Transporting for Your Volkswagen Atlas SUV Second Generation (2024-2025)

Transporting  
Stowing luggage and cargo  
Stowing luggage securely in the vehicle  
Distribute luggage as evenly as possible in the vehicle. Do not cover any vent openings.  
Always stow luggage and heavy objects in the luggage compartment and place them as far forward in the compartment  
as possible ⇒  
.
Adhere to the Gross Axle Weight Rating and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating ⇒ Technical data.  
Secure objects in the luggage compartment using suitable securing cords, fixation belts or tensioning straps on the tie-  
downs.  
Also store small objects securely.  
If necessary, fold the rear seat backrest down and lock it securely.  
If necessary, adjust the headlight range. Vehicles with dynamic headlight range control will adjust automatically.  
Adjust the tire pressure based on the load. Follow the tire pressure label ⇒ Checking the tire pressure.  
If necessary, calibrate the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) to the new load.  
WARNING  
Objects or animals that are not secured or are secured incorrectly can cause serious or fatal injuries in the event of  
sudden driving and braking maneuvers or a collision. This is especially true if the airbags deploy and strike objects,  
causing them to fly through the vehicle interior.  
Store all objects securely in the vehicle. Follow the legal regulations whilst doing so.  
Stow objects in the vehicle interior in such a way that they will not enter the airbag deployment zone while you are  
driving.  
Secure animals in the vehicle restraint systems that are appropriate for their weight and size.  
Always keep the storage compartments closed while driving.  
Do not leave hard, heavy, or sharp objects loose in the open storage compartments in the vehicle, on the surface  
behind the rear seat backrest, or on the instrument panel.  
Remove hard, heavy, or sharp objects from clothing and bags in the vehicle interior and store them securely.  
WARNING  
If objects stowed in the vehicle cause people to sit in the wrong position, serious or fatal injuries may occur in the event of  
sudden driving and braking maneuvers or accidents.  
Never stow objects on a seat if a person is going to use it.  
WARNING  
When transporting heavy objects, the vehicle’s handling performance may change because of the altered center of gravity  
and the braking distance may increase. Heavy loads that have not been stowed or secured properly may change the  
vehicle handling, e.g. if the load slides around. This can result in a loss of vehicle control and lead to serious or fatal  
injuries.  
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Never overload the vehicle. Both the load and the distribution of the load in the vehicle affect driving behavior and  
braking efficiency.  
Always distribute the load evenly and as low down in the vehicle as possible.  
Secure heavy objects in the luggage compartment as far in front of the rear axle as possible.  
Secure any loose objects to prevent them from sliding around.  
Always adapt your speed and driving style to the visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.  
Take extra care and caution when accelerating.  
Avoid sudden braking or driving maneuvers.  
Brake earlier than usual if the vehicle has a heavy load.  
NOTICE  
Abrasive objects on the rear windows can cause damage, e.g. to the heating conductors of the rear window defroster.  
Do not load the luggage compartment to a height where objects rest against the rear window.  
NOTICE  
Carrying systems fixed to the rear spoiler may damage the vehicle.  
Do not attach a luggage rack or any other kind of carrying system, e.g. bicycle rack, to the vehicle's rear spoiler.  
Luggage compartment cover  
Opening and closing the luggage compartment cover  
345  
Fig. 130 In the luggage compartment: open the luggage compartment cover (general example).  
Recessed grip in the luggage compartment cover.  
Opening the luggage compartment cover  
Depending on vehicle equipment, there may be a luggage compartment cover located behind the second row of seats.  
1. Pull the luggage compartment cover out by the handle fig. 130  
and pull it upward out of the side retainers.  
2. Guide the luggage compartment cover forward by hand. The luggage compartment cover will roll up by itself.  
Closing the luggage compartment cover  
1. Pull the luggage compartment cover back by the handle fig. 130  
and attach it to the anchorage.  
WARNING  
Objects or animals on the luggage compartment cover can damage the luggage compartment cover and cause serious  
injury or death in the event of sudden driving and braking maneuvers or an accident.  
Never transport objects on the luggage compartment cover.  
Never allow animals to ride on the luggage compartment cover.  
NOTICE  
If the luggage compartment cover is not held, it can spring forward unbraked. This may cause damage in the luggage  
compartment and to the luggage compartment cover.  
Always guide the luggage compartment cover forward by hand.  
Installing and removing the luggage compartment cover  
Fig. 131 In the luggage compartment: removing the luggage compartment cover.  
