Before the journey

Folding the front passenger seat backrest forwards

~2min read

Fig. 55 Folding the front passenger seat backrest forwards

Fig. 56 Unlatching the folding front passenger seat backrest

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings

The front passenger seat backrest can be folded forwards to a horizontal position.

The front passenger front airbag must be switched off if any items are to be transported on the front passenger seat when folded forwards .

Folding the front passenger seat backrest forwards

  • Remove any items from the front passenger seat cushion .
  • Lower the front passenger seat down as far as possible .
  • Push the head restraint all the way down .
  • Release the front passenger seat backrest in the direction of the arrow (arrow 1) and .
  • Fold the front passenger seat backrest forwards into the horizontal position (arrow 2).
  • When it is folded down, the front passenger seat backrest must click securely into place.

Folding back the front passenger seat backrest

  • When folding back, check to make sure that there are no items or body parts near the hinges.
  • To fold back, release the front passenger seat backrest (arrow 1).
  • Fold back the front passenger seat backrest so that it is upright. The backrest must click into place securely.
Injuries could be caused if the front passenger seat backrests are folded forwards and backwards carelessly.
  • Fold the front passenger seat backrest forwards and backwards only when the vehicle is stationary.
  • The front airbag must be switched off and the indicator lamp PASSENGER AIR BAG must light up for as long as the front passenger seat backrest is folded forwards.
  • When folding forwards and backwards, keep all hands, fingers, feet and other body parts away from the seat hinges and seat release mechanism.
  • Floor mats or other objects could get caught in the hinges on the front passenger seat backrest. This could cause the front passenger seat backrest to fail to engage securely when it is returned to the upright position.
  • When being folded back, the front passenger seat backrest must be securely locked in the upright position. If the front passenger seat backrest is not locked properly it could move suddenly and cause severe injuries.
The seat anchors and hinges of the folded front passenger seat backrest can cause serious injuries in the event of a sudden braking manoeuvre or accident.
  • Never transport people (adults or children) on the front passenger seat if the front passenger seat backrest is folded forwards.
  • If the front passenger seat backrest is folded forwards, you should only use the outer rear seat behind the driver seat. This also applies to children in child seats.

Test yourself

A quick Volkswagen Golf quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.