Volkswagen Golf Owners Manual: Technical requirements

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

If the vehicle is supplied with a factory-fitted towing bracket it will already have the necessary technical modifications and meet the statutory requirements for towing a trailer.

Only use a towing bracket which is approved for the gross weight of the trailer you want to tow as a retrofit solution. The towing bracket must be suitable for the vehicle and trailer and be securely bolted to the vehicle's chassis. Only use a towing bracket which has been approved by Volkswagen for your vehicle type. Always check and follow the data provided by the towing bracket manufacturer. Never install a weight-distributing or load-balancing towing bracket on the vehicle.

Towing brackets fitted to the rear bumper

Never fit a towing bracket to the rear bumper or to its fastenings. The towing bracket must not prevent the rear bumper from functioning correctly. Do not carry out any alterations to the exhaust or brake systems. Check regularly to see if the towing bracket is fitted securely.

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 relevant regulations. The trailer's brake system must never be connected to the vehicle brake system.

Emergency breakaway cable

Always use safety chains between your vehicle and the trailer   .

Rear trailer lights

The rear lights on the trailer must meet legal requirements   .

Never connect the trailer lights directly to the electrical system of your vehicle. If you are uncertain whether the trailer has been connected correctly, please contact a qualified workshop. Volkswagen recommends using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.

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.

Maximum power consumption of the trailer

WARNING

• The vehicle electronics may be damaged if the trailer lights are not connected properly.

• The vehicle electronics may be damaged if the trailer uses too much electricity.

• Never connect the trailer's electrical system directly to the electrical connections of the tail lights or to other sources of electricity. Only use suitable connectors to provide power to the trailer.

Towing a trailer places additional demands on the vehicle. Volkswagen recommends additional services between the normal inspection intervals if the vehicle is used frequently for towing a trailer.

In certain countries, an additional fire extinguisher must be carried if the gross weight of the trailer exceeds 2,500 kg.