Has anyone got a tow bar fitted to their VRS hatch that did not require the bumper to be cut into. I want to get a bike rack and am currently debating whether to go for a tow bar mounted rack or roof mounted. Any experiences on either of these options would be greatly appreciated. I have done a search on the forums for both subjects and come up with some info on the bike racks but not found anything on the cutting of the bumper.

Cheers

There were some good pictures posted recently showing various towbars and the need to cut bumpers or not as the case may be.

I want to use my vRS Diesel for towing, but assumed that it was dealer fit only (as no mention in brochure and no mention from salesman, even though I told him of my towing needs) - so I didn't include it in my factory order.

What is the difference, if any, between FACTORY and DEALER fit detachable towbars and electrics (in terms of features, usage, visibility, and COST!) ?

Need to know ASAP so I can add to order if the factory one is better and/or cheaper - Thanks

Dealer can fit you an org item.

But the difference is the cutout in the bumber.

Most cases, removed towing bar cutout is impossible to detect,

unless you go under the bumber.

Atleast mine is. I have the org towing bar, installed by dealer, not factory.

Dealer can fit you an org item.

But the difference is the cutout in the bumber.

Are you saying that the factory one has no cut-out? If so does the factory install have a different final valence or the towbar is of a different design?

My dealer quoted

I have ordered my VRS TDi Hatchback with the detachable towbar which is costing

I have ordered my VRS TDi Hatchback with the detachable towbar which is costing

No cutting involved. Genuine Skoda.

EEA60001 I think is the part #

Cheers for all the replies. Flynntech- great pics, looks a nice job and completely invisible when removed (just what I am looking for).

I am not sure I can add the towbar to my order now (too late)

But Flynntech, your install looks great.

Do you have CANBUS integrated electrics?

I fitted it myself. The dealer can retrofit it for you.

Regarding the electrics I bought a 3rd party relay kit and wired it in myself. A wire had to be run from the fuseboard back to the relay box.

No problems with the wiring. VAGCOM has given it a clean bill of health.

Just a note on wiring...

I have a factory fitted towbar & single 13pin electrics. When the car locked and alarmed, the alarm monitors the towing socket, so if the trailer/caravan is unpluged the alarm goes off.

Not sure you'd get this with a 3rd party relay kit.

No unfortunately it doesnt.

Just a note on wiring...

I have a factory fitted towbar & single 13pin electrics. When the car locked and alarmed, the alarm monitors the towing socket, so if the trailer/caravan is unpluged the alarm goes off.

You also get bulb failure warnings for the trailer/caravan lights...