Retrofitting ISOFIX in your Golf 4: A must for your little ones’ safety.
The safety of our children in the car is a top priority. While modern vehicles are typically equipped with ISOFIX anchors as standard, older models like the Golf 4 often lack them. But don’t worry: Retrofitting ISOFIX in your Golf 4 is usually possible and offers peace of mind when transporting your little ones.
What is ISOFIX?
ISOFIX is an international standard child car seat mounting system designed to simplify installation and enhance safety. Unlike securing a seat using the vehicle’s seat belt, an ISOFIX seat connects directly to anchor points built into the car’s bodywork. This significantly reduces the risk of incorrect installation and ensures optimal energy dissipation in the event of a collision.
ISOFIX anchor points in a Golf 4
Retrofitting ISOFIX in a Golf 4: Step-by-Step Guide
Before you begin the retrofit, you should verify that your Golf 4 has the necessary anchor points. These are typically located between the seat base and backrest of the rear seat bench. Unfortunately, if these points are not present, retrofitting is not possible.
Required Materials:
- ISOFIX retrofit kit for Golf 4 (available from auto parts stores)
- Tool kit (wrenches, sockets, etc.)
Step 1:
Remove the cover caps from the ISOFIX anchor points on your Golf 4.
Step 2:
Position the ISOFIX brackets from the retrofit kit onto the anchor points and bolt them securely. Ensure the brackets are seated correctly and tightened firmly.
Step 3:
Reinstall the cover caps to conceal the bolts and ensure a neat appearance.
Step 4:
Verify the correct installation of the ISOFIX brackets by test-fitting an ISOFIX child seat. The seat should audibly click into place and be securely attached to the brackets.
ISOFIX child seat installed in a Golf 4
Benefits of Retrofitting ISOFIX in Your Golf 4
- Increased Safety: The rigid connection between the child seat and the vehicle provides optimal protection in the event of a collision.
- Ease of Use: Installing the child seat becomes much easier, and the risk of improper installation is minimized.
- Enhanced Stability: The fixed anchoring ensures the child seat is more stable and doesn’t shift around.
Frequently Asked Questions about Retrofitting ISOFIX in a Golf 4:
- Can I perform the ISOFIX retrofit myself? With some DIY skills, the retrofit is generally straightforward. However, if you are unsure, we recommend consulting a professional workshop.
- What are the costs involved? The cost of an ISOFIX retrofit kit for the Golf 4 varies depending on the manufacturer and supplier. You can expect costs between 30 and 80 Euros.
- Is ISOFIX mandatory? There is no general requirement to retrofit ISOFIX. However, using ISOFIX child seats is strongly recommended as they provide a significantly higher level of safety.
Conclusion
Retrofitting ISOFIX in your Golf 4 is an investment in your children’s safety and offers peace of mind while driving. The retrofit can be completed with a few simple steps and provides numerous benefits. If you have any questions about the retrofit or our products, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of automotive experts is ready to assist you.