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Driving a vehicle comes with certain responsibilities, and among the most important is routine brake service. Find out the benefits you'll get by taking your vehicle to your local Jacksonville, FL VW dealer when it's time to have this essential service performed. more 6 Benefits of Getting Routine Brake Service at Your Jacksonville, FL VW Dealer 1. Save You the Hassle While it's possible to learn how to perform maintenance on your own vehicle, the fact of the matter is that most people are too busy to learn every aspect of their car themselves. Trust the experts at your local dealership and you'll know the job is getting done correctly every time. 2. Get Quality Work Your vehicle is an important part of your life. Just like you wouldn't trust your health to a doctor you weren't certain was qualified, you shouldn't trust your vehicle to anybody unless you know they'll provide the highest standard of work. That's exactly what you'll be getting when you get your vehicle serviced by trained VW techs, who all have proven expertise with your specific vehicle. 3. Optimize Performance Better performance from your brakes helps you get the most out of your overall driving experience. You'll be able to take on twisting, turning roads and sharp curves with relative ease thanks to the increased responsiveness of your brakes. Optimized brakes will also help to reduce wasted energy, improving your vehicle's fuel economy. 4. Prevent Dangerous Situations Out of all the systems at work in your vehicle, the brakes are one of the most essential when it comes to preventing dangerous situations on the road. Having routine brake maintenance performed will ensure that your brakes are responsive when you need them. That means that if any sudden hazards occur on the road, you'll have the quick-acting stopping power you need to react to danger and keep you and your precious cargo safe. 5. Get Authentic VW Parts If you replace parts of your vehicle's brakes with components bought by other mechanics, you never know what you're going to get in terms of quality. The parts might work fine, but when it comes to brakes, you don't want to take any chances. You'll get peace of mind knowing that the parts used for service at your dealership are of the same quality that your vehicle was initially manufactured with. 6. Save Money in the Long Run Like with so many things, being proactive and maintaining brakes rather than waiting for a problem to occur can save you expenses over time. Stay ahead of the problem with low-cost routine maintenance so you don't end up fixing major problems. Diligent vehicle ownership practices like that will end up benefiting your finances in no time. Our professional service team is standing by to help you out with brake maintenance and any other service needs you have for your vehicle. You can trust us to get the job done right and to provide you with courteous, friendly service. Stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen today!

Your car's alternator is one of the most important components of your car's engine. It's what keeps your batteries charged, so if it's not working properly, your engine might not be able to start. This could leave you stranded! Therefore, it's really important to keep it in top condition, so if you notice any of the signs below, then it's time to pay a visit to your local Volkswagen dealer for an alternator repair. more 5 Signs You Need an Alternator Repair From Your Local Volkswagen Dealer 1. Your Dashboard Lights Come On Some cars make it easy to know if your alternator is having trouble. You'll often see a light in the shape of a battery appearing to let you know something's wrong. On some cars, you might see the letters ALT or GEN appearing instead. Even if you haven't noticed anything else wrong, don't' ignore it and hope it goes away! You could be in for worse trouble if you leave it too long, so take it to us for a diagnostic immediately! 2. New Battery Problems If you've just replaced your battery, or your car is still fairly new, you should expect it to be reliable. But what if replacing your battery hasn't solved your power problems? It could be that your battery is working correctly, but your alternator isn't charging it properly. A bad alternator might not be able to recharge the battery, which can look a lot like it's the battery itself that's the problem. 3. Dim or Flickering Headlights It's the alternator that's responsible for charging up your headlights, so if they don't seem to be working properly, then it could be the alternator that's at fault. Some of the most common symptoms are headlights that seem to be dimmer than normal or seem to be flickering. Again, it might be tempting to chalk this up to an issue with the headlights themselves, but always be aware that it could be the alternator at fault. 4. Strange Engine Noises Yes, this might sound a bit vague. After all, there are lots of reason's why your engine might be making strange noises, but it's important to be aware that it could be the alternator that's causing them. A failing alternator can in turn damage some of the engine bearings, which will manifest as an odd rattle. While it might not be enough on its own to pinpoint the alternator, when combined with some of the other symptoms on this list, it can be an important sign. 5. Your Car Stalls or Fails to Start Your car doesn't only need gas to run correctly, it also needs electricity. Power is used to ignite the fuel by way of the spark or glow plugs, which draw their power from, you've guessed it, the alternator. If it's not working correctly, you could find your engine stalling suddenly, or refusing to start entirely. If you've noticed one or more of the symptoms on this list, then your alternator might well need some attention. Give us a call at Tom Bush Volkswagen today, and one of our technicians will be more than happy to take a look.

