2022 Volkswagen Jetta Owners Manual - Stowing luggage and cargo

Stowing luggage and cargo

Stowing luggage securely in the vehicle

• Distribute luggage as evenly as possible in the vehicle. Do not cover any vent openings.

• Always stow luggage and heavy objects in the luggage compartment ⇒  and place them as far forward in the compartment as possible.

• Adhere to the Gross Axle Weight Rating and Gross Vehicle Weight Rating ⇒ Technical data.

• Also store small objects securely.

• If necessary, fold the rear seat backrest down and lock it securely.

• If necessary, adjust the headlight range. Vehicles with dynamic headlight range control will adjust automatically.

• Adjust the tire pressure based on the load. Follow the tire pressure label ⇒ Tire pressure.

WARNING

Objects or animals that are not secured or are secured incorrectly can cause serious injuries in the event of sudden driving and braking maneuvers or a collision. This is especially true if the airbags deploy and strike objects, causing them to fly through the vehicle interior. To reduce the risk of damage, note the following:

• Store all objects securely in the vehicle. Follow the legal regulations whilst doing so.

• Stow objects in the vehicle interior in such a way that they will not enter the airbag deployment zone while you are driving.

• Secure animals in the vehicle restraint systems that are appropriate for their weight and size.

• Always keep the storage compartments closed while driving.

• Never stow objects in a location that requires you to adjust any seats to an incorrect seating position.

• If stowed objects block a seat, then no one should use this seat.

• Do not leave hard, heavy, or sharp objects loose in the open storage compartments in the vehicle, on the surface behind the rear seat backrest, or on the instrument panel.

• Remove hard, heavy, or sharp objects from clothing and bags in the vehicle interior and store them securely.

WARNING

When transporting heavy objects, the vehicle’s handling performance may change because of the altered center of gravity and the braking distance may increase. If not stored or secured correctly, heavy objects can cause you to lose control of the vehicle and cause serious injuries.

• Never overload the vehicle. Both the load and the distribution of the load in the vehicle affect driving behavior and braking efficiency.

• When transporting heavy objects, the vehicle handling performance may change due to the shift in the center of gravity.

• Always distribute the load evenly and as low down in the vehicle as possible.

• Secure heavy objects in the luggage compartment as far in front of the rear axle as possible.

• Loose objects in the luggage compartment can slide around suddenly and alter the vehicle handling.

• Always adapt your speed and driving style to the visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.

• Accelerate with extra care and caution.

• Avoid sudden braking or driving maneuvers.

• Apply the brakes earlier than usual.

NOTICE

Abrasive objects on the rear windows can cause damage, for example to the heating elements for the rear window defroster.

NOTICE

Do not attach a luggage rack or any other kind of carrying system, e.g. bicycle rack, to the vehicle's rear spoiler.