Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Owners Manual: Introduction
This introduction to the tailgate chapter of the Volkswagen Golf Mk7 manual covers the warning lamp, opening and closing, and repeats a core safety point: incorrect or unsupervised unlocking, opening or closing of the tailgate can cause accidents and injuries, which is why the procedures that follow are described in careful step-by-step detail.
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:
→ Warning lamp
→ Opening the tailgate→ Closing the tailgate
Additional information and warnings:
- Exterior views
- Central locking system
- Transporting
- Manual opening and closing

WARNING
- Therefore the tailgate should only be opened or closed when you are sure that nobody is in its path.
- Never close the tailgate by pushing it down with your hand on the window. The rear window could shatter and cause injuries.
- After closing the tailgate, check to ensure that it is closed and locked correctly so that it does not open while the vehicle is in motion. The closed tailgate must be flush with the surrounding body panels.
- Always keep the tailgate closed while the vehicle is in motion so that no toxic exhaust fumes can enter the vehicle interior.
- Never open the tailgate if there is a load attached to it, e.g. a rack or luggage carrier. It may also not possible to open the tailgate if there are objects attached to it, e.g. bicycles. The additional load might cause the open tailgate to close by itself. Support the tailgate as necessary or remove the load from the surface.
- Close and lock the tailgate and all vehicle doors when the vehicle is not in use. Ensure that no one remains in the vehicle.
- Never leave children playing unattended in or around the vehicle, especially when the tailgate is open. Children could climb into the luggage compartment and shut the tailgate, thereby trapping themselves inside. Temperatures inside a locked vehicle may reach extremes of heat or cold, according to season. This can cause serious injuries and illness or fatalities, especially for small children.
- Never leave children or people requiring assistance alone in the vehicle. They could use the vehicle key or central locking button to lock the vehicle and thereby trap themselves inside.

NOTICE
Questions & answers
Introduction — Volkswagen Golf Mk7
Why does the Golf Mk7 manual stress tailgate safety?
The tailgate is heavy and swings upward with force. Opening or closing it carelessly — especially unsupervised around children — can cause serious head injuries.
Can luggage fall out when I open the Golf Mk7 tailgate?
Yes. If the boot is fully loaded, items may shift during driving and fall out when the tailgate is opened. The manual advises opening the tailgate carefully and standing to the side.
Where can I find related tailgate topics in the Golf Mk7 manual?
The manual links to exterior views (tailgate location), central locking (tailgate locking behaviour), transporting (load securing) and manual opening (emergency release).