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Side panel on the luggage compartment cover.  
Removing the luggage compartment cover  
1. Open the luggage compartment cover if necessary.  
2. Press the side panel on the luggage compartment cover fig. 131  
in the direction of the arrow and hold it in place.  
3. Remove the luggage compartment cover upward and release the side panel fig. 131  
.
Installing the luggage compartment cover  
1. Insert one side of the luggage compartment cover into the mount on the side trim panel.  
2. Press on the side panel on the other side of the luggage compartment cover and hold it in place.  
3. Guide the side panel fig. 131 into the mount on the side trim panel.  
4. Release the side panel on the luggage compartment cover.  
5. Check that the luggage compartment cover is securely engaged.  
WARNING  
If a cover has been installed in front of a rear seat, it can cause serious or fatal injuries during braking maneuvers or an  
accident.  
Never install the luggage compartment cover in front of the third row of seats if anyone is sitting in the third row  
seats.  
Storing the luggage compartment cover  
Depending on the vehicle equipment, it may be possible to store the removed luggage compartment cover under the luggage  
compartment floor.  
Luggage compartment floor  
Opening and closing the luggage compartment floor  
347  
Fig. 132 In the luggage compartment: opening the luggage compartment floor.  
Recessed grip in the luggage compartment floor.  
Fig. 133 In the luggage compartment: securing the luggage compartment floor in place.  
Opening the luggage compartment floor  
1. If necessary, detach the luggage net.  
2. Grasp the handle in the luggage compartment floor fig. 132 and lift up the floor panel in the direction of the arrow.  
3. To secure in place, guide the luggage compartment floor in the mounts fig. 133 (arrow) on the sides of the luggage  
compartment floor.  
Closing the luggage compartment floor  
1. Lift the secured luggage compartment floor and guide it downward.  
348  
2. Place the luggage compartment floor on the side supports.  
NOTICE  
Improper use may damage the luggage compartment floor or the luggage compartment trim.  
When closing the luggage compartment floor, always carefully guide it downward, and do not drop it.  
Always distribute loads as evenly as possible across the entire luggage compartment floor to avoid concentrating  
the load in a single place.  
Luggage compartment features  
Tie-downs  
Fig. 134 In the luggage compartment: Tie-down (general example).  
Tie-down.  
349  
Fig. 135 In the luggage compartment: Foldable tie-down (general example).  
Tie-downs are located in the luggage compartment to secure loose objects and luggage with the help of lines, fixation belts or  
securing straps fig. 134 , fig. 135.  
WARNING  
Unsuitable or damaged tie-down straps or tensioning straps could break during braking maneuvers or an accident. This  
could result in objects being thrown through the vehicle interior and causing serious or fatal injuries.  
Use only suitable and undamaged tie-downs, fixing and tensioning straps.  
Secure cords, fixation belts and tensioning straps diagonally and tightly across the items placed on the luggage  
compartment floor, and fasten the cords, fixation belts and tensioning straps securely to the tie-downs.  
Make sure that the upper edge of the load is above the tie-downs, especially on flat objects.  
Follow the signs about storing cargo in the luggage compartment, depending on the vehicle equipment.  
Never secure a child restraint to the tie-downs.  
WARNING  
Elastic tensioning straps must be stretched for securing to the tie-downs and are therefore under tension. If elastic  
tensioning straps slip off and “spring back” toward your body, the hooks attached to them may cause serious injuries.  
Protect your eyes and face when securing and releasing the straps.  
Always hold on to the hooks of the luggage net to prevent them springing out of the tie-down when hooking and  
unhooking them.  
Always secure elastic tensioning straps to the tie-downs in the front part of the luggage compartment first. Then  
pull them to the loading edge. Secure the elastic tensioning straps to the tie-downs so that they will “spring away”  
from your body if they come off.  
350  
Suitable straps and cargo securing systems are available from an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized  
Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized  
Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Luggage net  
Fig. 136 In the luggage compartment: luggage net secured on the loading edge.  
Fig. 137 In the luggage compartment: Luggage net hooks.  
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The luggage net can help to prevent light objects from sliding around in the luggage compartment. The luggage net contains a  
pocket with a hook-and-loop fastener for storing small objects.  
Setting up the luggage net  
1. Secure the hooks in the luggage net to the tie-downs on the loading edge fig. 136 (bottom arrows) ⇒  
. The zipper on  
the luggage net must face upward.  
