Get Safety Guide for Volkswagen Multivan SUV Sixth Generation (2015-2024)

Introduction

Assuming an incorrect sitting position considerably impairs the level of protection provided by a seat belt. This could

lead to severe or even fatal injuries. The risk of severe or fatal injuries is especially increased when a deploying airbag

strikes a vehicle occupant who has assumed an incorrect sitting position. The driver is responsible for all occupants

transported in the vehicle, especially children.

Overview of seats (authorised use of vehicle seats in accordance with type approval)

Short wheelbase

(max. seven seats)

Long wheelbase

(max. nine seats)

Seat row

1

2

Two individual seats in the direction of travel.

One or two individual seats facing in direction of travel or in opposite direction of travel.

Three-seat bench or two individual seats facing in

One or two individual seats in direction of travel.

direction of travel.

3

4

Three-seat bench or two individual seats facing in

—

direction of travel.

Number of seats

The number of seats depends on the seating configuration and the equipment in the particular vehicle model.

Each seat is equipped with a seat belt.

Retrofitting seats

Additional seats can be retrofitted, provided that the maximum number of seats specified by the manufacturer in the

vehicle documentation is not exceeded. For this purpose, seat anchor points should be fitted to the vehicle floor by a

correspondingly qualified workshop in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

These additional seats must also have seat belt anchor points and seat belts.

WARNING

Assuming an incorrect sitting position in the vehicle can increase the risk of severe or fatal injuries during a sudden

driving or braking manoeuvre, in the event of a collision or accident, or if the airbags are triggered.

● All vehicle occupants must assume a correct sitting position before setting off and maintain this position

throughout the trip. This also applies to the fastening of seat belts.

● The number of vehicle occupants must never exceed the number of seats with seat belts in the vehicle.

● Never tilt the backrest too far to the rear.

● Always keep your feet in the footwell during the journey. Never place your feet on the seat or dash panel, for

example. Never hold your feet out of the window. If you sit like this, the airbag and seat belt cannot provide

optimal protection and could actually increase the risk of injury during an accident.

52

Correct sitting position

Fig. 1 Illustration: correct distance between the driver and

the steering wheel, correct seat belt routing and correct

head restraint adjustment.

The following details the correct sitting positions for the driver and passengers.

If any vehicle occupants cannot assume a correct sitting position due to their physical build, they should contact a

correspondingly qualified workshop to find out about possible special modifications. The seat belts and airbags can

only provide a maximum level of protection if you assume a correct sitting position.

Adopt the following seating position for your own safety and to reduce the level of injury in the event of a sudden

braking manoeuvre or an accident:

The following applies to all vehicle occupants:

—Adjust the head restraint so that its upper edge is at the same height as the top of the head, but not lower than eye

level. Position the back of your head as close to the head restraint as possible → Fig. 1.

—For small people: push the head restraint all the way down, even if the head is then located underneath the top

edge of the head restraint.

—For taller people, push the head restraint up as far as it will go.

—Keep both feet in the footwell while the vehicle is in motion.

—Adjust and fasten seat belts properly .

Additional points for the driver:

—Adjust the driver seat by moving it forwards or backwards so that you are able to press the pedals to the floor with

your knees still slightly bent and the distance from the dash panel to your lower leg area is at least 10 cm → Fig. 1

B

.

—Adjust the height so that you can reach the highest point of the steering wheel.

—Move the backrest into an upright position so that your back rests fully against it.

—Adjust the steering wheel so that the distance between the steering wheel and your breastbone is at least 25 cm

A

→ Fig. 1

and the circumference of the steering wheel can be held at the sides with the arms slightly bent.

—The steering wheel must always point towards the breastbone and not towards the face.

Additional points for the front passenger:

—If possible, move the backrest into an upright position so that your back rests fully against it.

—Push the front passenger seat as far back as possible so that the airbag can provide maximum protection if it is

53

deployed.

Introduction

If worn properly, seat belts hold the vehicle occupants in the correct sitting position during an accident or braking

manoeuvre, providing maximum protection.

WARNING

Incorrectly fastened or unfastened seat belts can increase the risk of severe or fatal injuries.

● Before every trip, each vehicle occupant must adopt the correct sitting position, correctly fasten the seat belt

belonging to their seat and keep it fastened properly throughout the trip.

● Before every journey and while the vehicle is in motion, secure all children travelling in the vehicle in a restraint

system suitable for their weight and height. They must also wear correctly fastened seat belts .

● Insert the latch plate only into the belt buckle of the corresponding seat and make sure that the latch plate

engages securely. Using a buckle that does not belong to the seat that you are occupying reduces the level of

protection and can lead to severe injuries.

● Never unfasten the seat belt while the vehicle is in motion.

● Never allow more than one person to share the same seat belt.

● Never transport children or babies on your lap and never secure them with a seat belt together with a person.

● Never travel wearing loose, bulky clothing(such as an overcoat over a jacket). This could prevent the seat belts

from fitting and functioning properly.

WARNING

Damaged seat belts increase the risk of serious or fatal injuries. If the belt webbing or any other part of the seat belt

becomes damaged, the seat belt may tear during an accident or sudden braking manoeuvre.

● Never damage the belt by trapping it in the door or in the seat mechanism.

● If the belt webbing, belt connections, belt retractor or seat belt buckle become damaged, the seat belt or belt

attachment element in question must be replaced immediately by a correspondingly qualified workshop. The

correspondingly qualified workshop must use correct spare parts that are compatible with the vehicle, equipment

level and model year.

● Never try to repair, modify or remove the seat belts or belt attachment elements yourself. Have all repairs to seat

belts, belt retractors and buckles carried out by a correspondingly qualified workshop. The correspondingly

qualified workshop must only replace the seat belt with a seat belt approved for the seat.

