Buying a used car can be challenging at best and at worst, it can be a nightmare. Fear not though, here are 7 tips to guide you through your used car buying process.

Be Sure Of What You Want

When buying a used car, it’s important to think about your needs. For example, a sports car wouldn’t be the best option for taking your kids to soccer practice, right? Take a moment to think about your needs. Are you looking for something that’s light on fuel, or are you looking for something a little more robust that you can 4×4 with? Once you have your needs in mind, you can continue in your journey!

Consider Budget vs. Value

Once you know what you want, you have to set a budget. One thing to keep in mind while you’re in your used car buying process is if you’ll be financing your car or paying it off in full. This will depend on what you have saved and what you’re prepared for. If you have any questions about this, feel free to ask a sales member of the dealership you’re working with. Be sure to check your credit score!

Buy From a Dealer

Used cars can be mysteries, which is why we recommend purchasing from a dealership! The dealership will make sure their vehicles are vetted before putting them on the lot. If there are any warning signs, like water damage, for example, the dealership will have to disclose this up front.

When buying from a private owner, you’re taking a little bit more of a gamble when it comes to the history of the car. Most dealerships offer warranties or trade-in offers as well. Ask your local dealership what they offer!

Important Things to Inspect

Exterior

Check the vehicle for any visible signs of damage. Are there chips in the paint or dents in the hood? Be sure to take notes of any imperfections. Most used cars have a little wear and tear, but make sure the car is up to your standards and you’re okay with what’s being presented.

Interior

When you’re inside the car, be sure to check for things like stains, tears, smells, and anything else that you can see. Check all the buttons too! Does the sunroof work, are you able to adjust your seat, does the radio work? Be diligent and take your time!

On the Test Drive

Test driving a car is an ideal opportunity to investigate any oddities like suspicious sounds or alignment. When test driving a used car, be sure to check the following things:

• Check the lights. Does everything work properly?
• Check all the buttons and fixtures to make sure everything opens, beeps and moves properly.
• Pull over and stop for a minute or two and inspect the spot where you pulled over for any sort of fluid leak. Fluid leaks are a serious red flag.
• Check the wheel alignment while driving. To do this, let go of the steering wheel and see which way the car starts veering. If the car’s alignment is good, then it should stay pretty straight!
• Make sure to kick those tires and check the tread on all four tires.

Research the Car’s History

Do thorough research on the car’s history. Make sure you ask these questions when speaking with the sales member or owner of the used car you’re interested in. If you’re interested in getting the full report on the car you’re interested in, ask about their CarFax or VIN history so you can get the full picture. After all, the last thing you want to happen is suddenly breaking down on the side of the road during your commute. There are some things even the greatest set of tools can’t help you fix. Diligence is key to making sure there are no unexpected surprises.

Invite a Friend Along

Buying a car can be stressful, especially a used one! If you need help making the decision, bring a family member or trusted friend with you when viewing the car. They can help you ask questions, review the car, and tell you what it feels like to sit in the back seat while you’re on your test drive! Sometimes two heads or four eyes are better than one.

Think About Maintenance Costs

Before purchasing your “new to you” car, be sure to consider maintenance costs. When was the last time the tires were replaced? Has it had an oil change recently? Is it a luxury brand vehicle? Do your research and make sure to weigh the costs and benefits before you buy. You may be getting a great deal, but if you have to replace the engine in a year, you may want to rethink your choice.

Now that you know what to look for when purchasing a used car, you’ll be prepared to begin your car buying journey! If you’re interested in starting your journey today, make sure to view our selection of used vehicles or give us a call to talk with a member of our sales team. Good luck with your journey!

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Think your commute is brutal? You have nothing on Wiebe Wakker.

The Dutchman will soon complete a journey of more than 55,000 miles from his native Netherlands to Sydney, Australia, that’s required more than 1,000 days behind the wheel. But the real difference between Wakker’s commute and yours is just how much he enjoyed it.

That’s because Wakker completed his journey in a modified Volkswagen Mk V Golf Wagon, the sporty — and apparently very reliable — design from the fifth generation of the compact Golf.  

According to Volkswagen, Wakker’s drive is the longest ever completed in an electric vehicle, and by a large margin. The previous record was 13,670 miles. Wakker covered more than 55,300. He is also the first person to visit 33 different countries in an electric vehicle, a journey that included putting rubber to the road in Turkey, Iran, India, Myanmar, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

But Wakker’s “Blue Bullet” (named for its baby blue exterior) wasn’t always an electric car. It began life with a standard gasoline engine. A Dutch utility company looking to do research on vehicle-to-grid technology replaced the traditional engine with an electric motor and battery.

