Get Sitting correctly and safely Guide for Volkswagen Polo SUV Fourth Generation (2001-2009)

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→ Convenience opening and closing ꢀ .

Bedienungsanleitung < Service & Zubehör < Volkswagen Deutschland

Sitting correctly and safely

Adjusting the seat position

Introduction

This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

→ The dangers of assuming an incorrect sitting position ꢀ

→ Correct sitting position ꢀ

→ Mechanical controls on the front seats ꢀ

→ Adjusting the head restraints ꢀ

→ Removing and fitting head restraints ꢀ

→ Adjusting the steering wheel position ꢀ

→ Centre armrest ꢀ

Number of seats

The vehicle has a total of 5 seats: 2 at the front and 3 at the rear. Each seat is equipped with a seat belt.

Additional information and warnings:

Seat functions → Seat functions ꢀ

Seat belts → Seat belts ꢀ

Airbag system → Airbag system ꢀ

Child seats → Child seats ꢀ

Cleaning and caring for the interior → Cleaning and caring for the interior ꢀ

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.

Always secure children in the vehicle in an authorised restraint system which is suitable for their height and weight → Airbag system ꢀ ,

→ Child seats ꢀ .

Always keep your feet in the footwell while the vehicle is in motion. Never place your feet on the seat or dash panel, for example, and never

ride with your feet out the window. When you are sat like this, the airbag and seat belt cannot provide optimal protection and could actually

increase the risk of injury during an accident.

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WARNING

Always adjust seats, seat belts and head restraints to their correct position before any journey and ensure that all passengers have fastened

their seat belt.

Push the front passenger seat as far back as possible.

Adjust the driver seat so that there is at least 25 cm between your breastbone and the hub of the steering wheel. If your physical build

makes it impossible to fulfil this requirement, you must contact a qualified workshop so they can make any necessary modifications.

Never travel with the backrest tilted far back. The further back the backrest is tilted, the greater the risk of injury caused by incorrect seat belt

routing or an incorrect sitting position.

Never travel with the backrest tilted far forwards. When a front airbag is triggered it could force the seat backrest backwards and injure

vehicle occupants on the back seats.

Adopt and maintain the greatest possible distance from the steering wheel and dash panel.

You should always sit upright with your back against the seat backrest with the front seats properly adjusted. Do not position any body part

too close where the airbags are fitted.

The risk of serious injury is increased for passengers on the rear seat if they are not sitting upright because the seat belts are incorrectly

positioned.

WARNING

Incorrect adjustment of the seats can cause accidents and serious injuries.

The seats may only be adjusted when the vehicle is stationary, or else the seat could change position unexpectedly while the vehicle is in

motion, leading to a loss of control of the vehicle. Furthermore, an incorrect seating position is adopted while adjusting the seat.

Only adjust the height and tilt of the seat or move it forwards and backwards when the area around the seat is clear.

There should be no objects in the adjustment area of the front seats.

WARNING

Cigarette lighters in the vehicle could be damaged or accidentally lit. This could lead to serious burns and other injuries.

Before adjusting the seats always make sure that there is no lighter on or near the moveable parts of the seat.

Before closing stowage areas or compartments always make sure that there is no lighter in the way.

Never stow lighters in stowage areas or compartments or on other surfaces in the vehicle. Cigarette lighters may self-ignite on high-

temperature surfaces, especially in summer.

The dangers of assuming an incorrect sitting position

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

If the seat belts are not worn or are worn incorrectly, the risk of severe or fatal injuries increases. Seat belts can only provide optimal protection if

the seat belt routing is correct. 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.

The following list contains examples of sitting positions that can be dangerous for all vehicle occupants.

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Whenever the vehicle is in motion:

Never stand in the vehicle.

Never stand on the seats.

Never kneel on the seats.

Never tilt the backrest too far to the rear.

Never lean against the dash panel.

Never lie on the rear bench seat.

Never sit on the front edge of a seat.

Never sit sideways.

Never lean out of a window.

Never put your feet out of a window.

Never put your feet on the dash panel.

Never place your feet on the seat cushion or seat backrest.

Never travel in a footwell.

Never sit on the front armrest.

Never travel on a seat without wearing the seat belt.

Never travel in the luggage compartment.

WARNING

Every incorrect sitting position in the vehicle increases the risk of severe or fatal injuries in the event of an accident or sudden driving or braking

manoeuvre.

All vehicle occupants must maintain a correct sitting position and wear their seat belt properly while the vehicle is in motion.

Sitting in an incorrect position, not fastening the seat belt, or being too close to the airbag exposes the occupants to the risk of sustaining

critical or fatal injuries, especially if the airbags are triggered and strike an occupant who has assumed an incorrect sitting position.

Correct sitting position

Fig. 39 There must be a distance

of at least 25 cm between the driver and the steering wheel

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Fig. 40 Correct seat belt routing and head restraint adjustment

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

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

ꢀ

Introduction

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

about possible special modifications. The seat belts and airbags can only provide a maximum level of protection if a correct sitting position is

assumed. Volkswagen recommends using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.

Volkswagen recommends 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. 39ꢀ and → Fig. 40ꢀ.

When adjusting for short people, push the head restraint all the way down, even if the head is then underneath the top edge of the head

restraint.

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

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

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

Adjust and fasten seat belts properly → Seat belts ꢀ .

Additional points for the driver:

Adjust the steering wheel so that the distance → Fig. 39 Ⓐ ꢀ between the steering wheel and your breastbone is at least 25 cm 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.

Adjust the driver seat so that you are able to press the pedals with your knees still slightly bent.

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

Always leave both feet in the footwell, to help ensure you maintain control of the vehicle at all times.