● Have seat belts that have been subjected to stress and stretched during an accident replaced by a

correspondingly qualified workshop. Renewal may be necessary even if there is no apparent damage. Also check

the anchorages of the seat belts.

WARNING

Using seat belts incorrectly increases the risk of severe or fatal injuries.

● Regularly check to ensure that the seat belt and its related parts are in perfect condition.

● Always keep the seat belts clean.

● Avoid allowing foreign bodies or liquids to enter the seat belt buckle slots and belt buckles. This could prevent

the seat belt buckle slots, belt buckles and seat belts from working properly.

● Never trap the seat belt. Never damage the belt or allow it to rub against sharp edges.

54

Buckle-up request

Fig. 1 On the display of the instrument cluster: Warning

lamp (depending on the equipment).

An acoustic signal will sound for a few seconds if the seat belt for the driver seat and, depending on the equipment,

the front passenger seat are not fastened as the vehicle pulls off and reaches a speed of more than approximately

25 km/h (15 mph), or if the seat belts are unfastened while the vehicle is in motion. The red warning lamp will also

flash → Fig. 1.

The red warning lamp only goes out when the seat belt is fastened.

55

Fastening and unfastening seat belts

Fastening the seat belts

Fig. 1 Inserting the seat belt latch plate into the buckle.

Fasten seat belts before every trip.

1. Adopt correct sitting position (→ Sitting position).

2. Take hold of the belt and pull it evenly across your chest and pelvis. Donot twist the belt when doing this.

3. Insert the latch plate securely into the buckle belonging to the occupied seat→ Fig. 1.

4. Pull on the seat belt to ensure that the latch plate is securely locked in the buckle.

Unfastening the seat belts

Fig. 2 Removing the latch plate from the buckle

Unfasten seat belts only when the vehicle is stationary.

1. Press the red button on the belt buckle→ Fig. 2. The latch plate is released and springs out.

2. Guide the belt back by hand so that it rolls up easily, without twisting the seat belt and without damaging the

trim.

Twisted seat belt

If it is difficult to remove the seat belt from the belt guide, the seat belt may have become twisted if it was returned

too quickly into the side trim:

1. Take hold of the latch plate then slowly and carefully pull out the seat belt.

2. Untwist the seat belt and guide it back slowly by hand.

56

3. Fasten the seat belt even if you are unable to undo the twist.

However, the twist should not be in part of the seat belt that comes into direct contact with the body.

4. Contact a correspondingly qualified workshop as soon as possible to have the twist removed.

Seat belt routing

Seat belts only provide an optimum level of protection during an accident when they are routed correctly. Correct

seat belt routing reduces the risk of severe or fatal injuries. Correct seat belt routing also holds the vehicle occupants

in position so that an inflating airbag can offer the maximum level of protection. Therefore you must always fasten

your seat belt and ensure that the seat belt routing is correct → Fig. 1.

Correct seat belt routing

Fig. 1 Correct seat belt routing and head restraint

adjustment

—The shoulder part of the seat belt must always lie on the centre of the shoulder, never across the neck, over or

under the arm or behind the back.

—The lap part of the seat belt must always lie across the pelvis, never across the stomach.

—The seat belt must always lie flat and snugly on the body. Tighten the belt if necessary.

Correct seat belt routing during pregnancy

Fig. 2 Correct seat belt routing during pregnancy

Pregnant women must position the seat belt evenly over the chest and as low as possible over the pelvis. It must lie

flat so that no pressure is exerted on the lower body – this applies in every stage of pregnancy → Fig. 2.

57

Correct seat belt routing according to height

The following equipment can be used to adjust the seat belt routing:

—Seat belt height adjuster for the front seats (→ Seat belt height adjuster).

—Height-adjustable front seats .

WARNING

Incorrect seat belt routing can cause severe injuries in the event of an accident or a sudden braking or driving

manoeuvre.

● The seat belts only offer best protection when the backrests are in an upright position and the seat belts have

been fastened properly.

● The seat belt itself or a loose seat belt can cause serious injuries if the seat belt shifts from harder body parts in

the direction of softer body parts (e.g. stomach).

● Route the seat belt so that it lies flat and snugly on your upper body.

● The lap part of the seat belt must lie across the pelvis and never across the stomach. Route the seat belt so that it

lies flat and snugly on your pelvis. Pull the belt a little again to tighten it if necessary.

● For pregnant women, the seat belt must be positioned evenly over the chest and as low as possible over the

pelvis during the entire course of the pregnancy. It must lie flat so that no pressure is exerted on the lower body.

● Do not twist the seat belt when it is fastened.

● Never hold the seat belt away from your body with your hand.

● Do not route the belt over hard or fragile objects, such as glasses, pens or keys.

● Never change the belt routing by means of belt clips, retaining eyes or similar.

If a person’s physical build prevents them from routing the seat belt properly, contact a correspondingly

qualified workshop to find out about any special modifications so that the seat belts and airbags can provide

the optimum level of protection.

Seat belt height adjuster

Fig. 1 Next to the front seats: seat belt height adjuster.

The seat belt height adjusters for the front seats can be used to adjust the position of the seat belt on the shoulder so

that it can be fastened properly:

1. Push and hold the shoulder belt guide in the direction of the arrow→ Fig. 1.

2. Push the shoulder belt guide up or down so that the seat belt is routed over the middle of the shoulder .

3. Let go of the shoulder belt guide.

4. Pull sharply on the seat belt to check whether the shoulder belt guide is engaged securely.

58

WARNING

If the belt height is not adjusted correctly, this can increase the risk of serious or fatal injuries.

● Always adjust the belt height according to the correct sitting position before starting your trip.

● Never change the belt height while the vehicle is in motion.

