Does Your Volkswagen Need a Tire Rotation?
A tire rotation involves moving your vehicle’s tires from front to back or side to side to last longer and ensure your safety on the road. Get your tires switched at your Fayetteville, AR, Volkswagen dealer as soon as you experience the following signs. Don’t delay to avoid more damage, which could result in replacing the entire set of tires, costing you money and time.
Does Your Volkswagen Need a Tire Rotation From Your Fayetteville, AR, Volkswagen Dealer?
Uneven Front and Rear Wear
Take a good look at all four tires. If it looks as if the front tires are wearing down faster than the rear tires, it’s an indication that your vehicle’s tires need to be switched. Ask your Volkswagen technician to do this as soon as you can to avoid uneven wear.
Irregular Wear
Inspect your vehicle’s two front tires. If you notice that a tire is more worn on one side than the other tire, it’s time to swap the tires. If the tires are worn down severely, replace the tires.
Vibrations
Uneven tread wear and tire imbalance will cause vibrations. Not only does this cause damage to your vehicle, but it’s also unsafe. Schedule a tire inspection at your dealership if you feel vibrations at speeds higher than 45 miles an hour. The tires might need to be rotated, balanced, and aligned to ensure performance and safety.
Why Rotations Are Important
Not all tires wear down at the same rate. The front tires on front-wheel drive vehicles wear down faster than the rear tires. Regular rotations will ensure even wear across all four tires and extend the life of your vehicle’s tires, saving you money in the long run.
On all-wheel-drive vehicles, rotations minimize the wear on components and stress on the drivetrain. When the tread wear and depth are even, it will improve handling, cornering, and braking, keeping you safer behind the wheel.
When To Rotate Your Tires
It is generally recommended that you rotate your vehicle’s tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. This will depend on your tires and the type of Volkswagen you drive. Usually, a vehicle’s tires are rotated during every oil change.
The fast and convenient VW Service Xpress includes a rotation, and you don’t need to schedule an appointment. When your vehicle’s tires are rotated, your Volkswagen technician will also thoroughly inspect the tires for wear and damage. The tires will also be inflated to the correct pressure levels.
How Tires are Rotated
The type of vehicle determines how the tires are rotated. The front tires on a front-wheel-drive vehicle will be moved back, and the rear tires crossed to the front. On rear-wheel-drive vehicles, the front tires are crossed to the back, and the back tires are moved to the front. On four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive vehicles, all four the tires switch places. The right front and left rear and the left front and right rear tires are swapped.
The information on how often you need to rotate your tires and the rotation patterns for your vehicle are in your owner’s manual. You can also ask your Volkswagen technician for information. Visit Crain Volkswagen of Fayetteville today, and get an expert rotation from our qualified Volkswagen technicians.
For those looking to enjoy an afternoon of walking while taking in stunning scenery, one of these hiking trails near Fayetteville, AR is a perfect choice. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a peaceful stroll or an avid hiker looking for a challenge, you’ll certainly find something on this list.
4 of the Best Hiking Trails and Walking Paths Near Fayetteville, AR
1. Ozark Highlands Trail
To get to the start of this exciting trail, you will need to take a short drive of just under 1 hour. Once you get there, you can enjoy what is arguably one of the most scenic trails in the entire US. This trail is perfect for those looking for a challenge because there’s over 230 miles worth of trail for you to explore.
Along this trail, you will see stunning rock formations, streams, and a myriad of different trees including pine. As well as these beautiful scenes, you will find several management activities ranging from purpose-built wildlife zones to reforestation.
2. Whitaker Point Trail
Sitting 1.5 hours out of Fayetteville, Whitaker Point Trail offers up 4.7km of beautiful scenery to enjoy. Popular with casual hikers and dog walkers, this trail faces heavy traffic all year round. Locals describe this trail as easy, so it’s best to avoid it if you’re an avid hiker looking for a challenge.
Despite being an easy trail, the area is full of picturesque wildlife. If you’re interested in photography, you should head out to one of the many cliff edges to take a couple of snaps. However, you need to observe signage here and stay away from the edge for your safety.
