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Trailer towing for Your Volkswagen Tayron SUV First Generation (2018-2025)

The vehicle can be used to tow a trailer if it has the required technical equipment for this.  
Driving with a trailer not only places an extra load on the vehicle, but also requires increased concentration on the part of the driver.  
The additional trailer load will affect the amount of wear, fuel consumption and performance of the vehicle and, in certain  
circumstances, could shorten the service intervals.  
If the vehicle is driven under high loads, certain functions, e.g. the output of the air conditioning system, may be reduced or switched  
off to stop the vehicle from breaking down. Avoid long or steep uphill gradients. The engine torque may be reduced temporarily if the  
vehicle is driven under load for an extended time in order to avoid overheating of the engine or gearbox. Reduce your speed and  
observe the messages and illuminated warning and indicator lamps in the instrument cluster. The reduction in engine torque will be  
cancelled when the engine and gearbox are operating in the optimum temperature range again.  
The load that a vehicle can actually pull decreases under the following conditions:  
Driving on uphill gradients.  
Driving at high altitudes.  
Driving at high outside temperatures.  
Driving with a fully loaded vehicle, e.g. with passengers and luggage.  
With increasing speed.  
Vehicles with start/stop system  
When using towing brackets that were not retrofitted by Volkswagen, the start/stop system must be deactivated manually before  
towing a trailer, and it must remain deactivated for as long as a trailer is being towed (→ Start/stop system).  
Trailer with function check for lighting  
No trailer with tail lights and brake lights must be operated with this vehicle that requires a function check of the tail and brake lights  
in its approval. Ask the trailer manufacturer about the approval that is valid for your trailer.  
Unused ball coupling  
Swivel in the ball coupling or remove it if there is no trailer, bicycle carrier or similar attached to the ball coupling. This applies in  
particular if the unused ball coupling covers the number plate or the lighting at the rear of the vehicle. Observe the country-specific  
regulations on use of a towing bracket →  
.
Points to note  
Before driving with a trailer, pay attention to possible functional restrictions of the assist and parking systems.  
DANGER  
It is dangerous to transport people in a trailer and it may also be illegal.  
Never transport people in a trailer.  
WARNING  
Improper use of the towing bracket can lead to a loss of vehicle control, accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Attach and use the trailer in accordance with the instructions supplied by the respective manufacturer.  
Use the towing bracket only if it is undamaged and fitted correctly.  
Do not carry out any alterations or repairs to the towing bracket. If required by the trailer manufacturer’s installation instructions,  
removal of the coating on the ball head is permitted.  
WARNING  
When the ball coupling is swivelled out, there is an increased risk of accidents and serious injuries for pedestrians and cyclists when  
vehicles are parked and also in the event of rear-end collisions.  
Swivel in the ball coupling or remove it when it is not in use.  
WARNING  
The vehicle was not designed for “weight-distributing” or “load-compensating” towing brackets. The towing bracket can fail, causing  
the trailer to tear loose from the vehicle. This can result in accidents and severe injuries.  
Never install a “weight-distributing” or “load-balancing” towing bracket on the vehicle.  
WARNING  
Towing a trailer and transporting heavy or bulky items can change the vehicle handling, increase the braking distance and cause  
accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Always secure loads properly using suitable and undamaged lashing, retaining or securing straps.  
Please note that a trailer with a high centre of gravity can tip over more easily than a trailer with a low centre of gravity.  
Always adapt your speed and driving style to the current visibility, weather and road or traffic conditions.  
Always pay attention to the road ahead and drive carefully.  
Accelerate particularly carefully and gently.  
Avoid abrupt and sudden driving and braking manoeuvres.  
Do not drive faster than 80 km/h (50 mph) when towing a trailer, or also 100 km/h (60 mph) in exceptional cases. This also applies  
to countries where higher speeds are permitted.  
Reduce speed, particularly on uphill gradients and when driving downhill.  
Always observe the country-specific maximum permitted speed for vehicles with trailer.  
Take particular care when overtaking and reduce your speed immediately if the trailer shows even the slightest sign of snaking.  
Never try to stop a vehicle and trailer from snaking by increasing your speed.  