Additional points for the front passenger:

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

Mechanical controls on the front seats

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Fig. 41 Front left seat controls with convenient entry function

Fig. 42 Front right seat controls without convenient entry function

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

Front left seat controls with convenient entry function

The layout of the controls on the front right-hand seat is a mirror image of the layout of the controls on the front left-hand seat.

Function

Action

→ Fig. 41ꢀ

Lift the handle and move the front seat. The front seat must engage after

you let go of the lever!

①

Pushing the front seat forwards or backwards.

Folding forwards: pull lever and fold seat backrest forward. If necessary,

push the seat forwards at the same time.

Folding the seat backrest forwards or backwards

(2-door vehicles only).

②

Folding back: pull lever and fold seat backrest back. The backrest must

click into place. If necessary, slide the seat back as far as it will go.

③

④

Adjusting the backrest.

Turn handwheel.

Adjusting the seat height.

Move the lever up or down several times as required.

Front right seat controls without convenient entry function.

The control elements are mirrored for the front left-hand seat.

Function

Action

→ Fig. 42ꢀ

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Pull the bar upwards and move the front seat. The front seat must engage

①

Pushing the front seat forwards or backwards.

after you let go of the bar!

Push the lever back and adjust the backrest. The backrest must engage

after you let go of the lever → ꢀ!

②

③

Adjusting the backrest.

Pull the lever upwards and adjust the seat height using your body weight.

The seat must engage after you let go of the lever!

Adjusting the seat height.

WARNING

Injuries could be caused if the backrests are folded forwards and backwards carelessly.

Never fold the seat backrest forwards or backwards while the vehicle is in motion.

While folding the seat backrest forwards, always ensure that there are no people, animals or objects in its path.

When folding forwards and backwards, keep all hands, fingers, feet and other body parts away from the seat hinges and seat release

mechanism.

Floor mats or other objects could get caught in the hinges on the seat backrest. The seat backrest might then not engage securely when it is

returned to the upright position.

Passengers (adults and children) must not use seats if the backrest is folded forwards or is not clicked securely into place.

When being folded back, the seat backrest must be securely locked in the upright position. If the seat backrest is not locked properly it could

move suddenly and cause severe injuries.

Adjusting the head restraints

Fig. 43 Adjusting front head restraint

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Fig. 44 Adjusting rear head restraint

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

Every seat is fitted with a head restraint. The centre rear head restraint is designed solely for use with the centre rear seat. This head restraint

should therefore not be installed in any of the other positions.

Adjusting the height

Push the head restraint up in the direction of the arrow or push it down with the button pressed → Fig. 43 ① ꢀ or → Fig. 44 ① ꢀ → ꢀ.

The head restraint must click securely into position.

Correct head restraint setting

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.

Head restraint setting for shorter people

Push the head restraint all the way down, even if the head is then underneath the top edge of the head restraint. There may be a small gap

between the head restraint and backrest in the lowest position.

Head restraint setting for taller people

Push the head restraint up as far as it will go.

WARNING

Driving without head restraints or with incorrectly adjusted head restraints increases the risk of severe or fatal injuries in the event of an

accident or sudden driving or braking manoeuvre.

If a seat is occupied, the head restraint for that seat must be fitted and adjusted correctly.

Each vehicle occupant must adjust the head restraint to suit their body size, to help reduce the risk of neck injuries in an accident. As far as

possible, the upper edge of the head restraint must be level with 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.

Never adjust the head restraint when the vehicle is in motion.

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Removing and fitting head restraints

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

Every seat is fitted with a head restraint. The centre rear head restraint is designed solely for use with the centre rear seat. This head restraint

should therefore not be installed in any of the other positions.

Removing the head restraint

If necessary, unlock the backrests and fold them forwards → Luggage compartment ꢀ .

Push the head restraint all the way up → ꢀ.

Pull the head restraint out while pressing the ① → Fig. 43ꢀ or → Fig. 44ꢀ button.

If necessary, push back the backrest and allow to engage securely.

Fitting the head restraint

If necessary, unlock the backrests and fold them forwards → Luggage compartment ꢀ .

Position the head restraint correctly over the head restraint guides and then insert into the guides of the corresponding seat backrest.

Press and hold the ① → Fig. 43ꢀ or → Fig. 44ꢀ button and push down the head restraint.

If necessary, push back the backrest and allow to engage securely.

Adjust the head restraint so that a correct sitting position can be assumed → Adjusting the head restraints ꢀ .

WARNING

Driving without head restraints or with incorrectly adjusted head restraints increases the risk of severe or fatal injuries in the event of an

accident or sudden driving or braking manoeuvre.

If a seat is occupied, the head restraint for that seat must be fitted and adjusted correctly.

Head restraints that have been removed should be fitted as soon as possible so that passengers have correct protection.

NOTICE

When removing or fitting head restraints, make sure that they do not hit the roof or other parts of the vehicle. This could damage the headliner

or other parts of the vehicle.

Adjusting the steering wheel position

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Fig. 45 Adjusting the steering wheel position mechanically

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

Adjust the steering wheel position before setting off and only when the vehicle is stationary.

Push down the lever → Fig. 45 ① ꢀ.

Adjust the steering wheel so that you can hold it on the outside of the ring (at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions) with both hands and

slightly bent arms.

Push the lever up firmly until it lines up with the steering column → ꢀ.

WARNING

Incorrect use of the steering column position adjustment and incorrect adjustment of the steering wheel can cause serious or fatal injuries.

After adjusting the steering column, always move lever → Fig. 45 ① ꢀ up so that it engages securely. This prevents the steering column from

moving spontaneously while the vehicle is in motion.

Never adjust the steering wheel when the vehicle is in motion. If you determine that a readjustment is necessary, stop the vehicle safely and

adjust the steering wheel to the correct position.

The steering wheel must always point towards the chest and not towards the face. This ensures that the driver front airbag provides

maximum protection in the event of an accident.