Belt retractor, belt tensioner, belt tension limiter

The seat belts in the vehicle are part of the vehicle safety concept and include the following important functions:

Automatic belt retractor

The seat belts on the front seats and, depending on equipment, on the rear seats are equipped with a belt retractor.

Full freedom of movement is made possible when the shoulder belt is pulled slowly or when the vehicle is travelling

at normal speeds. However, if the belt is pulled out quickly or during sudden braking, during travel in mountains or

bends and during acceleration, the automatic belt retractor is locked.

Belt tensioners

The seat belts of the driver seat and the outer front passenger seat are equipped with belt tensioners depending on

the equipment level.

The belt tensioners are activated by sensors during severe frontal, side and rear collisions. They tighten the seat belts

against the direction in which they are pulled. A loose seat belt is retracted and kept taught, which can reduce the

forward motion of the vehicle occupants and their motion in the direction of impact. Depending on the equipment,

the belt tensioner works together with the airbag system.

A fine dust may be produced when the airbags are triggered. This is quite normal and does not mean that there is a

fire in the vehicle.

WARNING

The protective function of the belt tensioners permits only one activation of the belt tensioners. The system must

be replaced if the belt tensioners have been triggered.

● Belt tensioners that have been triggered, and any affected system parts, must be replaced immediately with new

parts that are approved for the vehicle.

● Have repairs and modifications to your vehicle carried out only by a suitably qualified workshop. Qualified

workshops have the necessary tools, diagnostic equipment, repair information and trained personnel.

● Never install recycled belt tensioner components or components that have been taken from end-of-life vehicles

in your vehicle.

● Never modify any components of the belt tensioners.

Belt tension limiter

Depending on the equipment, the seat belts are equipped with belt tension limiters. The belt tension limiter reduces

the pressure exerted by the seat belt on the body during an accident.

All safety requirements must be observed when the vehicle or components of the system are scrapped.

Suitably qualified workshops are familiar with these requirements.

59

Service and disposal of belt tensioners

Seat belts may become damaged during any work on the belt tensioners or while removing or refitting any vehicle

parts in conjunction with any other repair work. This damage will not always be noticeable. The consequence may be

that the belt tensioners could function incorrectly, or not function at all, in the event of an accident.

Regulations must be observed to ensure that the effectiveness of the belt tensioner is not reduced and that removed

parts do not cause any injuries or environmental pollution. Qualified workshops are familiar with these requirements.

WARNING

The risk of severe or fatal injuries may be increased if the seat belts, automatic belt retractors and belt tensioners

are not used correctly, or if they are repaired by a non-professional. As a result, the belt tensioners may not be

triggered when they should, or they may be triggered unexpectedly.

● Never carry out any repairs, adjustments or removal and refitting of parts in the belt tensioners or seat belts by

yourself, and have such work carried out only by a correspondingly qualified workshop .

● Seat belts, belt tensioners and automatic belt retractors cannot be repaired. They must be replaced.

The airbag modules and belt tensioners may contain perchlorate. Observe the applicable legislation

regarding disposal.

60

Introduction

The airbags are not a substitute for seat belts, which must always be worn.

The airbags can provide additional protection for the vehicle occupants only if the seats, seat belts, head restraints

and, for the driver, the steering wheel are adjusted and used correctly.

The airbags are not triggered as a result of all visible vehicle damage.

Situations in which the airbags are not always triggered:

—If the ignition is switched off during a collision.

—In minor frontal collisions.

—During a minor side collision.

—During rear collisions.

—If the rotational speed measured by the control unit is too low in the event of a vehicle rollover.

—In collisions at low speed.

Injuries such as swelling, bruising, burns and grazes cannot be excluded when an airbag is triggered.

WARNING

If there are any objects located between the vehicle occupants and the deployment zone of the airbag, these objects

change the airbag’s deployment zone and increase the risk of injury when the airbag triggered. The objects could

enter the deployment zone of the airbag during sudden braking or driving manoeuvres and then be flung

dangerously through the vehicle interior if the airbag is activated.

● Never carry any objects in your hands or on your lap while the vehicle is in motion.

● Never transport any objects on the front passenger seat.

WARNING

The airbag system can only be triggered once. After the airbags have triggered, they lose their protective effect and

must be replaced. If the airbags do not have their protective effect, this increases the risk of injury in the event of

sudden braking or driving manoeuvres.

● Airbags that have been triggered, and any affected system parts, must be replaced immediately with new parts

that the vehicle manufacturer has approved for the vehicle.

● Have repairs and modifications to your vehicle carried out only by a suitably qualified workshop. Qualified

workshops have the necessary tools, diagnostic equipment, repair information and trained personnel.

● Never install recycled airbag components or components that have been taken from end-of-life vehicles in your

vehicle.

● Never modify any components of the airbag system.

WARNING

Fine dust particles or steam may be released when the airbags are triggered. This is normal and does not mean that

there is a fire in the vehicle. The fine dust can cause irritation to the skin and eye membranes and cause breathing

difficulties, particularly for people suffering from asthma or people who have (had) other respiratory problems.

● To help reduce breathing difficulties, get out of the vehicle or open the windows or doors for more fresh air.

● If you come into contact with the dust, you should wash your hands and face with a mild soap and water before

eating.

● If dust has entered your eyes, rinse them with water.

WARNING

Cleaning agents that contain solvents cause the surface of the airbag modules to become porous. In an accident

that triggers the airbag, loose plastic parts can cause serious injury.

● Never clean the dash panel or the airbag covers with cleansers that contain solvents.

61

Type of front passenger front airbag system

With some equipment levels, anairbag system or an airbag system with front passenger front airbag deactivation

may be installed.

Airbag system

The front passenger front airbag can be deactivated only by a correspondingly qualified workshop.

Characteristics of the airbag system:

—Front passenger front airbag in the dash panel.

—Indicator lamp in the instrument cluster display.

