Before the journey

Introduction

~2min read
This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

→ General information on transporting children in the vehicle

→ Various securing systems

→ Using a child seat on the front passenger seat

→ Using a child seat on the rear seats

→ Securing child seats with a seat belt

→ Securing child seats using lower anchoring points (ISOFIX, LATCH)

→ Securing child seats with the top tether

It is imperative that you read all of the information concerning the airbag system before transporting babies or children in a child seat on the front passenger seat.

This information is very important for the safety of the driver and the safety of all passengers, babies and small children in particular.

Volkswagen recommends using child seats from Volkswagen's range of accessories. These child seats were developed and approved for use in Volkswagen vehicles. Child seats for the various different securing systems are available from a Volkswagen dealership.

Additional information and warnings:

  • Seat belts
  • Airbag system
Children who are not strapped in or who are not strapped in properly could sustain severe or fatal injuries while the vehicle is in motion.
  • Never use a rear-facing child seat on the front passenger seat when the front passenger front airbag is switched on.
  • Children up to 12 years of age should always be transported on the rear seat.
  • Always secure children in the vehicle in an authorised restraint system suitable for their height and weight.
  • Always fasten children's seat belts correctly and ensure that they assume a correct sitting position.
  • Adjust the seat backrest to an upright position if a child seat is to be used on this seat.
  • Do not allow children to sit with their heads or any other body parts in the deployment zone of the side airbag.
  • Ensure that the seat belt routing is correct.
  • Never allow children or babies to be transported on someone's lap, or held in someone's arms.
  • Only ever fasten one child into each child seat.
  • Read and follow the instructions by the manufacturer of the child seat.
An unsecured, unoccupied child seat could be flung through the vehicle interior in the event of a sudden braking manoeuvre or accident. This could cause injuries.
  • Always secure child seats safely or stow them in the luggage compartment if they are not being used while the vehicle is in motion.

Replace child seats that withstand any force during an accident as they could have sustained damage that may not be visible.

Test yourself

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