Volkswagen is one of the market leaders regarding car safety features. Manufacturing vehicles with lots of standard and available safety features has been a priority for the automaker for quite some time, and all of the safety technology is cutting-edge and useful on a daily basis. Visit your Jacksonville, FL Volkswagen dealer to see what you could get in your new vehicle. more 3 Great Car Safety Features in VW Cars At Your Jacksonville, FL Volkswagen Dealer 1. Adaptive Cruise Control Adaptive cruise control lets you maintain your preferred speed with minimal effort. There are small exterior sensors on your vehicle, and they monitor the road around you. They adjust your speed as needed to maintain the correct distance between you and the vehicle ahead. The feature will even bring your Volkswagen to stop if the car ahead of you slows down too much or comes to a halt. This is a particularly useful feature for highway driving, and it will also work well on country roads. You still need to pay a lot of attention to the drivers around you, and you should always monitor your speed and the distance between you and the vehicle ahead manually. Assistive driving features never replace careful and highly monitored driving. They're just present to make your life a little easier and more relaxed on the road. 2. Pedestrian Monitoring Pedestrians are unpredictable, and it can be difficult for you to monitor them all the time by yourself. Your Volkswagen can do some of the monitoring for you, as it strives to protect people that are moving on foot through particularly busy streets or parking lots. If a pedestrian comes within 400 feet of your Volkswagen, then your Volkswagen will be able to detect them. It will send you an alert to let you know there's a pedestrian nearby, and it will likely activate your brake pedal if you don't take action when someone is in your path. If you still don't take action after the light automatic breaking, then it will apply the brakes harder. This feature works if you're driving under 40 mph, and it functions whether it's bright or dark outside. 3. Parking Assist Parking is particularly challenging at times, and sometimes you can feel very unsafe while doing it. Volkswagen wants you to feel safe doing any activity in your vehicle, so the parking assist helps you to detect a parking spot. and it calculates how you need to turn to fit into that spot. Your Volkswagen will do most of the work for you when you have parking assist, and all you have to do is make sure the vehicle is calculating everything correctly, apply the brakes, and apply the accelerator when necessary. The vehicle will steer itself. This works whether you're parking forwards, backwards, parallel, or at a right angle. Stop by Tom Bush Volkswagen if you want a vehicle with the features described above. You'll find those features in many of our new and used Volkswagens.

Your Jacksonville, FL Volkswagen dealership offers a range of useful services for you and your vehicle. We know Volkswagen vehicles very well, and we also know how to take care of them. Our technicians have had thousands of hours of training, and they're ready and waiting to provide all the services below. more 5 Essential Services You Can Find at Your Jacksonville, FL Volkswagen Dealership 1. Oil Change You should get an oil change at least once every 12 months, and we'll be happy to take care of it for you. We'll check your entire oil system to make sure there are no leaks, and we'll repair any problems that we find. You can also come to us for repairs on your oil system if something is wrong in between oil changes. 2. Brake Repairs You need to get your brakes checked out regularly, as they're one of the most important parts of any vehicle. Your breaks keep you safe, so if they're in disrepair, then driving becomes more dangerous even on easy journeys. We'll make sure your brakes are fixed promptly when something is wrong, and our regular checkups will help keep them in perfect condition all year. Common signs that your brakes are in disrepair include: Squeaking, shrieking, or grinding noises A vibrating steering wheel A burning smell A soft brake pedal The breaks are less effective than usual 3. Battery Replacement Vehicles need new batteries every 3 to 4 years, although getting a new one every three years is best. We'll be pleased to replace your battery for you when necessary, and we'll check on the condition of your battery during your annual service. We'll notify you straight away if we notice anything wrong with your battery, and we'll make all the necessary repairs to get it back into the best possible condition. 4. Acquiring Parts Do you need new parts for your vehicle? You should order them with us. We have an online parts form that you can fill out, and we'll be able to check our stock to see if we already have that part here. If you don't, then we'll be able to order that in for you, and one of our qualified technicians will fit the part or parts into your Volkswagen easily. We'll make sure that we only use original Volkswagen parts, as this maintains optimum performance in your vehicle, and it will ensure you get more for your Volkswagen if you decide to sell it or trade it in a few years. 5. Cooling System Repairs If your cooling system isn't working correctly, then your engine is in danger. We'll make sure to top up your coolant level, check for leaks, and repair any issues we find in your cooling system when you come to us for your annual full-service. We'll also give your radiator and cooling system a checkup if you request one between annual services, and we'll repair any damage that a broken cooling system. Come to Tom Bush Volkswagen if you need any of the services listed above. We work hard, our prices are reasonable, and we truly care about our customers and their vehicles.