Due to the higher load for the towing vehicle, pay attention to possible messages and to any warning and indicator lamps that light  
up in the instrument cluster.  
WARNING  
The start/stop system must always be switched off manually when towing a trailer using towing brackets that have not been  
retrofitted by Volkswagen. Otherwise faults can occur in the brake system, possibly resulting in accidents and serious injuries.  
Always switch off the start/stop system manually if you have installed a towing bracket that was not retrofitted by an authorised  
dealer and are driving with a trailer.  
If the connection to a trailer connected to the anti-theft alarm system is interrupted, the anti-theft alarm system may be  
triggered (→ Anti-theft alarm).  
In vehicles with a new engine, do not tow a trailer during the first 1,000 km (600 miles) (→ Running in the engine).  
Some retrofitted towing brackets may cover the opening for fitting the towing eye. If so, the towing eye cannot be used for  
towing or tow-starting other vehicles. For this reason, the removed ball coupling of a retrofitted towing bracket should be  
stored in the vehicle at all times.  
Trailer socket  
The electrical connection between the towing vehicle and the trailer requires a 13-pin trailer socket. The pin assignment is in  
accordance with DIN ISO 11446.  
If the trailer has a 7-pin plug you will need to use a suitable adapter.  
1. Lift up the closure cap of the socket and insert the plug.  
2. Turn the plug by quarter of a turn in clockwise direction until it completely engages in the socket.  
3. Release the cap to lock the plug in position.  
4. Check that the entire lighting system is working before starting your journey.  
If you are uncertain whether the electrical connection of the trailer with the vehicle is correct, please contact a suitably qualified  
workshop. Volkswagen recommends using an authorised Volkswagen repairer.  
Connection to the anti-theft alarm  
The trailer is integrated in the anti-theft system if the following conditions are fulfilled:  
When the vehicle has a factory-fitted anti-theft alarm and a factory-fitted towing bracket.  
When the trailer is electrically connected to the towing vehicle via the trailer socket.  
When the vehicle and trailer electric systems are functional, fault-free and undamaged.  
When the vehicle is locked with the vehicle key and the anti-theft alarm is active.  
When the vehicle is locked, the alarm will be triggered as soon as the electrical connection to the trailer is interrupted.  
For technical reasons, trailers with LED tail light clusters cannot be integrated into the anti-theft alarm system.  
When the vehicle is locked, the alarm is not triggered as soon as the electrical connection to the trailer with LED tail light clusters is  
interrupted.  
Safety cable  
In some countries, unbraked and braked trailers must be secured by means of a safety or breakaway cable.  
On the towing bracket: eye for securing the safety or  
breakaway cable (illustration).  
Depending on model, the eye for securing the safety or breakaway cable may be located on the neck of the ball head or next to the ball  
head directly on the ball coupling carrier → Fig. 1 (arrows).  
Observe the country-specific regulations on using a safety cable.  
Secure the safety or breakaway cable at the eye provided for this purpose on the ball coupling → Fig. 1:  
1. Guide the cable through the eye and hook into the snap hook →  
.
WARNING  
Any electrical cables that are not connected properly or are connected incorrectly could cause a power surge to the trailer. This could  
lead to faults in the entire vehicle electronics system and could also cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Have all work on the electrical system carried out only by a suitably qualified workshop. Volkswagen recommends using an  
authorised Volkswagen repairer.  
Never connect the trailer’s electrical system directly to the electrical connections of the towing vehicle’s tail light clusters or to  
other power sources.  
WARNING  
Contact between the pins in the trailer socket can lead to short circuits, overloading of the electrical system and failure of the lighting  
system, thereby causing accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Never connect the pins in the trailer socket to one another.  
Have bent pins repaired by a suitably qualified workshop. Volkswagen recommends using an authorised Volkswagen repairer.  
WARNING  
If the trailer is not properly secured, this could cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Never place the trailer’s safety or breakaway cable loosely over the ball coupling.  
NOTICE  
If a trailer hitched to the vehicle is parked using the support wheel or on the trailer supports, the vehicle height may be lowered or  
raised due to any changes in the load or tyre damage. Powerful forces then act on the towing bracket and the trailer. This can cause  
damage to the vehicle and trailer.  