While driving, always keep both hands on the outside of the steering wheel, at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions. This reduces the risk of

injury if the driver front airbag is triggered.

Never hold the steering wheel at the 12 o'clock position, or in any other manner, e.g. on the hub of the steering wheel. If the driver airbag is

triggered, you could receive severe injuries to the arms, hands and head.

Centre armrest

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Fig. 46 Front centre armrest

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

To lift, pull the centre armrest up gradually in the direction of the arrow → Fig. 46ꢀ.

To lower, pull the centre armrest all the way up. Then lower the centre armrest.

WARNING

The centre armrest can obstruct the driver's arm movements. This can cause accidents and severe injuries.

Always keep the stowage compartments in the centre armrest closed while the vehicle is in motion.

Never transport an adult or child on the centre armrest. An incorrect seating position can cause serious injury.

Never place hot drinks or fluids in the drink holders. These can be spilt during a braking or driving manoeuvre.

Seat functions

Introduction

This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

→ Seat heating ꢀ

Additional information and warnings:

Adjusting the seat position → Adjusting the seat position ꢀ

Seat belts → Seat belts ꢀ

Airbag system → Airbag system ꢀ

Child seats → Child seats ꢀ

Exterior mirrors → Mirrors ꢀ

Luggage compartment → Luggage compartment ꢀ

WARNING

Incorrect use of the seat functions can cause serious injuries.

Always assume a correct sitting position before you drive and maintain this position throughout the trip. This also applies to all passengers.

Keep hands, fingers, feet and other body parts away from the moving parts of the seats.

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Seat heating

Fig. 47 In upper part of centre console: buttons for the front seat heating

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

The seat cushions on the front seats can be heated electrically when the ignition is switched on. In some versions, the backrests may also be

heated.

Do not switch on the seat heating if one of the following conditions applies:

The seat is not in use.

The seat is fitted with a protective cover.

A child seat is installed on the seat.

The seat cushion is damp or wet.

The interior or exterior temperature is above 25°C (77°F).

Function

Action

Press the

button. The seat heating is switched on at maximum level and all indicator

Switching on

lamps in the button are lit up → Fig. 47ꢀ.

Adjusting the heating output

Switching off

Press the

button repeatedly until the desired heating level is set.

button until the indicator lamps in the button go out.

OR: switch off the ignition.

If the second temperature level has been switched on for more than 15 minutes, it will automatically switch to the first temperature level. Only one

indicator lamp will be lit up.

WARNING

Anyone experiencing reduced sensitivity to pain or temperature due to medication, paralysis or chronic illness (e.g. diabetes) could sustain

burns on the back, buttocks and legs when using the seat heating. These burns may take a long time to heal or may never heal fully. Please

consult a doctor to determine your own level of health.

Anyone experiencing reduced sensitivity to pain or temperature should never use the seat heating.

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WARNING

Wet upholstery can cause a fault in the seat heating and increase the risk of burns.

Make sure that the seat cushion is dry before using the seat heating.

Do not sit on the seat when wearing damp or wet clothing.

Do not set any damp or wet objects or items of clothing on the seat.

Do not spill any liquids on the seat.

NOTICE

To avoid damaging the heating elements, do not kneel on the seat or apply sharp pressure at a single point on the seat cushion and

backrest.

Liquids, sharp objects and insulating materials such as a protective cover or child seat on the seat could damage the seat heating.

If the system starts to emit a smell, switch the seat heating off immediately and have it checked by a qualified workshop.

The seat heating should be switched off as soon as it is no longer needed. Fuel is otherwise wasted.

Seat belts

Introduction

This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

→ Warning lamp ꢀ

→ Frontal collisions and the laws of physics ꢀ

→ What happens to vehicle occupants who have not fastened their seat belts ꢀ

→ Seat belt protection ꢀ

→ Using seat belts ꢀ

→ Fastening and unfastening seat belts ꢀ

→ Seat belt routing ꢀ

→ Belt height adjuster ꢀ

→ Automatic belt retractor, belt tensioner, belt tension limiter ꢀ

→ Service and disposal of belt tensioners ꢀ

Check the condition of all seat belts regularly. If the belt webbing, belt connections, belt retractor or seat belt buckle become damaged, the seat

belt in question should be replaced immediately by a qualified workshop → ꢀ. The qualified workshop must use correct spare parts that are

compatible with the vehicle, equipment level and model year. Volkswagen recommends using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.

Additional information and warnings:

Adjusting the seat position → Adjusting the seat position ꢀ

Airbag system → Airbag system ꢀ

Child seats → Child seats ꢀ

Stowage → Stowage areas ꢀ

Cleaning and caring for the interior → Cleaning and caring for the interior ꢀ

Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts → Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts ꢀ

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WARNING

Incorrectly fastened or unfastened seat belts increase the risk of severe or fatal injuries. Seat belts will only offer the optimum level of protection

when they are fastened and used properly.

Seat belts are the most effective means of reducing the risk of serious and fatal injuries in the event of an accident. Seat belts must always

be fastened properly when the vehicle is in motion to protect the driver and all vehicle occupants.

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. This applies to all vehicle occupants and also in urban traffic.

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 → Child seats ꢀ .

Only start driving when all passengers have correctly fastened their seat belts.

Only ever insert the latch plate into the buckle of the associated seat, and always ensure that it engages properly. 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.

Avoid allowing foreign bodies or liquids to enter the slot for the seat belt buckle. This could prevent the belt buckle and seat belt from

working properly.

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

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

Never travel when children or babies are being carried on somebody's lap and fastened with the same belt.

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 are very dangerous and can cause severe or fatal injuries.

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

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.