Because there were no electric vehicles with such technology at the time, the company took 50 VW Golfs and converted them to electric vehicles. That research project dates back to 2009, making the Blue Bullet among the first modern electric vehicles.

With a battery range of 124 miles, Wakker estimates he recharged some 450 times along the way and relied on the kindness of strangers for meals and places to sleep. And the trip wasn’t all just spent hunched behind the wheel. Averaging around 55 miles per day in a car with 201 horsepower and a top speed of 111 MPH, Wakker enjoyed plenty of time for sightseeing and adventure, all of which is documented on the blog he set up for his trip.

Along the way, Wakker also spent time meeting with various companies, government organizations, and media outlets about the sustainability efforts being pursued in each country he visited.

A Volkswagen took Wiebe Wakker on an epic journey. See where one can take you by exploring VW cars for sale in Amarillo, Texas.  

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You love your Volkswagen because it’s an efficient piece of high-performance art. But even the most well-built cars don’t last very long without the proper care. As a car owner, you probably know that oil is an essential component of your vehicle. But knowing when to get it changed is a more complicated matter. Different sources give you different answers.

With such a broad range of suggestions, how do you hone in on the right one for you? Ask yourself the following questions.

5 Questions to Consider Before Your Next Oil Change

How long has it been since your last oil change?

Stuff happens. Sometimes you lose the sticker from your most recent oil change, which can make it pretty difficult to remember the last time you had it done. Luckily, your VW can maintain optimal performance for 3,000 to 10,000 miles between oil changes — depending on the model. But if it’s been awhile, you might want to err on the side of caution and schedule service.

Are any dashboard lights on?

Dashboard lights rarely signal immediate danger, but they’re good indicators of any issues that need to be resolved. If your oil pressure light or check engine light is illuminated, there’s a strong chance you have an oil-related problem. Putting it off could prove costly down the road.

Is your engine making unusual noises?

Engines are seldom quiet, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore every noise. If your VW’s engine is running louder than usual — or producing a knocking sound — it could be a sign that it’s being overworked. Getting the oil changed regularly is one of the simplest, most inexpensive ways to limit wear and relieve stress.

What does your oil look like?

Healthy oil shows as a light brown color on your dipstick. If it’s dark or silty, that means it’s run its course. Old oil can create sludge buildup and “gum up” your engine, resulting in poor performance and reduced longevity.  

What about the level?

Oil should never appear below the lower hole on your dipstick. It means the moving parts of your engine aren’t receiving sufficient lubrication, and an oil change is in order. If you’re replenishing your oil constantly and still getting low readings, it’s time to consult the experts.

Schedule Service in Amarillo, TX

If you’re concerned after considering the above questions, it’s time to schedule Volkswagen service in Amarillo, Texas. There’s no better place to do that than Street Volkswagen. We have the personnel to keep your car in working order and the VW Service Coupons to help save you money when you come see us.

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Finally!

It’s time to leave the office. You can’t wait to get home and relax, it’s been one of those days.

As you rush around trying to collect all of your stuff and jam it in your bag, you are already fantasizing about the evening ahead. You grab your keys, time to go!

You walk outside to where you parked your car…

Your stomach drops…

It’s gone!

The problem with theft, is we don’t think of protecting our assets until it’s too late. With an estimate of over 751,000 in stolen cars each year – it’s worth taking the time now to know how to protect your assets in the long-run.

Which is exactly what we hope to help you within this article.

Keep Track Of Your Keys

It’s nothing to feel bad about.

We all lose our keys at one point or another. A night full of fun activities, one drink too many. And before you know it your keys will have played a magic act, and disappeared.

I mean, sometimes I swear they have legs to walk off with.

But it’s also the easy jackpot for lurking thieves to take advantage of. Especially if you misplace your keys in public.

In fact, when you report a car theft to the police, the first thing they will ask is whether or not you have all of your keys. And trust me, if you keep a spare key in the vehicle – be prepared to face insurance hell!

The good news is now that you know this, you can prevent it.

There are applications that you can use to keep track of your keys with a microchip tracking device that synchronizes with your phone. Read more about these applications here.

Avoid Dodgy Parking Areas

Trying to find parking can be a real pain. Especially if you have just traveled a long-distance. The last thing you want to do is drive back and forth waiting for someone to leave ideal parking.

Let’s not even mention the gas costs for doing this.

However, would you rather spend the extra 10-minutes, and $20 gas bill, or lose a $20,000 + value vehicle?

