Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Owners Manual: Introduction

This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

 → Notes on tow-starting

 → Notes on towing

 → Fitting the front towing eye

 → Fitting the rear towing eye

 → Driving notes on towing

Observe any legal requirements when towing or tow-starting.

For technical reasons, vehicles with a discharged battery must not be tow-started.

Vehicles with Keyless Access must only be towed with the ignition switched on.

Towing a vehicle when the engine is switched off and the ignition is switched on discharges the vehicle battery. Depending on the vehicle battery charge level, the drop in voltage can be large enough after just a few minutes that electrical consumers in the vehicle will no longer function, e.g. the hazard warning lights. In vehicles with Keyless Access, the steering wheel can lock .

Additional information and warnings:

• Exterior views

• Engine management system and exhaust purification system

WARNING

Never tow a vehicle that has no power supply.

• Never remove the vehicle key from the ignition or switch off the ignition using the starter button. This could cause the steering lock or the electronic steering column lock to engage suddenly. You will no longer be able to steer the vehicle. This can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle, accidents and serious injuries.

• If the power supply to the towed vehicle is disconnected, stop towing immediately and seek expert assistance.

WARNING

If a vehicle is being towed, the vehicle handling and braking effect will change significantly. Please note the following in order to reduce the risk of an accident or serious injuries:

• Notes for the driver of the towed vehicle:
  • You will need to depress the brake pedal more vigorously than normal as the brake servo is not working. Always be careful not to drive into the vehicle that is pulling your vehicle.
  • You will need to turn the steering wheel more vigorously as the power-assisted steering function is not working.

• Notes for the driver of the towing vehicle
  • Accelerate carefully and gently.
  • Avoid sudden braking and driving manoeuvres.
  • Brake earlier than normal by pressing lightly on the brake pedal.

NOTICE

• Remove and install the cover and the towing eye carefully so as to avoid damage to the vehicle, e.g. the paintwork.

• Unburnt fuel can enter the catalytic converter and damage it while the vehicle is being towed.

Questions & answers

Introduction — Volkswagen Golf Mk7

When should I not tow-start the Golf Mk7?

Never tow-start a Golf Mk7 with DSG/automatic gearbox, e-Golf (electric), or diesel with DPF. Use jump leads instead. Manual petrol models can be tow-started, but jump leads are still preferred.

What legal requirements apply to towing the Golf Mk7?

Observe local regulations on tow ropes, tow bars, warning lights, maximum towing speed and required driver qualifications. These vary by country.

Is a tow bar safer than a tow rope for the Golf Mk7?

Yes. The manual states that a tow bar is easier and safer. A tow rope should be slightly elastic to absorb jerks, but can still allow collisions if the towed car overruns.