Please note that a trailer that is parked using the support wheel or the trailer supports must not remain hitched to the vehicle.  
If the engine is not running and electrical equipment is switched on in the trailer via the trailer socket, the 12-volt vehicle  
battery will discharge.  
If the 12-volt vehicle battery charge level is low, the electrical connection to the trailer will be interrupted automatically.  
Basic information  
If the vehicle is approved for towing a trailer, observe any local regulations for driving with a trailer and using a towing bracket.  
Always make sure that the vehicle and trailer are well-balanced. Do not load the trailer with more weight either at the front or rear.  
Always stow heavy items as close as possible to or over the axle. Always secure the load on the trailer properly →  
.
Maximum trailer weight and drawbar load  
The maximum trailer weight is the weight that the vehicle can pull.  
The drawbar load is the weight that is exerted vertically from above on the ball coupling of the towing bracket.  
Volkswagen recommends always making full use of the maximum permitted drawbar load . The response of the trailer on the road will  
be poor if the drawbar load is too small. However, the maximum permitted load exerted by the trailer drawbar on the ball coupling of  
the towing bracket must not be exceeded →  
.
The actually present drawbar load increases the weight on the rear axle and reduces the maximum load of the vehicle as a result.  
A higher drawbar load can be used in some countries subject to certain conditions. Observe the country-specific information and  
regulations.  
Gross combination weight  
The gross combination weight is made up of the actual weight of the loaded vehicle and loaded trailer.  
In some countries, trailers are divided into different classes. Volkswagen recommends that you contact a suitably qualified workshop to  
find out about suitable trailers. Volkswagen recommends using an authorised Volkswagen repairer.  
Tyre pressure  
Follow the trailer manufacturer’s recommendations concerning the tyre pressure for the trailer tyres.  
When towing a trailer, inflate the tyres on the towing vehicle with the maximum permitted tyre pressure (→ Tyre pressure).  
WARNING  
Moving loads can severely impair the stability and driving safety of the vehicle and trailer, which can cause accidents and serious or  
fatal injuries.  
Always load the trailer correctly.  
Always secure loads using suitable and undamaged lashing, retaining or securing straps.  
WARNING  
Accidents and serious or fatal injuries can occur if you exceed the vehicle’s maximum permitted gross axle weight rating, drawbar  
load, gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating.  
Never exceed the specified values .  
Headlight adjustment  
Towing a trailer can raise the front end of the vehicle so that the dipped beam dazzles other road users. Use the headlight range control  
to lower the light cone as required. Vehicles with dynamic headlight range control are adjusted automatically.  
Things to note when driving with a trailer  
If the trailer has an overrun brake, apply the brakes gently at first and then firmly. This will prevent the jerking that can be caused by  
the trailer wheels locking.  
The combination weight causes the braking distance to increase.  
On downhill stretches, use the engine as an additional brake. The brake system could otherwise overheat and fail.  
Vehicles with an automatic gearbox: Select a lower gear in Tiptronic mode.  
The vehicle’s centre of gravity and in turn the vehicle handling will change because of the trailer load and the increased gross weight  
of the vehicle and trailer.  
The weight distribution of a loaded trailer with an unladen towing vehicle is very unfavourable. When driving in this situation, drive  
particularly carefully and slowly.  
Pulling off on uphill gradients when towing a trailer  
A vehicle towing a trailer is liable to roll back a short distance when moving off on an uphill slope depending on the gradient and the  
gross weight of the trailer and vehicle.  
When towing a trailer, pull off on uphill gradient as follows:  
1. Depress and hold the brake pedal.  
2. Press the  
3. Vehicles with an automatic gearbox: engage the gear selector position for forward driving.  
4. Pull the button and hold it in this position to hold the vehicle and trailer with the electronic parking brake.  
button once to switch off the electronic parking brake.  
5. Release the brake pedal.  
6. Pull away slowly.  
7. Release the  
button only when the engine generates sufficient power to move off.  
WARNING  
Incorrect trailer towing can cause loss of vehicle control and serious or fatal injuries.  
Please note that the vehicle handling changes when towing a trailer and when transporting heavy or bulky objects.  