Have damaged seat belts immediately replaced by new seat belts that have been approved by Volkswagen for the vehicle. Seat belts

subjected to stress and stretched during an accident must be replaced by a qualified workshop. Renewal may be necessary even if there is

no apparent damage. The belt anchorage should also be checked.

Never try to repair, modify or remove the seat belts yourself. All repairs to the seat belts, belt retractors and buckles must be carried out by a

qualified workshop.

Warning lamp

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Fig. 48 Warning lamp in the instrument cluster

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

Lights up Possible cause

or flashes

Action

The driver seat belt and, if the front passenger seat is

occupied, the front passenger seat belt are not fastened.

Fasten seat belts.

Remove objects from the front passenger seat and stow them

safely.

OR: there are objects on the front passenger seat.

Several warning and indicator lamps will light up briefly as a functional check when the ignition is switched on. They will go out after a few

seconds.

A signal tone will be given for a few seconds if the seat belts are not fastened as the car 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 warning lamp

→ Fig. 48ꢀ will also flash.

When the ignition is switched on, the

warning lamp will not go out until the driver and front passenger fasten their seat belts.

WARNING

Incorrectly fastened or unfastened seat belts increase the risk of severe or fatal injuries. Seat belts will only offer the optimum level of protection

when they are fastened and used properly.

Frontal collisions and the laws of physics

Fig. 49 Unbelted occupants in a vehicle heading for a brick wall

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Fig. 50 Unbelted occupants in a vehicle striking a brick wall

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

The physical principles involved in a frontal collision are relatively simple. As soon as the vehicle is in motion → Fig. 49ꢀ, both the moving vehicle

and its passengers gain kinetic energy.

The higher the vehicle speed and the heavier the weight of the vehicle, the greater the amount of energy that will have to be released in the event

of an accident.

However, the most significant factor is the speed of the vehicle. If the speed doubles from approximately 25 km/h (15 mph) to approximately

50 km/h (31 mph), for example, the kinetic energy increases by a factor of four.

The amount of kinetic energy depends on the speed of the vehicle and the weight of the vehicle and passengers. The higher the speed and the

heavier the weight, the greater the amount of energy that will be released in the event of an accident.

Passengers not wearing seat belts are not connected to the vehicle. In the event of a frontal collision they will continue to move forwards at the

same speed at which the vehicle was travelling before impact, until something stops them. Because the passengers in our example are not

restrained by seat belts, the entire amount of kinetic energy will only be released at the point of impact against the wall → Fig. 50ꢀ.

Even at speeds of approximately 30 km/h (19 mph) to approximately 50 km/h (31 mph), the forces acting on bodies in a collision can easily

exceed one tonne (1,000 kg). These forces are even greater at higher speeds.

This example applies not only to frontal collisions, but to all accidents and collisions.

What happens to vehicle occupants who have not fastened their seat belts

Fig. 51 An unbelted driver is thrown forwards

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Fig. 52 The unbelted rear passenger is thrown forwards, hitting the belted driver

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

Many people believe that they can brace their weight with their hands in a minor collision. This is not true.

ꢀ

Introduction

Even at low speeds, the forces acting on the body in a collision are so great that occupants cannot brace themselves with their arms and hands.

In a frontal collision, unbelted vehicle occupants are thrown forward and will make unchecked contact with parts of the vehicle interior, e.g. the

steering wheel, dash panel, or windscreen → Fig. 51ꢀ.

The airbag system is not a substitute for the seat belts. When triggered, the airbags only provide additional protection. Airbags are not triggered

in all kinds of accidents. Even if the vehicle is equipped with an airbag system, all vehicle occupants, including the driver, must fasten their seat

belt and wear it correctly while the vehicle is in motion. This reduces the risk of severe or fatal injuries in the event of an accident – regardless of

whether an airbag is fitted for the seat.

Each airbag can only be triggered once. To achieve best possible protection, seat belts must always be worn properly. This also ensures that

protection is provided in accidents in which the airbag is not triggered. Any vehicle occupants not wearing a seat belt can be thrown out of the

vehicle and sustain more severe or even fatal injuries as a result.

It is also important for the rear seat occupants to wear seat belts properly, as they could otherwise be thrown forwards violently in an accident.

Rear passengers who are not wearing seat belts endanger not only themselves and the driver, but also other people in the vehicle → Fig. 52ꢀ.

Seat belt protection

Fig. 53 Driver restrained by a properly positioned seat belt during a sudden braking manoeuvre

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

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Correctly fastened seat belts can make a major difference. When fastened properly, seat belts hold the vehicle occupants in the correct sitting

positions and considerably reduce the kinetic energy in the event of an accident. Seat belts also help to prevent uncontrolled movements which

could lead to severe injuries. In addition, wearing seat belts properly reduces the risk of being thrown from the vehicle → Fig. 53ꢀ.

Passengers wearing seat belts correctly benefit greatly from the ability of the belts to reduce the kinetic energy. The front crumple zones and

other passive safety features (such as the airbag system) are also designed to reduce kinetic energy. The amount of energy generated will thus

decrease, thereby reducing the risk of injury.

The examples describe frontal collisions. Of course, properly worn seat belts substantially reduce the risk of injury in all other types of accidents.

This is why seat belts must be fastened before every trip – even if you are only planning to drive a very short distance. Make sure that all

passengers are also wearing their seat belts properly.

Accident statistics have shown properly worn seat belts to be an effective means of substantially reducing the risk of injury and improving the

chances of survival in a serious accident. Furthermore, properly worn seat belts improve the protection provided by airbags in the event of an

accident. This is why wearing a seat belt is a legal requirement in most countries.

Although the vehicle is equipped with airbags, the seat belts must be fastened and worn. For example, the front airbags will only be triggered in

certain types of frontal collision. The front airbags will not be triggered during minor frontal collisions, minor side collisions, rear collisions, rolls or

accidents in which the airbag trigger threshold in the control unit is not exceeded.

