Winter is Coming: Prepping your SUV for the Colder Months Ahead

Easy Ways to Keep Your Volkswagen SUV on the Road

One of the best parts about owning a Volkswagen SUV is that you’re riding in one of the safest automobiles manufactured. However, your VW SUV still needs a little extra TLC before winter.

It may seem like an enormous task, but preparing your vehicle for cold weather is a lot easier than you think. Check out these easy steps to get your Volkswagen ready for winter, so you can hit the road for the holidays.

And if you need help, visit us at VW SouthTowne, where our expert technicians can take care of your vehicle.

Talk to Your Volkswagen Dealership About Winter Tires

The first step to safely driving in winter is having appropriate tires. What separates snow tires from all-weather tires is that they are a lot thicker and the pattern of the tread is better for taking on snow and ice. They are created with a softer type of rubber in order to achieve a better grip on a cold road; they won’t harden as temperatures drop.

Winter tires don’t wear well on summer roads, so if you drive a SUV like a VW Atlas, Tiguan, or any other VW SUV, enjoy all-weather tires in the summer to stay safe on slippery roads. However, plan on coming into your service center to switch to winter tires. If you don’t need new tires, make sure they have the proper tread and pressure.

Check Your Battery to Ensure You’re Not Stuck in the Cold

When your SUV’s battery loses power, the only thing you can do is replace it. Would you like to find out you need a new battery from the comfort of a Volkswagen service center, or in the middle of a freezing winter day?

Getting your battery tested is simple and fast. Just ask your service center to make sure your VW SUV is ready for winter.

It’s also a good time to check on your SUV’s electrical system, too. Failures in your electrical system can lead to your infotainment center malfunctioning, or you not being able to access essential safety features like heating, navigation, and blind spot assistance.

Get Your Brakes Inspected and Serviced at the First Sign of Winter

It isn’t a secret that brakes are one of the most important safety features on your Volkswagen SUV. Even though all new VWs come equipped with the best safety features available, you still need to get your brakes checked. That’s because the moisture from rain and snow causes rust spots and gets on your rotors, which decreases how effective they are.

It only takes a little water for your brake fluid to get dirty, so get fresh brake fluid. While you’re at it, make sure your washer fluid is winter worthy, because there are several kinds that freeze in cold weather.

The Least Expensive Way to Prepare for Winter Is Replacing Your Wipers

It’s easy to overlook these essential winter accessories. However, it’s critical that you replace your wipers before winter. You don’t want to be driving in the middle of a snowstorm with terrible visibility. Even better, keep an extra set on hand, because once cold weather hits, your blades get destroyed quickly.

You can find a set of windshield wipers for less than $20, and if you don’t know how to put them on yourself, you can always head into your VW service center for help.

Keep Your Gas Tank More Than Half Full in Your Volkswagen SUV

Moisture builds up in the empty spaces of your gas tank. When this happens, it can dilute your fuel and cause stress on your SUV’s other parts. If moisture freezes, it causes serious problems in your gas line. That’s why you need to keep your gas tank more than half full.

If you plan on parking your Volkswagen for a long period during winter, make sure the gas tank is completely full. The more gas in your tank, the less water can build up and cause damage to your automobile. It’s also worth starting it regularly while it sits.

If You’re Not Driving a New Volkswagen SUV, Then Check Your Locks

New Volkswagens like the VW Atlas or VW Atlas Cross Sport come with features like remote start and keyless entry. But we bet your older Volkswagen is still running great, too. So, if you or a loved one drives an older model, or just purchased a used Volkswagen SUV, then you need to get the locks and latches checked before winter for some easy preventative maintenance steps.

Have your VW service team lubricate door locks and latches. Make sure all your windows are sealed and are in perfect working order. That way you won’t be cold on a freezing, frosty morning. Check that your hatchback, lift-gate, and hood are ready for winter weather, too.

Your Volkswagen SUV Needs an Emergency Kit

Accidents happen, and you need to be prepared in case of an emergency. Always keep a winter emergency kit in your car. Here are some items to include to keep you and your passengers safe:

• Jumper cables
• Flares
• First-aid kit
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Tool kit
• Blankets
• Ice Scraper

Get an All-Weather Volkswagen SUV at VW SouthTowne in Time for Winter

Although the new Arteon and classic Jetta handle well in the snow, sometimes your family needs a little extra power.

At VW SouthTowne, we have the new Volkswagen Atlas for sale. Volkswagen packed this incredible SUV with enhanced all-weather and all-terrain capabilities. If the VW Atlas isn’t your style, you can choose another Volkswagen SUV for sale, like the new VW Taos.

Still can’t decide which Volkswagen is right for you? Then get to our dealership so we can help you find the best vehicle for your lifestyle. Contact us today and make this winter the best one yet! Look for the VW Atlas on our website, and get VIP access to the latest Volkswagens in our inventory.

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