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Maintaining Your Volkswagen

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When it comes to longevity and quality, it's hard to beat a Volkswagen vehicle. Since the Beetle was first commissioned in the 1930s, the brand has been synonymous with both style and function. However, to get the most from your Volkswagen, it's important to stay current on routine and preventative maintenance. Properly maintained vehicles are safer, more reliable and higher functioning than vehicles that are neglected. Here's a few tips for maintaining your Volkswagen for years of enjoyment.

Check Your Fluid Levels

One of the simplest — yet often neglected — ways to keep your Volkswagen in top shape is to check your oil and other fluids regularly. This is the case whether you own a VW camper Westfalia, a diesel VW Passat or another model. While taking your vehicle in for routine oil changes is always recommended, you still need to know how to check the level in between scheduled maintenance. In addition to your oil, other fluids to keep an eye on include coolant, power steering fluid, transmission fluid and brake fluid. Your VW manual includes details on how to check these conditions at home. If any fluids are low for long, it could lead to engine failure.

Replace Hoses and Belts When Necessary

You can't see them, but the hoses and belts under your hood are some of your Volkswagen's most important components. Keep in mind that these materials are operating under rough, hot conditions. They tend to wear more quickly than other components, and when they do, you know it immediately. On a monthly basis, pop your hood and take a look at all the rubber elements. Do they look cracked or frayed in any places? If so, don't shrug it off and keep on driving your Volkswagen. Take it into the shop as soon as possible for a replacement.

Check Tire Pressure

Don't wait for a flat tire to call your local Volkswagen mechanic for a tire change. If you suspect your tires are losing air or have a foreign object stuck in them, have a mechanic take a look immediately. Low tire pressure doesn't just lead to an uncomfortable ride. It could also cause your vehicle to swerve unexpectedly or inhibit steering. On a regular basis, visually inspect your tires for signs of pressure loss and other wear and tear. Some Volkswagen dealerships and other VW official experts claim that a new set of tires on your vehicle should last between 12,000 and 15,000 miles. While this is helpful information, the specific lifespan of your tires could vary greatly, depending on the age, condition and model of your car.

Schedule Regular Maintenance Visits

It's critical to take your Volkswagen in for all of its scheduled, routine maintenance visits. Even if nothing is wrong and it's running like a charm, don't skip these visits. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and this is essential to vehicle maintenance. As recommended by your VW manuals and other documentation, take your vehicle in for air and fuel filter changes, fluid changes, transmission checks, wire replacements and other steps. Doing so can extend the lifespan of your vehicle and give you peace of mind. You can also help keep your Volkswagen running well by keeping it clean both inside and out. It might seem like this is only aesthetics, but vaccuuming and wiping down your car can help prevent rust and corrosion. Like any major investment, your Volkswagen will give back to you what you put into it. Take it in for routine maintenance, replace parts as required and keep an eye on your fluid levels. Then, sit back and cruise, knowing you're in one of the coolest and most iconic vehicles around.