Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Owners Manual: Introduction

This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

 → Handling seat covers  

 → Cleaning cloth seat covers, fabric trim and Alcantara upholstery  

 → Cleaning and caring for natural leather covers  

 → Cleaning leatherette upholstery  

 → Cleaning stowage compartments, drink holders and ash trays  

 → Cleaning and caring for the dash panel, wooden trims and plastic parts  

 → Cleaning seat belts  

Modern fabrics, such as dark denim, are often not colourfast. Light-coloured upholstery (soft materials or leather) is particularly sensitive to staining caused by these fabrics, even if you are careful. This is not caused by a fault in the upholstery, but by the non-colourfast nature of the garments.

Leaving stains, dirt and other deposits on the surface of vehicle components and cloth seat covers for a long time can make it difficult to clean and treat them. Stains, dirt and deposits may become impossible to remove, particularly if left for a long time.

Additional information and warnings:

• Cleaning and caring for the vehicle exterior

• Accessories, modifications, repairs and renewal of parts

WARNING

Car care products can be toxic and hazardous. Unsuitable care products and incorrect application of care products can cause accidents, serious injuries, burns or poisoning.

• The care product must be kept in its original sealed container.

• Read the manufacturer's instructions.

• Never store car care products in empty food containers, bottles or any other non-original containers as people finding these containers may not know that they contain care products.

• Keep children away from care products.

• The products can give off harmful fumes during use. They should therefore only be used outside or in well-ventilated spaces.

• Never use fuel, turpentine, engine oil, nail varnish remover or other volatile fluids to wash, clean or care for your vehicle. These substances are toxic and highly inflammable.

WARNING

Incorrect care and cleaning of vehicle parts can impair the safety features of the vehicle and cause serious injury.

• Vehicle parts must be cleaned according to the manufacturer's instructions.

• Only use approved or recommended cleaning products.

NOTICE

• Cleaning products that contain solvents attack the material and may cause irreparable damage.

• Stains, dirt and other deposits containing aggressive and solvent-based ingredients attack the material and may cause irreparable damage, even if only left for a short time.

• Stains, dirt and other deposits should be removed as quickly as possible and not allowed to dry in.

• To avoid damage, stubborn stains should be removed by a specialist cleaning company.

Suitable care products are available from a Volkswagen dealership.

Questions & answers

Introduction — Volkswagen Golf Mk7

What general rule applies to Golf Mk7 interior cleaning?

Always test any cleaning product on an inconspicuous area first. Use the mildest effective product and avoid excessive moisture, especially around electrical components and airbag covers.

Can I damage the Golf Mk7 airbag covers when cleaning?

Yes. Do not use sharp objects, solvents or steam cleaners on the airbag cover surfaces (steering wheel, dash, seat side panels). Damaged covers can prevent correct airbag deployment.

Does the Golf Mk7 manual warn about aftermarket seat covers?

Yes. Seat covers must be compatible with the side airbags in the front seat backrests. Non-approved covers can block or delay deployment.