Always adapt your speed and driving style to the current visibility, weather and road or traffic conditions.  
Always pay attention to the road ahead and drive carefully.  
Take particular care when overtaking.  
Reduce your speed if the trailer shows even the slightest sign of snaking.  
Accelerate particularly carefully and gently.  
Brake earlier than usual because the braking distance may be longer than normal.  
Avoid abrupt and sudden driving and braking manoeuvres.  
Reduce speed particularly when driving downhill.  
Never try to stop a vehicle and trailer from snaking by increasing your speed.  
Keep to speed limits, which may be lower for vehicles with trailers than for vehicles without trailers.  
WARNING  
If there is insufficient visibility to the rear when towing a trailer, this can lead to accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Make sure that you have an adequate view to the rear.  
Fit suitable additional rear view mirrors so that there is sufficient visibility to the rear.  
The trailer stabilisation function can detect if an attached trailer is starting to snake from side to side and can provide countersteer.  
Trailer stabilisation is an extension of the Electronic Stability Control (ESC).  
If trailer snaking is detected, the trailer stabilisation function automatically helps to reduce the trailer’s motion by means of counter  
steering assistance.  
Prerequisites for trailer stabilisation  
The vehicle has a factory-fitted towing bracket or a compatible towing bracket has been retrofitted.  
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and the traction control system (TCS) are active. The indicator lamp or in the instrument cluster  
is not lit up.  
The trailer is electrically connected to the towing vehicle via the trailer socket.  
The vehicle speed is higher than approximately 60 km/h (37 mph).  
The maximum drawbar load is being used.  
The trailer must have a rigid drawbar.  
Trailers with brakes must have a mechanical overrun system.  
System limits  
The trailer stabilisation system cannot react or will react in a restricted way in the following driving situations.  
Trailer stabilisation is switched off when ESC is deactivated.  
Light trailers that are snaking will not be recognised by the trailer stabilisation function and stabilised accordingly in all cases.  
A trailer can still jack-knife on slippery roads with little grip, even if the towing vehicle is equipped with the trailer stabilisation  
system.  
Trailers with a high centre of gravity might tip over before snaking starts.  
Sudden braking procedures could occur automatically in extreme driving situations if the trailer socket is being used without a trailer  
(e.g. for a bicycle carrier with lighting).  
WARNING  
The trailer stabilisation system is not a substitute for the full attention of the driver and operates only within the limits of the system.  
The trailer stabilisation system therefore cannot recognise all driving situations and may not react or may react with a delay or in an  
undesired way. If you do not pay due attention, there is a risk of accidents and serious or even fatal injuries.  
Always pay due attention and do not rely exclusively on the system. The driver is always responsible for all driving tasks.  
Observe the system limits → System limits.  
Accelerate carefully on slippery surfaces.  
Take your foot off the accelerator if a system is performing a control intervention.  
Always adapt your speed and driving style to the current visibility, weather and road or traffic conditions.  
The ball coupling of the towing bracket is located in the bumper. The electrically released ball coupling is swivelled out mechanically  
for use and cannot be removed.  
On the right of the luggage compartment: button for  
releasing the ball coupling.  
Releasing and swivelling out the ball coupling  
1. Park the vehicle .  
2. Open the boot lid.  
3. Briefly pull the button  
→ Fig. 1 1 in the luggage compartment.  
The ball coupling is released electrically and swivels out automatically. The indicator lamp in the button flashes.  
4. Continue swivelling the ball coupling manually until you hear and feel it engage in position and the indicator lamp in the button  
lights up continuously.  
5. Close the boot lid.  
Swivelling in the ball coupling  
1. Park the vehicle .  
2. Unhitch the trailer and disconnect the electrical connection between the vehicle and the trailer. If fitted, remove the adapters  
from the trailer socket.  
3. Open the boot lid.  
4. Briefly pull the button  
→ Fig. 1 1 in the luggage compartment.  
The ball coupling is released electrically. The indicator lamp in the button flashes.  
5. Swivel the ball coupling under the bumper manually until you hear and feel it engage in position and the indicator lamp in the  
button lights up continuously.  