Therefore, always wear your seat belt and make sure that your passengers have fastened their seat belts properly before you drive off.

Using seat belts

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

Checklist

Using seat belts → ꢀ:

Check the condition of all seat belts regularly.

Keep the seat belts clean.

Never let any foreign bodies and liquids get on to the seat belt, the latch plate or into the slot for the seat belt buckle.

Do not trap or damage the seat belt and latch plate, for example when closing the door.

Never remove, modify or repair the seat belt or any part of the belt fixture system.

Always fasten the seat belt correctly before every journey and keep it fastened while the vehicle is in motion.

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:

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

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

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. The twist should be corrected immediately by a qualified workshop.

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WARNING

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

Regularly check to see if the seat belt and its related parts are in perfect condition.

Always keep the seat belt clean.

Do not allow the belt webbing to become jammed, damaged or to rub on any sharp edges.

Always keep the latch plate and slot in the buckle free from foreign bodies and liquids.

Fastening and unfastening seat belts

Fig. 54 Inserting the seat belt latch plate into the buckle

Fig. 55 Removing the latch plate from the buckle

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

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

protection → ꢀ.

Fastening the seat belts

Fasten seat belts before every trip.

Always adjust the front seat and head restraint correctly → Adjusting the seat position ꢀ .

Engage the rear seat backrests in an upright position → ꢀ.

Take hold of the latch plate and pull it evenly across your chest and pelvis. Do not twist the belt in the process → ꢀ.

Insert the latch plate securely into the buckle belonging to the occupied seat → Fig. 54ꢀ.

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

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Unfastening the seat belts

Unfasten seat belts only when the vehicle is stationary → ꢀ.

Press the red button in the buckle → Fig. 55ꢀ. The latch plate is released and springs out.

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

WARNING

Incorrect seat belt routing can cause severe or fatal injuries in the event of an accident.

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

according to the occupant's height.

Unfastening seat belts while the vehicle is in motion can lead to severe or fatal injuries in the event of an accident or sudden braking

manoeuvre.

Seat belt routing

Fig. 56 Correct seat belt routing and head restraint adjustment

Fig. 57 Correct seat belt routing during pregnancy

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

Seat belts only provide an optimum level of protection during an accident when they are routed correctly. Correct seat belt routing reduces the

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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.

Assuming an incorrect sitting position can cause severe or fatal injuries → Adjusting the seat position ꢀ .

Correct seat belt routing

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.

For pregnant women the seat belt must be positioned 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. 57ꢀ.

Correct seat belt routing according to height

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

Belt height adjuster for the front seats → Belt height adjuster ꢀ .

Height-adjustable front seats → Adjusting the seat position ꢀ .

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).

The shoulder part of the seat belt must lie on the centre of the shoulder and never under the arm or across the neck.

The seat belt must lie flat and snugly on the chest.

The lap part of the seat belt must lie across the pelvis and never across the stomach. The seat belt must lie flat and snugly on the pelvis.

Tighten the belt if necessary.

For pregnant women, the lap part of the seat belt must be as low as possible over the pelvis and lie flat around the bulge of the belly.

Do not twist the belt webbing while the seat belt is being worn.

Never hold the seat belt away from the body by hand.

The belt webbing should not lie over hard or fragile objects, such as glasses, pens or keys.

Never use seat belt clips, retaining rings or similar items to alter the seat belt routing.

If a person's physical build prevents them from routing the seat belt properly, contact a qualified workshop to find out about any special

modifications so that the seat belts and airbags can provide the optimum level of protection. Volkswagen recommends using a Volkswagen

dealership for this purpose.

Belt height adjuster

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Fig. 58 Next to the front seats: belt height adjuster

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

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:

Push the shoulder belt guide together in the direction of the arrows and hold → Fig. 58ꢀ.

Push the shoulder belt guide up or down so that the seat belt lies over the middle of the shoulder → Seat belt routing ꢀ .

Let go of the shoulder belt guide.

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

WARNING

Never adjust the seat belt height when the vehicle is in motion.

Automatic belt retractor, belt tensioner, belt tension limiter

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

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

Automatic belt retractor

The seat belts on the driver seat and front passenger seat, as well as those on the outer rear seats (and on the middle rear seat, depending on

the level of vehicle equipment), are fitted with an automatic belt retractor at the shoulder part of the seat belt. 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 for the front seat occupants are equipped with belt tensioners.

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. Any slack in the seat belt is retracted, which can reduce the passenger's movement forwards or in the direction of the

impact. The belt tensioner works together with the airbag system. If the side airbags or the combined curtain airbags are not activated, the belt

tensioner will not be activated in the event that the vehicle rolls over.

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.

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Belt tension limiter

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. Qualified workshops are familiar

with these requirements → Service and disposal of belt tensioners ꢀ .

Service and disposal of belt tensioners

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

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.

Any repairs, adjustments or removal and refitting of parts in the belt tensioners or seat belts should always be carried out by a qualified

workshop and never by yourself → Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts ꢀ .

Belt tensioners and automatic belt retractors cannot be repaired. They must be replaced.

The airbag modules and belt tensioners may contain perchlorate. Please comply with legislation regarding disposal.

Airbag system

Introduction

This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

→ Types of front passenger front airbag system ꢀ

→ Indicator lamps ꢀ

→ Description and function of the airbags ꢀ

→ Front airbags ꢀ

→ Switching the front passenger front airbag on and off manually using the key-operated switch ꢀ

→ Side airbags ꢀ

→ Combined curtain and side airbags ꢀ

→ Curtain airbags ꢀ

The vehicle is equipped with a front airbag for the driver and front passenger. The front airbags can provide front seat occupants with additional

chest and head protection if the seat, seat belts, head restraints and, in the case of the driver, steering wheel are adjusted and used correctly.

