Volkswagen Golf Owners Manual: Driving with an open tailgate

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

Driving with an open tailgate is particularly dangerous. Ensure that the open tailgate and any objects are secured properly, and take appropriate measures to reduce the quantity of toxic exhaust fumes entering the vehicle.

WARNING

Driving with an unlocked or open tailgate can cause serious injuries.

• Always drive with the tailgate closed.

• Always stow all items in the luggage compartment securely. Loose objects can fall out of the luggage compartment and injure other road users.

• Always drive carefully and ensure that you think ahead.

• Avoid any abrupt or sudden driving and braking manoeuvres as this can cause the open tailgate to move unpredictably.

• Any objects protruding from the luggage compartment must be marked to ensure that they are visible to other road users. Comply with legal regulations.

• Any objects protruding from the luggage compartment must never be held in position by the tailgate.

• If it is necessary to drive with the tailgate open, all luggage racks and cargo stowed on the rack must be removed from the tailgate.

WARNING

Poisonous exhaust fumes can enter the vehicle interior when the tailgate is open. This can result in loss of consciousness, carbon monoxide poisoning, serious injury and accidents.

• Always drive with the tailgate closed in order to prevent toxic gases from entering the vehicle.

• If exceptional circumstances require you to drive with an open tailgate, you must do the following to reduce the quantity of toxic exhaust fumes that could enter the vehicle:
  • Close all windows and the electric panorama sliding/tilting roof.
  • Switch off the air recirculation mode of the heating and fresh air system or switch off the air conditioning system.
  • Open all vents in the dash panel.
  • Switch the blowers for the heating and fresh air system, or for the air conditioning system, to the highest setting.

NOTICE

The vehicle length and height are different when the tailgate is open.