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What is Power Steering? In the early days of automobiles leading up to the early 1950s, all cars had unpowered steering. This means that the relationship between the steering wheel and the front wheels was 100% mechanical, so you really had to put your back into it! Nowadays, when you turn your steering wheel, your input is amplified by an electric motor or hydraulic system, meaning it takes far less effort to turn a two-ton car. This is called Power Steering. Visit Our Service Center Volkswagen Maintenance Menu What is Power Steering Fluid and Why is it Important? Power steering fluid is used to pressurize different parts of the power steering system and transmit power from the steering wheel to the front wheels. Over time, as power steering systems wear, small particles can contaminate the steering fluid and render the system less effective. In addition, fluid levels simply deplete with regular use. Some newer models and hybrids have Electric Power Steering (EPS), and may not use steering fluid. Consult your owner's manual. When should I replace my power steering fluid? If your steering wheel is emitting a screeching sound or you find it difficult to turn, chances are you need to check your power steering fluid levels. For a more proactive approach and to prevent a roadside delay, a good rule of thumb is to check your power steering fluid once a month. How can I check and add power steering fluid? 1. Run Your Engine To most accurately check the levels of your power steering fluid, idle your engine for a few minutes and turn your wheels in either direction several times. Then, turn off your engine and pop the hood. 2. Locate Your Power Steering Fluid Resevoir Under the hood, power steering fluid is located in a small, typically clear reservoir located closer to the driver's side. If you're having difficulty finding it, consult your owner's manual. 3. Check the Level of the Fluid Power steering reservoirs are often marked with MIN and MAX levels. Ensure your fluid level falls between them. If your reservoir is metal or non-transparent, you can measure the fluid level using the dipstick. 4. Clean the Dipstick Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick clean. Fully reinsert the dipstick, and remove it again. If your reservoir was non-transparent, you can now inspect the fluid levels on the dipstick itself. 5. Examine the Color of the Power Steering Fluid Wipe your dipstick clean again with a white paper towel. Good power steering fluid should stain the paper towel amber, clear, or light pink. If you see brown or black, the power steering fluid may have been contaminated by corroded bits from your power steering system. In this case, bring your car to a Capital Volkswagen mechanic so we fully diagnose and repair the issue and keep you on the road. 6. Fill Your Fluid to Normal Levels You can purchase replacement power steering fluid at most auto parts stores and even some gas stations for around $5 a bottle. However, some cars require specialized fluids, so be sure to consult your owner's manual before purchasing. Power steering fluid expands as it heats up, so be sure not to fill past the MAX marker on your reservoir or dipstick. 7. Replace the Cap Congratulations! With only a few minutes of easy, DIY work, you've ensured yourself a healthy power steering system for months to come. For all of your non-DIY affairs, be sure to reach out to your award-winning team of Volkswagen-certified technicians at Capital Volkswagen. Schedule your next service appointment using our convenient online scheduling tool now! Contact Capital Volkswagen serving the Tallahassee, Valdosta, and Thomasville areas. Contact us today! Capital Volkswagen 3963 W Tennessee St Tallahassee, FL 32304