Airbags are meant only for additional protection. The airbags are not a substitute for seat belts. Seat belts must always be worn, even when the

front seats are equipped with front airbags.

Additional information and warnings:

Driving tips → Driving tips ꢀ

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Central locking system → Central locking system ꢀ

Correct sitting position → Adjusting the seat position ꢀ

Seat belts → Seat belts ꢀ

Child seats → Child seats ꢀ

Cleaning and caring for the interior → Cleaning and caring for the interior ꢀ

Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts → Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts ꢀ

Consumer information → Consumer information ꢀ

WARNING

Never rely solely on the airbag system for your protection.

Even if an airbag is triggered, it only offers auxiliary protection.

The airbag system offers the best level of protection, and reduces the risk of injury, when seat belts are properly worn → Seat belts ꢀ .

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. This applies to all vehicle occupants and also in urban traffic.

WARNING

The risk of injury increases if there are any objects between the vehicle occupants and the deployment area of the airbag when it is triggered.

This will alter the deployment zone of the airbag, or the objects will be flung against the body.

Never hold any objects in your hand or on your lap while the vehicle is in motion.

Never transport any objects on the front passenger seat. 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.

Vehicle occupants sitting on the front seats and rear outer seats must never carry any people, pets or objects in the deployment zone

between themselves and the airbags. Make sure that children and passengers also keep to this rule.

WARNING

The airbag system can only be triggered once. The system will have to be replaced if the airbags have been triggered.

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

Volkswagen for the vehicle.

Repairs and modifications to your vehicle should only be carried out by a qualified workshop. Qualified workshops have the necessary tools,

diagnostic equipment, repair information and qualified personnel.

Never use recycled airbag components or components that have been taken from end-of-life vehicles in your vehicle.

Never alter any components of the airbag system.

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WARNING

Fine dust or steam may be released when the airbags trigger. 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.

Do not let the dust get into your eyes or into open wounds.

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.

Types of front passenger front airbag system

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

Volkswagen offers two different front airbag systems for front passengers:

A

B

Features of the front passenger front airbag that can only Features of the front passenger front airbag that can be

be switched off by a qualified workshop.

switched off manually using the key-operated switch

→ Switching the front passenger front airbag on and off manually using

the key-operated switch ꢀ .

– Indicator lamp

in the instrument cluster.

– Indicator lamp

in the instrument cluster.

– Indicator lamp in top area of the centre console

.PASSENGER AIR BAG.

– Front passenger front airbag in the dash panel.

– Key-operated switch in the stowage compartment in the dash panel

on the front passenger side.

– Front passenger front airbag in the dash panel.

Name: airbag system.

Name: airbag system with front passenger front airbag

deactivation.

Indicator lamps

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Fig. 59 In the upper section of the centre console: indicator lamp for disabled front passenger front airbag

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

Lit up

Location

Possible cause

Action

Go to a qualified workshop to have the system

checked immediately.

Instrument cluster

Fault in airbag and belt tensioner system.

Go to a qualified workshop to have the system

checked immediately.

Fault in the airbag system.

Upper section of the centre

console

Check whether the airbag should stay switched

off.

Front passenger front airbag switched off.

Several warning and indicator lamps will light up briefly as a functional check when the ignition is switched on. They will go out after a few

seconds.

If the indicator lamp

PASSENGER AIRBAG

in the upper part centre console is not continuously lit or if it lights up together with the

indicator lamp

ꢀ.

in the instrument cluster when the front passenger front airbag is switched off, there may be a fault in the airbag system →

WARNING

If there is a fault in the airbag system, the airbag may not trigger correctly, may not trigger at all or may trigger unexpectedly. This can cause

severe or fatal injuries.

The airbag system should be checked by a qualified workshop as soon as possible.

Never fit a child seat to the front passenger seat or remove a child seat that is already fitted. The front passenger front airbag may trigger

during an accident in spite of the fault.

NOTICE

To avoid damage to your vehicle, always observe the indicator lamps and associated warning texts.

Description and function of the airbags

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

The airbags can protect vehicle occupants during frontal and side collisions by reducing their movement in the direction of the collision.

When an airbag is triggered, it is inflated by a gas generator. This causes the airbag covers to break, and the airbags inflate forcefully to cover

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their deployment zones within milliseconds. Once a vehicle occupant wearing a seat belt starts to sink into the inflated airbag, the gas inside the

airbag starts to escape to cushion the occupant and slow down their movement. This can reduce the risk of severe and fatal injuries. A triggered

airbag will not always prevent other injuries from occurring, such as swelling, bruising, burning and grazing.

Airbags provide no protection for the arms or lower body.

The most important factors for triggering the airbag are the type of accident, the angle of impact, the vehicle speed and the type of object with

which the vehicle collides. Therefore, visible damage to the vehicle does not always mean that the airbag should have been triggered.

Whether or not the airbag triggers is determined by the vehicle deceleration rate caused by the collision and registered by the electronic control

unit. If this rate is below the reference value programmed into the control unit, the airbags will not be triggered, even though the vehicle may be

badly damaged as a result of the collision. Vehicle damage, repair costs or even the lack of vehicle damage in an accident do not necessarily

give an indication of whether an airbag should inflate or not. It is not possible to define a range of vehicle speeds and reference values, since the

circumstances will vary considerably between one collision and another. It is therefore impossible to cover every possible kind and angle of

impact that would trigger the airbags. Important factors in the triggering of the airbag include the nature (hard or soft) of the object that the vehicle

hits, the angle of impact, and the vehicle speed.