6. Close the boot lid.  
Meaning of indicator lamp in the button  
Indicator lamp in the button → Fig. 1 lights up continuously when the boot lid is open: the ball coupling has engaged correctly in  
swivelled out or swivelled in position.  
The indicator lamp in the button flashes: the ball coupling has not engaged properly or the ball coupling is damaged →  
The indicator lamp in the button goes out approximately 1 minute after the boot lid is closed.  
.
WARNING  
Improper use of the towing bracket can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Never use the towing bracket if the diameter of the ball at the smallest point is less than 49 mm (1.9 in).  
Use the ball coupling only if it is properly engaged in position and if there are no faults in the electrical system or on the towing  
bracket itself.  
Make sure that no people, animals or items are in the path of the ball coupling.  
Never interrupt the swivel movement of the ball coupling with items or tools.  
Never press the  
button if a trailer is attached or if a luggage carrier or other add-on parts are fitted to the ball coupling.  
Have the ball coupling checked by a suitably qualified workshop if it cannot be fitted or if there are faults in the electrical system or  
on the towing bracket itself. Volkswagen recommends using an authorised Volkswagen repairer.  
NOTICE  
Incorrect cleaning of the vehicle could damage seals or wash off the grease required for lubrication.  
Never aim the jet of a high-pressure cleaner or steam cleaner directly at the swivelling ball coupling or the fitted trailer socket.  
At extremely low outside temperatures, it may not be possible to swivel the ball coupling in or out. If this happens, it is  
sufficient to place the vehicle in a warmer room, e.g. a garage.  
Dimensions and mounting points for retrofitting a towing  
bracket.  
The distance dimensions → Fig. 1 must be observed in all cases when retrofitting a towing bracket. Always observe the minimum  
distance given from the middle of the ball coupling F to the surface of the road. This also applies when the vehicle is fully laden,  
including maximum drawbar load.  
A
B
C
D
E
F
Attachment points.  
1125 mm (approx. 44.3 in)  
629 mm (approx. 24.8 in)  
382 mm (approx. 15.0 in)  
at least 65 mm (approx. 2.6 in)  
350 to 420 mm (approx. 13.8 to 16.6 in)  
1054 mm (approx. 41.5 in)  
1063 mm (approx. 41.85 in)  
G
H
Volkswagen recommends having the towing bracket retrofitted by a suitably qualified workshop. It may be necessary to perform  
conversion work on the cooling system or to fit heat shields, for example. Volkswagen recommends using an authorised Volkswagen  
repairer.  
Mount the towing bracket in accordance with the supplied installation instructions.  
A retrofitted, non-removable towing bracket must not cover either the number plate or the lighting system at the rear of the vehicle.  
Observe the country-specific regulations on use of a towing bracket.  
Due to legal and technical requirements, the vehicle may not be approved for trailer towing in some countries.  
In this case, it is also not allowed to retrofit a towing bracket.  
Consult a suitably qualified workshop if you have any questions about retrofitting a towing bracket. Volkswagen recommends using an  
authorised Volkswagen repairer.  
WARNING  
Electrical cables that are not connected properly or are connected incorrectly can cause faults in the entire vehicle electronics system  
and also cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Never connect the trailer’s electrical system directly to the electrical connections of the tail light clusters or to other unsuitable  
power sources.  
Use only suitable connectors to connect the trailer.  
Have retrofitting of a towing bracket on the vehicle performed by a suitably qualified workshop. Volkswagen recommends using an  
authorised Volkswagen repairer.  
WARNING  
If the towing bracket is incorrectly fitted or unsuitable, the trailer can become detached from the towing vehicle while driving,  
causing accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Have work on the towing bracket or the retrofitting of a towing bracket carried out only by a suitably qualified workshop.  
Volkswagen recommends using an authorised Volkswagen repairer.  
Use only towing brackets that are intended by the manufacturer for the corresponding vehicle model, model year and vehicle  
version.  
Volkswagen recommends using Volkswagen Genuine Parts or Volkswagen Genuine Accessories, which you can purchase from an  
authorised Volkswagen repairer.  
Ball coupling of the towing bracket is not locked  
The indicator lamp lights up yellow.  