It is vital to keep your Volkswagen in good condition, and this includes making sure your tires are up to par. Have you been noticing any issues with your car? If so, it might be time for new tires! Here are seven telltale signs that signify you should get new ones at your Volkswagen dealer in Jacksonville, FL. more When It's Time to Get New Tires at Your Volkswagen Dealer in Jacksonville, FL Premature Wear If your tires look worse for wear and have less than five millimeters of tread left, it's time to see about getting new ones. The quick way to test this is to put a penny upside-down and head-first into the grooves of the tire. If you can see more than just Abraham Lincoln's head, it's time for new ones. Unusual Wear If you start to notice uneven tire wear on your Volkswagen, such as unusual wear on the outside of the tread or inner side of your tires, get them checked out by your dealer immediately. This could mean there is something wrong with the suspension and alignment system of your vehicle. Pulling Do you find yourself constantly having to correct the steering of your Volkswagen? If so, it could be a sign that one or more of your tires is worn down, and this could be causing an issue with stability. When getting fresh tires, make sure to get them balanced as well. This can help reduce any pulling you may experience. Tread Separation Signs of tread separation include bulges or bubbles on the sidewalls of your tires. This means water has gotten into them and caused damage. Not only is this dangerous, but it can lead to more significant problems with your Volkswagen if it isn't taken care of right away. Curb Rash If your tires are damaged from tire rotations, curbs or nails, get new ones! It is essential to take care of this as soon as possible. Driving on tires with curb rash can lead to costly repairs and accidents down the road. Some experts recommend driving five miles per hour when encountering a sharp turn to prevent unnecessary damage to the tire. Age If your tires are past their expiration date or older than six years, it is time for new ones. Tires should be routinely inspected and rotated, so you don't put yourself at risk when out on the road. Your dealer in Jacksonville can check your tires and determine whether or not they need to be replaced. Air Pressure Do your tires look normal? Are they wearing evenly? If not, it could be a sign of low air pressure. This is something you should keep an eye on to prevent any issues down the road. Low air pressure can cause poor gas mileage, loss of steering control, or damage to suspension components. Get this checked out so you don't have to deal with more severe problems. Do you have any of these issues? Call Tom Bush Volkswagen today so we can help get your Volkswagen running smoothly out on the road! We can help you with everything from oil changes and tire rotations to AC repair and so much more!

If you're choosing an electric vehicle, why not go for the stand-out vehicle that took home the 2021 World Car of the Year award? That standard-setting vehicle is the 2021 Volkswagen ID4. Engineered to give you an experience that's a cut above any other vehicle you've seen before, there's a whole lot to admire about the ID4. Get introduced to five of the best features below and you'll start to understand why this new Volkswagen has so many people talking. more 5 Impressive Features of the 2021 Volkswagen ID4 1. Ready to Take You Anywhere Plan your adventures with ease knowing that the impressive range the ID4 provides you with can take you there while also letting you skip stopping at the gas station on the way. The EPA-estimated range of 260 miles at a full charge opens up plenty of possibilities of where your next destination might be. Over time, you'll save an estimated $4,000 over five years compared to driving a conventional-engine vehicle with the electrifying efficiency of the ID4. 2. Charge Up and Go Whether you're taking advantage of the at-home charging base or stopping at one of the many stations throughout the country, charging up your ID4 couldn't be simpler. The ever-growing network of tens of thousands of chargers available mean you'll always have a convenient option no matter where you go. Three years of access to Electrify America DC Fast Charging stations comes complimentary with your ID4, giving you even more charging options. 3. Aerodynamic Aesthetics Efficient electric driving shouldn't come at the cost of style, and with the ID4's striking appearance, it doesn't have to. Flowing lines create an aerodynamic shape of the body that gives you a unique silhouette that is easily recognized among the lineup of same-old vehicles you'll cruise by. Add some extra style enhancements with the optional Gradient package, giving you a two-tone roof with silver trim and accents throughout the body. 4. Smarter Driving Experience When you drive the ID4, you'll be hooked up with a 12-inch touchscreen display that put control over your climate control and interactive navigation systems within easy reach. The App-Connect feature gives you wireless connectivity with your smart device, letting you take all the apps and music streaming you already enjoy on your phone out on the road with you. 5. Smart on Safety Features With all the technology and innovation that went into every other aspect of the ID4, it's perhaps not surprising that Volkswagen also went above and beyond on the safety features in this vehicle. The IQ.DRIVE system provides a hands-on semi-automated experience that lends assistance to your safe driving habits. You'll have features that help you stay centered in your lane in traffic, adjust your cruise control speed, and more. Step into the future of driving with the experience that the ID4 provides. We'll let you get behind the wheel of this vehicle to see it for yourself when you come in for a visit to our dealership. Check out the new ID4 at Tom Bush Volkswagen today!

