Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Owners Manual: Service and disposal of belt tensioners

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

Seat belts may become damaged during any work on the belt tensioners or while removing or refitting any vehicle parts in conjunction with any other repair work. This damage will not always be noticeable. The consequence may be that the belt tensioners could function incorrectly, or not function at all, in the event of an accident.

Regulations must be observed to ensure that the effectiveness of the belt tensioner is not reduced and that removed parts do not cause any injuries or environmental pollution. Qualified workshops are familiar with these requirements.

WARNING

The risk of severe or fatal injuries may be increased if the seat belts, automatic belt retractors and belt tensioners are not used correctly, or if they are repaired by a non-professional. As a result, the belt tensioners may not be triggered when they should, or they may be triggered unexpectedly.

• Any repairs, adjustments or removal and refitting of parts in the belt tensioners or seat belts should always be carried out by a qualified workshop and never by yourself   .

• Belt tensioners and automatic belt retractors cannot be repaired. They must be replaced.

The airbag modules and belt tensioners may contain perchlorate. Please comply with legislation regarding disposal.

Questions & answers

Service and disposal of belt tensioners — Volkswagen Golf Mk7

Who should service the Golf Mk7 belt tensioners?

Only a qualified workshop — preferably a Volkswagen dealer — should carry out any work on the belt tensioners. Incorrect handling can cause the tensioner to fire unexpectedly.

Can other repair work accidentally damage Golf Mk7 belt tensioners?

Yes. Seat belts can be damaged during unrelated repair work — for example, removing interior panels. The damage may not be visible but could prevent the tensioner from functioning correctly in a crash.

How are fired Golf Mk7 belt tensioners disposed of?

Fired and unfired tensioners contain pyrotechnic charges and must be disposed of by a qualified workshop following Volkswagen's specific safety procedures. They must not be put in household waste.

Should I have the Golf Mk7 belt tensioners inspected after a minor bump?

Yes. Even if the tensioners did not fire, a collision can affect the belt webbing, retractor or mounting points. Have the entire belt system inspected at a Volkswagen dealer after any accident.