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Interior Temperature of Volkswagen Vehicles in Hot Summer Weather Here in Rhode Island, we are lucky to have so many beaches to help cool us down during the summer months. However, once in a while we will experience a heat wave where the temperatures can get up into the 80s, 90s, or even the 100s. These high temperatures can be a little uncomfortable, especially when we have to drive anywhere. Usually, our Volkswagen is parked out in the open where it is exposed to the outdoor temperatures. Unless if you are driving a Volkswagen Beetle Convertible (contact us to find out if we have any in stock!), your vehicle is completely enclosed and will retain the heat. And when the sun is shining bright, the mercury rises even more! So how hot can the cabin of your Volkswagen model get? Some resources say that the temperatures can reach as high as 200 degrees – especially if you have dark interior features/fabrics. That can make driving rather painful – especially when you have to touch the hot steering wheel (hint: throw a towel over your steering wheel before you exit your Volkswagen to keep the surface temperature down). Those hot temperatures are not only uncomfortable, but also incredibly dangerous for pets and children! It only takes a few minutes for the internal temperature of your Volkswagen to rise more than 20 degrees. Please make sure to not leave anyone behind in your vehicle – even if it is "only for a few minutes". In addition to your loved ones, please remember to remove all valuables that could potentially melt in the high temperatures, such as ice cream or plastic-based products (remember the days of LPs and video cassettes with the warning labels?). If you have any questions about how to keep your Volkswagen cool and comfortable this summer, please visit us here at Speedcraft Volkswagen! View Our Inventory of New Volkswagen Models!

Tips for Saving on a Rental Car When Traveling Do you have any big travel plans for this year? Where are you headed? Are you coming here to Rhode Island to check out the beaches and seaside towns? Or are you planning to head out to Arizona later this year to visit your grandparents during the holidays (and hopefully to see the Grand Canyon)? Either way, there is a good chance that you will need to rent a car if you are flying to your destination. One of the best things about traveling is that you can do it on a small budget if you play your cards right, but renting a car can seriously blow that budget if you are not careful! Here are some ways to save on that rental car for your next adventure! Check Out Our Inventory of New Volkswagen Vehicles! Plan and Book Ahead If you know your travel dates months in advance, go ahead and book that rental car right away. As the dates come closer, the prices have a tendency to go up. Booking in advance also gives you a better chance of getting your preferred vehicle. Rent From a Small Business Chain rental services – especially ones attached to airports – are oftentimes much more expensive than independent businesses that may be a little farther away. Research car rental services in the area where you plan to travel to find the best prices. Read More Tips From Speedcraft Volkswagen! Take Advantage of Special Offers Are you a member of a motor club like AAA? These clubs frequently provide special travel discounts, so see if any offers are available for your destination or travel dates. If you have a credit card that has a rewards program, you might even be able to redeem those points for your rental car! Websites that offer coupons/discounts like RetailMeNot may also have special offers for you to take advantage of. Happy Travels From All of Us Here at Speedcraft Volkswagen!

Which 2017 Volkswagen Vehicle Style Should I Buy? Are you looking for a new vehicle? Then you have come to the right place! Drivers love the Volkswagen brand for its sleek vehicles that are also dependable and efficient. We also love that there is a Volkswagen vehicle for just about anyone. So which 2017 Volkswagen vehicle style is right for you? Read on to find out! Why Should I Buy a 2017 VW Sedan? Drivers love the sedans in the Volkswagen lineup (like the compact Jetta and the midsize Passat) for their classic styling and high efficiency. This makes either model the perfect choice for just about anyone who needs to commute to school, their job, or evening activities. And with the fully enclosed trunks, you can easily hide valuables or holiday gifts! Why Should I Buy a 2017 VW Hatchback? If you are looking for more versatility but still need top-notch efficiency, then one of the many VW Golf models will suit you perfectly! Each Golf model—from the classic Golf hatchback to the rugged Golf Alltrack station wagon—offers plenty of room for both passengers and gear. And you will go farther with fewer fill-ups thanks to efficient, yet fun engines. Why Should I Buy a 2017 VW Crossover? Like hatchbacks, Volkswagen crossovers like the Tiguan, Touareg, and the all-new Atlas provide lots of space for passengers and cargo. However, thanks to beefier engines, these models offer more towing power (7,716 pounds for the Touareg). This factor makes the Volkswagen crossovers even more versatile for everyday living and weekend adventures. View Our Full Inventory of New Volkswagen Vehicles! Find All of These Awesome VW Vehicles at Speedcraft Volkswagen If you are still unsure about which 2017 Volkswagen vehicle style or model is right for you, please visit us here at Speedcraft Volkswagen! Our friendly sales professionals will be more than happy to show you any of the models and answer all of your questions!

