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Transporting -> Introduction (Trailer towing) for Your Volkswagen Transporter Van Seventh Generation (2021-2025)

Introduction  
The vehicle can be used to tow a trailer if it has the required technical equipment for this.  
The additional trailer load will affect the amount of wear, fuel consumption and performance of the vehicle and, in  
certain circumstances, could shorten the service intervals.  
Driving with a trailer not only places an extra load on the vehicle, but also requires increased concentration on the  
part of the driver.  
Swivel in or remove the ball coupling if there is no trailer, bicycle carrier or similar equipment mounted on it. This  
applies in particular if the number plate or the lighting o the rear of the vehicle are obscured by the unused ball  
coupling. Observe the country-specific regulations on the use of a ball coupling.  
Vehicles with a start/stop system  
If towing brackets that werenot retrofitted by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles are used, or if a towing bracket  
retrofitted by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is not detected for system-related reasons, the start/stop system  
must be deactivated manually using the button in the centre console before starting to tow a trailer and must  
remain deactivated for as long as a trailer is being towed → Introduction.  
Trailer with lighting function check  
You must not use any trailer equipped with a tail light or brake light that requires a function check of these lights as  
part of its approval process. Please contact the trailer manufacturer for information on the type of approval that  
applies to your trailer.  
Tachograph  
Use of a tachograph is required by law for vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating in excess of 3,500 kg, including  
trailer, and used commercially to transport goods. This is irrespective of whether the vehicle or the trailer or both are  
used for commercial transportation of goods.  
DANGER  
It is dangerous to transport people in a trailer and it may also be illegal.  
WARNING  
Improper use of the towing bracket can lead to a loss of vehicle control, accidents and serious injuries.  
Use the towing bracket only if it is undamaged and fitted correctly.  
Do not carry out any alterations or repairs to the towing bracket.  
Remove the ball coupling when not towing a trailer to reduce the risk of injury in rear-end collisions and to  
pedestrians and cyclists when the vehicle is parked.  
Never install a “weight-distributing” or “load-balancing” towing bracket to the vehicle. The vehicle was not  
constructed for these kinds of towing brackets. The towing bracket can fail, causing the trailer to tear loose from  
the vehicle.  
WARNING  
Towing a trailer and transporting heavy or bulky items can change the vehicle handling, increase the braking  
distance and lead to accidents.  
Always secure loads properly using suitable and undamaged lashing, retaining or securing straps.  
Ensure that your speed and driving style are always appropriate for the current visibility, weather and road/traffic  
conditions. Reduce your speed, particularly when driving downhill.  
Trailers with a high centre of gravity are more likely to tip over than trailers with a low centre of gravity.  
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Always drive carefully and ensure that you think ahead. Accelerate particularly carefully and gently. Avoid abrupt  
and sudden driving and braking manoeuvres.  
Take extra care when overtaking. Reduce your speed immediately if the trailer shows even the slightest sign of  
snaking.  
Do not drive faster than 80 km/h(50 mph) when towing a trailer, or 100 km/h (60 mph)in exceptional cases. This  
also applies to countries where higher speeds are permitted. Always obey national speed limits. In some areas,  
speed limits for vehicles towing trailers may be lower than for vehicles without trailers.  
Observe any applicable national regulations when towing a trailer and using a towing bracket.  
Never try to stop a trailer from snaking by increasing your speed.  
WARNING  
The start/stop system must always be deactivated manually when towing a trailer using towing brackets that have  
not been retrofitted by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. Otherwise faults can occur in the brake system, possibly  
resulting in accidents and serious injuries.  
Always switch off the anti-theft alarm before hitching or unhitching a trailer (→ Anti-theft alarm). The tilt  
sensor could otherwise trigger an alarm unnecessarily.  
In vehicles with a new engine, do not tow a trailer during the first  
1,000 km.  
Depending on the equipment, the removable ball coupling is required for  
towing .  
Technical prerequisites  
Engine cooling system  
There is an increased load on the engine and the cooling system when towing a trailer. The cooling system must  
contain sufficient coolant and be able to cope with the extra load added by the trailer.  
Trailer brake  
If the trailer is equipped with its own brake system, comply with the legal regulations.  
Exterior mirrors  
If you are unable to see the traffic behind the trailer in the vehicle's standard exterior mirrors, additional exterior  
mirrors should be fitted in accordance with any country-specific regulations. Before setting off, adjust the mirrors so  
that you have a sufficient view of the rear.  
Retrofitting a towing bracket  
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles recommends the use of Volkswagen Genuine Accessories, which you can purchase  
from your Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles dealership. Always check and follow the data provided by the towing  
bracket manufacturer.  
Towing brackets fitted to the rear bumper  
Do not carry out any alterations to the exhaust or brake systems. Check that the towing bracket is properly secured at  
regular intervals.  
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