Volkswagen builds durable, long-lasting cars. However, your trusty VW still needs TLC to live up to its well-deserved reputation. Here are five tips to keep it in excellent shape for years.
Carefully Select Your Mechanic
If you own a Golf R, only take it to an automobile mechanic who has specialized in German auto repair. If you need to replace any components, the aftermarket offers a wide variety of excellent Golf R parts that will save you money.
Maintain A Regular Oil Change
Volkswagen generally recommends changing your oil every 10,000 miles for newer cars. However, change it more often if you drive a lot in stop-and-go traffic or in extreme temperatures.
Older cars have to have the oil changed more frequently. However, if you use a better grade of oil, then you need an oil change less frequently. For instance, if you use synthetic oil, for instance, you might be able to go up to 7,500 miles between changes. Incidentally, if you use this type of oil in your turbocharged engine, you might even be able to go even longer without needing an oil change.
When should you change the oil? The quickest way to find out is to consult your owner’s manual. Alternatively, you can buy an oil life monitor (also called an OLM), which is a computerized system that monitors how much oil your car uses and will notify you when it’s time for an oil change. Another option is to manually track your mileage.
Whatever method you choose, check the level regularly and top off when necessary.
The biggest mistake car owners make is not changing their oil when it’s time because dirty oil can damage an engine.
Rotate Your Tires
Routine tire rotations result in longer tire life and increased fuel economy since all four tires wear evenly.
According to Consumer Report, you should rotate your wheels from between 5,000 to 8,000 miles. Volkswagen’s recommendations fall within this range, suggesting you do it every 7,500 miles. Even though that seems excessive, it isn’t that long when you consider how often you drive. If, say, you drive 30 miles a day, you’ll drive 250 miles a week. So, when you follow the automaker’s recommendations, you’ll only rotate your tires every 30 weeks.
Typically, you rotate your car’s wheels by moving the front tires to the back and the back tires to the front. You can also move the rear tires to the opposite side of the car. A dealer can advise you if you’re uncertain about the best pattern for your model.
Inflate Your Tires Properly
Underinflated tires can adversely affect handling and prematurely wear out tires. Check the tire pressure once a month.
Service Your Car On Time
If you want your vehicle to stay in good condition, service it on schedule. The manufacturer recommends that you service your car every 10,000 km or every 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on the model you own and how frequently you drive.
Regular service keeps your car in good condition and can prevent future problems. It also allows Volkswagen technicians to check your car for any recalls or software updates. Your car will also need periodic system flushes. Consult your owner’s manual or dealer for specific service interval recommendations.
Despite VW’s well-deserved reputation for reliability, rough driving conditions, like potholes and harsh weather, can cause mechanical problems. If you follow these tips, you will be able to maintain your automobile for many years to come.
-
AI Car Expert: I am here to help you with your car questions. Ask me anything.