Airbag system with front passenger front airbag deactivation

The front passenger front airbag can be deactivated manually by means of a key-operated switch (→ Standard airbag

system).

Characteristics of the airbag system with front passenger front airbag deactivation:

—Front passenger front airbag in the dash panel.

—Indicator lamp in the instrument cluster display.

—PASSENGER AIR BAG indicator lamp

in the roof console.

—Key-operated switch on the front passenger side.

62

Indicator lamp

Functional check

The yellow indicator lamp in the instrument cluster display lights up briefly as a functional check when the

ignition is switched on and goes out after a few seconds.

Fault in airbag or belt tensioner system

The yellow indicator lamp lights up continuously. In addition, a message may be displayed in the instrument

cluster. A malfunction has been detected in at least one airbag or belt tensioner.

1. Go to a suitably qualified workshop and have the airbag system and belt tensioner system checked.

Airbag or belt tensioner system deactivated with diagnostic tool

The yellow indicator lamp lights up for around 4 seconds when the ignition is switched on and then flashes for

around 12 seconds. In addition, a message may be displayed in the instrument cluster. At least one airbag or

belt tensioner was deactivated with a diagnostic tool.

1. Go to a suitably qualified workshop and ask them to check whether the airbag or belt tensioner system must

remain switched off.

63

Fitting locations and deployment zones

The airbag fitting locations are identified by the text “AIRBAG”.

The areas inside the red lines in the airbag figures are covered by the airbags when the airbags are triggered

(deployment zone). You must never leave or attach any objects in these areas→

WARNING

.

Once triggered, the airbag inflates at very high speed in milliseconds. This could cause objects to be flung through

the interior. This can cause serious injuries.

● Always keep the deployment zones of the airbags clear.

● Never secure any items on the covers or in the deployment zones of the airbags.

● Do not affix stickers or cover the fitting locations of the airbags and the surfaces in the airbag deployment zones

or modify these components in any way.

● No other people, animals or objects may be carried between the vehicle occupants and the airbag deployment

zones. Ensure that children and passengers keep to this rule.

● Do not attach any objects, e.g. mobile navigation devices, to the windscreen above the front airbag on the front

passenger side.

● Only push the sun visors over to the side windows if no items are attached to them(e.g. pens or the remote

control for a garage door).

● Do not install any sun blinds on the side windows unless they have been expressly approved for use in your

vehicle.

● The coat hooks in the vehicle should be used only for lightweight clothing. Never keep any heavy or sharp objects

in the pockets.

● Do not fit any accessories to the doors.

64

Front airbags

Fig. 1 Fitting location and deployment zone of the driver

front airbag (illustration).

Fig. 2 Fitting location and deployment zone of the front

passenger front airbag (illustration).

WARNING

An incorrect sitting position can prevent the front airbags from functioning correctly and cause serious injuries.

● When driving, always hold the steering wheel with both hands on the outside of the ring at the 9 o’clock and

3 o’clock positions.

● Adjust the driver seat so that there is at least 25 cm(around 10 in) between the driver’s rib cage and the hub of

the steering wheel. If your build makes it impossible to fulfil this requirement then you must contact a

correspondingly qualified workshop for assistance.

● Adjust the front passenger seat so that the distance between the passenger and the dash panel is as large as

possible.

65

Switching the front passenger front airbag on and off

Fig. 1 On the front of the dash panel: key-operated switch

for switching the front passenger front airbag on and off.

The front passenger front airbag must be deactivated if you fit a rear-facing child seat on the front passenger seat.

Observe the country-specific specifications for use of child seats on the front passenger seat.

Deactivation of the front passenger front airbag is not available in all countries. If there is no key-operated switch in

the vehicle, the front passenger airbag can only be switched off by a suitably qualified workshop.

Front passenger front airbag switched on

Fig. 2 In the roof console: indicator lamp showing front

passenger front airbag enabled.

The yellow indicator lamp for the activated front passenger front airbag lights up for around 60 seconds after

the ignition is switched on or after switching on the front passenger front airbag with the key-operated

switch → Fig. 2 and then goes out automatically. The front passenger front airbag has been switched on.

1. Check whether the front passenger front airbag must remain switched on.

Front passenger front airbag deactivated

Fig. 3 In the roof console: indicator lamp showing front

passenger front airbag disabled.

66

The yellow indicator lamp lights up continuously→ Fig. 3. The front passenger front airbag has been

switched off.

1. Check whether the front passenger front airbag must remain switched off, e.g. when using a child seat on the

front passenger seat.

Enabling the front passenger front airbag

1. Switch off the ignition.

2. Open the door on the front passenger side.

3. Fold the key bit of the vehicle key all the way out.

4. Insert the key bit into the key-operated switch until you feel the second point of resistance→ Fig. 1. Around

three quarters of the key bit should be inserted in the key switch at this point →

5. Turn the vehicle key, without applying force, to theON position.

6. Remove the vehicle key from the key switch and fold the key bit away.

7. Close the door on the front passenger side.

.

8. Check that the PASSENGER AIRBAG

indicator lamp in the upper section of the centre console doesnot

light up when the ignition is switched on (→ Indicator lamp for standard airbag system).

Deactivating the front passenger front airbag

1. Switch off the ignition.

2. Open the door on the front passenger side.

3. Fold the key bit of the vehicle key all the way out.

4. Insert the key bit into the key-operated switch until you feel the second point of resistance→ Fig. 1. Around

three quarters of the key bit should be inserted in the key switch at this point →

5. Turn the vehicle key, without applying force, to theOFF position.

6. Remove the vehicle key from the key switch and fold the key bit away.

7. Close the front passenger door.

.