3. Lost Valley Trail
The Lost Valley trail, which runs through Eden Falls, will call for a drive of around 2 hours from Fayetteville. The trail is only short and is perfect for those looking for a moderate walking experience.
This popular trail is open to the public all year, with the weekends being the busiest time. Along the route, you can enjoy the many cave formations. According to the locals, other than Eden Falls, you need to see the Natural Bridge, which is a 50-foot tunnel made entirely out of limestone.
4. Dry Creek Loop via Pigeon Loop Trail
Forming part of the Hobbs State Park Pigeon Roost Trail, the Dry Creek loop is located a 40-minute drive from Fayetteville. When you get there, you can enjoy a ponder around the 7.4km loop.
Locals commend this route for its beauty and ease of completion. Along your way, you can take in the rivers, the creek crossing, and the countless wildlife. The trail is well-maintained and doesn’t catch too much water, making it perfect for a post-storm walk.
These are just a few of the incredible walks to explore near Fayetteville, but there are many more waiting for you. If you’re thinking of purchasing a new vehicle to make the journey to your destination, get in touch with Crain Volkswagen of Fayetteville today and we’ll happily look after your every need.
When considering the running costs of your car, insurance is at the top of the list. Although most drivers spend hundreds of dollars per year on their car insurance, there are several ways to keep your costs reasonable and get the best quote possible. The sales team at your Volkswagen dealer here in Fayetteville, AR can not only help you to pick out your new or used vehicle but also to find insurance that fits your needs.
3 Things to Know About Getting Car Insurance for Your Volkswagen
1. Arizona Insurance Is Good Value
According to Bankrate, the average annual cost of full coverage is $1,674 in the US. Fortunately, this figure is a bit lower in Arizona, at $1,547. If you opt for just basic coverage, you might pay $555 on average, which is very good compared to some of the more expensive states. The minimum liability coverage is $25,000 per injured person, $50,000 per accident, and $15,000 for property damage per accident. This is also lower than in many other areas of the US.
2. Several Factors Influence Your Quote
Once you approach retirement age, your quote might go up again. Statistically, people over 80 are more likely to have an accident than drivers in their prime, and insurance companies take this into consideration. Another important factor is whether you have a clean record or not. Someone who has never been involved in an accident and sticks to all the traffic rules is much more likely to get an excellent quote than someone who has a track record of incidents.
3. Your Volkswagen Dealer Can Help
Before you make your purchase, we can also speak to you about ways you can bring your insurance cost down. For example, there are certain advanced safety features that can reassure insurance providers that you are less likely to cause an accident with your new vehicle. Speak to your sales representative to find out whether such features are already included in the car you’re looking to purchase, or whether you can buy them as an additional package.
In Arizona, finding insurance for your Volkswagen doesn’t have to be a challenge if you enlist the help of your VW dealership. Get in touch with us at Crain Volkswagen of Fayetteville to speak to one of our talented customer service specialists. They will answer all of your insurance questions and recommend some excellent providers.
4 Signs Your VW Needs a Transmission Repair
Your VW’s transmission plays a major role in the daily smooth, reliable functioning of your beloved Volkswagen. When your transmission starts to deteriorate or experiences a malfunction, the chances are that you will notice pretty quickly, as your vehicle’s performance will begin to decline. Here are four signs that you are in need of a transmission repair from your local Volkswagen dealer.
4 Signs Your VW Needs a Transmission Repair from your Volkswagen Dealer
1. Squealing Noises
Unusual noises coming from your transmission is one of the surest signs that something is amiss within your vehicle. If you notice any irregular clanging or squealing noises coming from your transmission, these may indicate that your transmission gears have worn down due to age or wear and tear, resulting in worsened performance.
Any time you hear any strange noises from your vehicle, whether from the transmission or another system, your best course of action is to bring your VW into the dealer for repair service. Your expert VW technician can identify the root cause of the strange noise and repair it before it creates further damage within your vehicle.