Do you think your Volkswagen needs a radiator repair? A radiator is designed to remove extra heat from the engine. It's part of the engine's cooling system, which comprises a liquid coolant, hoses to move the coolant, a fan, and a thermostat that checks the coolant temperature. If you notice that your Volkswagen is overheating or doesn't have enough coolant in it, it can lead to the engine overheating, and you should bring it to a Volkswagen dealer for a check-up. more Signs That You Need to Bring Your Car to a Volkswagen Dealer for Radiator Repair 1. The Car Overheats The radiator's job is to cool the engine, so if it begins to overheat, you know something isn't right. The radiator will have steam coming out of it. As it removes heat from the engine, the radiator itself heats up. This is normal and nothing to worry about. If the radiator isn't drawing enough heat, you want to bring your car in for a checkup. 2. The Temperature Rises Quickly If you notice that your Volkswagen is overheating quickly or when you turn on the heater it heats up right away, then there might be a radiator problem. If your temperature gauge needle is heading toward the hot side of the scale, have your radiator checked as soon as possible. 3. The Radiator Shows Signs of Rust The radiator is made of metal, and that means if you live in a geographical area where it snows, there is a good chance your radiator may rust out. If you notice rusting on the radiator, this might be something to have looked at right away by a radiator specialist. 4. There Is Liquid on the Ground Under Your Car If you've noticed liquid on the ground under your Volkswagen radiator, this might be a sign that it's leaking. It could be radiator fluid or even engine oil which indicates there is an issue with the radiator.  Either way, if you see colorful liquid on the ground, have a radiator specialist check it out. 5. The Coolant Level Drops If the coolant level has dropped in your Volkswagen, it's best to bring your car in for repair as soon as possible.  This means there is a leakage somewhere. Bring your vehicle to a radiator specialist to determine where the leak is and how best to fix it. 6. There Are Bubbles in Your Radiator If you notice bubbles coming from your radiator, this could be an issue. Bubbling in the cooling system indicates rising air pressure, which is an indication that a pocket of air has blocked the flow of liquid. This is why if you see bubbles in the radiator, it's time to get it repaired by a radiator specialist at your dealer. If you notice any of these signs, bring your car in for repair as soon as possible. Your radiator might be okay, but if you leave it too long, it won't be able to do its job of removing excess heat from the engine. If your Volkswagen needs repair, get in touch with Tom Bush Volkswagen, and we'll help you get back on the road quickly with our top-notch service and affordable prices.

Newly released, the 2022 Volkswagen Taos is every compact SUV-lover's dream. You won't need to spend long with it to see why. Are you interested in learning more about the all-new VW Taos? Here's a close-up look at what makes this car so special. more Introducing the New 2022 Volkswagen Taos The Basics of the New Taos Are you looking for an SUV, but want to avoid anything too large and bulky? The VW Taos will be the perfect car for you. This compact SUV offers you all the functionality of a larger SUV without any of the bulk. All-new this year, the 2022 VW Taos is a uniquely designed car built to match your one-of-a-kind personality. With such a bold and distinctive look, it won't be hard to find this vehicle in busy parking lots. When you pair this with the vehicle's great performance and fun and useful features, it's easy to see why the Taos has already gained so much popularity amongst both drivers and critics. Trims and Pricing Thinking about buying the 2022 VW Taos for your next car? There are three trim levels that you'll get to choose from. The first is the S trim, which provides you with all of the car's essential features for around $22,995. If you're looking to get some additional features but not willing to go all-out, consider the SE model for $27,245. If you want a little more luxury out of your ride, then you'll want to take a look at the SEL trim level. Starting at $31,490, this model will provide you with all the top-level features that the Taos has to offer. Performance and Engine All three of the 2022 Taos's trim levels are powered by the same fun, sprightly engine. When you purchase this vehicle, you'll get a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 158 horsepower and generating 184 pound-feet of torque. The experience of driving the Taos is smooth, controlled, and incredibly engaging. You can also expect to get fantastic fuel economy and mileage with this fun little SUV. The Taos has EPA ratings of 28 MPG driving in the city and 36 MPG out on the highway. Technology Volkswagen has included a range of great technological features for the brand-new Taos. Driving will be both safer and more fun. This includes the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit which keeps all important information easily laid out for you. There is also the available IQ.Drive, which provides you with a whole suite of useful safety features. The 2022 Taos's infotainment system is super easy to connect to using your Apple or Android phone. Once you've connected, listen to your favorite music on your next drive with the Taos's available BeatsAudio System. With such an array of great features, it's not hard to see why so many people love the all-new 2022 VW Taos. When you purchase this vehicle, you'll get good looks, useful technology, and high performance. Are you ready to learn more about the Taos? Come visit us today at Tom Bush Volkswagen.