Common Vehicle Leaks and Their Color Indicators Have you been noticing pools of liquid around or under your Volkswagen (and it hasn’t been raining)? Then there is a good chance that your Volkswagen might have a leak somewhere! Volkswagen is renowned for its top-notch quality, but leaks may occur from time to time, especially as the vehicle ages. In order to give you an idea of what kind of liquid is leaking from your Volkswagen (and what you should do), we have built a handy-dandy color guide! Engine Oil Engine oil is one of the most common leaks in any vehicle and are pretty easy to spot due to its location (front end of the vehicle), texture (slimy), and color (amber, dark brown/black or rainbowy). Brake Fluid Is there an odd liquid around your wheels and tires? Is it light brown or clear in color and has a “slick” feel to it? That is probably a brake fluid leak and you need to call a tow truck right away! Coolant Coolant leaks are also pretty common in the automotive world and a tell-tale sign is the warning light on the dash. If you look on the ground, you will find a slimy green, pink, or yellow liquid. Transmission Fluid If you notice a leak near the middle of your Volkswagen, it very well could be transmission fluid. The liquid’s texture and color will either be thin and reddish brown (new) or thick and brown (old). Power Steering Fluid Although similar in color (light reddish brown to brown) to transmission fluid, power steering fluid leaks will be closer to the front of the vehicle. The liquid’s texture will also be on the thinner side. Let the Speedcraft Volkswagen Service Department Help You Out! If you need any help with diagnosing your Volkswagen vehicle’s leak or to get it fixed, please contact our service department and schedule an appointment!

Where to Find a Second Copy of a Volkswagen Owner’s Manual Near Wakefield, RI Are you one of those people who loses almost anything and everything, even though you just saw the item? We have days like that too. If it isn’t our cell phone, our billfold, or our glasses (and nine times out of ten they are already on our face), then it is the owner’s manual to our Volkswagen model. Let us explain where you can find a second copy—and even if you eventually find the original one, it never hurts to have an extra on hand. View Our Inventory of New Volkswagen Models Manuals on the Official VW Service and Parts Website When you shop on the official Volkswagen Service and Parts website, you may be able to find another copy of your owner’s manual. Volkswagen is currently working on an updated app where you will be able to access your manual from your smartphone or iPad. Volkswagen Owner’s Manuals on Know Your VW We also recommend the Know Your VW resource. When you provide your model’s VIN number, the manual from your specific model year and trim will appear. Currently, manuals for 2013 to 2017 models are available. Volkswagen Manuals on Amazon and eBay If your Volkswagen is older than 2013 (or if you are lucky enough to have an awesome vintage model), your best bet is to check Amazon, eBay, and auction websites. Contact Us With Any Questions If you have any additional questions about how to procure an extra copy of a Volkswagen owner’s manual (or to ask if we are able to spare one for you), please contact our dealership.

Car Heater Repair in Rhode Island During the cold Rhode Island winter, drivers know that the heater in their vehicle is a vital feature. Nobody wants to be stuck in a car for a long time with no heater in the middle of winter. Which is why it’s so important that you make sure that the heater core in your vehicle is working properly. Here are a few signs that your car’s heater core is in need of repair. The heater core of your car is located behind the dashboard and functions as a part of its cooling system. It operates your car’s heating and defrosting functions by sending warm air into the cabin and keeping your windows from fogging. Signs that this component is broken include: Windows fogging. One of the most common and obvious signs that your heater is broken is that there is a sudden excess of fog on your windows, covering them in condensation. This is a sign that a leak has sprung and coolant vapor is entering your cabin. Sweet Smell. If there is a sweet, humid smell inside your vehicle, this is another sign that your heater core is broken. The smell comes from your radiator fluid leaking. You’ll also find evidence of the leak underneath your car, so keep an eye out. Coolant is used more quickly. Going through a large amount of coolant is a sign that the coolant is not only leaking, but that its leaking directly into your cabin. To confirm that this is the problem, check the passenger side of your car floor for moisture. Your heater doesn’t work. Another clear and common sign that your car’s heater core isn’t working is if it isn’t blowing warm air into the cabin or is blowing just lukewarm, even after allowing the car to warm up. This could mean a hole in your heater car, causing the warm air to escape before it reaches the cabin. Get your heater core fixed at Speedcraft Volkswagen If your vehicle is showing any of these signs of a broken heater core, we’ll be happy to take a look at it for you. Our expert service staff at Speedcraft Volkswagen is equipped to get your heater core back in running order in no time, so you can stay warm this winter. Just give us a call or schedule a service appointment online whenever it’s convenient for you, and we’ll be sure to fit you in for a checkup and repair.