2. Shifting Out of Gear
Another sign that your transmission is in need of repair is your vehicle shifting out of gears without you telling it to. Maintaining control of your VW at all times is essential to staying safe on the road, preventing accidents, and responding quickly to any dangerous activities from other drivers. However, if your gears are shifting or slipping on their own, you could create a hazardous driving situation for yourself and those on the road with you.
Slipping gears typically occur due to a lack of transmission fluid within your VW or wear and tear on the transmission system. Bringing your vehicle to the dealer can help you ensure that it is safe to drive and fix any issues before they lead to an accident.
3. Burning Smell
As soon as you notice a burning smell, we recommend turning off your vehicle, getting out of the vehicle along with any passengers, and contacting roadside assistance. An expert can determine if your vehicle is safe to drive to the dealership or if you will need to have it towed.
4. Dark Transmission Fluid
Fresh, regular transmission fluid should look bright red and smell slightly sweet. If your fluid looks brown or black in color, whether it is leaking or not, this could mean that the fluid is old and creating damage within your transmission. The fluid could also turn dark when your transmission is overheating and burning the fluid. In any case, taking your vehicle to the dealer as soon as possible can ensure that your transmission problem does not worsen.
Noticing transmission problems can be a little stressful at first. However, at Crain Volkswagen of Fayetteville, we make the repair process as quick and stress-free as possible. Contact Crain Volkswagen of Fayetteville today to schedule a transmission service appointment.
A First Look at the 2022 VW Taos
Are you thinking about purchasing a new SUV? You’re not going to want to miss out on the 2022 VW Taos. This fun and super-functional vehicle is ready to take you everywhere you want to go. Here’s a look at everything this all-new Taos has to offer.
A First Look at the 2022 VW Taos
The Basics of the ’22 VW Taos
When it comes to cars, crossover SUVs are among the most versatile. If you’re searching for a car that’s just as happy to take you to work in the morning as it is to hit the dusty trails and go on a camping adventure, it’s hard to get better than one of these cars.
All new this year is the Volkswagen Taos. This fun, funky, and engaging crossover with a super unique design. Don’t worry about losing the Taos in busy parking lots with its bold exterior, and enjoy its range of useful and entertaining features every time you drive.
Pricing and Trims
There are three different trim levels available for the ’22 VW Taos. All three options offer you a super affordable and sporty ride. If you’re just looking for the car’s basics, then the S trim is the way to go. You’ll be spending around $22,995 if you decide to go with this trim. The mid-range SE trim, starting at $27,245, is perfect for drivers looking for something a little more.
Finally, the SEL is the best option if you’re looking for a bit more luxury. Expect to spend around $31,490 when you go with this option.
Engine
No matter which of the three trim levels you end up with, you’ll get the same reliable and engaging engine. This is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 158 horsepower. You have the option of pairing this engine with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending on your preference. Going with front-wheel drive will get you an eight-speed automatic transmission while all-wheel-drive models get a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Regardless of the configuration, you’ll love the feeling of driving the ’22 VW Taos. You’ll also appreciate how fuel-efficient this fun little crossover is.
Interior and Storage Space
The VW Taos’s interior design is simple and minimalist without being boring. It keeps everything driver-focused, and there is a range of available features that make it even more comfortable. This includes interior ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof to keep things light and airy.
As for space, you won’t be lacking in the VW Taos. You and your passengers will get to enjoy plenty of legroom. Planning on going on an adventure? Don’t worry about having to leave any luggage behind with the VW Taos’s ample storage space.
If you’ve been in the market for a fun and versatile crossover SUV, then the VW Taos is perfect for you. You’ll love its style, performance, as well as its incredible interior comfort. You seriously can’t go wrong with this car! Ready to learn more? Come see us at Crain Volkswagen of Fayetteville!
Does Your VW Need a Radiator Repair?
Do you know the signs of a faulty radiator? It’s painfully easy to neglect to get a radiator repair when you need one ASAP. We’re going to teach you the signs of a faulty radiator, and that way, you can stop by your Volkswagen dealer at the first sign of trouble.