1. Do not use towing bracket. Check the towing bracket locking mechanism (→ Ball coupling, electric).  
2. If the problem persists, go to a suitably qualified workshop. Volkswagen recommends using an authorised Volkswagen repairer.  
Rear carrier systems include equipment such as bicycle carriers or hunters’ boxes, for example, which are installed on the ball coupling.  
Use only rear carrier systems that are intended by the manufacturer for the corresponding vehicle model, model year and vehicle  
version →  
.
Volkswagen recommends using Volkswagen Genuine Parts or Volkswagen Genuine Accessories, which you can purchase from an  
authorised Volkswagen repairer.  
Mount the rear carrier system in accordance with the manufacturer’s assembly instructions.  
Maximum load of the rear carrier system  
Recommended weight distribution on the rear carrier  
system.  
The load is made up of the rear carrier system and the items transported on it.  
The maximum recommended load of the rear carrier system installed on the ball coupling can deviate from the vehicle-specific  
drawbar load of the vehicle.  
However, the model-specific maximum drawbar load of the towing bracket must not be exceeded.  
Due to the lever effect, the load capacity decreases the further the centre of gravity of the rear carrier system is away from the ball  
head.  
Position heavy items as close as possible to the ball coupling → Fig. 1.  
Vehicle-specific maximum load  
In order to find out the recommended maximum load for your vehicle, check the drawbar load of your vehicle . The corresponding  
maximum load can then be read from the following table. Volkswagen recommends observing the specified number of bicycles on the  
rear carrier system in accordance with Regulation UN-R 55.  
Vehicle-specific drawbar load  
50 kg (110 lbs)  
Maximum load  
50 kg (110 lbs)  
55 kg (121 lbs)  
75 kg (165 lbs)  
Number of bicycles  
2
2
3
55 kg (121 lbs)  
from 75 kg (165 lbs)  
Maximum overhang of the rear carrier system  
Illustration of the maximum overhang on a bicycle carrier for  
two or three bicycles.  
A
B
With a load of up to 55 kg (121 lbs): 500 mm (approx. 19.7 in).  
With a load of 75 kg (165 lbs): 700 mm (approx. 27.6 in).  
For bicycle carrier systems with two bicycles, the maximum overhang must not exceed 500 mm (approx. 19.7 in) → Fig. 2 A from the  
middle of the ball head to the middle of the rail of the last bicycle carrier. The overhang must not exceed 700 mm (approx. 27.6 in)  
→ Fig. 2 B for bicycle carrier systems with three bicycles.  
WARNING  
Incorrect use of a rear carrier system mounted on the trailer coupling of the towing bracket can lead to accidents and serious or fatal  
injuries.  
Make sure that the rear carrier system is suitable for use on your vehicle.  
Always read and observe the fitting instructions of the rear carrier system’s manufacturer.  
Never secure a rear carrier system on the ball neck below the ball head. The rear carrier system could slip due to the shape of the  
ball neck.  
Volkswagen recommends that you remove all add-on parts of the load on the rear carrier system before setting off. This  
includes bicycle bags and baskets, child seats or batteries. This helps improve the rear carrier system’s wind load and centre of  
gravity.  
Some vehicle models are designed for fitting a roof carrier.  
Roof carriers can be used to transport bulky items on the roof of the vehicle.  
If you are unsure whether a roof carrier can be fitted on your vehicle, please contact a correspondingly qualified workshop. Volkswagen  
recommends using a Volkswagen dealership.  
Only use roof carriers that have been approved by Volkswagen for your vehicle type.  
If the vehicle is not approved for use with a roof carrier, do not use or retrofit a roof carrier.  
WARNING  
When transporting large, heavy, long or flat loads on the roof carrier, the vehicle’s handling and aerodynamics will change due to a  
shift in the centre of gravity and an increased susceptibility to crosswinds. This can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Always secure loads properly using suitable and undamaged lashing, retaining or securing straps.  
Avoid abrupt and sudden driving and braking manoeuvres.  
Ensure that your speed and driving style are always appropriate for the current visibility, weather and road/traffic conditions.  