2. Secure the tabs on the luggage net to the side hooks fig. 137 , ⇒  
.
Removing the luggage net  
The luggage net is under tension when it is installed ⇒  
.
1. Release the hooks and tabs on the luggage net from the tie-downs and luggage net hooks.  
2. Store the luggage net in the luggage compartment.  
WARNING  
An elastic luggage net needs to be stretched for securing to the tie-downs, which means that it is held under tension. If an  
elastic luggage net slips off and springs back toward your body, the hooks attached to them may cause serious injuries.  
Protect your eyes and face when securing and releasing the straps.  
Always hold on to the hooks of the luggage net to prevent them springing out of the tie-down when hooking and  
unhooking them.  
Always secure the hooks of the luggage net in the order described so that, if the luggage net does snap off, it does  
so away from your body.  
WARNING  
If used improperly, the luggage net hooks could break during a braking maneuver or in the event of an accident. This could  
result in objects being thrown through the vehicle interior and causing serious or fatal injuries.  
Only use the luggage net hooks to secure a luggage net.  
Never secure a child restraint to the luggage net hooks.  
Shopping bag hooks  
352  
Fig. 138 In the luggage compartment: shopping bag hooks.  
Fold-out shopping bag hooks.  
You may have shopping bag hooks in your luggage compartment for hanging light shopping bags.  
WARNING  
Luggage or other items tied to the shopping-bag hooks may tear off and be thrown into the vehicle interior during a  
braking maneuver or accident. This may cause you to lose control of the vehicle and result in serious or fatal injuries.  
Never use the shopping bag hooks to tie down pieces of luggage or objects.  
Only hang lightweight items, up to a maximum of 2.5 kg (approximately 5.5 lbs), from the shopping bag hooks in  
the vehicle.  
Trailer towing  
Introduction  
If equipped correctly, the vehicle can be used to tow a trailer.  
Driving a trailer not only increases the vehicle load, but requires more concentration from the driver.  
The increased weight from towing affects vehicle wear, fuel consumption, and vehicle performance and may shorten the  
service intervals.  
If the vehicle is driving with a heavy load, functions such as the air conditioner power may be reduced or deactivated to  
prevent the vehicle from becoming stranded in traffic. Avoid long or large inclines. In the event of prolonged loads, the engine  
torque can be reduced temporarily to prevent the engine or transmission overheating. Reduce the speed and observe the  
information and warning and indicator lights in the instrument cluster. When the engine and the transmission are working at  
the optimal temperature range again, the engine torque reduction is canceled.  
The load that a vehicle is able to pull decreases under the following conditions:  
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Driving on slopes.  
Driving at high altitudes.  
Driving in high outside temperatures.  
Driving with a fully loaded vehicle, e.g. with passengers and luggage.  
With increasing speed.  
Vehicles with a start/stop system  
Before trailer towing using towing brackets which have not been retrofitted by Volkswagen, the start/stop system must be  
manually deactivated and remain deactivated during the entire trailer towing process ⇒ Start-stop system.  
Trailer with function check for the lighting  
No trailer with tail lights and brake lights that require a function check for the tail light or brake light in order to be approved  
may be operated on this vehicle. Consult the trailer manufacturer to find out what approval applies to your trailer.  
Unused ball mount  
Swivel the ball mount or remove it if there is no trailer, bicycle rack or similar attached to the ball mount. This is especially  
applicable if the vehicle's license plate or lighting is obscured by the unused ball mount. Note the country-specific regulations  
for using a ball mount ⇒  
.
Special conditions  
Before driving with a trailer, please note that the functions of the assistance and parking systems may be limited.  
DANGER  
Transporting persons in a trailer can cause life-threatening injuries and may be against the law.  
Never transport anyone in a trailer.  
WARNING  
Using the trailer hitch incorrectly can result in loss of control of the vehicle, accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Install and use the trailer in accordance with the instructions provided by the corresponding manufacturer.  
Only use the ball mount if it is undamaged and secured correctly.  
Do not modify or repair the ball mount. Removal of the coating on the ball mount is permitted if the installation  
instructions of the trailer manufacturer require this.  
WARNING  
If the ball mount is swiveled out, there is an increased risk of accidents and serious injuries for pedestrians and cyclists  
near parked vehicles and if rear collisions occur.  
Swivel the ball mount in or remove it when it is not in use.  
WARNING  
The vehicle has not been designed for “weight-bearing” or “load-compensating” trailer hitches. The trailer hitch could  
malfunction and the trailer could disconnect from the vehicle. This can cause accidents and serious injuries.  