The Volkswagen Beetle is an un-mistakable icon in the car industry. Since its first production in 1937 in war turn Germany, it has become a pop-culture symbol. We all remember playing "punch buggie" with sore arms as children. The Beetle even starred as "Herbie" in Herbie the Love Bug. The early years of the Volkswagen Beetle are surrounded by controversy. Some believe that the car was originally designed by Jewish engineer Josef Ganz, one historian even found images of him driving a prototype of his design. It is said that Hitler saw the car designed by Josef Ganz at a 1933 car show. However, it is known that Hitler did present legendary car designer Ferdinand Porsche with sketches for a car he believed would become the "People's Car". His design called for a car that would have seating for four people, a rear engine, and would be priced at no more than 1,000 Reichsmarks, the exact amount that Josef Ganz said the car would cost. By 1934 the initial design had been changed to create a car that could carry two adults and up to three children and be able to travel at speeds of up to 100 km/h. At the same time this car would need to be able to attain a fuel economy rating of not more than 7 liters per 100 km, which equates to 32 mpg. Through the Ages Economical Design. The vehicle was designed with the thought in mind that as parts wore out they could be replaced easily and inexpensively. The cornerstone for the first Volkswagen factory was laid in 1938 in Fallersleben. By the outbreak of war in 1939 the company had only produced a few hundred cars at which time production was converted to military vehicles. Despite this, a number of Beetle models were produced for the Nazi elite during the years 1941 through 1945. After the Second World War the Allies limited production in German factories with the VW factory limited to producing 1,000 cars per month. The first VW Beetle Type 1's were produced in 1945 with a total production of 1,785 cars. Production increased significantly until the one millionth Beetle came off the production line in 1955. These models had a top speed of 115 km/h and a fuel efficiency rating of 36 mpg. The Fifties and Change The Golden Age. During the 1950s the Type 1 underwent a number of significant changes including replacing the twin oval rear windows with a single piece of glass. By 1957 the size of this window was increased to cover the full width of the rear end. Changes continued throughout the sixties with taller side windows and a taller slightly curved windshield. In 1966 the 1200 c.c. engine was upgraded to 1300 c.c. By 1972 Volkswagen Beetle production reached 15,007,034 cars a number that surpassed the previous record holder, the Model T Ford. The Super Beetle was first introduced in 1972 and continued to be produced with a number of modifications and variants throughout the 1970s. However the introduction of a number of U.S. based small cars began to eat into the market along with a number of liquid cooled Japanese vehicles. Even Volkswagen themselves introduced another vehicle to the market, the front-wheel drive Golf. While this vehicle did replace the Beetle in the U.S., production continued in many other countries well into the 1980s and beyond. The final type 1 Beetle rolled off the production line in Puebla, Mexico on the 30th of July in 2003. After 65 years of production a total of 21,529,464 Type 1 Beetle models had been produced. The New Generation The Beetle Returns. Call it nostalgia or simply the desire for a cute car reminiscent of the original Beetle, the first of the new generation of Volkswagen Beetle models were introduced to the world in 1997. While the new version draws heavily on the design of the original model, the new Beetle offers a front wheel drive version that is powered by a liquid cooled engine mounted in the front of the car instead of the rear. The public reaction to this great little car has been nothing short of amazing as it has risen to become one of the most popular and affordable small cars on the U.S. market. See New Beetle Pricing See 2015 Beetle Review See all that the "New" Volkswagen Beetle has to offer at Capital Volkswagen, we are conveniently located in Tallahassee, Florida. Contact Capital Volkswagen serving the Tallahassee, Valdosta, and Thomasville areas. We would be happy to answer any questions about specs, prices, and what changes to expect. Contact us today! Crawford Atkins Capital Volkswagen

The 2013 Golf is still an affordable options for those looking for a reputable, fuel efficient compact vehicle. The Golf has been around for a long time and is still a popular choice among drivers even though there is more competition on the compact market today. The Golf is available at our Tallahassee Volkswagen dealership and is ready for you to take it for a test drive.   The 2013 VW Golf is available as a 2-door or a 4-door vehicle with a rear hatchback. Several trim styles are available including the GTI and R turbocharged trims for added power. There is also a diesel-powered TDI model that has the most impressive fuel economy ratings and a lot of power. Despite its compact size, the Golf by Volkswagen is a lot of fun to drive and is very comfortable on the inside. The Golf offers a very smooth ride and a quiet cabin. Its features won’t disappoint either. Its dash and center consoles are geared toward functionality and the front seats are bucket-style which are form-fitting and supportive. Standard equipment in the 2013 Golf includes power windows, automatic air conditioning, CD player, and a steering wheel with tilt and telescoping capabilities.   Starting price for the VW Golf averages around $19k with additional trim styles and features increasing the price. The fully-loaded Golf R averages around $35k. The Golf TDI model is also a great choice for those looking for a vehicle with a high resale value. The VW Golf can be viewed in person at our Tallahassee new and used VW dealership where you can take it for a personal test drive to see how this compact handles the road.   If you are interested in purchasing the Golf model vehicle we have in stock, let us know how we can help you with your auto financing needs. We offer in-house financing options many traditional lenders do not thanks to our long-term relationship with a network of lenders. We can offer you many options to meet your financial needs and help you drive home in your new Golf today.   Our service center team is also available to schedule your maintenance appointments in advance to make auto maintenance a breeze and ensure your VW is always running up to standards. We carry the various replacement parts necessary to keep your Volkswagen Golf in tip-top shape for its lifetime.

