Are you the proud owner of a Volkswagen? You likely want to do everything you can to ensure your European vehicle can go the distance. This will take some maintenance on your part over the years. The more proactive you can be now, the longer lifespan you’ll get out of your car. Here are some top tips to keep your Volkswagen running like new.

1. Check the Oil

No matter what make or model of car you have, changing the oil regularly is a must. This will keep your engine well lubricated and efficient. Scheduling an oil and filter change every 5,000 miles at the mechanic is one thing – checking it yourself in between is another. Don’t assume the level is OK just because it’s not technically time to bring the car in. Check it every month or so to make sure the levels and coloring are looking good.

2. Check the Wiper Blades

Most people simply wait too long to change out their wiper blades. Don’t wait till one of them snaps, or you hear a scraping noise against your windshield, or there’s an unexpected downpour. Your wiper blades play an important role in ensuring clear visibility on your windshield. If you don’t have the proper blades on there, this can result in dangerous accidents.

Signs you need to replace your wiper blades include:

Streaking or smearing on the window
A clacking noise against the windshield
The rubber squeegee looks damaged or you notice rust on the blades

3. Inspect Your Tires

Your tires are integral to overall driving quality and car health. You have to maintain healthy tires if you want to get the longest lifespan out of them. It’s important to be able to identify when your tires need replacing before you run the risk of a blowout or accident. Here are ways you can ensure your tires are up to snuff against the Volkswagen brand:

PSI levels: Keep PSI levels between 30 and 35. Check often.
Don’t under or over inflate your tires: Under-inflation places stress on the engine because the car needs more energy to move. Over-inflation may make the tire expand beyond its limits and even explode if heat is present.
Check the tread: You can do this with a quarter. Stick the coin in head first. If you see George’s head, the tread is too shallow and worn, and the tire should be replaced.

4. Check the Battery

Ensuring a strong battery connection is vital in keeping your Volkswagen running smoothly every day. Visually inspect the battery every once in a while. If you see crunchy white residue, clean it or replace the battery, as this can prevent your vehicle from starting properly.