If you have just bought a new VW, odds are, you received a warranty with your new vehicle. Part of the warranty usually states that you must follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule or you run the risk of having the warranty voided. One key part of the maintenance schedule is routine oil changes. If you have never had a VW, your oil changes are going to be a bit different than what you are used to with American and Japanese vehicles. Here is what you should know about your VW and oil changes.

An Oil Change Costs More for a VW than the Majority of Other Vehicles

When you take your VW to receive its first oil change, you are going to notice that an oil change for this type of vehicle is going to cost you more than an oil change for many of the other types of vehicles on the road, such as Fords, Hondas and Toyotas. The exact cost for this service is going to vary greatly based on where you take the vehicle. The dealer or a certified service center will likely charge more than a basic oil change service center. However, you should be prepared to pay more for this type of oil change, so you don't receive sticker shock your first time you encounter this.

VWs Use Synthetic Oil

When you notice the price of an oil change for a VW, you may wonder why the price is so much higher. There are many myths as to why floating around there. Some people think it is harder to change the oil on a VW. Others think that oil changes on German-manufactured vehicles in general cost more. The biggest reason for the price differential is based on the type of oil that is used. VWs use synthetic oil, which is much more expensive than non-synthetic oil. Additionally, they recommend you only use synthetic oils approved by VW.

There are Many Benefits to Synthetic Oil

VW has decided to use engines that use synthetic oils, rather than regular oil. Although this type of oil costs more, there are many benefits to it, which is why VW has gone this route.

One of the biggest benefits to synthetic oils is that they help your car's engine stay clean. This is because synthetic oils have had the impurities removed from them. Regular oils have not, and because of this, the impurities lead to sludge and build-up that make an engine dirty and cause it to work harder. All in all, this reduces the wear on the engine, helping to optimize both its performance and its lifespan. This means your car will need less engine repairs and last longer.

The other big benefit to synthetic oil that is approved by VW is that it does not break down as quickly as traditional oil does. As such, you can go much longer between oil changes. This is a huge perk for those who want a reliable vehicle, but don't have time to service it as frequently as other types of vehicles.

VWs Need Oil Changes Less Frequently than Most Other Vehicles

The owner's manual for newer VWs state that your vehicle should have its oil changed every 12 months or 10,000 miles, whichever occurs sooner. This is a big departure from the traditional 3-month or 3,000- to 5,000-mile recommendation that is in place with Fords, Hondas and Toyotas.

If you have purchased a new VW, it is important to have it serviced as recommended by the manufacturer, or you run the risk of voiding the warranty on your vehicle. One of the services you will need often is an oil change. Learning how oil changes differ with VWs will help you prepare when your vehicle needs its first oil change. For more information or assistance, contact resources like Euroclassics Limited.