Unfortunately there are no ways to predict when an accident will happen. There are many fender benders that occur every day that can shake up drivers but do not result in major damage or injuries. These fender benders need to be taken care of as quickly as possible to ensure they do not result in additional accidents from oncoming traffic. Our Florida Volkswagen dealership offers some reminders to help you navigate a fender bender in the safest way possible.   When you are involved in a minor auto accident, you need to do your best to stay calm and in control of the situation. First check to make sure you and the passengers in your vehicle are okay and without injuries. If anyone is injured in the vehicle, stay put and call for emergency help if you are able. If no injuries are present, you should exit the vehicle safely and check in with the other driver. Be sure to check for traffic and activate your hazard lights before leaving your vehicle.   You can check to see if there are injuries with the other drivers. If everyone is okay and vehicles are capable of being driven, move them off to the side of the road and wait for police to arrive. You should collect your driver’s license, insurance information, and other vehicle documentation in preparation for the arrival of the police. Do not discuss the accident with the other driver or with nearby witnesses.   If the police do not need to respond to a minor fender bender, you can exchange necessary information with the other driver including name, contact information, license plate information, and insurance details. Make sure to get as much information as you can while still at the scene. Witness names and contact information should also be collected for your insurance company.   You should report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible to make sure your claim is promptly handled, especially if your vehicle needs repairs. You can schedule an appointment at our Volkswagen service center in Florida for all repair work so we can ensure your Volkswagen is repaired properly and with the VW-standard parts. We can provide your insurance company with the necessary information to get your vehicle repaired to like-new condition.   Accidents can be scary but when handled correctly, you can remain calm and in control of the situation to ensure your auto repairs are handled and your safety is assured when you get back on the road.

At our VW dealership near Quincy Florida, we offer a wide range of new and pre-owned vehicles that live up to the Volkswagen name like the 2013 VW Eos convertible. This convertible vehicle features a retractable hardtop that makes all the difference during the drive, offering a smooth, quiet ride.   The Eos is a great vehicle that can seat four adults but can also make a sporty ride for those looking for an affordable luxury vehicle. There are several trim styles available that can increase your driving comfort and pleasure. The base model features a 2.0 liter turbo engine that is powerful but also fuel efficient. It has been proven tough enough to handle different types of terrain in addition to the highway. Its small size makes it agile and versatile as a fun car to drive to work or for pleasure.   The 2013 VW Eos looks nice on the outside and equally nice on the inside. The higher trims including the Executive and the Lux includes leather seating and power front seat adjustment capabilities. The audio system features a touchscreen controller that has been recognized as one of the most intuitive systems on the road today. Additional features including air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, heated front seats, Bluetooth capabilities, and HD radio with a CD player. The audio system also has 8 speakers and iPod integration capabilities.   Additional upgrades and trim features include power folding mirrors, heated mirrors, a sport suspension system, rain-sensing wipers, and Park Distance Controls for added safety. These upgrades can be installed at our Volkswagen service center near Quincy to ensure you purchase the vehicle you really want to drive. Safety features are also plentiful including an active roll bar in the event of a rollover incident.   The hardtop retractable convertible is a really great way to hit the open road. It only takes 25 seconds to completely retract the top. It is a great vehicle for cruising around and is very fuel-efficient on the highway averaging 30 mpg.  If this sounds like a vehicle that would make you happy, schedule a test drive today at our Quincy area VW dealership and see how the vehicle fits your lifestyle and driving needs. You can get behind the wheel and see for yourself how it handles the road and how fun it can be to own your very own convertible.