When looking for parking in an area that you know is risky, try to look for parking that is in a well-lit area – preferably near parking lots, which have cameras for that extra little bit of security.

Definitely, do not leave your car for extended periods of time in closed-off parking lots or garages. And when you do park in those, be sure to stay as close to cameras/attendants as you possibly can.

If you have no choice but to leave your car parked in a secure garage for an extended period of time, we suggest investing in a car cover.

Why?

Less eye-candy for those looking to make a quick buck from your assets.

Hide Valuables In Your Vehicle

Would you walk down an alleyway alone with your new iPhone out? Would you flaunt $10,000 cash that you have in your bag to everyone close to you?

Probably not, why? Because you know that doing that will only lead to trouble.

The same principle applies to the valuables in your vehicle. That Ipad you left on the seat, the couple hundred dollars in the passenger door – that’s all eye-candy convincing thieves it’s worth their time.

And if you are one that keeps a spare in the vehicle…

What could have just been a smash and grab just became a missing car?

If you do need to take your valuables with you, put it in the cubbyhole, hide it under the chair. Anywhere that is not visible to outside passerby’s is really fine.

There Are Anti-Theft Devices That You Can Invest In

Thieves look for easy targets. That means vehicles that are easy enough to hot-wire, something that will not draw attention to them.

Which is why investing in a physical anti-theft security device is never a bad idea. It takes the risk level of stealing your vehicle from a 0, right up to a 100.

The best part about these devices is that there are some models which have an immobilizer system to stop thieves from hot-wiring your vehicle.

One last benefit of these devices is that insurance companies tend to offer you a premium due to the safety and risk-diversion that these devices provide.

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The 2019 Volkswagen Atlas goes above and beyond your expectations. It doesn’t just seat seven people — it seats them comfortably. It’s not just safe — it’s equipped with driver-assistance features like Lane Monitoring and Blind Spot Detection.

If you’re looking for the next vehicle for your family to call theirs, check out the 2019 Volkswagen Atlas for sale at Street Volkswagen in Amarillo, Texas.

2019 Volkswagen Atlas Highlights

Kid Approved

From the morning carpool route to weekend road trips, your family will be spending a lot of time in the Atlas. This midsize SUV comes with plenty of features to keep your backseat riders comfortable. Between the 17 cup holders and the multiple USB ports, it’s designed to keep everyone happy.

As for seats, there’s enough room for the whole crew to come along. The third row is easy to access and offers lots of legroom for adults. In the second row, you can opt for either the bench seat — which can hold three child car seats at the same time — or the captain’s chairs. And to make room for cargo, you can fold down both rows to enjoy up to 96.8 cu. ft. of space.

Endlessly Entertaining

The Atlas’s cabin is decked out with the latest technology to help make all your adventures exciting, including available features like:

• Fender® Premium Audio System
• Apple CarPlay™
• Android Auto™
• SD card reader
• Car-Net® App-Connect

When you’re not in the midst of a family singalong, you can enjoy a different kind of entertainment. The available panoramic sunroof runs almost the entire length of all three rows, giving everyone a front row seat to Mother Nature’s beauty. The sunroof even opens, transforming your SUV into a convertible.

Smart and Stylish

The Atlas definitely knows how to have fun, but it also knows how to be serious. Its muscular design speaks to the power hiding under the hood, while the diamond quilted-design cloth seating creates an air of elegance. It also comes standard with a 6.5” infotainment display with a rearview camera. Advanced features, such as an overhead view camera and Map Navigation View, are also available to help you stay in control of the road.

Check Out the Atlas in Amarillo, TX

Want to learn more about the VW Atlas? Stop by the dealership today for a test drive. We have a large inventory of the Atlas, as well as many other new cars for sale. Contact us at (833) 521-0704 with any questions.

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Shoppers look for different aspects in their search for the ideal midsize sedan. Fuel-efficiency, innovative features, and safety tend to be somewhere in the mix. But what if you could have all three? When you get behind the wheel of the 2019 Volkswagen Passat, you can.

Continue reading to learn more about the 2019 Volkswagen Passat for sale in Amarillo.

Safety

Volkswagen knows you’re carrying precious cargo. That’s why safety is a priority when designing each vehicle. The Passat is equipped with an array of available Driver Assistance features to help you stay protected on the road.

These features include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Lane Assist
• Front Assist
• Rear Traffic Alert

The Rear View Camera System features a wide-angle lens to provide a large view of what’s behind the Passat as you back up.