Signs You Need a Radiator Repair from Your Volkswagen Dealer
1. Your Temperature Gauge Points to Hot
If your temperature gauge is pointing to hot, then it’s a sign that you need to get your radiator fixed. A climbing temperature gauge is something you should never ignore, and it’s usually a sign that your radiator isn’t doing its job correctly. Pull over as soon as you can and get a tow truck to take you to the dealership.
If you keep driving with the ever-climbing temperature gauge, then you could be in for a much more serious consequence of your radiator trouble. Steam will pour from beneath your hood, and parts of your engine can actually melt due to the heat. Replacing engine parts is far costlier than fixing a faulty radiator, so be sure to get your issue fixed as quickly as possible.
2. Your Radiator Is Discolored
If you notice discoloration on your radiator or the area around it, then you might have radiator trouble. Rusty and discolored spots are a sign that you have a leak somewhere in your radiator system. The coolant is squirting out and landing on the hotter parts of your engine and radiator, and due to the temperature difference, the coolant bubbles away quickly. This leaves the discoloration behind, and the discolored spots begin to rust with time.
If the discolored spots are rusty, then you know that this leak has been going on for a while. You can’t leave this even a day longer, as the leak will only get worse, and you can’t drive if all of your coolant is leaking and bubbling away.
3. Low Coolant Level
As we said, you can’t drive with a low coolant level, because that means there’s no fluid there cooling your vehicle. If your coolant level is low, then you need to get it topped up as soon as possible. However, you should get your radiator checked out when you’re getting your coolant top-up. Your coolant level may be low because most of your coolant has leaked away, so you’ll need to get a repair if that’s the case.
Generally, you should check your coolant level every few weeks. You’ll learn how quickly it normally drops. If you notice that your coolant level has dropped faster than usual, then it’s a sign that you may have sprung a leak.
4. Coolant Puddle
One indicator that you have a coolant leak is spotting a coolant puddle near your vehicle. The coolant is bright green, yellow, or pink, and it has a sweet aroma. Be sure to clean up this pool before you visit the dealership, as coolant is toxic to animals.
Stop by Crain Volkswagen of Fayetteville when you need a fix for your radiator. We’ll make that repair for you.
A Sneak Peek at the All-New 2021 Volkswagen ID.4
Volkswagen has an exciting new addition to its 2021 lineup – a small, fully electric-powered SUV called the ID.4. Offering incredible range and efficiency, this compact SUV definitely has VW fans talking. Read on to learn more about the amazing Volkswagen ID.4!
VW’s First Fully Electric-Powered SUV
Winner of the prestigious 2021 World Car of the Year award, the ID.4 is giving electric vehicle shoppers plenty to be excited about. With the capacity to drive up to 250 miles before needing a recharge, this single-motor, rear-wheel-drive SUV delivers 201 horsepower and an impressive towing capacity of 2700 pounds.
Powered by an 82-kWh battery pack, the ID.4 provides a peppy and responsive ride by compact crossover standards. Drivers will also enjoy the smooth handling and comfortable layout of this stylish SUV.
Pricing on the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4
The entry-level Pro model starts at $41,190 and is a great value with a full suite of premium driver-assist features. You will also find some other quality touches (think dual-zone climate control and heated seats) that are often “extra” on competing brands.
For about $4,000 more, the mid-range 1st Edition includes the optional Statement and Gradient packages that would otherwise add a total of $5,000+ to the price. So, if you want these deluxe packages it makes sense to go with the 1st Edition as opposed to adding them as options to the Pro. If you want leather upholstery and some other luxury cosmetic touches, you’ll need to go with the Pro S model ($45,690).
Features We Love
The ID.4 is smaller than the Volkswagen Tiguan, but still somehow manages to fit in about the same amount of passenger and cargo space. This SUV can comfortably seat five people with legroom to spare.
We also love the contemporary design of this vehicle, which is chock full of high-tech features and modern design touches. The interior is beautifully laid out, with premium elements such as ambient lighting and power-adjustable front seats that have massage and memory functions.
Range and Battery Life
If you’re in the market for an electric vehicle, then your #1 question is likely “How far can I go on one charge?” Volkswagen says the ID.4’s 82 kWh battery pack will keep you going for 250 miles, which is a very competitive rating compared to other electric vehicles on the market. The battery can be charged on a 110- or 240-volt connection and is also capable of DC fast charging.
