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Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Owners Manual: Driving with an open tailgate

The manual is direct: driving the Volkswagen Golf Mk7 with an open tailgate is particularly dangerous. This page explains why — from unsecured objects falling out to toxic exhaust fumes being drawn into the cabin — and what precautions to take if you absolutely must drive a short distance this way.

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

Driving with an open tailgate is particularly dangerous. Ensure that the open tailgate and any objects are secured properly, and take appropriate measures to reduce the quantity of toxic exhaust fumes entering the vehicle.

WARNING

Driving with an unlocked or open tailgate can cause serious injuries.
  • Always drive with the tailgate closed.
  • Always stow all items in the luggage compartment securely. Loose objects can fall out of the luggage compartment and injure other road users.
  • Always drive carefully and ensure that you think ahead.
  • Avoid any abrupt or sudden driving and braking manoeuvres as this can cause the open tailgate to move unpredictably.
  • Any objects protruding from the luggage compartment must be marked to ensure that they are visible to other road users. Comply with legal regulations.
  • Any objects protruding from the luggage compartment must never be held in position by the tailgate.
  • If it is necessary to drive with the tailgate open, all luggage racks and cargo stowed on the rack must be removed from the tailgate.

WARNING

Poisonous exhaust fumes can enter the vehicle interior when the tailgate is open. This can result in loss of consciousness, carbon monoxide poisoning, serious injury and accidents.
  • Always drive with the tailgate closed in order to prevent toxic gases from entering the vehicle.
  • If exceptional circumstances require you to drive with an open tailgate, you must do the following to reduce the quantity of toxic exhaust fumes that could enter the vehicle:
    • Close all windows and the electric panorama sliding/tilting roof.
    • Switch off the air recirculation mode of the heating and fresh air system or switch off the air conditioning system.
    • Open all vents in the dash panel.
    • Switch the blowers for the heating and fresh air system, or for the air conditioning system, to the highest setting.

NOTICE

The vehicle length and height are different when the tailgate is open.

    Questions & answers

    Driving with an open tailgate — Volkswagen Golf Mk7

    Is it safe to drive the Golf Mk7 with the tailgate open?
    The manual calls it 'particularly dangerous'. Exhaust fumes can enter the cabin, visibility is reduced, and unsecured loads can fall onto the road.
    What precautions should I take if I must drive the Golf Mk7 with the tailgate open?
    Secure the tailgate and any protruding load, set the ventilation to fresh air (not recirculation), and keep all windows closed to prevent exhaust fumes from entering the cabin.
    Can exhaust fumes enter the Golf Mk7 cabin with the tailgate open?
    Yes. The low-pressure area behind the car draws exhaust gas into the cabin. This can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Ventilation must be set to fresh air and windows kept shut.
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