Here are the five things you need to do to prepare your Volkswagen for spring

Believe it or not, spring is right around the corner which means that we’re about to embark on another season of driving. But before we break free from our winter blues and head out on the open road, there are a few things that need to be done to properly prepare your favorite Volkswagen.

The following is a checklist of simple things that should be addressed before the summer driving season opens:

1. Checking the brakes: When temperatures drop, rubber seals can become brittle and brake parts may not work as effectively. Have the brakes inspected for signs of wear and tear. Be sure to have the brake pads and rotors checked for any irregular patterns or warping. If you hear grinding noises when braking, that could be a sign of worn brake pads and should be inspected by a technician immediately.

2. Replacing oil and oil filter: Oil and oil filters are like your car’s blood and liver – they are essential to keeping your engine running smoothly and efficiently, especially during periods of high heat or cold spells. It’s important to replace these every six months or as recommended by the automaker to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle’s engine components.

3. Changing your antifreeze or coolant: During the winter months, antifreeze can become depleted and contaminated with dirt and even rust particles. It’s important to replace this annually in order to prevent any damage or corrosion to your engine’s components.

4. Inspecting tires for proper inflation and signs of wear or switching to summer tires: When your winter tires were installed on your Volkswagen, your summer tires were inspected and therefore should be go to this year. A good tip involves checking your tire pressure monthly and being sure to adjust as necessary, especially before long trips. Tires that are under-inflated will make it difficult to control your car during wet conditions or sharp turns as well as increase wear and tear.

5. Clean out your vehicle: This step could be your weekend project. Winter is a messy season and inevitably drags itself into the vehicle. Start by removing all the dirt and debris that has built up during the winter months. Vacuum interior surfaces, center console, and floors, then move on to scrubbing all surfaces. Next, take your Volkswagen for a thorough touchless car-wash. If possible, opt for the undercarriage wash. Then, move on to cleaning interior windows and mirrors with glass cleaner.

Making an appointment today to get all of this looked at will ensure that you and your Volkswagen are ready for a safe and enjoyable springtime adventure!

Happy driving!