Driver-Assist Features
The ID.4 comes with an impressive list of safety and driver-assist technology. You will find that even the most advanced features, such as automated emergency braking and lane-departure warning, come standard on the base Pro model.
Other features include blind-spot monitoring, rear parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control with semi-autonomous driving mode. LED adaptive headlights are available on the Pro S model.
If you are curious about this outstanding electric vehicle, we invite you to stop by our showroom to see an ID.4 in person. Visit us today at Crain Volkswagen of Fayetteville so that we can set you up on a test drive!
On a warm sunny day, there is no better way to enjoy lunch or dinner than picnics in the park with friends and family. Fayetteville, AR has no shortage of wonderful places to unload that picnic basket, and we’ve listed below some of our favorite outdoor spots.
6 Favorite Places for Picnics in and Around Fayetteville, AR
1. Bryce Davis Park
With over 26 acres, this park has all the ingredients for a perfect picnic spot. There are plenty of picnic tables and accessible public restrooms, along with a large playground for the kids and a specially designated area where the dogs can frolic. There are also plenty of open areas if you’d rather bring a blanket and sit out on the grass while you eat.
2. Gulley Park
The development of this park has truly been a community effort, with contributions from many local volunteer organizations, and it shows. Besides a playground and accessible restrooms, this park features a pond, open fields, a babbling creek, and a 1.5-mile hiking and biking trail. After exploring the park’s 27 acres, you can enjoy your picnic at one of the provided tables.
3. Lake Sequoyah Park
If you want to feel immersed in a natural setting when you open that picnic basket, it doesn’t get much better than the scenic 1600 acre park surrounding Lake Sequoyah. With numerous activities like boating, fishing, birdwatching, and hiking, your picnic will be the icing on the cake of a wonderful nature-filled day. There are plenty of tables provided, or you can enjoy your meal under a shady tree.
4. Walker Park
With plenty of restrooms and covered pavilions, you can have a relaxing picnic in style. Then let the kids cool down at the Walker Park Splash Pad, or let them bust air at a half-pipe in the Grinders Skate Park. This park also offers something for just about every athlete in the family: baseball, basketball, racquetball, horseshoe pits, soccer fields, tennis, and volleyball courts, so you can enjoy some exercise after your meal.
5. Wilson Park
For a relaxing picnic, surrounded by lush gardens and beautiful, creative art sculptures, Wilson Park is the place for you. Conveniently located in downtown Fayetteville, this roughly 23-acre park also features a pond and a 100-year-old Osage Orange tree. As Fayetteville’s first and oldest community park, it’s much loved by the local residents and a popular place for picnic lunches during busy workdays.
6. Botanical Garden of the Ozarks
Unpack your picnic basket and enjoy a pristine setting, native butterflies, beautiful flowers, and 12 themed meticulous gardens at this popular picnic spot. While you’re there you can also take part in one of their community events, or learn something new in their educational center. Enjoying your picnic here will truly be a memorable experience.
Is your favorite picnic destination not on our list? Stop by your friends at Crain Volkswagen of Fayetteville to see our latest selection of new and used cars and trucks, and let us know where we should have our next lunchtime outing.
Does Your Volkswagen Need a Brake Repair?
Your car’s brakes are one of its most important safety systems, allowing you to slow down and stop in order to obey the rules of the road and avoid crashes and collisions. So, if something goes wrong with the brakes, it’s absolutely crucial to visit your Fayetteville, AR Volkswagen dealer and get the brake repair you need.
5 Signs You Should Visit the Volkswagen Dealer in Fayetteville, AR for a Brake Repair
Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal
Let’s begin with one of the most worrying signs of bad brakes: a spongy brake pedal. Usually, when everything is running smoothly, the brake pedal should feel firm and resistant, and you should need to use a bit of force to push it down. If something is wrong, the pedal can start to feel really soft and spongy, sinking all the way to the ground under your foot.
