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Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Owners Manual: Function and operation by the user

Fig. 179 shows the Driver Alert System display in the Volkswagen Golf Mk7 instrument cluster. The system determines your driving behaviour at the start of a journey and compares it continuously afterward, watching for the steering patterns typical of a tired driver — this page explains that comparison process in full.

Fig. 179 In the instrument cluster display: Driver Alert System

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

The Driver Alert System determines the driving behaviour at the beginning of a journey and uses it to evaluate the tiredness of the driver. This is compared to the behaviour of the driver while actually driving. If the system detects that the driver may be tired, it warns the driver with an acoustic warning signal and a message in the instrument cluster display  . The message in the instrument cluster display appears for about five seconds and may be repeated once. The last displayed message is saved by the system.

The message in the instrument cluster display can be switched off by pressing the  button on the windscreen wiper lever or the  button on the multifunction steering wheel   . The message can be displayed again in the instrument cluster display using the multifunction display   .

Functional limitations

The driving behaviour can be evaluated only when the speed is above 65 km/h (40 mph) up to approximately 200 km/h (125 mph).

Switching on and off

The Driver Alert System can be activated or deactivated using the  button and the and Driver assistance function buttons in the infotainment system   .

Function limitations

The Driver Alert System has system-related limitations. The following conditions can limit the function of the Driver Alert System, or prevent it from working altogether:

  • With speeds less than 65 km/h (40 mph).
  • With speeds above 200 km/h (125 mph).
  • On roads with bends.
  • On bad roads.
  • With poor weather conditions.
  • With sporty driving.
  • When the driver is distracted.

The Driver Alert System is reset if the vehicle is stationary for longer than 15 minutes, the ignition is switched off, or the driver has unfastened his or her seat belt and opened the door.

The Driver Alert System is automatically reset in case of long slow drives (speed less than 65 km/h (40 mph)). If the speed is increased, the system evaluates the driving behaviour again.

    Questions & answers

    Function and operation by the user — Volkswagen Golf Mk7

    How does the Golf Mk7 Driver Alert System learn my driving?
    It evaluates your steering behaviour during the first 15–20 minutes of the journey. After that baseline period it can detect deviations consistent with drowsy driving.
    Can I adjust the Golf Mk7 Driver Alert sensitivity?
    Yes. You can choose from different sensitivity levels in the instrument cluster Assist menu. A higher level will trigger the rest-break recommendation sooner.
    What does the coffee-cup symbol mean on the Golf Mk7?
    It is the rest-break recommendation from the Driver Alert System. When it appears along with a message, the system has detected steering patterns typical of a tired driver.
    Does the Golf Mk7 Driver Alert System work on short trips?
    No. The system needs at least 15 minutes above approximately 65 km/h to learn your driving pattern, so it cannot detect fatigue on short urban journeys.
    Introduction
    This chapter contains information on the following subjects:  → Function and operation by the user   The Driver Alert System informs the driver if his or her driving shows signs of tired ...

    Driving Mode Selection
    ...

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