Volkswagen Golf Owners Manual: Information on steering

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

The steering should be locked every time you leave the vehicle to make it more difficult for the vehicle to be stolen.

Electronic steering column lock

Vehicles with Keyless Access: the steering column will be locked if the driver door is opened with the ignition switched off. For this, the vehicle should be stationary and, if necessary, the gear selector lever should be in position P.

If the ignition is not switched off until after the driver door is opened, the electronic steering column lock will only be activated when the vehicle is locked using the sensor in the door handle or the vehicle key.

Mechanical steering column lock

Vehicles without Keyless Access: the steering column is locked if the vehicle key is removed from the ignition lock when the vehicle is stationary.

Activating the steering lock	Deactivating the steering lock
Park the vehicle   .	Turn the steering wheel slightly to take the load off the steering lock mechanism.
Remove the vehicle key.	Insert the vehicle key into the ignition lock.
Turn the steering wheel slightly until the steering lock clicks into place.	Hold the steering wheel in this position and turn the ignition on.

Electromechanical steering

The power steering provided by the electromechanical steering system automatically adjusts to the vehicle speed, steering wheel torque and steering wheel angle. The electromechanical steering only functions when the engine is running.

You will need considerably more strength than normal to steer the vehicle if the power steering is reduced or has failed completely.

Counter steering assistance

Counter steering assistance provides the driver with power steering in critical driving situations. Additional steering power helps the driver when counter steering  .

Progressive steering

Depending on the vehicle equipment level, progressive steering can adjust the force of the steering movement in a driving situation. Progressive steering only functions when the engine is running.

In urban traffic, less steering input is required when parking, manoeuvering, or turning sharply.

When driving on country roads or on the motorway, the progressive steering provides a more sporty, direct steering response, and a dynamic feel.

WARNING

In conjunction with the ESC, counter steering assistance provides the driver with assistance when steering in critical driving situations. The driver must steer the vehicle at all times. Counter steering assistance does not steer the vehicle.