354  
Never install “weight distributing” or “load equalizing” ball mounts.  
WARNING  
Driving with a trailer and transporting heavy or large objects can change the vehicle handling performance, increase the  
braking distance and cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Always secure cargo correctly with suitable and undamaged cords, fixation belts or tensioning straps.  
Note that trailers with a high center of gravity may tip sooner than trailers with a low center of gravity.  
Always adapt your speed and driving style to the visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.  
Always drive carefully and try to anticipate what may be ahead.  
Take extra care and caution when accelerating.  
Avoid abrupt and sudden driving and braking maneuvers.  
Do not drive faster than 80 km/h (50 mph), or 100 km/h (60 mph) if absolutely necessary, when towing a trailer.  
This also applies in countries where higher speeds are permitted.  
Reduce the vehicle speed, especially when driving uphill or downhill.  
Always observe the country-specific maximum permissible speed for vehicles with trailers.  
Overtake especially carefully and reduce vehicle speed as soon as you detect the slightest swaying movement in  
the trailer.  
Never try to “straighten out” a swaying trailer by accelerating.  
Look out for potential messages and warning and indicator lights turning on in the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit  
because of the increased load for the towing vehicle.  
WARNING  
When towing with towing brackets which have not been retrofitted by Volkswagen the start/stop system must always be  
manually deactivated. Otherwise this can lead to a failure in the brake system and can cause accidents and severe injury.  
Always switch off the start-stop system manually if you have fitted a trailer hitch which has not been retrofitted by an  
authorized dealer and are driving with a trailer.  
If you have integrated a trailer into the anti-theft alarm system, breaking the connection to the trailer may trigger the anti-  
theft alarm system ⇒ Anti-theft alarm system.  
Do not tow a trailer during the first 1000 km (600 miles) driven with a new engine ⇒ Breaking in the engine.  
Some retrofitted trailer hitches cover the mount for the towing eye. If this is the case, it will not be possible to use the  
towing eye to tow other vehicles. Because of this, you should always keep the ball mount from a retrofitted trailer hitch inside  
the vehicle when it is removed.  
Hitching a trailer  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
and  
Introduction.  
Trailer socket  
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The towing vehicle and the trailer are connected electrically using a 7-pin trailer socket. If the trailer does not have a 7-pin  
connector, a suitable adapter must be used.  
1. Lift the socket cap and insert the plug.  
2. Rotate the plug clockwise by a quarter of a rotation until it fully engages into the socket.  
3. To lock the connector in place, release the cap.  
4. Check that the entire lighting system is working properly before starting the journey.  
If you are not sure how to connect the trailer with the towing vehicle’s electrical system correctly, consult an authorized  
Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized  
Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Securing cables  
In some countries, unbraked and braked trailers must be secured by means of securing or breakaway cables.  
Fig. 139 On the trailer hitch: eye for fastening the securing or breakaway cable (general example).  
Depending on the model, the eye for fastening the securing or breakaway cable can be located on the neck of the ball head o  
next to the ball head directly on the base plate of the ball mount fig. 139 (arrows).  
Follow the country-specific regulations for using a securing cable.  
Fastening a securing or breakaway cable to the eye on the ball mount provided for this purpose fig. 139:  
1. Guide the cable through the eyelet and hook it in the karabiner ⇒  
.
Safety chains  
Always make sure that the safety chains are correctly secured on the vehicle. The safety chains require sufficient play and ca  
sag, but should not touch the ground.  
Integrating into the anti-theft alarm system  
The trailer is integrated into the anti-theft alarm system if the following requirements are met:  
If the vehicle is equipped with a factory-installed anti-theft alarm system and trailer hitch.  
If the trailer is connected to the electrical system in the towing vehicle.  
If the vehicle and trailer electrical systems are functioning correctly and are not damaged.  
356  
If the vehicle was locked using the vehicle key and the anti-theft alarm system is active.  
When the vehicle is locked, the alarm will be triggered if the electrical connection to the trailer is disconnected.  
Trailers with LED taillights cannot be integrated into the anti-theft alarm system due to the technology involved.  
When the vehicle is locked, the alarm will not be triggered if the electrical connection to the trailer with LED taillights is  
disconnected.  
