Modern car ownership is a way of life.
Vehicles today are a joy to drive. They’re more advanced than ever. Evolving technology means they’ll only continue to get better at serving your driving needs. And, in our opinion, brands in the Volkswagen Group represent the pinnacle of the automotive world.
Keeping your Volkswagen in prime condition goes far beyond filling up with petrol and occasionally going through the automatic car wash. Regular servicing is an essential health check for ensuring optimal performance, safety and longevity.
This blog explores Volkswagen’s recommended servicing intervals and explains why they’re so essential to adhere to.
Importance of following Volkswagen’s recommended service intervals
Service schedules can feel frustrating. They inevitably feel like inconveniences, that sometimes end up being quite costly. However, Volkswagen doesn’t recommend servicing intervals on a whim. VW servicing schedules are based on extensive research and testing and are implemented with the sole objective of keeping your vehicle running smoothly. Here’s why sticking to these intervals is so crucial:
- Optimised performance – a vehicle’s engine and components perform much better when they receive proper care, lubrication and testing. You’ll feel a massive difference between a car with no service history and an equivalent model serviced as recommended.
- Retained value – having a full service history (FSH) is a valuable benefit when selling your car. It shows potential buyers that you’ve taken care of your vehicle, increasing its value and making it much easier to sell.
- Improved safety – routine inspections sometimes uncover potential issues before they become safety hazards. This allows you to get them addressed and fixed, keeping your Volkswagen safe for everyone on the road.
- Increased durability – proper maintenance can extend your Volkswagen’s lifespan. You’ll encounter fewer costly repairs and adverse effects from premature wear and tear.
What does a Volkswagen service involve?
During your Volkswagen service, qualified technicians perform various tasks to ensure your Volkswagen is in optimal condition. These tasks should include the following (at minimum):
Oil and filter changes
These are essential for maintaining engine lubrication and preventing premature wear. The oil keeps the metal components from generating excess heat through friction, and the oil filter removes particulates from the oil. Refreshing both leads to a much happier, smoother-running car.
Fluid top-ups and replacements
Alongside the engine oil, technicians will check and, if necessary, top up the other critical fluids. These include brake fluid, coolant, washer fluid and, if applicable, automatic transmission fluid and power steering fluid.
Component inspections
Inspections during a service generally include a visual check of components such as tyres, brakes, suspension, steering rods and exhaust pipe. The technician may tug and gently (but firmly) pull or push on certain parts (such as the wheels) to ensure they’re attached securely. They’ll inform you of any obvious faults when they call you to let you know that the service has finished and ask whether they should proceed with relevant repairs.
Diagnostic checks
Garages should come equipped with diagnostic equipment. Advanced onboard diagnostics (OBD II) code readers allow technicians an unparalleled look into the inner workings of a car’s drivetrain and electrical system. Sometimes, these checks highlight issues that are otherwise invisible and unnoticeable.
Keeping accurate service records and selecting a qualified service centre
Ensuring top-quality manufacturer support and an optimal selling experience means maintaining accurate records of all maintenance tasks. This entails keeping service invoices and receipts and updating your vehicle’s service booklet or digital service record. For brands in the Volkswagen Group, you should look for a service centre with access to VW’s online service portal. The portal allows the service centre to update your service records directly, ensuring their accuracy and completeness. It also provides a secure and convenient way to access your service history, which can be beneficial when selling your car or for warranty claims.
When choosing a service centre for your Volkswagen, opt for one staffed with certified technicians with the expertise and experience to work on Volkswagen Group models.
That’s where we at Sunset VW enter the fray. With over 40 years of VW knowledge, we’re Derby’s trusted service centre specialising in VW, Audi, Skoda and Seat vehicles. With genuine Volkswagen parts and cutting-edge equipment, our service bays are open and ready for you.
Adhering to Volkswagen’s servicing guidelines and trusting a qualified service centre like Sunset VW means you can rest assured that your vehicle is in capable hands.
Book your next service with us today to ensure your Volkswagen continues by your side, operating smoothly for as long as you need.