When the ignition is switched on, the indicator lamp PASSENGER AIRBAG

section of the centre console (→ Indicator lamp for standard airbag system).

will light up continuously in the upper

Recognising a deactivated front passenger front airbag

The only indication that the front passenger front airbag has been deactivated is when the PASSENGER AIR BAG

indicator lamp

airbag system).

lights up continuously in the upper section of the centre console (→ Indicator lamp for standard

If the

indicator lamp in the upper part of the centre consoledoes not light up continuouslyor lights up together

with the indicator lamp in the instrument cluster display, do not fit a child restraint system on the front passenger

seat for safety reasons. The front passenger front airbag may trigger during an accident.

DANGER

Please observe important safety information about the front passenger front airbag (→ Child seats).

DANGER

67

The front passenger front airbag should only be switched off in exceptional circumstances.

● To prevent damage to the airbag system, switch the front passenger front airbag on and off only 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.

● Switch the front passenger front airbag off only if, in exceptional circumstances, a rear-facing child seat is

secured on the front passenger seat.

● Switch the front passenger front airbag back on again as soon as the rear-facing child seat on the front passenger

seat is no longer being used.

NOTICE

If the key bit is not inserted far enough, the key-operated switch could be damaged when the key is turned.

Side airbags

Fig. 1 On left-hand side of vehicle: deployment zone of the

side airbag.

Fig. 2 On the side of the front seat: location of the side

airbag.

WARNING

Incorrect use of the driver and front passenger seat could hinder the proper function of the side airbag and cause

serious injury.

● Never remove the front seats from the vehicle or modify any part of them.

● Do not apply excessive force to the seat backrest bolsters.

● Do not fit seat covers or protective covers over the seats unless they have been expressly approved for use in the

68

vehicle.

● Have any damage to the original seat covers or around the seams of the side airbag units repaired immediately by

a correspondingly qualified workshop.

Curtain airbags

Fig. 1 On the left-hand side of the vehicle: location and deployment zone of the curtain airbag for the rear vehicle

occupants on the left side of the vehicle.

Fig. 2 On left-hand side of vehicle: deployment zone of the

curtain airbag.

Depending on the vehicle equipment, curtain airbags are fitted on the driver side and possibly on the front passenger

side.

69

Introduction

Using child seats can reduce the risk of injury to the child if there is an accident. Always use child seats when driving

with children.

Note the following:

—Child seats are classified into groups depending on the size, age and weight of child for which they are designed.

—Various securing systems are used to secure child seats in the vehicle.

For safety reasons, child seats must always be fitted to the rear seats (→ Child seats).

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles recommends using child seats from Volkswagen’s range of accessories. These child

seats were developed and approved for use in vehicles from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. For further

information on the child seats from the range of accessories, contact a Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles dealership

or visit the Volkswagen website.

WARNING

If children are not secured or are inadequately secured, they are at greater risk of serious or even fatal injury. Please

note the following:

● Children who are either under 12 years of age or less than 150 cm tall must not be carried in the vehicle if they

are not secured in a suitable child seat while the vehicle is in motion. Regulations in some countries may differ,

and must be complied with.

● Always secure children in the vehicle in a suitable child seat. The child seat used must be appropriate to the

child’s height, weight and age.

● Observe the child seat manufacturer’s instructions for securing the child seat in the vehicle and for securing the

child in the child seat.

● Never fasten more than one child into one child seat.

● Under no circumstances should children or babies be held on a vehicle occupant’s lap while driving.

● Never leave a child unsupervised in a child seat.

● Never allow a child to be carried in a vehicle without being properly secured, and never allow a child to stand up

or to kneel on a seat, or to sit incorrectly while the vehicle is in motion. This is particularly important for children

carried on the front passenger seat. In an accident, children may sustain serious injuries to themselves and

others.

● The child seat can only provide maximum protection if the seat belt is routed correctly around it. Always ensure

that the seat belt is routed as specified in the instructions provided by the child seat manufacturer. If the seat belt

is routed incorrectly it may cause injuries even in a minor accident.

● After an accident, it is vital to replace any child seats that were in use during the accident, as they could have

sustained non-visible damage.

70

Types of child seat

Only use child seats that have been officially approved and are suitable for the child.

Standards for child seats

Regulations ECE-R 44 or ECE-R 129 apply to child seats within the European Union. Both regulations apply

simultaneously. Child seats which have been tested in accordance with these standards carry an orange ECE approval

label. This ECE approval label may include the following information on the child seat:

—Weight class.

—Size class.

—Approval category(universal, semi-universal, vehicle-specific or i-Size).

—Approval number.

On child seats that are approved under regulation ECE-R 44, the eight-digit approval number on the ECE approval

label must begin with 03 or 04. This shows that the seat is admissible for use. Older child seats with an approval

number beginning with 01 or 02 are not admissible.

Child seat weight classes

Fig. 1 Example illustrations of child seats.

Class

Child's weight

up to 10 kg

up to 13 kg

9 to 18 kg

Group 0

Group 0+

Group 1

Group 2

Group 3

15 to 25 kg

22 to 36 kg

—Weight class 0/0+: group 0/0+ or 0/1 rear-facing infant carriers→ Fig. 1 are the best option for the period from

birth to around 18 months.

—Weight class 1: group 1 (up to about 4 years old) and group 1/2 (up to about 7 years old)with an integral belt

system are the best option for children over the relevant weight limit.

—Weight classes 2/3: groups 2 and 3 include child seats with a backrest, and booster seats with no backrest. Child

seats with a backrest have integrated seat belt routing and side padding, and so provide better protection than

booster seats with no backrest. The use of child seats with backrests is recommended. Group 2 child seats are for

children up to the age of about 7, group 3 child seats for those older than 7.

When using a Group 2 child seat, use the fourth anchorage point of the child seat, if available, for the seat belt.

Please observe the instructions for use of the child seat.

