In recent years Volkswagen of America has been in a funk of sorts. Sales have declined as the youth market has moved on to brands like Scion, while at the same time the collapse of the dollar is eating into profits and making their vehicles ever more expensive. But VW is fighting back -- having just introduced a new ad campaign and spokesman, the automaker has announced it will now begin offering no-charge maintenance on its entire 2009 model line.
Even when they sold well, over the past few years Volkswagens haven't exactly been known for their quality. To help combat this perception, the company's new program, called Carefree Maintenance, will cover all scheduled service on each of its cars during the 3-year/36,000 mile warranty. In addition, it includes a "courtesy vehicle check," where new owners can return to the dealer within 90 days or 6000 miles for a quick inspection and review of their vehicles.
VW has created the program in the hope of improving owner loyalty, as well as setting itself apart from its Japanese and American rivals. At present, most companies with no-charge maintenance programs are luxury makers (though with the Phaeton possibly returning to the U.S., VW isn't exactly a discount brand), and the service may help the German automaker compete against lower-priced Hondas and Toyotas.
Tiguan
The Carefree Maintenance Program will launch first with the new Tiguan CUV, and eventually become available on all 2009 models. Most VWs require just three service visits during their first 36,000 miles, but the offer also applies to the upcoming, Chrysler-based Routan minivan, which needs six. With a new U.S. manufacturing plant in the works to help reduce production costs and exciting vehicles like the Passat CC four-door coupe on the horizon, Volkswagen may be set for a turnaround. And as for the quality issue, buyers may develop more confidence in VW vehicles now that the automaker has agreed to keep them running for free.
Source: VW