Volkswagen Golf Owners Manual: Introduction

This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

 → Operating ParkPilot  

 → Acoustic and optical ParkPilot signals  

 → ParkPilot menu  

 → Vehicle path display  

 → Towing a trailer  

The ParkPilot assists the driver when manoeuvring and parking.

The ultrasound sensors in the bumpers transmit and receive ultrasound waves. The system uses the time difference between the ultrasonic waves (i.e. between the transmission and reflection from obstacles and the point of reception) to continuously calculate the distance between the bumper and the obstacle.

Additional information and warnings:

• Exterior views  

• Infotainment system  

• Braking, stopping and parking  

• Reverse assist system (Rear Assist)  

• Park assist system (Park Assist)  

• Cleaning and caring for the vehicle exterior  

• Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts  

WARNING

The ParkPilot is no substitute for full concentration on the part of the driver.

• Unintentional vehicle movements can cause serious injury.

• Always adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.

• Ultrasound sensors have blind spots in which obstacles and people cannot be detected.

• Always monitor the area around the vehicle as the ultrasound sensors will not always detect infants, animals and objects.

• Certain surfaces of objects and clothes cannot reflect the signals from the ultrasound sensors. The system is unable to detect these objects or people wearing this type of clothing, or they may be detected incorrectly.

• External sources of sound can affect the signals of the ultrasound sensors. In certain circumstances, the system may not recognise people or objects.

WARNING

Automatic activation of the ParkPilot only occurs at very low speeds. An inappropriate driving style can cause accidents and serious injuries.

• Always bear in mind the time delay between the signals.

NOTICE

• The ultrasound sensors may not always be able to detect objects such as trailer drawbars, thin rails, fences, posts, trees and open or opening tailgates. This can result in damage to your vehicle.

• If the ParkPilot has detected an obstacle and issued a warning, the obstacle may move out of the detection range of the sensors as the vehicle approaches it, particularly if the object is very high or very low. These objects are no longer registered.

• The vehicle can sustain considerable damage if the warning given by the ParkPilot is ignored.

• The ultrasound sensors in the bumper can be displaced or damaged through impacts, e.g. when parking.

• The ultrasound sensors in the bumpers must be kept clean and free of ice and snow and not be covered up by stickers or other items, as these may prevent the system from working properly.

• The ultrasound sensors should only be sprayed briefly when cleaning with pressure hoses and steam cleaners. A distance of more than 10 cm between the ultrasound sensors and the steam/hose nozzle must be observed.

• Sources of noise can lead to errors in the ParkPilot system, e.g. rough asphalt, cobblestones, induction loops, building equipment, or interference from other vehicles.

• Any equipment that has been retrofitted to the vehicle, e.g. bicycle carriers, can prevent the ParkPilot from functioning properly.

NOTICE

If an ultrasound sensor fails, the corresponding area of the ultrasound sensor cluster is switched off and cannot be reactivated until the fault has been rectified. Consult a qualified workshop in the event of a system fault. Volkswagen recommends using a Volkswagen dealership for this purpose.

Volkswagen recommends that drivers practise using the ParkPilot in a traffic-calmed area or car park to allow them to familiarise themselves with the system and its functions.