Volkswagen Golf Owners Manual: Introduction

This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

 → Types of front passenger front airbag system  

 → Indicator lamp  

 → 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  

 → Curtain airbags  

 → Knee airbags  

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

• Central locking system  

• Correct sitting position  

• Seat belts  

• Child seats (accessories)  

• Cleaning and caring for the interior  

• Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts  

• 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   .

• 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.

WARNING

The risk of injury increases if there are any objects located 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. Ensure that children and passengers 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.

WARNING

A fine dust 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.