Volkswagen Tiguan Owners Manual:  Introduction to the subject

In this chapter you will find information on the following subjects:

⇒ Warning light 

⇒ Opening the rear hatch 

⇒ Closing the rear hatch 

More information:

• Exterior views ⇒ Exterior views 

• Power locking system ⇒ Power locking and closing system 

• Transporting ⇒ Driving tips 

• Emergency closing and opening ⇒ Emergency closing and opening 

Warning

Accidents and severe personal injuries can result if you unlock, open, or close the rear hatch when someone is in the way.

• Only open or close the rear hatch if no one is in the way.

• After closing the rear hatch, always make sure that it is properly closed and locked so that it cannot open suddenly when the vehicle is moving. The closed rear hatch must be flush with the surrounding auto body parts.

• Always keep the rear hatch closed while driving to help keep poisonous exhaust gas from being drawn into the vehicle.

• Never open the rear hatch when a luggage rack is installed and loaded. If, for example, there are bicycles on a carrier on the rear hatch, it is possible that the lid may be difficult to open. An open rear hatch may fall on its own because of the additional weight. If necessary, prop open rear hatch. Remove the weight from the luggage rack first.

• Close and lock the rear hatch and all doors when the vehicle is not in use. First, make sure that no one is left inside the vehicle.

• Never leave your vehicle unattended or let children play around your vehicle, especially when the rear hatch is open. A child could crawl into the vehicle and pull the rear hatch shut, becoming trapped and unable to get out. A closed vehicle can become very hot or very cold, depending on the season. Particularly in the summer, heat buildup in the passenger and luggage compartment of a parked vehicle can result in temperatures in the vehicle that are much higher than the outside temperatures. Temperatures can quickly reach levels that can cause unconsciousness and death, particularly to small children.

• Never leave children or anyone who cannot help themselves behind in the vehicle. They may lock the vehicle with the vehicle key or the power locking switch and lock themselves in.

Note

Before opening or closing the rear hatch, make sure there is enough room to do so, as for example when the vehicle has a trailer or is in a garage.

At temperatures below +32 °F (0 °C), the rear hatch may be difficult to open after you unlock it. It will be necessary to lift it by hand.