Volkswagen Golf Mk7 Owners Manual: Opening and closing the bonnet

Fig. 190 In the footwell on the driver side: lever for releasing the bonnet

Fig. 191 Release lever for opening the bonnet above the radiator grille

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

Opening the bonnet

• Ensure that the windscreen wiper arms are positioned on the windscreen before opening the bonnet  .

• Open the driver door and pull the release lever in the direction of the arrow  . The bonnet is released from its lock by a spring mechanism  .

• Lift the bonnet at the release lever   (arrow) and open fully. The bonnet is held in the open position by the gas-filled strut.

Closing the bonnet

• To close the bonnet, pull it down to overcome the gas strut pressure  .

• Let the bonnet drop into the catches from a height of about 30 cm – do not press it down!

If the bonnet is not closed, open it again and close it properly.

The bonnet sits flush with the body parts around it when it is closed properly. The indicator lamp in the instrument cluster will no longer be lit up   .

WARNING

If the bonnet is not closed properly, it can open suddenly while you are driving and completely obscure your view of the road. This can lead to accidents and serious injuries.

• After closing the bonnet, always check that it is properly secured. The bonnet must be flush with the surrounding body panels.

• If you notice that the bonnet is not closed properly while the vehicle is in motion, stop the vehicle as soon as possible and close the bonnet.

• Therefore the bonnet should only be opened or closed when you are sure that nobody is in its path.

NOTICE

• The bonnet should only be opened when the wiper arms are flush to the windscreen in order to avoid damage to the bonnet and the windscreen wiper arms.

• Always return the windscreen wiper arms to the windscreen before starting your journey.

Questions & answers

Opening and closing the bonnet — Volkswagen Golf Mk7

How do I open the Golf Mk7 bonnet?

Pull the release lever in the driver's footwell, go to the front of the car, reach under the bonnet edge and push the secondary catch to the side, then lift the bonnet. The gas strut holds it open.

How do I close the Golf Mk7 bonnet safely?

Lower it to about 20 cm above the latch, then let it drop under its own weight. Do not push it down hard — the latch should catch with the drop alone. Check the warning lamp goes out.

Can the Golf Mk7 bonnet blow open while driving?

If the primary or secondary catch is not engaged, the bonnet can lift at speed. If the bonnet warning lamp is on, stop immediately and close the bonnet properly.

Does the Golf Mk7 bonnet have a gas strut?

Yes. A single gas strut holds the bonnet open. If the strut weakens, the bonnet may drop — support it with the strut replaced by a Volkswagen dealer.