Volkswagen Golf Owners Manual: Trailer stabilisation

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

Trailer stabilisation is a subsidiary function of the electronic stabilisation programme (ESC). The trailer stabilisation function can detect if an attached trailer is starting to lurch from side to side.

If a lurching motion is detected, the trailer stabilisation function automatically helps to reduce the trailer's rocking motion using counter steering assistance.

Requirements for trailer stabilisation

• ESC is active. The indicator lamp or in the instrument cluster is not lit up.

• The vehicle speed is higher than approximately 60 km/h (37 mph).

• The maximum drawbar load is being carried.

• The trailer must have a rigid drawbar.

• Trailers with brakes must have a mechanical overrun system.

WARNING

Do not let the extra safety afforded by the trailer stabilisation function tempt you into taking any risks when driving – this can cause accidents.

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

• Accelerate carefully on slippery surfaces.

• Take your foot off the accelerator if one of the systems is active.

WARNING

The trailer stabilisation function may not be able to detect all driving situations correctly.

• Trailer stabilisation is switched off when ESC is deactivated.

• Light trailers that are snaking will not be recognised by the trailer stabilisation function and stabilised accordingly in all cases.

• A trailer might still jack-knife on a slippery surface with little grip.

• Trailers with a high centre of gravity might tip over before snaking starts.