Get Transporting -> Loading the trailer Guide for Volkswagen Transporter Van Seventh Generation (2021-2025)

If you park the trailer using the support wheel or other trailer supports, disconnect the trailer from the vehicle. The

vehicle could move up and down if the load changes or if there is damage to the tyres, for example. If this happens,

a great deal of force will be exerted on the towing bracket and trailer, which could lead to damage to the vehicle

and trailer.

If there is a fault in the vehicle or trailer electrical systems, or if there is a fault in the anti-theft alarm, have

the vehicle checked by a correspondingly qualified workshop.

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.

Loading the trailer

Basic information

Always make sure that the vehicle and trailer are well balanced. Do not overload the front or rear of the trailer.

Always stow heavy objects directly over the axle, or as close as possible to it. Always secure loads to the trailer

properly →

Trailer weight and drawbar load

The maximum trailer weight is the weight that the vehicle can pull→

The drawbar load is the weight that the towing bracket exerts on the ball coupling neck vertically from above .

The figures for trailer weights and draw bar weights that are given on the data plate of the towing bracket are for

certification purposes only. The correct values for your specific model, which may be lower than these figures, are

given in the vehicle registration documents. All data in the official vehicle documents take precedence over these

data.

The maximum permissible drawbar load should always be utilised. The response of the trailer on the road will be poor

if the drawbar load is too small.

The drawbar load increases the weight on the rear axle and reduces the maximum load level as a result.

Gross combination weight rating

The combination weight is made up of the actual weight of the loaded towing vehicle and of the loaded trailer .

In some countries, trailers are divided into different classes. We recommend that you contact a qualified workshop to

find out about suitable trailers.

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

Loads that may slide can severely impair stability and driving safety, which can cause accidents and severe injuries.

● Always load trailers properly.

● Always secure loads using suitable and undamaged lashing and securing straps.

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WARNING

Accidents and serious 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 stated values.

● Never exceed the maximum gross axle weight rating with the current weight on the front and rear axles.

● Never exceed the maximum permissible gross weight with the front and rear weight of the vehicle.

Driving with a trailer

Headlight adjustment

Towing a trailer can raise the front end of the vehicle enough for the dipped beam to blind other road users. Use the

headlight range control to lower the light cone as required. If you do not have headlight range control, the headlights

should be adjusted by a correspondingly qualified workshop.

Things to note when driving with a trailer

—If the trailer has an overrun brake, apply the brakesgently 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.

—Select a low gear before driving down a slope. This enables you to use the engine braking effect to slow down the

vehicle. The brake system could otherwise overheat and fail.

—The vehicle's centre of gravity and in turn the vehicle's 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 slopes when towing a trailer

Depending on the steepness of the slope and the total weight of the trailer and vehicle, a vehicle towing a trailer

could roll back a short distance when moving off on a hill.

When towing a trailer, pull off on slopes as follows:

1. Depress and hold the brake pedal.

2. In vehicles with a manual gearbox: Fully depress the clutch pedal.

3. 1st Select a gear or the D position.

4. Switch the electronic parking brake off.

5. Gently depress the accelerator and, in a manual vehicle, release the clutch pedal until you feel the vehicle

moving forwards. If necessary, observe the information on Hill Start Assist (→ Hill Start Assist).

6. Pull away slowly.

WARNING

Incorrect trailer towing can cause loss of vehicle control and serious personal injury.

● Towing a trailer and transporting heavy or bulky items can change the way the vehicle handles and increase the

braking distance.

● Always drive carefully and ensure that you think ahead. Brake earlier than usual.

● Adapt your speed and driving style to the current visibility, weather and road or traffic conditions. Reduce your

speed, particularly when driving downhill.

● Accelerate particularly carefully and gently. Avoid abrupt and sudden driving and braking manoeuvres.

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Transporting -> Loading the trailer for Your Volkswagen Transporter Van Seventh Generation (2021-2025)

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