Volkswagen Golf Owners Manual: Loading the trailer

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

Trailer weight and drawbar load

The 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 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.

In the interest of road safety, Volkswagen recommends that you always transport the maximum drawbar load. 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 vehicle and of the loaded trailer.

Loading the trailer

The weight of the load should be distributed evenly. The maximum permitted drawbar load should be utilised. Do not place the load only at the front or the rear of the trailer:

• Distribute loads in the trailer so that heavy objects are either over or as near to the axle as possible.

• Secure all loads on the trailer properly.

Tyre pressure

Follow the trailer manufacturer's recommendations concerning the tyre pressure for the trailer tyres.

When towing a trailer, inflate the wheels on the towing vehicle with the maximum permitted tyre pressure   .

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 specified values.

• Never let the actual weights at the front and rear axles exceed the gross axle weight ratings. Never exceed the permissible gross vehicle weight for the vehicle with weight at the front and rear of the vehicle.

WARNING

Moving loads can severely impair stability and driving safety, which can cause accidents and severe injuries.

• Always load trailers correctly.

• Always secure loads using suitable and undamaged securing straps.