How does the Volkswagen Blind Spot Monitor work? When it comes to driving on the highway, merging and switching lanes can be a big source of stress for many drivers. The blind spot on the side of vehicles make it difficult to see if other vehicles are passing or driving next to you. That’s why automakers like Volkswagen are equipping some of their models with features like Blind Spot Monitoring, to help drivers be more aware of their surroundings. Available on select models through the Volkswagen Driver Assistance package, the Volkswagen Blind Spot Monitor. The system functions by keeping track of the blind spots on the side of the VW vehicle and letting the driver know when another vehicle enters either of them. It’s made up of two radar sensors located on the back of the vehicle near each corner. Using the Blind Spot Monitor The Blind Spot Monitor System will notify the driver whenever another vehicle is in the blind spot by flashing an LED symbol on the side mirror. The mirror in which the LED symbol lights up in is relative to the side of the vehicle the other car is on. The system only works with adjacent vehicles, and won’t go off for stationary objects or oncoming vehicles. Get the VW Blind Spot Monitor There are a variety of VW models that come standard with the VW Blind Spot Monitor, while others can get it with the VW Driver Assistance Package. If you’re interested in getting behind the wheel of a vehicle equipped with this impressive technology, contact us here at Speedcraft Volkswagen. We’ll be happy to help you find the Jetta, Golf, Tiguan or other VW model you’re looking for, with all of the safety features you want. Just schedule an appointment online or give us a call to set up a test drive in the vehicle of your choice. That way, you can experience the convenience of the Blind Spot Monitor and its easy-use design for yourself! We look forward to hearing from you!

Things to keep in your car for winter Here in Rhode Island, we’re no stranger to bad winter weather. And we know that there are few things worse than being stranded out in the snow in your car unprepared. That’s why many drivers have taken to preparing a winter survival kit to keep in their car should it break down in the winter. Here are a few of our recommendations for things to keep in your car in the winter. It goes without saying that if your car breaks down in the winter, your best course of action is to stay with your vehicle, rather than head out in the storm to find help, especially if you aren’t familiar with the area or are out in the middle of nowhere. A spare phone/phone charger This will be available in the event that your phone runs out of battery or is damaged and unable to call 911 if needed. Flares These will help rescuers see you and allow them to make it to you much more quickly. First Aid Kit Great to have year round, this can be essential if someone is hurt in an accident. Also make sure you know how to use all of the items inside the kit. Extra winter clothes and Blankets If your car’s battery dies, there goes the heat. That’s when you’ll be glad you packed extra winter clothes and blankets. It’s especially important if you need to leave your vehicle. A bag of sand Both adds to the overall weight to your car, improving traction, and can be spread over the ice and snow, giving you traction when you’re stuck. Ice scraper Works best if you have one that also has a brush, having an ice scraper is essential to keeping your windows clear on cold mornings. Shovel In case you get stuck or your car gets buried overnight, you’ll be glad you have a small shovel in your car, instead of having to use your hands to dig yourself out. What do you recommend keeping your car in the winter? Let us know in the comments below! For more tricks and tips like this, be sure to check out the rest of our blog here at Speedcraft Volkswagen.

