Volkswagen Touran Owners Manual: Trailer stabilisation

First read and observe the introductory information and safety warnings 

The trailer stabilisation function is an extension to the electronic stabilisation programme (ESP). It helps, in conjunction with the driver steering recommendation function, to reduce the risk of rocking when towing a trailer.

An active trailer stabilisation function can be recognised when the ESP indicator lamp in the instrument cluster lights up for approximately two seconds longer than the ABS indicator lamp.

Requirements for trailer stabilisation

• The vehicle is a factory-fitted towing bracket or a compatible towing bracket is fitted.

• The ESP is active. The indicator lamp or in the instrument cluster is not lit up.

• The trailer is electrically connected to the towing vehicle via the trailer socket.

• The vehicle speed is higher than approximately 60 km/h (37 mph).

• The maximum drawbar load is being carried.

• The trailer must have a rigid drawbar.

• Trailers with brakes must have a mechanical overrun system.

WARNING

Do not let the extra safety afforded by the trailer stabilisation function tempt you into taking any risks when driving – this can cause accidents.

• Adapt your speed and driving style to suit visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.

• Accelerate carefully on slippery surfaces.

• Take your foot off the accelerator if one of the systems is active.

WARNING

The trailer stabilisation function may not be able to recognise all driving situations correctly.

• Light trailers that are snaking will not be recognised by the trailer stabilisation function and stabilised accordingly in all cases.

• A trailer might still jack-knife on a slippery surface with little grip.

• Trailers with a high centre of gravity might tip over before snaking starts.

• Sudden braking procedures could occur automatically in extreme driving situations if the trailer socket is being used without a trailer (e.g. for a bicycle carrier with lighting).