WARNING  
Improperly or incorrectly connected electrical wires can electrify the trailer and lead to malfunctions in the entire vehicle  
electronics system as well as accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Have all work on the electrical system performed only by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized  
Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized  
Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Never connect the electrical system on a trailer to the electrical connectors for the taillights or other power sources  
on the towing vehicle.  
WARNING  
Contact between the pins on the trailer socket can cause short circuits, overloading of the electrical system, or malfunction  
of the lighting system, which can result in accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Never connect the pins in the trailer socket to one another.  
Have bent pins repaired only by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
WARNING  
An improperly secured trailer can cause accidents and serious injuries or death.  
Never drape the securing or breakaway cable of the trailer loosely over the ball mount.  
NOTICE  
If a trailer hitched to the vehicle is resting on a supporting wheel or on the trailer support, the vehicle may lift and lower  
due to changes in the load or tire damage. This would put great stress on the trailer hitch and the trailer. This can cause  
damage to the vehicle and trailer.  
Note that a trailer that is resting on a supporting wheel or on the trailer support should not remain hitched to the  
vehicle.  
If the engine is stopped and accessories on the trailer are on while there is an electrical connection through the trailer  
socket, then the 12 V vehicle battery will drain.  
The electrical connection to the trailer will be automatically disconnected if the charge level of the 12 V vehicle battery  
becomes too low.  
Loading a trailer  
357  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
and  
Introduction.  
General information  
If the vehicle is approved for trailer mode, note applicable local rules and regulations for driving with a trailer and the use of a  
trailer hitch.  
Always ensure that the vehicle and trailer are well balanced. Do not load the trailer unevenly by putting more weight at either  
the front or the back. Always store heavy objects as close as possible to or above the axle. Always secure the load on the  
trailer properly ⇒  
.
Trailer load and tongue weight  
The trailer load is the weight that the vehicle can tow.  
The trailer tongue weight rating is the load that presses down vertically from above onto the ball mount of the trailer hitch.  
Volkswagen recommends always using the maximum permissible trailer tongue weight rating ⇒ Technical data. An  
insufficient trailer tongue weight rating negatively affects the handling of the vehicle and trailer. The maximum permissible  
trailer tongue weight rating of the trailer drawbar on the trailer hitch ball head must not be exceeded ⇒  
.
The actual trailer tongue weight rating increases the weight on the rear axle and reduces the possible load in the vehicle.  
In some countries, under certain conditions, a higher trailer tongue weight rating can be used. Follow the local specifications  
and regulations.  
Towing weight  
The towing weight consists of the actual weights of the loaded towing vehicle and the loaded trailer.  
In some countries, trailers are divided into classes. Volkswagen recommends consulting with an authorized Volkswagen  
dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility about suitable trailers. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized  
Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Tire pressure  
The tire pressure for the tires on the trailer is based on the recommendation of the trailer manufacturer.  
When towing a trailer, inflate the tires on the towing vehicle to the maximum permissible tire pressure ⇒ Checking the tire  
pressure.  
WARNING  
Sliding loads can considerably impair driving stability and trailer safety and increase the risk of accidents and serious  
injuries or death.  
Always load trailers correctly.  
Always secure cargo with suitable and undamaged cords or tensioning straps.  
WARNING  
If the gross axle weight rating, trailer tongue weight rating, gross vehicle weight rating or towing weight of the vehicle and  
the trailer are exceeded, accidents and serious injuries or death can result.  
Never exceed the specified values ⇒ Technical data.  
Driving with a trailer  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
and  
Introduction.  
358  
Characteristics when driving with a trailer  
When driving with a trailer with an overrun brake, first brake gently then rapidly. This avoids braking jolts due to the trailer  
wheels locking.  
The braking distance increases due to the gross combination weight (of the trailer and vehicle).  
Use the engine as an additional brake on slopes. Otherwise the brake system may overheat and possibly fail.  
Select a lower gear when driving with an automatic gearbox in Tiptronic mode.  
The vehicle's center of gravity, and thereby also its driving characteristics, are changed by the towing weight and the  
increased total weight of the vehicle and trailer.  
An empty towing vehicle and loaded trailer create a very unfavorable weight distribution. Drive very carefully and slowly  
with this combination.  
Driving on hills with a trailer  
Depending on the angle of the hill and the total weight of the trailer, a parked trailer may roll back slightly when you start  
driving.  
When towing a trailer, start on a hill as follows:  
1. Press and hold the brake pedal.  
2. Engage the  
selector lever position.  
3. Pull and hold the  
switch one time to hold the trailer in place with the electronic parking brake.  