Children need extra special protection when traveling in a vehicle. It is important they have the right restraints and proper positioning when riding in your Woodville area Volkswagen to ensure their safety and protection especially during an accident.   The typical protocol for child safety in a vehicle includes: Infant Passengers Infants need to be seated in a rear-facing car seat for at least one year or until they weigh at least 20 pounds. They should be in car safety seat that is suitable for their height and weight and should always be placed in the back of the vehicle. Toddler-Aged Passengers Toddlers should also be placed in a rear-facing child safety seat for as long as they can be comfortable based on their height and weight. Older toddlers over one year old and over 20 pounds should be in a safety seat that faces forward and contains a full harness seat belt system. Car seats should be used based on manufacturer’s height and weight allowances. Older Child Passengers Children who are older and no longer fit in a harness system child seat may still require a booster seat until they are at least 4 feet, 9 inches tall. The booster seat will work with the vehicle’s seat belt system but will help the child fit into it properly and safely. Children who are older and tall enough to go without a safety seat or booster should still remain in the backseat until they are at least 12 years old. The airbags in the front seat can cause serious injuries to younger passengers and the back seat is the safest place.   Always make sure your children are properly secured in your vehicle before driving. Even a short drive without being properly fastened into the vehicle can result in serious injuries and can result in law enforcement intervention. Drivers can be cited for not properly restraining passengers in a vehicle, especially small children.   Riding with children can be difficult especially if they are being distracting during the drive. It is important to only deal with children after pulling off to a safe location on the side of the road. There should also be visual inspections of seat belts and other safety equipment after each ride with child passengers. Damage to seat belts or other parts of the vehicle will need to be repaired by our Volkswagen service center near Woodville to ensure everything is working properly.

Families that need a quality, affordable mid-sized sedan can look to the Passat for their driving needs. The Passat for 2013 is available at our Four Points area Volkswagen dealership and is full of all of the things you want in a vehicle. It is a bigger car with a lot of features and technologies for the price.   The Passat is a roomy, four-door sedan that is highly regarded in its class. It offers a base model 2.5 liter, 5-cylinder engine that is perfect for family drives or as a commuter vehicle. For driving enthusiasts with a yearning for even more power the Passat is also available as a 2.0 liter turbocharged 4 cylinder diesel engine. Either choice will provide you with a smooth, comfortable, and quiet ride.   On the inside, drivers will find the Passat to be functional and clean. Cloth fabrics adorn the seats in the base model and additional trim styles include leather interior. One of the more notable things about the 2013 Passat is the legroom rear-seat passengers enjoy since the wheelbase has been lengthened. Additional cargo space is also made possible by the longer length of the vehicle.   Feature-wise, the 2013 VW Passat includes automatic dual-zone climate controls, steering wheel mounted audio controllers, and Bluetooth capabilities. Additional trims and packages are available that include a premium sound system, iPod connectivity, and the turbocharged diesel engine.   Base sticker price for the 2013 VW Passat averages around $21k. Additional trims are priced higher with the SEL Premium ranging just under $34k. It is an affordable choice for those seeking a family sedan that is great on gas mileage and comfortable on the road.   If you are looking for a sedan priced right with the quality Volkswagen reputation, consider test driving the 2013 Volkswagen Passat today at our Volkswagen dealership near Four Points FL to see how this sedan handles the road for yourself. Our professional sales staff can show you the many features and trim options available for the new Passat so you can be sure you make the right choice for your driving needs. Our service center staff will also be available to set you up with your first maintenance appointment to keep your new car looking like new and functioning safely. Let us know how we can help you when you come out to take a closer look at the VW Passat for 2013.

The safety equipment in your new or used Tallahassee Volkswagen may be much different than in vehicles of decades past. Many years ago there were not even many laws about seat belt use when riding in vehicles. Many adults today can remember riding in the front seat of their parents’ vehicle as a child or in the back of a pickup truck with no safety restraints at all.   However, the auto industry has put a lot of emphasis on safety and is always inventing new equipment and technology meant to keep drivers and their passengers safe. Even with the many different technologies, there are still three main safety features in vehicles today that are the foundation for auto safety. For this reason it is important to ensure they are free from damage and always in proper working order. 3 Elements of Auto Safety Seats Belts The seat belts of today are typically a three-point harness system that is worn across the upper chest and the pelvic area of the vehicle occupant. The seat belt helps protect occupants from being tossed around or ejected from the vehicle at the time of a collision. Seat belts should always be worn and worn correctly to prevent serious injuries. The seat belts will hold a person in place and will lock in place when the brakes of the vehicle are applied. If seat belts show signs of wear or are not working properly, they will need to be serviced as soon as possible. Driving without functional seat belts fastened properly can result in serious injuries as well as traffic violations. Air Bags Air bags are installed in vehicles to prevent traumatic injuries during an impact. They add a barrier of protection to prevent additional injuries that can occur when the body comes in contact with the steering wheel, windshield, dashboard, or door. The air bags do not restrain occupants but can help prevent fatal injuries when used in combination with seat belts. Typically, air bags do not need regular maintenance but if any alert indicators denote a problem with the air bag system, professional evaluation and servicing will need to be done immediately to ensure air bags are working properly. Head Restraints Neck injuries including whiplash are very common in auto-related accidents. The head restraints in a vehicle are meant to prevent neck injuries during a collision. It is important that head restraints be adjusted according to the individual driver and passengers before operating the vehicle. If there is a problem with the adjustability of your head restraint, have our professional Tallahassee VW mechanics evaluate the problem and repair the restraint for continued safety.

