Volkswagen Polo Quiz
Tow-starting and towing

Introduction

In this manual: Tow-starting and towing
Vehicle exterior — 4Vehicle interior — 8Instrument cluster — 14Before setting off — 14Opening and closing — 35Sitting correctly and safely — 46Lights and vision — 26Transporting items — 29Practical equipment — 20Starting the engine, changing gear and parking — 34Driver assist systems — 18Air conditioning system — 8At the filling station — 14In the engine compartment — 24Vehicle care and maintenance — 66Practical tips — 2In an emergency — 5Manual opening and closing — 6Vehicle toolkit — 4Hubcaps — 4Changing a wheel — 9Breakdown set — 7Fuses — 4Changing a bulb — 13Starting the engine with jump leads — 4Tow-starting and towing — 7
~2min read

This chapter contains information on the following subjects:

→ Notes on tow-starting
→ Notes on towing
→ Fitting the front towing eye
→ Rear towing eye
→ Driving tips when towing

Comply with any legal requirements when towing and tow starting.

For technical reasons, vehicles with a discharged battery must not be tow-started.

Towing a vehicle when the engine is switched off and the ignition is switched on discharges the vehicle battery. Depending on the vehicle battery charge level, the drop in voltage can be large enough after just a few minutes that electrical consumers in the vehicle will no longer function, e.g. the hazard warning lights.

Additional information and warnings:

  • Exterior views
  • Changing gear
  • Engine management system and exhaust purification system
  • Starting the engine with jump leads
Never tow a vehicle that has no power supply.
  • Never remove the key from the ignition. Otherwise the steering column lock could engage suddenly. You will no longer be able to steer the vehicle. This can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle, accidents and serious injuries.
  • If the power supply to the towed vehicle is disconnected, stop towing immediately and seek expert assistance.
If a vehicle is being towed, the vehicle handling and braking effect will change significantly. Please note the following in order to reduce the risk of an accident or serious injuries:
  • Notes for the driver of the towed vehicle:
    • You will need to depress the brake pedal more vigorously than normal as the brake servo is not working. Always be careful not to drive into the vehicle that is pulling your vehicle.
    • You will need to turn the steering wheel more vigorously as the power-assisted steering function is not working.
  • Notes for the driver of the towing vehicle
    • Accelerate carefully and gently.
    • Avoid sudden braking and driving manoeuvres.
    • Brake earlier than normal by pressing lightly on the brake pedal.

NOTICE

  • Remove and install the cover and the towing eye carefully so as to avoid damage to the vehicle, e.g. the paintwork.
  • Unburnt fuel can enter the catalytic converter and damage it while the vehicle is being towed.

Test yourself

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