Connectivity

Have you ever parked your car, walked into a store, and wondered if you left your car unlocked? With the available VW Car-Net® Security & Service, you can receive a notification on your smartphone if the Passat is unlocked. And you can send a signal to lock the doors remotely.

When you return from your shopping trip with arms full of bags, you can swipe your foot under the rear bumper to unlock and open the available hands-free Easy Open trunk. There’s no need to fumble for your keys or search your pockets.

Whether you’re heading to work or everyone is headed out of town on a family road trip, the Volkswagen Passat’s App-Connect system lets you use your favorite smartphone apps on its 6.3” touch-screen via Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ compatibility.

Get Up and Go

The Passat is a midsize sedan with big-size performance. Its 2.0L turbocharged TSI® engine pumps out 174 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque to deliver an estimated 36 mpg in fuel economy on the highway. The turbo functionality of the engine forces cooled air right into the engine to help boost horsepower, torque, and overall performance.

As you run errands, drive to baseball practice, or cruise to grandma’s, the 6-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth gear changes. You can always switch to Sport mode to have the experience of a manual with the convenience of an automatic.

Experience the 2019 VW Passat in Amarillo, TX

Stop into Street Volkswagen to test drive the VW Passat. Explore our inventory of new cars for sale in Amarillo.

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Anytime you get a new car, you look for any excuse to take it out on the road. Thankfully, there are plenty of fun things to do and places to go near Lubbock, Texas, to put your new Volkswagen to the test. So, grab your keys and head out to enjoy the cool fall weather.

How to Enjoy Fall With a New Volkswagen

Go Apple Picking

Apple picking is a must in the fall. The Orchard is located just outside town in neighboring Idalou, TX. They have row after row of apple trees just waiting to be picked, plus fresh honey and delicious treats. Stop by the store before you leave to stock up on more fall goodies.

For this day trip, a sporty compact SUV like the Volkswagen Tiguan is perfect for a drive out to the farm. The Tiguan’s spacious trunk can hold all your spoils, while available Pedestrian Monitoring and Overhead View Camera help you navigate the busy parking lot with ease.

Catch a Texas Tech Game

This time of year, the Red Raiders are out in force. What better way to break in your new Volkswagen than to tailgate? Invite all your friends and family to carpool to the game in a VW Atlas, which boasts three rows of seats. Whether you’re watching football, basketball, or another fall sport, the game will be that much more enjoyable with a Volkswagen waiting for you.

Bring the Family to the Thanksgiving Eve Walk, Roll, or Run

Prepare for the Thanksgiving feast with this race. On November 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Safety City is hosting a Thanksgiving Eve Walk, Roll, or Run. The whole family is welcome to walk the kid-sized streets, run races, or ride bikes and scooters around the miniature town. You’ll need to bring the bikes, scooters, or skates to the event, and admission is free.

Lubbock’s Volkswagen Dealer

Excited to take a new VW car or SUV out on the road? Visit your local Volkswagen dealer near Lubbock, TX, for a test drive. Street Volkswagen of Amarillo is located at 8707 Pilgrim Drive in Amarillo, Texas. We have a full lineup of new and used vehicles to choose from. Redeem one of our fall special offers to make the season even sweeter.

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Comfortably and confidently drive the roads and highways of the Texas Panhandle behind the wheel of the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan. This feature-rich SUV provides plush interiors, spacious cargo room, and exceptional performance for drives to football practice, errand runs, and weekend getaways alike.

Keep reading to learn more about the 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan for sale in Amarillo.

Go Where the Road Takes You in the VW Tiguan

Performance for Days

You’ll love firing up the 2.0L TSI® turbocharged engine, which delivers 184 horsepower. The Tiguan’s 8-speed automatic transmission is equipped with Tiptronic® mode, so you can enjoy the feel and precise shifting of a manual whenever you want.

From the highway to city streets, you can traverse almost any terrain with confidence, thanks to available 4MOTION® all-wheel drive (AWD). This AWD system moves power between the front and rear wheels to suit the road conditions and enhance traction and stability.

The Right Amount of Space

Activate the available Easy Open and Close Liftgate with a kick under the rear bumper, and load up groceries, camping gear, and project materials with ease. You can also fold down the second-row seats of the 5-passenger model to access up to 73.5 cu. ft.

An 8” touch-screen navigation system makes it easy to find your destination. The App-Connect feature lets you hook up your compatible smartphone to Apple CarPlay™ or Android Auto™. That means you can enjoy your favorite apps, music, and more.

A 12.3” Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Display is available to keep your traditional instrument cluster in view in high resolution.