The Volkswagen GTI from our Tallahassee VW dealership is a favorite among VW enthusiasts. It is available as either a 2-door or 4-door hatchback that is sure to please drivers no matter where they have to travel. For drivers looking for a versatile hatchback that is also enjoyable to drive, the GTI also offers plenty of features drivers want in their automobile.   The GTI offers several trims with the TDI model leading the pack. The TDI is diesel-powered and designed to provide the best in fuel efficiency with a rating of 42 mpg on highway driving. All trims offer a smooth ride and good suspension. Drivers will appreciate the responsiveness of the GTI.   Inside the GTI by Volkswagen, drivers and passengers will adore the high quality interior materials, supportive seating, and lots of visual appeal. The dashboard controls are functional and easy to use. Standard features in the base model GTI include power windows, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, air conditioning, rear seats with split-fold capabilities, and a radio/CD audio system.   Base model VW GTI two-door model is well priced at under $19k. Additional features and trims will increase the sticker price with the Golf R ranging around $37k. Drivers looking for a reliable, safe compact Volkswagen should try out the 2013 GTI to see how they feel behind the wheel. The GTI makes a great commuter vehicle and with its incredible fuel efficiency options, the GTI can help you save money for years to come.   Our Volkswagen service center in Tallahassee offers top-of-the-line servicing and maintenance appointments when you’ve made your purchase decision. Our certified VW experts will perform all necessary maintenance and servicing on schedule to keep your GTI in great shape for its lifetime. You can schedule your routine oil changes, tire rotations, and engine tune ups with our team to ensure your GTI is safe. We can also pre-schedule service appointments based on how you drive and how often you drive.   Visit our showroom today to check out the VW GTI as well as our other inventory of new and quality pre-owned Volkswagen vehicles. Our dedicated sales staff will be happy to show you what the latest GTI has to offer and you can also explore quality pre-owned VW GTI vehicles in our inventory that can help you make the most informed car-buying decision.

The reputation of the Quincy area Volkswagen Jetta is well deserved. The 2013 Jetta is one of the most popular VW choices among drivers and for good reason especially when you consider the benefits of the new hybrid model for 2013 that can average up to 45 miles to the gallon on the highway.   The Jetta is a stylish compact car that handles responsively on the roadways. Several additional trim styles are available including the Jetta GLI which features an upgraded brake system, better tires, and improved suspension. Many drivers love the diesel engine of the Jetta that is available with manual or automatic transmissions. The GLI version features a turbocharged 4 cylinder engine and a sport-tuned suspension system that can handle even the most difficult road conditions.   While the VW Jetta is considered in the category of compact cars, the 2013 model is certainly spacious inside. It can accommodate 5 adults comfortably with plenty of headroom and legroom. Cargo space is also commendable and the rear seats fold into a 60/40 split for added storage space. Features coming standard on the base model Jetta include keyless entry system, cloth seats, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD audio system featuring auxiliary inputs, and power windows. Additional trim styles offer even more standard features. Optional equipment for your VW Jetta include a 6-speed automatic transmission, sunroof, heated front seats, navigation system, push-button start, and a rear view camera monitoring system.   Volkswagen has long been a reliable, reputable vehicle and the new Jetta is a safe bet for drivers looking for a solid sedan at an affordable price. The base model VW Jetta featured at our Quincy FL area Volkswagen dealership comes in around $16k and increases depending on trims and features selected.   Contact our Volkswagen dealership staff ahead of your visit and we’ll schedule you some time to test drive the 2013 VW Jetta and any other Volkswagens you like from our new and pre-owned VW inventory. If you need financing assistance to secure your next VW, you can also contact our financing department to pre-qualify for an auto loan prior to shopping through our inventory. We’ll make it simple to completing the buying process and you never have to leave the dealership. We look forward to helping you drive home today in the Volkswagen you’ve been dreaming about and now can own for yourself.