Most Spacious Volkswagen models The Volkswagen brand isn’t called “the people’s car” for no reason. The VW lineup was created with its many-faceted drivers in mind, and as such there are a variety of vehicles designed to fit a variety of different needs. One such thing that drivers may be looking for in a vehicle is interior space. If you’re looking to get behind the wheel of one of the most spacious Volkswagen models, you have a selection of models to choose from, which offer plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. The three most spacious Volkswagen models include the VW Touareg, the VW Tiguan and the VW SportWagen. These models were designed with families and weekend warriors in mind, offering plenty of versatile interior space for passengers to optimize. Volkswagen Touareg As the brand’s luxury vehicle, this premium SUV offers plenty of space for everyone to sit comfortably and store their gear conveniently. It offers a total of 36.7 inches of legroom and 38.9 inches of headroom for second row passengers, while the front row gets 41.4 inches of legroom and 39.6 inches of headroom. To top it all off, this spacious SUV also offers 32.1 cubic feet of dedicated cargo space, 64 cubic feet with the second row seats folded down. View our Touareg inventory Volkswagen Tiguan The Tiguan is the brand’s compact SUV, but don’t take that “compact” to seriously, it still offers plenty of space inside. The front of the Tiguan offers up to 40.1 inches of legroom and 39.1 inches of headroom for passengers, while the second row tops off at 35.8 inches of legroom and 39 inches of headroom, making it a great choice for growing families. The Tiguan makes room for cargo with 23.8 cubic feet of storage space with the seats in place, and 56.1 cubic feet with them folded. View our Tiguan inventory Volkswagen Golf SportWagen Interior space is where the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen really shines. Specifically designed for drivers that like the look of the Golf, but are looking for more storage space, this impressive compact vehicle offers plenty of passenger and cargo space. As far as passenger go, the second row allots 35.6 inches for legroom, and 38.6 inches for headroom, while the front offers 41.2 inches of legroom and 38.6 inches of headroom. The SportWagen also offers an impressive 30.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats in place, 66.5 cubic feet with them folded. View our SportWagen inventory Schedule a test drive at Speedcraft VW Whichever Volkswagen model you end up choosing, we’re sure you’ll find plenty of space for all of your passengers and gear. If you’re interested in getting behind the wheel of any of these models, feel free to contact us here at Speedcraft Volkswagen! We’ll be happy to help you find the model that’s just right for you. Before making a final decision, you’ll want to experience the interior space of these models for yourself. That way, you can get a feel for which model best fits for you and your family. Just give us a call or schedule an appointment here to set up a test drive with our available models. We look forward to hearing from you!

Volkswagen Clean Pollen Filter There’s a reason that the Volkswagen brand is so popular among those suffering from allergies. Many may not even notice it, but a standard pollen filter is available in all Volkswagen models, which works to keep the air in your car fresh and clean, even in a field of daisies. Benefits of the Volkswagen Pollen Filter Whether you’re kicking up dust on the highway or just taking a leisurely drive down a country lane, pollen and dust particles are all around you. But thanks to your Volkswagen Pollen Filter, the one place these pesky particles aren’t is inside your Volkswagen vehicle. Like any other Volkswagen feature, the Pollen Filter in your ride is fully optimized to give you the best possible results. The filter in your vehicle is designed to filter out 99% of the particles, down to the incredibly small size of 0.5 micrometers! The particles filtered out by your VW Pollen Filter can do more than just give you an itchy nose. They can also cause your windshield and windows to fog up or even cause unpleasant odors and clog up your A/C. Considering all the VW Pollen Filter does to keep your drive comfortable, you’ll definitely notice a difference when you get behind the wheel. How often should the Pollen Filter be replaced? Like any other filter out there, the pollen filter in your Volkswagen needs to be replaced regularly in order for it to work properly. That being said, how often you need to change your filter can vary based on your environment. Generally speaking, however, we recommend checking on your filter at least every 30,000 models or so, and changing the filter when necessary. Schedule an appointment to have it changed here. You can also learn to recognize signs that your filter needs changing, including: Poor airflow through A/C Particle build-up inside the window Strange odors For more information about the features in your Volkswagen vehicle, be sure to check out the rest of our blog here at Speedcraft Volkswagen! And if you have any questions about your VW, don’t hesitate to contact us! If you’re not already the driver of a Volkswagen, and are interested in getting behind the wheel of a model of your own, take a look at the new vehicles in our inventory! We have a selection of models for you to choose from, just schedule a test drive here and begin enjoying all of the perks that go along with Volkswagen ownership! What do you think of the VW Clean Pollen Filter? Let us know in the comments!

