Maintenance what should I be doing.

[Dave307]

Hi all.

Ok so I have owned my van for a bit now and it's all good.

However I want to keep it all good.
I do the normal checks oil, coolant, washer top up etc but I'm just wondering if there is anything else I should be doing to keep my baby sweet.
I intend to give her an oil filter and oil change soon but im not sure if there are any other checks I should be doing.

I have read the Haynes manual and that doesn't say anything else but you guys n gals are the exPerts and therefore I thought Id ask you.

Also I know this is mechanical but what body checks should I be doing to prevent any issues.

Any advise welcome.

Thanks.

[California Dreamin]

Mechanical wise, the service consists mainly of checks in these areas plus fluid and filter changes.

Brakes
Steering
Suspension
Lights
Tyres
Exhaust
Engine
Gearbox/transmission
Fuel system
Ignition system

It is what you find AFTER checking these systems that determines the 'additional work' list.
As far as the service goes... fluids/filters as follows.

Oil filter change
Oil change
Air filter change
Petrol/diesel filter change
Wiper blades if needed (front and rear)
Screen washer fluid & fill
Brake fluid change every two years
Gearbox oil change every three years or 30K (was never part of a VW service but advised) especially if it has never been done.
Coolant change every 2 - 5 years depending on type used (VW was two years but that was before OAT coolants were introduced)
Auto transmission oil every three years (again advised) especially if it has never been done.
Spark plugs standard single electrode every 12K, long life multi electrode or platinum every 40K
Tappet clearance adjustment and cam cover gasket change every 12K (Diesel)
Cam belt/idler replacement every 60K
Rear brake/hand brake, manually adjust (use inspection hole to see shoe wear)
Top up: power steering/gearbox/batteries/washers front and rear/brake fluid
Lube door locks/hinges and battery terminals
Tyres pressures
Check operation of seat belts/sliding seats/clocks/horn/washers/dash lights/interior lights/radio/vanity mirrors/rear view and door mirrors/wipers/heater blower etc.

Remember the TOP 10 list of areas to check will turn up additional work like brake pads/fan belt replacement/wheel bearing adjustment/bulbs/worn tyres/steering rack gaitors/oil leaks/metal brake pipe replacement etc, etc etc.
Correct and thorough checks are absolutely necessary to find and pre-empt faults developing, ensure reliability and performance and keep everyone safe.
Simply changing the fluids and service items isn't a service on it's own.
After a full diagnosis, service and inspection 'usually carried out on a ramp' a skilled technician will thoroughly road test the vehicle for hidden faults that only come to light when driving..things like: wheel wobble due to inbalance, clutch slip, wheel bearing and gear box noises etc.....
So you see..although I would never put anyone off doing there own servicing and repairs you might be missing important checks required to keep you vehicle safe.

Martin

Martin