Airbags only serve as a supplement to the three-point seat belt in some accident situations when the vehicle braking is sufficient to trigger the

airbags. Airbags can only be triggered once and only in certain situations. The seat belts are always there to provide protection in situations in

which the airbags are not triggered or have already been triggered. For example, if the vehicle collides with a further vehicle following the initial

collision, or is hit by another vehicle.

The airbag system is part of the vehicle's overall passive safety concept. The airbag system can only work effectively when the occupants are

wearing their seat belts correctly and have assumed a proper sitting position

→ Adjusting the seat position ꢀ .

Components of the vehicle safety concept

The following vehicle safety equipment makes up the vehicle's safety concept to reduce the risk of severe and fatal injuries. Some of this

equipment may not be fitted in your particular vehicle. It may not be available at all in some countries.

Optimised seat belts for all seats.

Belt tensioners for driver and front passenger.

Belt tension limiter for the driver, front passenger and, if applicable, for the rear outer seats.

Belt height adjuster for the front seats.

Warning lamp

.

Front airbags for driver and front passenger.

Combined curtain and side airbags for the driver and front passenger.

Curtain airbags on the right and left.

Airbag indicator lamp

.

PASSENGER AIR BAG

Indicator lamp in top area of the centre console.

Control units and sensors.

Height-adjustable head restraints optimised for rear impact.

Adjustable steering column.

If fitted, ISOFIX anchor points for child seats on the rear outer seats.

If applicable, securing points for the top tether for child seats.

Situations when the front, side, head or combined curtain and side airbags will not be triggered:

If the ignition is switched off during a collision.

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If the level of deceleration measured by the control unit is too low during a collision at the front of the vehicle.

During a minor side collision.

During rear collisions.

If the vehicle rolls over.

If the impact speed in a collision is lower than the reference value specified in the control unit.

Front airbags

Fig. 60 Location and deployment zone of the driver front airbag

Fig. 61 Location and deployment zone of the front passenger front airbag

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

In conjunction with the seat belts, the front airbag system gives the front occupants additional protection for the head and chest in the event of a

severe frontal collision. Always keep as far away from the front airbag as possible → Adjusting the seat position ꢀ . This allows the front airbags to

inflate fully when triggered, thus providing maximum protection.

The front airbag for the driver is located in the steering wheel → Fig. 60ꢀ A and the front airbag for the front passenger is located in the dash panel

→ Fig. 61ꢀ A. The airbag locations are identified by the text AIRBAG.

The areas inside the red lines → Fig. 60ꢀ B and → Fig. 61ꢀ B are covered by the front airbags when triggered (deployment zone). You must never

leave or attach any objects in these areas → ꢀ. The factory-fitted accessories, such as the base plate for the mobile telephone holder, will not

be struck when the driver and front passenger front airbags are triggered.

The airbag covers fold out of the steering wheel → Fig. 60ꢀ B or dash panel → Fig. 61ꢀ B when the driver and front passenger airbags deploy.

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DANGER

Once triggered, the airbag inflates at high speed.

Always leave the deployment zones of the front airbags clear.

Never attach any objects, such as drink or telephone holders, to the covers of the airbags or anywhere in the airbag deployment zone.

No other people, animals or objects may be carried between the occupants of the front seats and the airbag deployment zone. Make sure

that children and passengers also 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.

Do not cover or stick anything on the steering wheel hub or the soft plastic surface of the airbag unit in the dash panel on the front

passenger side, and do not modify them in any way.

WARNING

The front airbags are deployed in front of the steering wheel → Fig. 60ꢀ and dash panel → Fig. 61ꢀ.

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 between your breastbone and the hub of the steering wheel. Contact a qualified

workshop if your physical build makes this impracticable.

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

Switching the front passenger front airbag on and off manually using the key-operated switch

Fig. 62 In the stowage compartment on the front passenger side: key switch for disabling and enabling the front airbag on the front passenger

side

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

The front passenger front airbag must be switched off when securing a rear-facing child seat to the front passenger seat.

Disabling the front passenger front airbag

Switch off the ignition.

Open the stowage compartment on the front passenger side.

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Fold the key bit of the vehicle key all the way out → Vehicle key set ꢀ .

Insert the open key bit into the key switch in the stowage compartment → Fig. 62ꢀ to the second point of resistance. Around three quarters of

the key bit should be inserted in the key switch at this point → ꢀ.

Turn the vehicle key, without applying force, to the

position.

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

Close the stowage compartment on the front passenger side.

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

console → Indicator lamps ꢀ .

will light up steadily in the upper section of the centre

Enabling the front passenger front airbag

Switch off the ignition.

Open the stowage compartment on the front passenger side.

Fold the key bit of the vehicle key all the way out → Vehicle key set ꢀ .

Insert the open key bit into the key switch in the stowage compartment → Fig. 62ꢀ to the second point of resistance. Around three quarters of

the key bit should be inserted in the key switch at this point → ꢀ.

Turn the vehicle key, without applying force, to the

position.

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

Close the stowage compartment on the front passenger side.

Check that the PASSENGER AIRBAG

indicator lamp in the upper section of the centre console does not light up when the

ignition is switched on → Indicator lamps ꢀ .

Ensuring that the front passenger front airbag has been deactivated

The only sure sign that the front passenger front airbag has been deactivated is when the PASSENGER AIRBAG

indicator lamp is

displayed in the upper section of the centre console (

lights up yellow steadily) → Indicator lamps ꢀ .

If the indicator lamp PASSENGER AIR BAG

in the upper section of the centre console is not lit up steadily, or if it lights up at the

same time as indicator lamp

in the instrument cluster, do not attach any child restraint system to the front passenger seat for safety reasons.

The front passenger front airbag may trigger during an accident.

WARNING

Do not leave the vehicle key in the key switch while driving.

Strong vibration may cause the vehicle key to turn in the key switch, which could cause the front passenger front airbag to be activated.