71

Not every child will fit in the child seat specified for their weight group. Likewise, not every seat will fit in every

vehicle. Therefore it is vital to check that the child fits properly in their child seat and that the child seat can be

securely fastened in the vehicle.

Child seat approval categories

Child seats can be classified as “universal”, “semi-universal” “or vehicle-specific”(all in accordance with regulation

ECE-R 44) or “i-Size” (in accordance with regulation ECE-R 129).

—Universal: child seats with “universal” approval are approved for use in all vehicles. No type list is required. ISOFIX

child seats with universal approval must also be secured using a top tether.

—Semi-universal: “semi-universal” approval requires other safety devices for attaching the seat(that require

additional testing) in addition to the standard requirements for universal approval. Child seats with “semi-

universal” approval come with a type list. The seats should only be used in vehicles that are included on this list.

Please refer to the child seat manufacturer's vehicle type list to find out whether the child seat may be fitted in the

vehicle.

—Vehicle-specific: a child seat with vehicle specific approval must have undergone dynamic testing in each model of

vehicle for which it is approved. Child seats with “vehicle-specific” approval also come with a type list. Please refer

to the child seat manufacturer's vehicle type list to find out whether the child seat may be fitted in the vehicle.

—i-Size: child seats classified as i-Size must conform to the installation and safety requirements prescribed in

regulation ECE-R 129. Contact the child seat manufacturer to find out which child seats are approved for this

vehicle in accordance with i-Size.

Installing and using child seats

Country-specific regulations

The standards and regulations governing the use of child seats and child seat securing mechanisms differ from

country to country. Not all countries allow you to transport children on the front passenger seat. Legislation and legal

requirements take precedence over the information given in this owner’s manual.

Information on fitting a child seat

Observe the following general information when fitting a child seat. This information is relevant whatever child seat

securing system is being used.

—Read and follow the instructions provided by the child seat manufacturer→

.

—Whenever possible, fit the child seat on the rear bench seat behind the front passenger seat so that children can

exit the vehicle on the kerb side.

—Set the seat belt height so that the seat belt routing follows a natural line and is adjusted to the child seat without

turning back on itself. For rear-facing child seats, use the lowest position of the belt height adjuster.

—Deactivate the front passenger front airbag if fitting a rear-facing child seat on the front passenger seat.

—When fitting on the front passenger seat: if possible, push the front passenger seat back fully and adjust the seat

to the highest position. Adjust the backrest to an upright position (→ Sitting position).

—Always ensure that there is enough space around the child seat. If necessary, adjust the position of the seat in

front. When doing so, ensure that the driver or front passenger can still maintain a correct sitting position

(→ Sitting position).

—The backrest of the child seat must lay as flat as possible against the vehicle seat backrest. If required, adjust the

seat backrest angle so that the child seat lies flush against the backrest. Once it has been installed, if the child seat

is touching the head restraint and therefore cannot be positioned flush against the backrest, push the head

restraint all the way up, or remove and stow safely in the vehicle (→ Sitting position).

72

Airbag sticker

Fig. 1 Illustration: airbag label on the sun visor.

Fig. 2 Illustration: airbag label on the B-pillar.

The vehicle may be provided with stickers giving key information about the front passenger front airbag. The

information on these stickers may vary from country to country. The stickers may be found:

—On the driver sun visor and, in some cases, on the front passenger sun visor .

—On the B-pillar on the front passenger side .

It is essential to observe the warning information shown on these stickers before installing a rear-facing child seat→

.

Risks involved in carrying children on the front passenger seat

If you are using arear-facing child seat, the front passenger front airbag can cause critical or potentially fatal injuries

when it inflates →

.

Rear-facing child seat may only be used on the front passenger seat if the front passenger front airbag has been

deactivated. The front passenger front airbag has been deactivated when the PASSENGER AIR BAG indicator

lamp is displayed continuously in the roof console. Deactivating the front passenger front airbag (→ Indicator lamp

for standard airbag system).

If using a front-facing child seat, do not deactivate the front passenger front airbag. When fitting the child seat,

ensure that it is as far away as possible from the front passenger front airbag. The front passenger front airbag can

cause severe injuries when it inflates →

.

Some child seats are not suitable for use on the front passenger seat. The child seat must be specially authorised by

the manufacturer for use on the front passenger seat in vehicles with front and side airbags.

Using a child seat on the individual seats

73

Please refer to the operating instructions for the child seat to find out whether the child seat should be used to carry

a child facing in the direction of travel or facing the rear →

.

Risks presented by side airbags

If the side airbag is triggered, the airbag could hit the child in the head, causing serious injury→

.

DANGER

Please observe important safety information about the front passenger front airbag (→ Standard airbag system).

DANGER

If you use a rear-facing child seat on the front passenger seat, the child in it is at increased risk of sustaining serious

or life-threatening injuries or being killed in the event of an accident.

● Never secure a rear-facing child seat on the front passenger seat if the front passenger front airbag is activated.

● Deactivate the front passenger front airbag. If the front passenger front airbag cannot be deactivated no rear-

facing child seat may be used.

● Move the front passenger seat as far back and as high as it can be adjusted to create the largest possible distance

between the child seat and the front passenger front airbag.

● Move the backrest to the upright position.

● Set the seat belt height so that the seat belt routing follows a natural line and is adjusted to the child seat

without turning back on itself. For rear-facing child seats, use the lowest position of the belt height adjuster.

● Only use child seats that have been approved by the child seat manufacturer for use on a front passenger seat

with front and side airbags.

WARNING

Child seats present a risk of injury if incorrectly installed.

● Always read and follow the installation instructions and warning information provided by the child seat

manufacturer.

WARNING

Using a front-facing child seat on the front passenger seat presents a risk of injury.

● If possible, move the front passenger seat as far back and as high as it can be set to create the largest possible

distance between the child seat and the front passenger front airbag.