What do the light bulb warning lights mean in my Volkswagen? For many drivers, the warning lights can be confusing. While many of them are well-known or self-explanatory, others can leave drivers scratching their heads. Of course, the light bulb warning lights indicates problems with your Volkswagen vehicle’s lights, but with a total three different light bulb warning lights, there can be some confusion as to which lights are having issues. There should be a total of three different light bulb-themed warning lights in your Volkswagen, each of which correlates with certain lights in your VW. By having different warning lights for each set of lights, it spares you the hassle of trying to figure out which lights are burnt out – granted you know which lights correlate to which symbol. A basic break-down of the light bulb warning lights in your VW include: Headlight Bulb Failure If this light is solid, that means that there’s been a light bulb failure. If it’s flashing, there’s a problem with the headlight leveling or AFS. Brake Light bulb burnt out When this light comes on your dashboard, it means that one or more of the brake lights on your VW has burned out and needs replacing. License Plate Light bulbs Like the brake lights, this symbol means that one of the light bulbs on around your license plate has burned out. Replacing a light bulb in your Volkswagen Of course, changing the lights in your Volkswagen depends on where the light is located on your vehicle. And while you can definitely try to do it yourself if you’re feeling confident, but the best thing to do is schedule a service appointment with our expert staff here at Speedcraft Volkswagen, where we’re well-versed in caring for your VW. If you do end up changing the bulb yourself, keep in mind that you can always contact us here with any questions or if you’d like some tips or tricks to getting the job done right. For more information like this, be sure to check out the rest of our blog, and check back regularly for new updates! If you have any questions about your Volkswagen’s warning lights, be sure to leave them in the comments below!

Common suspension problems The suspension in your Volkswagen knows how to take a beating. Day in and day out, the shock absorbers, springs, and other components in your suspension take the brunt of all of the bumps and potholes that you drive over. When you consider all the wear and tear that the suspension in your vehicle goes through of the years, it’s no wonder that drivers often run into these common suspension problems. As problems with your suspension range on the more serious end of the spectrum when considering the health and drivability of your vehicle, it’s important that you’re able to identify problems with your suspension early on to avoid further damage. Here are some of the most common problems you can experience with your vehicle’s suspension. It’s also worth noting that these problems arise over time, so it’s far more likely that you’ll experience them with your long-time vehicle or used vehicle than with a new Volkswagen model. Poor wheel alignment Potholes and bumps can wear on your vehicle over time, and that wear can cause your wheels to get knocked out of alignment. Problems with alignment can cause your vehicle’s tires to wear unevenly and also affect your steering. Shock absorbers The shock absorbers in your vehicle keep you from feeling every single bump your vehicle passes over by keeping your wheels on the ground. When you’re experiencing problems with your vehicle’s shock absorbers, you’ll notice more bouncing after bumps and shaking while driving on rough roads. Springs Your vehicle’s springs hold all of its weight, so it’s no wonder that they can sag or break over time. An easy way to spot this problem is to check your vehicle when its parked on level ground. If you notice that your vehicle is lower in one of its corners, that’s a clear sign. Another symptom of problems with your vehicle’s springs is a clunking noise while driving over bumps or while turning. Ball joints Ball joints are the pivot points that attach the suspension to your vehicle’s wheels. These parts absorb some of the shock from up-down movements and rotate with the steering wheel movement. You can tell that they need replacing or repair when you start to hear them squeak and creak while turning. Control arms As the hinges that hold the wheels to the frame and connect the steering to the wheels, the control arms are an integral part to your vehicle’s suspension. That’s why it’s important that you notice when the brushings wear out. Brushings are usually rubber and metal parts that absorb shock, so if you hear clunking or rattling and experience loose steering, you are probably having this problem. Service your car suspension at Speedcraft Volkswagen! If you’re experiencing any of these problems with your suspension, contact us here at Speedcraft Volkswagen! Our expert service staff will be more than happy to help identify the problems you’re experiencing and assist with any repairs that need to be performed. Give us a call or contact us here on our site to schedule a service appointment – our team is always ready to help! Questions or comments? Feel free to leave them below!