You know that you need to service your Volkswagen, but you might not be sure what is supposed to happen when. Having these regular check ups and keeping record of them will help improve the resale value of your car if you decide to eventually sell it or trade it in. It will also help to prevent major breakdowns of your car. This guide will help you maintain those milestones for your VW.

10,000 Miles

The 10,000-mile mark is one of the biggest for your VW. During this check-up, your mechanic will check all fluid levels and do a visual inspection of the airbag. Make sure to get your tires rotated, and have all your car’s cleaning functions checked, including the headlights, windshield, rear windshield, and wipers. You should have your oil changed and your oil filter replaced. Finally, have the interval display reset and the cleaning fluid reservoir topped off.

30,000 Miles

At 30,000 miles, all the services done at the 10,000 mark should be repeated. Your mechanic should also do a thorough inspection of your brake pads and check for corrosion on your discs. If you drive a manual transmission, make sure to have the clutch fluid and brake fluid reservoirs filled. During this check up your mechanic might also recommend balancing your front tires, inspecting the alignment, and draining and refilling the coolant.

60,000 Miles

The 60,000-mile service should include everything done at the previous maintenance. In addition, now is the time to check your battery and make sure it doesn’t need to be replaced. The mechanic should check the shock absorber for any damage and the brake discs for corrosion. It’s also time to replace the dust, pollen, and fuel filters. The tread on your tires should be inspected, and don’t forget to have the spare tire examined too. Finally, make sure the mechanic checks the expiration date on the tire filler bottle to make sure it hasn’t expired.

80,000 and 120,000 Miles

The 120,000 mile mark typically comes around the eighth year of owning your car. As your car ages, it, unfortunately, wears down. As mileage increases, the milestone checks become more comprehensive and more important. Be vigilant as your car ages to make sure it lasts as long as possible and to avoid breakdowns.  At the 80,000- and 120,000-mile milestones, you will need to watch for corrosion of the body. The mechanic should check the brake fluid, in addition to checking the brake system for corrosion and the brake pads for wear.

Now is the time for your mechanic to inspect the engine and cooling system for leaks. He should also check the transmission and driveshaft boots, and headlights should be adjusted if necessary. All other lighting, including interior lighting, overhead, glove box lighting, should be checked as well. Nuts and bolts throughout the car should be tightened if necessary. Finally, the underbody of the car should be examined for damage.

Keeping up your car is important. Don’t skip any of these important milestones.

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