Pulling to the Side
Another common sign of brake system damage is when your car starts pulling to the side as you apply the brakes. This can be really inconvenient and even dangerous to deal with, as you may find yourself veering out of your lane while braking and having to steer more carefully to avoid any accidents. This particular problem is usually caused by issues like worn brake pads on one side or caliper issues.
Squealing or Grinding Sounds
You might also notice some strange new sounds when your brakes are in need of repair. Some drivers report hearing a squealing or whining kind of sound, which may be caused by worn brake pads. You might also hear a grinding or clunking sound as you press down on the brake pedal, which could be caused by various problems with your brake system components.
Worn Pads
One of the most common problems with brakes is that the pads have worn down and need to be replaced. You can actually carry out a simple visual inspection of your brake pads to see how worn they are. If they’re quite thin, it might be time to get them replaced, especially if you’re noticing other issues like strange sounds when braking or a brake pad indicator light on the dashboard.
Shaking, Vibrating, or Bouncing
Another way in which you can spot brake problems is if your car shakes, vibrates, or bounces around when you use the brakes or bring your car to a stop. This problem might start off small, with only a minor vibration felt when pressing the brakes, but it can get a lot worse if left unattended. So if you notice any weird shaking or bouncing, be sure to get it checked out.
Driving around with bad brakes is a very bad idea, so if you notice any of the signs listed above, call your local dealer and arrange checks and repairs right away. Otherwise, you may find that the problems get even worse and could put you in some very dangerous situations out on the road. Call Crain Volkswagen of Fayetteville today to arrange brake servicing and repair with trusted VW mechanics.
Those looking for an exhilarating day’s mountain biking near Fayetteville, AR are in for a treat, with dozens of nearby bike paths to explore. Whether you’re just starting on your mountain biking journey, or are already a seasoned pro, you’ll be sure to find your new favorite ride on amongst the trails on this list.
3 of the Best Bike Paths and Trails Near Fayetteville, AR
1. Lake Atalanta Bike Trails
Located to the north of Fayetteville, the mountain biking paths around Lake Atalanta are local favorites, and with good reason. The trails are full of tight bermed turns and other fun forest features to tackle as you speed through the lush beauty of an Ozark forest, that’s only a short drive from the city.
The trails around the lake are suitable for everyone from beginners to experts, with many forking and then re-joining further down, so you’ll never be too far apart if you’re traveling in a group. You can expect up to 10 miles of trails in total here, but that’s if you do the full loop around. Either way, there’ll be plenty to keep you busy and coming back again and again.
2. Blowing Springs Biking Trails
Blowing Springs offers bikers and adventure all year round on lightly traffic, yet well-maintained trails that are also used by runners and hikers. While there are lots of smaller trails to enjoy, the Blowing Springs Loop is the longest and most popular, with over 4 miles of singletrack. The trail has sections that will cover all abilities, as most of the trail’s major obstacles can be avoided. However, even the moderate sections can be challenging, with numerous rocky sections to keep even professionals on their toes.
One of the highlights of the trail is a 30-foot bridge that veers of a rock shelf to connect with the trail below. You can also enjoy the amazing views from the scenic overlook, and the trail also features caves and an impressive waterfall.
3. Slaughter Pen Bike Park
Situated in Bentonville, AR, Slaughter Pen Bike Park offers a truly unique experience, with over 40 miles of flowing singletrack trail. There are even connections to the trails at Blowing Springs and the Razorback Regional Greenway that can extend your ride even further. Since there’s no wet weather route available, the park asks that all riders be kind to the trails after heavy rain.
The trail system is extensive, and numerous side trails connect the various hubs from which riders can head out on a wide variety of trails from easy beginner trails such as the All-American Trail, to more difficult routes such as Medusa. One of the favorites here is the Warthog Trail, a fast, downhill run that includes raised berms, tabletops, and a very fast ride.
These are just some of the amazing mountain biking trails to discover near Fayetteville, but there are many more out there to discover. Thinking of purchasing a new vehicle to carry you and your bike to the next trailhead? Then visit us here at Crain Volkswagen of Fayetteville today, and we’ll be happy to help you out.
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