WARNING  
If the vehicle is not approved for use of a roof carrier or a roof carrier is fitted that is not approved for the vehicle, this can become  
detached while the vehicle is in motion and fall off the vehicle roof. This can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Use only roof carriers that have been approved by Volkswagen for your vehicle.  
Do not fit a roof carrier if the vehicle is not approved for this.  
NOTICE  
Securing a roof carrier of any kind to a vehicle that is not approved for use with a roof carrier can lead to severe damage.  
Do not fit a roof carrier if the vehicle is not approved for this.  
Driving with a fitted roof carrier increases the air resistance of the vehicle and thus also the fuel consumption. The possible  
range of the vehicle is reduced as a result. This applies to all roof carriers and the objects transported on them, e.g. bicycles  
and skis.  
Special roof carriers must be used to transport luggage, bicycles, skis, surfboards or boats safely. The roof carriers for mounting on the  
roof railings are specifically called roof bars, while those for direct mounting on the vehicle roof are called base carriers.  
Use only roof carriers that are intended by the manufacturer for the corresponding vehicle model, model year and vehicle version.  
Volkswagen recommends using Volkswagen Genuine Parts or Volkswagen Genuine Accessories, which you can purchase from an  
authorised Volkswagen repairer.  
Fitting the roof bars on the roof railings  
Fit the roof bars in accordance with the supplied installation instructions.  
Once you have fitted the roof bars, you can then secure the respective load carrier on this →  
.
Remove the roof carrier in the following situations  
The roof carrier is no longer needed.  
Before entering a car wash.  
When the vehicle height exceeds the required clearance height, e.g. in a garage.  
NOTICE  
The height of the vehicle is changed by the installation of a roof carrier and the load secured to it. The vehicle can be severely  
damaged if the clearance height is insufficient, e.g. in the case of underpasses and garage doors.  
Check and compare the height of the vehicle with clearance heights.  
NOTICE  
The vehicle may be damaged if the roof carrier and the load interfere with equipment-dependent components on the vehicle roof,  
e.g. roof aerial, and the movement path of the boot lid.  
Make sure that the roof carrier is positioned correctly on the roof and that there is no interference with any components.  
WARNING  
The luggage and the entire structure can become detached from the vehicle roof if the roof carrier and carrier structure are not  
secured and used correctly. This can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Always fit the roof carrier and carrier structure correctly and in accordance with the manufacturer’s assembly instructions.  
Attach the roof carrier only at the specified mounting points.  
Always fit special carrier attachments for bicycles, skis, surfboards etc. correctly and in accordance with the manufacturer’s  
assembly instructions.  
Use the roof carrier and load carrier only if they are undamaged and fitted correctly.  
Check that the roof carrier is secured before starting your journey and tighten as necessary after driving a short distance.  
During a long trip, check all bolts and fasteners at each stop.  
Do not carry out any modifications or repairs to the roof carrier or the load carrier.  
Fitting a roof carrier increases air resistance and may reduce the vehicle’s range.  
Maximum permissible roof load  
The maximum permitted roof load is 75 kg (165 lbs).  
The roof load limit refers to the combined weight of the roof carrier and the load carried on the roof →  
.
Make sure you are aware of the weight of the roof carrier and the load to be transported. Weigh the load if necessary.  
However, you will not be able to carry the maximum roof load if you are using a roof carrier with a lower weight rating. In this case, do  
not exceed the maximum weight limit for the roof carrier which is specified in the manufacturer’s installation instructions.  
Distributing the load  
Distribute the load evenly and secure it correctly →  
.
Checking mounting  
After fitting the roof carrier, drive a short distance and then check all mounting elements. Check again at regular intervals →  
.
WARNING  
Accidents, vehicle damage and serious or fatal injuries can occur if the maximum permitted roof load is exceeded.  
Never exceed the specified roof load, the maximum permissible axle loads, and the permissible gross vehicle weight for the  
vehicle.  
Do not exceed the load capacity of the roof carrier, even if the maximum roof load has not been reached.  
WARNING  
If loose or improperly secured loads fall off the roof carrier, this can cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.  
Always use suitable and undamaged lashing, retaining or securing straps.  
NOTICE  
The vehicle can be damaged if the boot lid collides with the roof load.  
When opening the boot lid, make sure that it does not collide with the roof load.