4. Release the brake pedal.  
5. Start driving slowly.  
6. Only release the  
button once the engine has generated enough drive power to start driving.  
WARNING  
Towing a trailer incorrectly can result in loss of control of the vehicle and cause serious injuries or death.  
Bear in mind that the driving characteristics change when driving with a trailer and transporting heavy or large  
objects.  
Always adapt your speed and driving style to the visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.  
Always drive carefully and try to anticipate what may be ahead.  
Take extra caution when overtaking.  
Reduce the vehicle speed as soon as you detect the slightest swaying movement in the trailer.  
Take extra care and caution when accelerating.  
Brake earlier than usual as the braking distance may be longer.  
Avoid abrupt and sudden driving and braking maneuvers.  
Reduce the vehicle speed, especially when driving downhill.  
Never try to “straighten out” a swaying vehicle and trailer by accelerating.  
Adhere to the applicable local maximum speed limit, which may be lower for vehicles towing a trailer than it is for  
vehicles that are not towing a trailer.  
WARNING  
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A poor rear view when pulling a trailer may result in accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Ensure sufficient visibility behind you.  
Install additional rearview mirrors to ensure you have a clear rear view.  
Trailer stabilization  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
and  
Introduction.  
If a trailer is hitched to the vehicle and it begins to sway, the trailer stabilization can detected this and countersteer.  
Trailer stabilization is an additional feature of the Electronic Stability Control (ESC).  
If the system detects that the trailer is swaying, the trailer stabilization will automatically provide counter-steering assistance to  
the reduce the “vibration” of the trailer.  
Trailer stabilization requirements  
The trailer hitch must be installed at the factory or a compatible trailer hitch must be retrofitted.  
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and anti-slip regulation (ASR) are active. The  
cluster must not be on.  
or  
indicator light in the instrument  
The trailer must be connected to the electrical system in the towing vehicle via the trailer socket.  
The driving speed must be less than 60 km/h (37 mph).  
The maximum tongue weight must be used.  
The trailer must have a fixed drawbar.  
Braked trailers must have a mechanical overrun protection device.  
System limitations  
The trailer stabilization may not respond or may have a limited response in the following driving situations.  
The trailer stabilization switches off when ESC is deactivated.  
Trailer stabilization may not always detect if a light trailer is swaying and stabilize it.  
When driving on slippery roads with poor traction, the trailer can still jackknife despite the trailer stabilization.  
Trailers with a high center of gravity can tip before you notice any swaying back and forth.  
If there is no trailer hitched to the vehicle but there is a connector in the trailer socket, for example from a bike carrier with  
lights, sudden braking maneuvers may occur automatically in extreme driving situations.  
WARNING  
The trailer stabilization is not a replacement for the driver's attention and works only within the system limitations. This  
means that the trailer stabilization cannot detect all driving situations and may not react, or may react with a delay, or may  
react in a way that is not desired. If you are careless, there is a risk of accidents, serious injuries and death.  
Always stay attentive and do not rely solely on the system. The driver is always responsible for control of the  
vehicle.  
Observe the system limitations → page , System limitations.  
Accelerate carefully on slippery roads.  
Take your foot off the accelerator pedal when a system is taking control.  
Always adapt your speed and driving style to the visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.  
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Trailer hitch  
Ball mount holder  
Fig. 140 Dimensions of the ball mount holder and receptacle.  
Suspended height of the ball mount.  
Distance between socket pin and ball mount.  
To pull a trailer you must have installed the necessary cabling, including a socket, and the corresponding trailer hitch. Since  
pulling a trailer represents a heavy strain for the vehicle towing it, connecting the trailer to the towing vehicle and correct  
dimensions for the receptacle and the ball mount holder are extremely important in order for the towing vehicle to cope with th  
strain to be placed on it.  
The mount requires a special shape and size of ball mount holder and ball mount. This affects both the suspended height of  
the ball coupling fig. 140  
and the distance between the socket pin and the ball coupling fig. 140  
.
These dimensions determine the distribution of strain on the receptacle and the connections to the vehicle during towing.  
When purchasing a ball mount holder and a ball mount, always ensure that these will cope with the requirements.  
Dimensions of the ball mount holder  
The suspended height fig. 140  
from the top of the ball mount to the top of the neck must not exceed 50.8 mm  
(2 inches).  
The distance between the socket pin and the ball mount fig. 140  
must not exceed 209.55 mm (8 1/4 inches) from th  
middle of the ball mount to the middle of the eye of the pin.  
