Introduction
The vehicle can be used to tow a trailer if it has the required technical equipment for this.
The additional trailer load will affect the amount of wear, fuel consumption and performance of the vehicle and, in
certain circumstances, could shorten the service intervals.
Driving with a trailer not only places an extra load on the vehicle, but also requires increased concentration on the
part of the driver.
Vehicles with a start/stop system
If towing brackets that werenot retrofitted by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles are used, or if a towing bracket
retrofitted by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is not detected for system-related reasons, the start/stop system
must be deactivated manually using the button in the centre console before starting to tow a trailer and must
remain deactivated for as long as a trailer is being towed →
.
Tachograph
Use of a tachograph is required by law for vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating in excess of 3,500 kg, including
trailer, and used commercially to transport goods. This is irrespective of whether the vehicle or the trailer or both are
used for commercial transportation of goods.
DANGER
It is dangerous to transport people in a trailer and it may also be illegal.
WARNING
Improper use of the towing bracket can lead to a loss of vehicle control, accidents and serious injuries.
● Only use the towing bracket if it is fitted properly and is not damaged.
● Do not carry out any alterations or repairs to the towing bracket.
● When the vehicle is not being used to tow a trailer, always remove the ball coupling neck((→ Ball coupling,
mechanical)) to reduce the risk of injury in rear-end collisions and injuries to pedestrians and cyclists when
parking the vehicle.
● Never install a “weight-distributing” or “load-balancing” towing bracket to the vehicle. The vehicle was not
constructed for these kinds of towing brackets. The towing bracket can fail, causing the trailer to tear loose from
the vehicle.
WARNING
Towing a trailer and transporting heavy or bulky items can change the vehicle handling, increase the braking
distance and lead to accidents.
● Always secure loads properly using suitable and undamaged lashing, retaining or securing straps.
● Always adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions. Reduce your
speed, particularly when going downhill.
● Trailers with a high centre of gravity are more likely to tip over than trailers with a low centre of gravity.
● Always drive carefully and think ahead. Accelerate carefully and gently. Avoid abrupt and sudden driving and
braking manoeuvres.
● Take special care when overtaking. Reduce your speed immediately if the trailer shows even the slightest sign of
snaking.
● Never drive faster than 80 km/h(50 mph) when towing a trailer, or 100 km/h (60 mph)in exceptional cases. This
also applies to countries where higher speeds are permitted. Always obey speed limits. In some countries, speed
limits for vehicles towing trailers can be lower than for vehicles without trailers.
● Observe any country-specific regulations when towing a trailer and using a towing bracket.
● Never try to stop a trailer from snaking by increasing your speed.
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