An Extra Set of Eyes

The 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan comes with available Driver Assistance features to help keep you safe on the road and in parking lots. These features include:

• Front Assist w/ Pedestrian Monitoring
• Blind Spot Monitor
• Area View (Overhead View Camera)
• Light Assist
• Lane Assist
• Park Distance Control
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Rear Traffic Alert

Shop for a 2018 VW Tiguan in Amarillo, TX

Looking for a Tiguan? Come to Street Volkswagen of Amarillo to set up a test drive or browse our inventory of new Volkswagen cars for sale.

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Regularly waxing your car, truck, or SUV makes your car look great, and it also adds a layer of protection from potential damages that can lead to chipped paint and rust buildup. According to Kelley Blue Book, waxing also helps to maintain the value of your vehicle in the event that you choose to trade it in or sell it in the future.

Follow these 4 tips for waxing your car if you want to preserve its appearance for years to come.

4 Tips for Waxing Your Car

Wax in Optimal Conditions

Before you prepare your car to be waxed, ensure that the weather conditions are on your side. If the temperature is too hot, or your vehicle is in direct sunlight, the wax on your car will dry too quickly, which will make it more difficult to remove once applied. Cold weather leads to similar difficulties.

Try to wax your car in the shade on a cool day. If you can do it under an awning or in a garage, that’s even better.

Wash and Dry Your Car

Waxing your car is easier, and the results look better when you work with a clean car. You also want to ensure the vehicle is completely dry before adding any wax. Bust out your shammy and sponge and get to work.

Gather Your Tools

Waxing your vehicle requires using the right tools and products, and you’ll want to read all instructions closely. It’s important to acquire a quality wax, application sponges, and microfiber towels.

Pay attention to how much wax the product recommends to use before emptying a new container, and whether or not the wax can be applied to exterior plastic parts, like the headlights and taillights.

Less is More

When applying wax to your car, less is always more. Start waxing one small area of the car at a time rather than waxing the entire car at once, and move your hands in small, circular motions. Cover the surface of your car in a thin layer of wax.

When you notice a white, chalky appearance to your car, the wax has dried. Taking your microfiber towel, use more small, circular motions to remove the excess wax.

Seek Quality Service at Street Volkswagen

At Street Volkswagen, your go-to Volkswagen dealer in Amarillo, TX, we can help you maintain your VW vehicle with services performed by trained technicians using genuine VW parts. Contact us for more information, or schedule a service appointment for VW service in Amarillo today.

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The all-new 2019 Volkswagen Arteon makes a statement as you cruise city streets to your next destination. This full-size sedan’s wide, muscular stance and bold chrome grille introduce your arrival. Its interior amenities and available safety features make it even more enjoyable to drive.

Keep reading to learn more about what you can expect from VW’s all-new model.

Introducing the 2019 Volkswagen Arteon

Aerodynamic Performance

The 2019 Volkswagen Arteon is equipped with a standard — but powerful — 2.0L TSI® turbocharged engine that delivers up to 268 horsepower. Its 8-speed automatic transmission provides optimal control and nimble handling for sharp corners and abrupt changes in speed.

Customize your driving experience with DCC® adaptive chassis control. Choose from Normal, Comfort, or Sport modes. And with available 4MOTION® all-wheel drive (AWD), traverse through rain, snow, gravel and more with optimal traction on the front and rear wheels.

Cabin Comforts

Slide into the Arteon, and you’ll be greeted with front sport seats featuring available ventilation and driver-massaging technologies. The cabin’s 3-zone automatic climate controls allow every passenger to ride at the most comfortable temperature.

The available Dynaudio® premium sound system transforms your cabin into a concert venue. Just connect your compatible smartphone with Apple CarPlay™ or Android Auto™ to access your music library. Volkswagen Car-Net® App-Connect displays your favorite smartphone apps on the touch-screen so you can easily make phone calls, send text messages, and follow navigation instructions.

While you cruise, your passengers can enjoy a delightful view of the sky above through the available power tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof.

Confident Cruising

The 2019 Volkswagen Arteon offers a suite of available driver-assist features to help you feel more confident on the road. Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind Spot Monitoring aim to maintain a safe distance away from other vehicles and warn you when another car is too close when you’re cruising or changing lanes.

The Arteon also offers the following features:

• Light Assist
• Lane Assist
• Rear Traffic Alert
• Front Assist
• Park Assist

Shop New Volkswagen Models For Sale in Amarillo, TX

Visit Street Volkswagen to check out our inventory of Volkswagen cars for sale in Amarillo, Texas. Contact us to schedule a test drive today.

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