The diameter of the ball mount may not exceed 50.8 mm (2 inches).  
Ball mounts and holders which do not meet these specifications could damage your car or could fail completely  
Securing cables  
⇒
.
In some countries, unbraked and braked trailers must be secured by means of securing or breakaway cables.  
Follow the country-specific regulations for using a securing cable.  
1. Secure the securing or breakaway cable to the provided ball mount eyelet.  
2. Guide the cable through the eyelet and hook it in the karabiner ⇒  
.
361  
WARNING  
Incorrect mounting or the use of an unsuitable trailer hitch can lead to the trailer becoming detached from the towing  
vehicle during the journey, potentially causing accidents and serious injuries or death.  
Only have work on your trailer hitch or the retrofitting of a trailer hitch carried out by an authorized Volkswagen  
dealer or authorized Volkswagen service facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen  
dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
WARNING  
An improperly secured trailer can cause accidents and serious injuries or death.  
Never drape the securing or breakaway cable of the trailer loosely over the ball mount.  
CAUTION  
A fitted but unused ball mount holder can increase the risk of injuries in the event of a rear-end collision.  
Always remove the ball mount holder when it is not being used.  
NOTICE  
Fitting an unsuitable ball mount can cause vehicle damage and invalidation of the operating license.  
Use the ball mount supplied by the factory or a ball mount approved for your vehicle model and its model year.  
Volkswagen recommends the use of Volkswagen original parts or Volkswagen original accessories, which you can  
acquire from an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
NOTICE  
The vehicle was not designed to tow trailers requiring larger ball mounts than those specified. The use of an unsuitable  
trailer hitch can cause vehicle damage.  
Never use ball mounts with a diameter that exceeds 50.8 mm (2 inches).  
Never use an adapter in order to use a larger ball mount.  
If necessary, you may use an adapter to enable you to mount a bicycle carrier or similar. Always observe the weight  
specifications when doing so.  
Make sure that the taillights are not obscured by the use of a bicycle rack or similar equipment.  
Retrofitting a trailer hitch  
Volkswagen recommends having a trailer hitch retrofitted by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen  
Service Facility. For example, modifications to the cooling system or the installation of heat shields may be necessary.  
Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Mount the trailer hitch in accordance with the instructions supplied.  
A retrofitted, non-removable trailer hitch must not cover the label or the lighting system on the rear of the vehicle. Note the  
country-specific regulations for using a ball mount ⇒  
.
362  
WARNING  
Improperly or incorrectly connected electrical wires can lead to malfunctions in the entire vehicle electronics system as  
well as accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Never connect the electrical system on a trailer directly to the electrical connectors for the taillights or other  
unsuitable power sources.  
Only use suitable connectors to connect the trailer.  
If retrofitting the vehicle with a trailer hitch, have the work performed by an authorized Volkswagen dealer or  
authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or  
authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
WARNING  
Incorrect mounting or the use of an unsuitable trailer hitch can lead to the trailer becoming detached from the towing  
vehicle during the journey, potentially causing accidents and serious injuries or death.  
Only have work on your trailer hitch or the retrofitting of a trailer hitch carried out by an authorized Volkswagen  
dealer or authorized Volkswagen service facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen  
dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Only use trailer hitches that are provided for the vehicle model, model year and vehicle equipment by the corresponding  
manufacturer. Volkswagen recommends the use of Volkswagen original parts or Volkswagen original accessories, which you  
can acquire from an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Roof rack  
Introduction  
Depending on the model, the vehicle may be designed to have a roof rack installed.  
Bulky objects can be transported on the vehicle roof using the roof rack.  
If you are not sure if your vehicle is designed to have a roof rack installed, check with an authorized Volkswagen dealer or  
authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized  
Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Only use roof racks that are approved by Volkswagen for use with your vehicle.  
Do not use or retrofit a roof rack if this is not approved for your vehicle.  
WARNING  
When transporting large, heavy, long, or flat loads on the roof rack, the vehicle's driving characteristics and aerodynamics  
change because of the different center of gravity and increased wind resistance. This may cause accidents and serious or  
fatal injuries.  
Always secure cargo correctly with suitable and undamaged cords, fixation belts or tensioning straps.  
Avoid abrupt and sudden driving and braking maneuvers.  
Always adapt your speed and driving style to the visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.  