Untimely inflation of the front passenger front airbag could lead to serious or fatal injuries.

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WARNING

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

To prevent damage to the airbag system, only switch the front passenger front airbag on and off when the ignition is switched off.

It is the driver's responsibility to ensure that the key-operated switch is set to the correct position.

Only switch the front passenger front airbag off if, in exceptional circumstances, a child seat has to be attached to the front passenger seat.

Switch the front passenger front airbag back on again as soon as the child seat on the front passenger seat is no longer being used.

NOTICE

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

NOTICE

Do not leave the vehicle key in the key switch, as this could result in damage to the stowage compartment, key switch or vehicle key when the

stowage compartment is closed.

Side airbags

Fig. 63 A: on left-hand side of vehicle: deployment zone of the side airbag. B: on the side of the front seat: location and deployment range of the

side airbag

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

The side airbags are located in the outer seat backrest cushions of the driver seat and front passenger seat → Fig. 63ꢀ B. The locations of the

airbags are shown by labels with the word AIRBAG.

The areas outlined in red → Fig. 63ꢀ are inside the deployment area of the side airbags. You must never leave or attach any objects in these

areas → ꢀ.

During a side collision, the side airbags will be deployed on the side of the vehicle which is impacted, thus reducing the risk of injury to the areas

of the occupants' bodies facing the impact.

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WARNING

Once triggered, the airbag inflates at high speed.

Always leave the deployment zones of the side airbags clear.

No other people, animals or objects may be carried between the occupants of the front seats and the airbag deployment zone. Make sure

that children and passengers also keep to this rule.

The built-in coat hooks should only be used for lightweight clothing. Do not leave any heavy or sharp objects in the pockets.

Do not fit any accessories to the doors.

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

side airbag may not be able to inflate once triggered.

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 alter any components of these seats.

If too much pressure is applied to the backrest side bolster, the side airbags may not be triggered correctly, may not trigger at all, or may

trigger unexpectedly.

Any damage to the original seat upholstery or around the seams of the side airbag units must be repaired immediately by a qualified

workshop.

Combined curtain and side airbags

Fig. 64 A: on left-hand side of vehicle: deployment zone of the combined curtain and side airbags. B: on the side of the front seat: location and

deployment zone of the combined curtain and side airbag

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

The combined curtain and side airbags are located in the outer seat backrest cushions → Fig. 64ꢀ B of the driver seat and front passenger seat.

The locations of the airbags are shown by labels with the word AIRBAG.

The areas outlined in red → Fig. 64ꢀ are inside the deployment area of the combined head/side airbags. You must never leave or attach any

objects in these areas → ꢀ.

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During a side collision, the combined curtain and side airbags will be deployed on the vehicle's side of impact, reducing the risk of injury to the

areas of the vehicle occupants' bodies facing the impact.

WARNING

Once triggered, the airbag inflates at high speed.

Always keep the deployment zones of the combined curtain and side airbags clear.

No other people, animals or objects may be carried between the occupants of the front seats and the airbag deployment zone. Make sure

that children and passengers also keep to this rule.

The built-in coat hooks should only be used for lightweight clothing. Do not leave any heavy or sharp objects in the pockets.

Do not fit any accessories to the doors.

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

combined combined curtain and side airbags may not be able to deploy if it has been triggered.

WARNING

Incorrect use of the driver and front passenger seat could hinder the proper function of the combined curtain and side airbags and cause

serious injury.

Never remove the front seats from the vehicle or alter any components of these seats.

If too much pressure is applied to the backrest side bolster, the combined curtain and side airbags may not be triggered correctly, may not

trigger at all or may trigger unexpectedly.

Any damage to the original seat upholstery or around the seams of the combined curtain and side airbag units must be repaired immediately

by a qualified workshop.

Curtain airbags

Fig. 65 On the left-hand side of the vehicle: location and deployment zone of the curtain airbag

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings →

ꢀ

Introduction

In the interior, a curtain airbag is fitted above the doors on both the driver and front passenger sides → Fig. 65ꢀ. The airbag location is identified

by the text AIRBAG.

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The area in the red frame → Fig. 65ꢀ is covered by the curtain airbag when triggered (deployment zone). For this reason, you must never leave or

attach any items in this area → ꢀ.

In a side collision the curtain airbag is triggered on the impact side of the vehicle.

In a side collision, the curtain airbags reduce the risk of injury to the areas of the body facing the impact for vehicle occupants on the front seats

and outer rear seats.

WARNING

Once triggered, the airbag inflates at high speed.

Always leave the deployment zones of the curtain airbags clear.

Never secure any items to the cover or in the deployment zone of the curtain airbag.

Vehicle occupants sitting on the front seats and rear outer seats must never carry any people, pets or objects in the deployment zone

between themselves and the airbags. Make sure that children and passengers also keep to this rule.

The built-in coat hooks should only be used for lightweight clothing. Do not leave any heavy or sharp objects in the pockets.

Do not fit any accessories to the doors.

Do not install any sunblinds onto the side windows unless they have been expressly approved for use in your vehicle.

Only push the sunblinds over to the side windows if no items are attached to them (e.g. pens or the remote control for a garage door).

Child seats

Introduction

This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

→ Basic information on fitting and using child seatsꢀ

→ Types of child seatꢀ

→ Securing systems ꢀ

→ Securing a child seat with ISOFIX ꢀ

→ Securing child seats with the upper strap (top tether) ꢀ

→ Securing child seats with a seat belt ꢀ

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 should always be fitted to the rear seats. They should only be fitted to the front passenger seat in exceptional

cases.

Volkswagen recommends child seats from the Volkswagen range of accessories. These child seats have been developed and approved for use

in Volkswagen vehicles.

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Sitting correctly and safely for Your Volkswagen Polo SUV Fourth Generation (2001-2009)

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