May 31, 2019

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Purchasing your first car is an exciting time and can represent a new chapter in your life, but it also involves a lot of research. Whether you’re in the market for a new or used Volkswagen model from our Peoria Volkswagen dealership, planning ahead and following these tips can help you avoid costly maintenance mistakes and ensure your first adventure into car ownership is successful.

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Read Your Owner’s Manual

While you don’t need to read your vehicle’s manual cover to cover, it is helpful to skim through and take note of service intervals and maintenance recommendations. Knowing how often you should complete routine services like fluid flushes and tire rotations, as well as what type of fuel and oil to use can keep your car running for years to come and help you avoid costly repairs later on. If an unfamiliar indicator pops up on your dashboard that you can’t solve with the owner’s manual, our Peoria service center can also help you understand exactly what these indicators mean.

Premium Gas Isn’t Always Better Than Regular

You may be tempted to fill your new ride with premium gas, however expensive isn’t always better! Utilizing premium gasoline in a ride that only recommends regular won’t hurt your car but does not offer any boost in acceleration or fuel economy. It’s important to consult your vehicle’s owner manual first before filling up to see what type of gasoline is recommended for optimal performance.

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Take Recalls Seriously

When you’re deciding on a new car, affordability and fuel-efficiency are vital factors to take into consideration. It’s just as important to research vehicle recalls, though, as this could lead to big regrets and expensive repairs down the line. Once you’ve purchased your new ride, keep an eye out for future recalls and take them seriously!

Don’t Drive On Empty Around Peoria

We’ve all tested the limits of what “empty” means in the hopes of avoiding the gas pump, but according to Consumer Reports, gasoline functions as a coolant for your vehicle’s electric motor that moves fuel along from the gas tank to the engine. If you’re running on empty, especially on a hot day, you run the risk of your motor overheating and replacements could cost you. Fixing this component costs more than a tank of gas so always fill up instead of pushing the boundaries of the “low fuel” warning light.

Buying a new vehicle is often one of the first big financial decisions people make and can come with a lot of confusion, but by doing your homework you can ensure car ownership is a simple and stress-free experience. Contact us at Lunde’s Peoria Volkswagen for more tips or to explore our inventory of quality, new cars.

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