Volkswagen ID.4: Attaching a rear carrier system or bicycle rack to the ball mount

Rear carrier systems are understood to include, for instance, bicycle racks or storage containers, which are attached to the ball mount.

Only use rear carrier systems that are provided for the vehicle model, model year and vehicle equipment by the corresponding manufacturer → .

Volkswagen recommends the use of Volkswagen original parts or Volkswagen original accessories, which you can acquire from an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Attach the rear carrier system according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Maximum load of the rear carrier system

Fig. 1 Recommended weight distribution on the rear carrier system.

The carrying load is made up of the rear carrier system and the load transported on it.

The maximum recommended carrying load for the rear carrier system attached to the ball mount may vary from the vehicle-specific trailer tongue weight rating for the vehicle.

However, do not exceed the model-dependent, maximum drawbar load of the towing bracket.

The carrying load is reduced due to the effect of leverage, the further the center of gravity of the rear carrier system is from the ball mount.

Position heavy items as close to the ball mount as possible → fig. 1.

Vehicle-specific maximum carrying load

To find out the recommended carrying load for your vehicle, check the trailer tongue weight rating of your vehicle.

The carrying load can then be found in the following table. In accordance with Directive UN-R 55, Volkswagen recommends complying with the specified number of bicycles on the rear carrier system.

Maximum overhang of the rear carrier system

Fig. 2 General example of the maximum overhang on one bicycle rack for two or three bicycles.

1. For a carrying load up to 55 kg (121 lbs): 500 mm (approx. 19.7 inches).
2. For a carrying load of 75 kg (165 lbs): 700 mm (approx. 27.6 inches).

On bicycle rack systems with two bicycles, the maximum overhang must not exceed 500 mm (approx. 19.7 inches) from the center of the ball mount to the center of the bar on the last bicycle rack → fig. 2 A. On bicycle rack systems with three bicycles, it must not exceed 700 mm (approx. 27.6 inches) → fig. 2 B.

WARNING

Improper use of a rear carrier system mounted on the ball mount of the trailer hitch can cause accidents and serious injury or death.

• Ensure that the rear carrier system is suitable for use on your vehicle.
• Always read and follow the assembly instructions provided by the rear carrier system manufacturer.
• Never secure a rear carrier system on the ball mount below the coupling ball. The rear carrier system could slip because of the shape of the ball mount.

Volkswagen recommends removing as many attachments as possible from the items to be loaded onto the rear carrier system before the journey. This includes bicycle baskets and paniers, child seats and batteries.

This improves the wind load and the center of gravity of the rear carrier system.

Introduction

Depending on the model, the vehicle may be designed to have a roof rack installed.

Bulky objects can be transported on the vehicle roof using the roof rack.

If you are not sure if your vehicle is designed to have a roof rack installed, check with an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility. Volkswagen recommends contacting an authorized Volkswagen dealer or authorized Volkswagen Service Facility.

Only use roof racks that are approved by Volkswagen for use with your vehicle.

Do not use or retrofit a roof rack if this is not approved for your vehicle.

WARNING

When transporting large, heavy, long, or flat loads on the roof rack, the vehicle's driving characteristics and aerodynamics change because of the different center of gravity and increased wind resistance. This may cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.

• Always secure cargo correctly with suitable and undamaged cords, fixation belts or tensioning straps.
• Avoid abrupt and sudden driving and braking maneuvers.
• Always adapt your speed and driving style to the visibility, weather, road and traffic conditions.

WARNING

If the use of a roof rack is not approved for your vehicle or a roof rack that is incompatible with the vehicle is fitted, it may detach and fall from the roof of the vehicle while you are driving. This may cause accidents and serious or fatal injuries.

• Only use roof racks that are approved by Volkswagen for the vehicle.
• Do not fit roof racks if they are not approved for your vehicle.

NOTICE

Installing any type of roof rack onto a vehicle that is not approved for use of a roof rack can cause serious damage.

• Do not fit roof racks if they are not approved for your vehicle.

Driving with a roof rack fitted increases the air resistance of the vehicle and thus also the energy consumption of the electric drivetrain. This reduces the potential vehicle range significantly. This applies to all roof racks and any objects transported on them, such as bicycles and skis.

Dimensions and mounting points for retrofitting a trailer hitchMounting a roof rack