bar. Only use a tow rope if you do not have a tow
bar.
The tow rope should be slightly elastic to reduce the strain on both vehicles. It is advisable to use a
tow rope made of synthetic fibre or similarly elastic material.
Only attach the tow rope or tow bar to the specially provided towing eyes or to the towing bracket.
When a vehicle with a manual gearbox has to be towed:
Check whether the vehicle can be towed ⇒ When should your vehicle not be towed?.
•Move the gear stick to neutral ⇒ Changing gear.
•Do not allow the vehicle to be towed at speeds faster than 50 km/h (30 mph).
•Do not have the vehicle towed further than 50 km (30 miles).
When a vehicle with an automated manual gearbox has to be towed:
Check whether the vehicle can be towed ⇒ When should your vehicle not be towed?
•Switch on the ignition.
•Move the selector lever to N⇒ Changing gear.
•Check whether the automated manual gearbox is really in neutral. To do this drive the car a few
metres as a test. The automated manual gearbox is in neutral if the vehicle can be easily
moved.
•Seek expert assistance if the automated manual gearbox cannot be put into neutral ⇒.
•Do not allow the vehicle to be towed at speeds faster than 50 km/h (30 mph).
•Do not have the vehicle towed further than 50 km (30 miles).
•If a breakdown truck is used, the vehicle must be towed with the front wheels raised.
When should your vehicle not be towed?
•If, due to damage, the vehicle gearbox no longer contains any lubricant.
•If the automated manual gearbox cannot be put into neutral ⇒.
•If the distance to be towed is further than 50 km - applies to vehicles with an automated manual
gearbox only.
•If the steering function or the operating clearance of the wheels cannot be ensured, e.g. after an
accident.
The vehicle can only be towed when the handbrake and steering lock are not engaged.
Fitting the front towing eye
When tow-starting, unburnt fuel can enter the catalytic converter and damage it.
NOTICE
Never tow a vehicle with automated manual gearbox if the automated manual gearbox cannot
be put into neutral. Otherwise, the gearbox and engine can suffer considerable damage.
NOTICE
•You will need to depress the brake pedal more vigorously than normal as the brake servo is not
working. Do not drive too close to the towing vehicle.
•Read and comply with the information and notes in the owner's manual of the towing vehicle.
Notes for the driver of the towing vehicle
•Accelerate carefully and gently. Avoid any sudden driving manoeuvres.
•Brake earlier than normal by pressing lightly on the brake pedal.
•Read and comply with any information and notes in the owner's manual of the towed vehicle.
AbbreviationDefinition
rpmRevolutions per minute – engine speed.
ABSAnti-lock brake system.
AG55-speed automated manual gearbox.
TCSTraction control system.
BASBrake Assist system.
ccmCubic centimetres. Unit of displacement.
CNGCompressed Natural Gas.
COCarbon dioxide.
DINGerman Standards Authority (Deutsches Institut für Normung).
DRLDaytime running lights.
EBDElectronic brake pressure distribution system.
EDLElectronic differential lock.
EUEuropean Union.
ENEuropean standard.
EPCEngine management system (electronic power control).
ESCElectronic stabilisation programme.
EECEuropean Economic Community.
VINVehicle identification number
g/kmCarbon dioxide emissions in grams per kilometre.
CCSCruise control system.
kNKilonewton, pulling power.
kpKilopond, pulling power.
kPaKilopascal, value for tyre inflation pressure.
kWKilowatt, engine power.
LEDLight-emitting diode.
MFDMultifunction display.
ECEngine code.
NmNewton metres, unit of engine torque.
RONResearch octane number, indication of the knock resistance of petrol.
MG55-speed manual gearbox.
TCTraction control.
TINT Tyre identification number (TIN).
tripTrip recorder.
TWITread wear indicator.
Volkswagen AG works continuously to develop and improve its vehicles. Please understand that we
must therefore reserve the right to alter any part of the vehicle and its equipment or technical
specifications at any time. The data provided concerning scope of delivery, appearance,
performance, dimensions, weights, fuel consumption, standards and vehicle functions are all
correct at the time of going to print. Some of the equipment described might not yet be available in
a particular vehicle (information can be provided by your local Volkswagen dealership), and some
equipment may not be available in certain countries. No legal commitment may be inferred from the
information, illustrations or descriptions in this manual.
No part of this manual may be reprinted, reproduced or translated without the written permission of
Volkswagen AG.
All rights under the laws of copyright are expressly reserved by Volkswagen AG. Subject to
alteration and amendment.
Printed in Germany.
© Volkswagen AG 2012
This paper was bleached without the use of chlorine.
Abbreviations
2