WARNING  
363  
If the use of a roof rack is not approved for your vehicle or a roof rack that is incompatible with the vehicle is fitted, it may  
detach and fall from the roof of the vehicle while you are driving. This may cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Only use roof racks that are approved by Volkswagen for the vehicle.  
Do not fit roof racks if they are not approved for your vehicle.  
NOTICE  
Installing any type of roof rack onto a vehicle that is not approved for use of a roof rack can cause serious damage.  
Do not fit roof racks if they are not approved for your vehicle.  
Driving with a roof rack fitted increases the air resistance of the vehicle and thus also the fuel consumption. This reduces  
the potential range of the vehicle. This applies to all roof racks and any objects transported on them, such as bicycles and  
skis.  
Mounting a roof rack  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
and Introduction.  
For safety reasons, special roof racks are needed to transport luggage, bicycles, surfboards, skis and boats safely. The roof  
racks for installation on the roof rail in particular are referred to as roof rack bars, and are used as a base supports for direct  
installation on the vehicle roof.  
Only use roof racks that are provided for the vehicle model, model year and vehicle equipment by the corresponding  
manufacturer.  
Volkswagen recommends the use of Volkswagen original parts or Volkswagen original accessories, which you can acquire  
from an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.  
Mounting the Roof Rack Bars on the Roof Rail  
Mount the roof rack bars in accordance with the supplied installation instructions.  
The respective base can be attached after successfully installing the roof rack bars ⇒  
.
Remove the roof rack in the following scenarios  
If the roof rack is no longer needed.  
Before driving through an automatic car wash  
If the height of the vehicle exceeds the maximum height limit, for example in a garage  
NOTICE  
The height of the vehicle changes when a roof rack is installed and when there is cargo secured on it. The vehicle may be  
badly damaged if you drive into entrances with low heights, e.g. underpasses and garages.  
Compare the height of the vehicle with the clearance height.  
NOTICE  
If parts on the roof of your particular vehicle (depending on the vehicle equipment), e.g. the roof antenna, and the trunk  
lid's range of movement are impaired by the roof rack and the luggage, the vehicle may be damaged.  
Ensure that the roof rack is positioned correctly on the roof and that it will not affect any components of the vehicle.  
364  
WARNING  
Securing the roof rack and base incorrectly or using them incorrectly may cause the luggage or the entire assembly to  
come loose from the vehicle roof. This can result in accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Always mount the roof rack and base correctly in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.  
Secure the roof rack only at the locations intended for this.  
Always mount special rack assemblies for bicycles, skis, surfboards, etc. correctly and in accordance with the  
manufacturer's installation instructions.  
Only use the roof rack and base if they are undamaged and secured correctly.  
Check the roof rack mounts before starting a journey and, if necessary, retighten them after a short distance.  
On long trips, check the threaded connections and fasteners each time you take a break.  
Do not make any modifications or repairs to the roof rack or base.  
A fitted roof rack increases air resistance and therefore may reduce the vehicle's range.  
Loading the roof rack  
Please read the introductory information and heed the Warnings and Notice ⇒  
and Introduction.  
Maximum permissible roof weight  
The maximum permissible roof load is 90 kg (200 lbs).  
The roof load consists of the weight of the roof rack and the items carried on the roof rack →  
.
Always check the weight of the roof rack and the items that will be transported on it. Weigh the items if necessary.  
When using a roof rack with a low load limit, do not load the rack with the maximum permissible roof load. In this case, only  
load the roof rack to the weight limit listed in the installation guide.  
Distributing the load  
Distribute the load evenly and secure it correctly →  
.
Checking that everything is secure  
Once you have fitted the roof rack, drive a short distance and then check all the fasteners. Keep checking them regularly.  
WARNING  
Exceeding the maximum permitted roof load can result in accidents, damage to the vehicle and serious or fatal injuries.  
Never exceed the specified roof load, the Gross Axle Weight Rating, and the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of the  
vehicle.  
Do not exceed the load limit of the roof rack, even if the roof load is below the limit.  
WARNING  
If loose and incorrectly secured luggage falls off the roof rack, accidents and serious or fatal injuries may occur.  
365  
Use only suitable and undamaged tie-downs, fixing and tensioning straps.  
NOTICE  
If the trunk lid hits the roof load, the vehicle may be damaged.  
Make sure the trunk lid does not run into the roof load when opening the lid.  
366  

Related Topics

Stowing luggage and cargo
Trailer towing
Trailer hitch
Roof rack

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