Trailer Towing - Volkswagen PASSAT 2013 Manual

Trailer towing

Introduction
In this section you'll find information about:
Technical requirements
Hitching up and connecting a trailer
Loading the trailer
Driving with a trailer
Ball mount
Retrofitting a trailer hitch
Maximum permissible trailer weight
Obey country-specific requirements about trailer towing and trailer hitches.
Volkswagen does not recommend installing a trailer hitch on your vehicle. Your Volkswagen was
mainly designed for carrying passengers. If you plan to tow a trailer, please remember your vehicle will
be performing a job for which it was not primarily intended. The additional load will affect durability,
handling, fuel economy, and performance, and may require the vehicle to be serviced more often.
Trailer towing not only places more stress on the vehicle, it calls for more concentration from the
driver. Always follow the operating and driving instructions given, and use common sense.
Under winter conditions, install winter tires on the vehicle and the trailer.
Tongue weight
The maximum permissible trailer tongue weight exerted on the ball mount must not exceed 165 lbs
(75 kg).
More information:
Power locking and closing system
Preparation for the anti-theft alarm system
Lights
Braking, stopping, and parking
Saving fuel and helping the environment
Starting assistance systems
Tires and wheels
Parts, accessories, repairs and modifications
WARNING
Riding in a trailer is dangerous and may be illegal.