Opening and closing

Closing the tailgate

~2min read

Fig. 31 Open tailgate: handle recesses for closing the tailgate

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings

Closing the tailgate

  • Grip one of the recesses in the interior trim of the tailgate .
  • Pull the tailgate down with some force until it engages in the lock.
  • Pull the tailgate to make sure that it is engaged securely.

Locking the tailgate

The vehicle will be locked again if you do not open one of the doors or the tailgate within a few seconds automatically after unlocking the car. This function prevents the vehicle from remaining unlocked if the unlocking button is pressed by mistake.

The tailgate can only be locked when it is properly closed and engaged.

  • The tailgate is also locked by the central locking system.
  • If the tailgate of a locked vehicle is unlocked using the button in the vehicle key, it will lock again approximately 20 seconds after it is closed. The anti-theft alarm is activated immediately after it is closed .
  • If the tailgate is closed but not locked, it will lock automatically once the vehicle reaches a speed of approximately 9 km/h.
Serious injuries can occur if the tailgate is closed incorrectly or without due care and attention.
  • 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 could cause serious injuries or illness, or even have fatal consequences.

Before closing the tailgate, check that the vehicle key is not in the luggage compartment.

Test yourself

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