● If possible, move the backrest to the upright position.

● Set the seat belt height so that the seat belt routing follows a natural line and is adjusted to the child seat

without turning back on itself. For rear-facing child seats, use the lowest position of the seat belt height adjuster.

● Only use child seats that have been approved by the child seat manufacturer for use on a front passenger seat

with front and side airbags.

WARNING

To avoid injuries caused by inflation of a head airbag or side airbag:

● Make sure that children are not in the airbag deployment zone.

● Do not place any objects in the side airbag deployment zones.

If a child seat is used on a single seat with Easy Entry function, the seats located behind that seat are difficult

to access. Therefore, a child seat should be used on another rear seat, if possible.

Securing systems

Different countries use different securing systems for safely fitting child seats in the vehicle.

Overview of securing systems

74

—ISOFIX: ISOFIX is a standardised securing system for fitting child seats in the vehicle quickly and safely. The ISOFIX

attachment system creates a rigid connection between the child seat and the vehicle body.

The child seat has two rigid attachment arms. The attachment arms click into ISOFIX attachment points which can be

located between the seat and the rear seat backrest. The ISOFIX securing system as described here is specific to

Europe (→ Child seat with ISOFIX). An upper strap(top tether) or a support foot may sometimes have to be used in

addition to the ISOFIX anchor points described above.

—Three-point automatic seat belt: it is better to secure child seats using the ISOFIX system, if available, rather than

with a three-point automatic seat belt.

Additional securing points:

—Top tether: this strap at the top of the child seat is routed over the vehicle seat backrest and hooked into an anchor

ring in the luggage compartment. Top tether anchor points are marked with an anchor symbol (→ Child seats).

—Support foot: some child seats are supported by with a support leg resting on the floor of the vehicle. This support

foot helps prevent the child seat tipping forward in a crash.

Recommended child seat securing systems

Child seats should be secured as follows:

—Infant carrier or rear-facing child seat: ISOFIX and support foot.

—Front-facing child seat: ISOFIX and top tether and possibly additional support foot.

WARNING

Child restraint anchorages are designed to withstand only those loads imposed by correctly fitted child restraints.

Under no circumstances are they to be used for adult seatbelts, harnesses, or for attaching other items or

equipment to the vehicle.

WARNING

Incorrect use of the support foot can cause severe or fatal injuries.

● Ensure that the support foot is always correctly and safely installed.

Securing a child seat with ISOFIX

Installation overview with ISOFIX and i-Size

The identification marking of the ISOFIX or i-Size anchorage points is equipment and country dependent.

The table below shows the options for securing ISOFIX or i-Size child seats to ISOFIX anchor points at the various

possible seats in the vehicle.

75

Group

0+:

Group 0:

Group 1:

Group 2: Group 3:

i-Size child restraint

system

up to 10

kg

up to

13 kg

15 to

25 kg

22 to

36 kg

9 to 18 kg

Size class

E

X

E

D

X

C D C B1 B A

-

–

X

Front passenger seat

X

Multivan:

IL-

SU

IUF

Rear individual seats or

3-seat bench

IL-SU

X

IL-SU

California:

Rear individual seats, 2-

seat bench or 3-seat

bench

IL-

SU

IUF

IL-SU

X

IL-SU

—Size class: the size class shown corresponds to the permissible weight range of the child using the seat. The size

class is indicated on the ECE test certificate for child seats with “universal” or “semi-universal” approval. A size

class indication is affixed to the child seat.

—X: seat not suitable for securing an ISOFIX or i-Size child seat in this group.

—IL-SU: seat suitable for installing an ISOFIX child seat with “semi-universal” approval. Refer to the vehicle list

supplied by the child seat manufacturer.

—IUF: seat suitable for installing an ISOFIX child seat with “universal” approval.

—i-U: seat suitable for installing a front-facing or rear-facing i-Size child seat with “universal” approval.

—i-UF: seat suitable for installing a front-facing i-Size child seat with “universal” approval.

Installing child seats with ISOFIX

The location of the ISOFIX anchor points is shown by a symbol or by a label marked ISOFIX.

Markings identifying the ISOFIX anchorage points for child seats on the rear seats.

Fig. 1 On the vehicle seat: Marking variant identifying the

ISOFIX anchor points for child seats.

76

Fig. 2 On the vehicle seat: Marking variant identifying the

ISOFIX anchor points for child seats.

Fig. 3 Diagram: Fitting an ISOFIX child seat with

attachment arms.

—Observe the instructions (→ Child seats).

—Push the attachment arms on the child seat into the ISOFIX anchor points as shown by the arrows→ Fig. 3. The

child seat must click and audibly securely into place.

—Pull on both sides of the child seat to check whether the seat has clicked properly into place.

—If the child seat is fitted with a support foot, the foot must stand firmly on the floor of the vehicle.

Using insert guides

If the child seat anchor points are not directly accessible, insert guides make fitting and removing the child seat

easier. First attach the insert guides to the anchor points. Then secure the child seat as per the installation guide.

NOTICE

Avoid damage to the upholstery and seat cushions caused by the insert guides.

● Always pull the insert guides off the anchor points before folding the rear seat forward, or when removing the

child seat.

Securing child seats with the top tether

77

Fig. 1 Diagram: Identification for top tether attachment

point.

ISOFIX child seats with “universal” approval must be secured with an upper strap(top tether) in addition to the ISOFIX

anchor points.

Fasten the top tether only to the intended attachment points that are suitable for the top tether. These are marked

with a symbol and, where applicable, the “TOP TETHER” label → Fig. 1.

Fig. 2 3-seat bench: top tether secured to the back of a

rear backrest.

Fig. 3 2-seat bench: top tether secured to the back of a

rear backrest.

78

Fig. 4 Individual seat: top tether secured to the back of the

rear seat backrest.

