22/02/2015
When the 'Service' indicator lights up on your Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle's dashboard, it's a clear signal that your trusty van is due for some attention. But what exactly does 'Service' encompass? Understanding this is crucial for maintaining your vehicle's optimal performance, longevity, and resale value. This guide will break down what a service entails for your VW Commercial Vehicle, drawing from the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure you're well-informed.
What Constitutes a Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Service?
At its core, a 'Service' for your Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle refers to the essential parts and labour required to adhere to the Manufacturer's Service Schedules. These schedules are meticulously designed by Volkswagen to ensure your vehicle operates at its peak efficiency and safety throughout its lifespan. They are not arbitrary; they are based on extensive research and testing to anticipate wear and tear and prevent potential issues before they arise.
The definition provided by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles highlights key components of a service. It explicitly includes:
- Parts and Labour Charges: This covers the cost of the genuine Volkswagen parts needed and the skilled labour of the technicians performing the work. Using genuine parts is always recommended to ensure compatibility and maintain the integrity of your vehicle's systems.
- Manufacturer's Service Schedules: Adhering to these schedules is paramount. They dictate the frequency and type of maintenance required based on mileage, time, or a combination of both. Skipping services can lead to premature wear and void warranties.
- All Oils and Fluids: This is a critical aspect. A comprehensive service will typically involve checking and topping up, or completely replacing, essential fluids. This includes engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid (if applicable), windscreen washer fluid, and importantly, brake fluid.
- Brake Fluid Change: Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the atmosphere over time. This absorption can lower its boiling point, compromising braking performance and potentially leading to a dangerous situation. Regular brake fluid changes are a vital safety measure.
Why is Regular Servicing So Important?
Regular servicing is the bedrock of a healthy vehicle. For a commercial vehicle, which often works harder and covers more miles than a private car, consistent maintenance is non-negotiable. Here's why:
Maintaining Reliability
Your livelihood often depends on your van being operational. A well-maintained vehicle is a reliable vehicle. Regular servicing helps prevent unexpected breakdowns, ensuring you can meet your business commitments without disruption. Imagine the cost of a van off the road during a busy period – it's far greater than the cost of preventative maintenance.
Ensuring Safety
Commercial vehicles are large, heavy machines that carry valuable goods and, sometimes, people. Safety is paramount. Services include checks on critical components like brakes, steering, and suspension. Ensuring these are in good working order is vital for the safety of the driver and other road users. For instance, worn brake pads or contaminated brake fluid can have severe consequences.
Maximising Fuel Efficiency
An engine that is running optimally, with clean filters and the correct grade of oil, will operate more efficiently. This translates to better fuel economy, which is a significant cost saving for any business. Regular servicing identifies and rectifies issues that could be impacting your van's MPG.
Preserving Resale Value
When it's time to upgrade or sell your commercial vehicle, a comprehensive service history is a major selling point. Buyers are willing to pay more for a vehicle that has been consistently looked after. A documented service record provides peace of mind and demonstrates that the vehicle has been maintained to a high standard.
Preventing Costly Repairs
The old adage 'a stitch in time saves nine' is particularly true in automotive maintenance. Minor issues identified during a routine service can be rectified cheaply. If left unaddressed, these minor issues can escalate into major, expensive repairs. For example, a small oil leak, if ignored, could lead to catastrophic engine damage.
What Typically Happens During a Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle Service?
