Volkswagen ID.4: Trailer stabilization

If a trailer is hitched to the vehicle and it begins to sway, the trailer stabilization can detected this and countersteer.

Trailer stabilization is an additional feature of the Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

If the system detects that the trailer is swaying, the trailer stabilization will automatically countersteer to the reduce "vibration" of the trailer.

Trailer stabilization requirements

• The trailer hitch must be installed at the factory or a compatible trailer hitch must be retrofitted.
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR) must be active. The or indicator light in the instrument cluster must not be on.
• The trailer must be connected to the electrical system in the towing vehicle via the trailer socket.
• The driving speed must be less than 60 km/h (37 mph).
• The maximum tongue weight must be used.
• The trailer must have a fixed drawbar.
• Braked trailers must have a mechanical overrun protection device.

System limitations

The trailer stabilization may not respond or may have a limited response in the following driving situations.

• The trailer stabilization switches off when ESC is deactivated.
• Trailer stabilization may not always detect if a light trailer is swaying and stabilize it.
• When driving on slippery roads with poor traction, the trailer can still jackknife despite the trailer stabilization.
• Trailers with a high center of gravity can tip before you notice any swaying back and forth.
• If there is no trailer hitched to the vehicle but there is a connector in the trailer socket, for example from a bike carrier with lights, sudden braking maneuvers may occur automatically in extreme driving situations.

WARNING

The trailer stabilization is not a replacement for the driver's attention and works only within the system limitations.

This means that the trailer stabilization cannot detect all driving situations and may not react, or may react with a delay, or may react in a way that is not desired. If you are careless, there is a risk of accidents, serious injuries and death.

• Always stay attentive and do not rely solely on the system. The driver is always responsible for control of the vehicle.
• Observe the system limitations → System limitations.
• Accelerate carefully on slippery roads.
• Take your foot off the accelerator pedal when a system is actively regulating.
• Always adapt your speed and driving style to the visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.

Driving with a trailerSwiveling out the ball mount