1. Observe the instructions (→ Child seats).

2. Fold down or remove the head restraint located behind the child seat, and stow it securely in the vehicle.

3. Guide the upper strap(top tether) of the child seat back behind the backrest.

4. Push the attachment arms on the child seat into the ISOFIX anchor points as shown by the arrows (→ Child seat

with ISOFIX). The child seat must click and audibly securely into place.

5. Secure the top tether to the corresponding retaining ring→ Fig. 2, → Fig. 3 or → Fig. 4.

6. Tighten the belt so that the child seat is positioned at the top of the rear seat backrest.

7. After the child seat has been removed, fold up the head restraint or install it.

WARNING

Secure the strap only to the top tether anchor rings. Failure to do so could lead to severe injuries.

● Always secure only one top tether of a child seat to one retaining ring.

● Never fasten the top tether on a child seat to any other fastening rings.

WARNING

Objects in the rear pockets of the seats can damage the top tether in the event of an accident. This can result in

serious injuries.

● Do not keep any objects in the rear pockets of the seats when using the top tether.

Securing a child seat using the seat belt

If you want to fit a child seat from the “universal”(u) approval category in your vehicle, you must first ensure that it is

approved for the seat position in question. Important information is given on the orange ECE approval label on the

child seat. Installation options are shown in the table below.

79

Front passenger seat

Child’s

weight

Seats at

the rear

Group

Front passenger front

airbag is activated

Front passenger front

airbag is deactivated

up to 10

kg

Group 0

x

u

x

u

up to 13

kg

Group 0+

x

Rear

9 to 18

kg

facing

Group 1

Forward 9 to 18

u

facing

kg

15 to 25

kg

Group 2

Group 3

22 to 36

kg

u: Universal; x: Seat not suitable for attaching a child seat in this group.

Securing a child seat using the seat belt

1. Observe the instructions (→ Child seats).

2. When fitting on the front passenger seat, push the front passenger seat back fully and adjust the seat to the

highest position. Set the backrest to the upright position.

3. Set the seat belt height so that the seat belt routing follows a natural line and is adjusted to the child seat

without turning back on itself. For rear-facing child seats, use the lowest position of the belt height adjuster.

4. Put on the seat belt according to the instructions of the child seat manufacturer and guide it through the child

seat.

5. Ensure that the seat belt is not twisted.

6. Insert the latch plate into the buckle for the appropriate seat and push it down until it audibly engages.

Folding the integrated child seat in and out

Fig. 1 Integrated child seat: Folding out the seat cushion.

80

Fig. 2 Integrated child seat: installing side head restraints.

The integrated child seat is suitable only for children belonging to group 2(15–25 kg) and group 3 (22–36 kg), as

specified in the standard ECE-R 44.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles recommends that the integrated child seat be used on the individual seat facing

against the direction of travel for children in group 2.

For safety reasons, if the integrated child seat is used on the individual seat for children ingroup 3, it must face the

direction of travel.

Folding out the seat cushion

1

1. Pull the seat padding forwards using the release lever→ Fig. 1

2. Push the seat padding back in the direction of arrow→ Fig. 1

.

A

until it engages.

Fitting the side head restraint

The supplied side head restraintmust be used for children in group 2.

The side head restraint mustnot be used when group 3 children use the integrated child seat.

1. Push the head restraint up.

2. Hold the side head restraint ready with the angled part pointing downwards.

3. Push the lever for the side head restraint from the inner to the outer position→ Fig. 2 (close-up).

4. Push the side head restraint with the slots onto the head restraint rods.

The side head restraints must click into place. The red marking must no longer be visible and the lever must be

in the initial position (inside) again → Fig. 2.

5. Push the head restraint as far down as possible (→ Sitting position).

Folding the seat cushion back

1

A

1. Use the release lever→ Fig. 1

to pull the seat cushion against the direction of arrow

.

2. Press the centre of the seat cushion down so that it engages securely.

NOTICE

81

When folding back the integrated child seat, press only in the middle of the seat cushion. The seat cushion could

otherwise become jammed and will not engage securely.

Removing the side head restraint

1. Push the head restraint up.

2. Push the lever for the side head restraint from the inner to the outer position→ Fig. 2 (close-up).

3. Pull out the side head restraint.

4. Lower the head restraint again.

Seat belt routing for an integrated child seat

Fig. 1 Seat belt routing on the integrated child seat.

Ensure that the shoulder section of the seat belt lies on the centre of the child’s shoulder and that the lap part of the

seat belt always lies on or below their pelvic ridge and not across their stomach → Fig. 1

Correct seat belt routing

1. Guide the seat belt under the side head restraint.

2. Take hold of the latch plate and pull it slowly across the chest and pelvis.

The shoulder part of the seat belt must always lie on the centre of the child's shoulder, never across their neck,

face, over or under their arm or behind their back.

The lap part of the seat belt must always lie on or below the child's pelvic ridge, never across their stomach.

3. Insert the latch plate into the buckle for the appropriate seat and push it down until it is securely locked with an

audible click.

4. Pull on the seat belt to ensure that the latch plate is securely locked in the buckle.

5. The seat belt must always lie flat and snugly on the body. Tighten the belt if necessary.

WARNING

The seat belt will offer the optimum level of protection from severe and fatal injuries only when the seat belt

routing is correct.

● The seat belt must always lie flat and securely against the child's body.

● The shoulder part of the seat belt must lie approximately on the centre of the child's shoulder and never across

their neck or upper arm and must always lie securely against the child's upper body.

● The lap part of the seat belt must always lie on or below the child's pelvic ridge, never across their stomach, and

82

Safety for Your Volkswagen Multivan SUV Sixth Generation (2015-2024)

Related Topics

Popular Owner Manuals

Latest Owner Manuals