The iconic Four Points area Volkswagen Beetle is still making people smile all these years after it was introduced. If you have been waiting to own one for yourself, now may be the perfect time.   Our pre-owned Volkswagen dealership near Four Points FL offers a high quality 2012 Volkswagen Beetle you are sure to love. Driving-wise the VW Beetle’s 2012 model is a fun car to maneuver on the roadways. It is very comfortable to ride in and offers a lot of versatility. The interior of the VW Beetle is reminiscent of the original Beetle with updated style and user-friendly functionality. Drivers particularly like the dash control panel and its clean style. Controls and displays are easy to use and to see when behind the wheel.   Standard features on the base Beetle include leatherette upholstery, Bluetooth integration, and 17 inch alloy wheels. Additional trim styles for the Beetle increase the standard features such as with the 2.5-liter version that has a panoramic sunroof, touchscreen audio system, and satellite radio. Additional package features available for the Beetle include the navigation system, a premium audio system, and a host of safety features and technologies which add to driver safety and convenience.   Buying a pre-owned VW Beetle is a great way to stay within your budget and still get a dynamic vehicle. The VW Beetle is certainly one of the most recognizable cars on the roads today and a reduced sticker price for a certified VW is a great way to invest in a reliable vehicle at an affordable price.   Get behind the wheel of the 2012 Beetle soon by scheduling a test drive of the infamous model at our dealership today. If you are interested in exploring your other options through Volkswagen, check out the extensive inventory of new and used Volkswagens at our Capital Volkswagen dealership.   If you are ready to go home in your next Volkswagen, let our financing department find exactly the auto loan package you need to finalize the transaction. Our financial department offers many auto loans you won’t be able to find through traditional banks and lenders. Call us before your visit to find out if you pre-qualify for the Beetle or any of our Volkswagen model vehicles.

Drivers may take for granted just how important the tires on their Tallahassee new or used Volvo are. Only when something happens do car owners sit up and take notice of how costly tire neglect can be. One of the biggest dangers of not having tires replaced and properly maintained can be a devastating accident. It is important to keep your tires in good condition to be safe on the road.   Tires take a beating each time we drive. When rubber meets the road, the tread wears a little bit with each rotation. Over time, the tread of the tire is worn too low to no longer be safe. If left for too long without maintenance, tires can no longer do their job. They could break apart leaving you with a flat tire or a blown out tire while the vehicle is in motion. This poses a serious danger to drivers who can quickly lose control and be involved in an accident. It is also dangerous to all other drivers on the road with you.   Tire maintenance should be done based on how you drive. You want to ensure if you put a lot of miles on your Tallahassee VW in a month that your tires are serviced regularly. Tires need to be rotated to ensure they are wearing evenly during your drive so you won’t have to be replacing them as often. When tread depth is too low, tires will need to be replaced, it is highly recommended that you replace all of your tires at the same time or at the very least, replace two at a time and have the properly balanced and rotated on schedule.   Our Volkswagen repair team can set you up with the right kind of maintenance schedule to keep your tires in good condition. At each service appointment, we’ll evaluate the condition of your tires and make sure the tire tread is adequate for safe driving. At regular intervals we’ll rotate and balance the tires. When tires need to be replaced, we can recommend the right style for your driving needs.   Keeping your tires in good condition will also help you to maintain good fuel economy. Keeping tires properly filled with the right amount of air pressure is good for preserving good quality gas mileage. You can consult the owner’s manual of your Volkswagen to find out what the right amount of pressure is and check every tire on a regular basis to make sure they are properly inflated.