While the specific items on a service checklist can vary depending on the type of service (e.g., minor service, major service, or specific mileage intervals), a typical comprehensive service will include:
| Component/Check | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine Oil & Filter Change | Draining old engine oil and replacing it with the manufacturer-recommended grade. Replacing the oil filter is essential to remove contaminants. |
| Brake System Check | Inspection of brake pads, discs, hoses, and lines for wear and damage. Checking brake fluid level and condition. |
| Fluid Level Checks | Topping up or replacing coolant, power steering fluid, windscreen washer fluid, and clutch fluid (if applicable). |
| Tyre Check | Inspection of tyre tread depth, wear patterns, and pressure. Rotation of tyres may be performed if necessary. |
| Lights & Electrics | Checking all exterior and interior lights, horn, and battery condition. |
| Wiper Blades & Washers | Inspection and testing of windscreen wiper blades and washer system. |
| Air Filter Replacement | Checking and often replacing the engine air filter to ensure optimal air intake for combustion. |
| Cabin/Pollen Filter Replacement | Replacing the filter that cleans the air entering the cabin, improving air quality for the driver and passengers. |
| Suspension & Steering Inspection | Checking for any wear or damage to suspension components and steering system. |
| Exhaust System Check | Inspection of the exhaust system for leaks, damage, or corrosion. |
| Diagnostic Scan | Connecting a diagnostic tool to check for any fault codes stored in the vehicle's computer. |
Understanding Service Schedules: What's Your Van's Routine?
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles typically operate on a flexible servicing system, often referred to as 'Variable' or 'Long-Life' servicing, alongside more traditional fixed intervals. The exact schedule for your vehicle will depend on its model, age, and how it's used.
- Variable Servicing (LongLife): This system uses sensors and the vehicle's onboard computer to monitor driving conditions, engine load, temperature, and other factors to determine the optimal time for servicing. The 'Service' light will illuminate when the vehicle calculates that a service is due, which can be anywhere from 10,000 to 20,000 miles or even more, depending on driving style. This system often uses specific 'LongLife' engine oils.
- Fixed Servicing: Some models or older vehicles may be on a fixed schedule, requiring a service every 12 months or a set mileage (e.g., every 10,000 or 15,000 miles), whichever comes first.
It is essential to consult your vehicle's owner's manual or ask your Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle dealership to confirm the correct service schedule for your specific model. Sticking to this schedule is key to maintaining your warranty and ensuring the longevity of your van.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What if I miss a scheduled service?
Missing a scheduled service can have several consequences. It may affect your vehicle's warranty, especially if a component fails that could have been prevented by the missed service. It can also lead to a build-up of wear and tear, potentially causing more significant issues down the line and reducing the vehicle's resale value.
Q2: Can I use non-genuine Volkswagen parts for a service?
While it might seem like a cost-saving measure, using non-genuine parts is generally not recommended for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. Genuine parts are designed and manufactured to meet Volkswagen's exact specifications, ensuring compatibility and reliability. Using aftermarket parts could potentially compromise performance, lead to premature wear, or even invalidate your warranty.
Q3: How often should the brake fluid be changed?
As mentioned, brake fluid absorbs moisture. Volkswagen typically recommends changing the brake fluid every two years, regardless of mileage. This is a critical safety component, and maintaining its quality is paramount.
Q4: What's the difference between a minor and a major service?
A minor service usually includes an oil and filter change, fluid level checks, and basic safety inspections. A major service is more comprehensive and will typically include additional items like air filter replacement, cabin filter replacement, spark plug replacement (on petrol engines), and a more thorough inspection of various components.
Q5: What does the 'Single Payment' mention in the definition mean?
The 'Single Payment' refers to a fixed amount paid for a specific service package, often part of a finance or maintenance plan. It's the total amount you pay, calculated by multiplying your monthly instalment by the number of months covered by the agreement. This is distinct from the cost of an individual service but relates to how maintenance might be funded or planned.
Conclusion
Understanding what a 'Service' means for your Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle is vital for keeping your business moving. It's not just an oil change; it's a comprehensive process designed to maintain your van's reliability, safety, and efficiency. By adhering to the manufacturer's service schedules, using genuine parts, and being aware of what's involved, you invest in the long-term health of your vehicle and, by extension, your business. Regular servicing is an investment, not an expense, ensuring your Volkswagen Commercial Vehicle continues to be a dependable workhorse for years to come.
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