Bring a sportier attitude to your daily drive and have some fun when you're on the road when you drive the 2021 VW Golf GTI. Plenty of drivers already know about the excitement that the Golf GTI delivers, with its athletic engine power and distinctive low and sleek appearance. But if you're unfamiliar with what Volkswagen is offering in this model, check out our highlights of some of the best features that the Golf GTI has to offer. more 5 Favorite Features of the 2021 VW Golf GTI 1. Designed with An Attitude An iconic shape and distinctive style lines ensure that you'll sport a one-of-a-kind look when you drive the Golf GTI. Long-lasting and efficient LED taillamps at the back make you look just as good leaving as you do when you make your bold entrance. The 18-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels are also sure to draw plenty of admiring glances as you go cruising by, completing the cohesive design theme running through the whole vehicle. 2. An Exhilarating Interior You'll find plenty to admire inside when you open the doors of your Golf GTI. The bucket-style front seats take their design inspiration from racing vehicles, giving you a high-performance feel when you get into the driver's seat. Ambient lighting trim throughout the cabin creates the perfect amount of mood lighting, setting the perfect atmosphere for any late-night drives you go on. 3. Powerfully Fun Driving Get ready to bring some excitement to your drive with the pulse-pounding power of the Golf GTI's turbocharged 2.0-liter engine. Turbo technology brings in cold air directly to the engine, optimizing your performance. In addition to that sheer power, you'll also have autobahn-tuned sport suspension that will give you an athletic, road-gripping drive that will feel responsive on even the tightest turns the road can throw at you. 4. Street-Smart Technology Enjoy a next-generation technological experience when you're in the cockpit of your Golf GTI. The App-Connect feature makes it easy to connect to your phone and conveniently access your music, contacts, and more while you're on the go. This feature is compatible with both Apple and Android devices, meaning most smartphones will integrate seamlessly with the Golf GTI's interface. 5. Safety and Driver Assistance Drive safer than ever with the features protecting you on your way in the Golf GTI. The latest tech will help you identify potential hazards ahead of time, with help from the blind spot monitoring system that comes standard in this vehicle. If a collision still occurs, you'll be kept safe by the advanced safety cage built into your Golf GTI, featuring front and rear crumple zones that will absorb energy from an accident to reduce the impact you feel. Those seeking a sporty drive can't go wrong with the Golf GTI. If that sounds like something you're interested in, come on down to our dealership and see this and other great options that we have waiting for you. Visit us at Tom Bush Volkswagen today and find your next vehicle!

Upgrade to quality driving and a classic style and enjoy being out on the road again. The 2021 Volkswagen Arteon offers everything you need to get a satisfying driving experience for years to come. There are plenty of reasons that drivers choose the reliable engineering Volkswagen is known for. We highlighted some of the best of what this model has to offer in our preview below, so you know what to expect when you take your test drive. nextpage Test-Drive the 2021 Volkswagen Arteon Today Classic Styling Elegance is on full display when you see the appearance that the Arteon brings to the road. The shape of the body stands out from the other vehicles you'll see on the road, with a sophisticated and sleek design that gives it a look of aerodynamic speed. Tasteful details throughout the design such as the signature grille and eye-catching wheels help to draw even more attention to the high-class look you sport. Impressive Interior A premium sedan experience is waiting for you when you open up the doors to see inside the Arteon. A spacious cabin lets you and all your passengers ride in supreme comfort, with plenty of room to stretch out your legs. There's also the VW digital cockpit included to give you all the vehicle-critical information you need in an easy-to-read format, with an additional wireless charging station to keep your phone running while you're out on the road. Sporty Performance The turbocharged engine driving your Arteon forward provides you with 268 horsepower to give you the quick acceleration and nimble maneuvering you crave. That power is balanced by the fuel efficiency the Arteon's modern engineering achieves, giving you an EPA-estimated maximum of 32 miles per gallon on the highway. Available 4MOTION all-wheel drive gives you more road-gripping traction for a responsive and confident drive. Superior Multimedia Top-notch tech is at your fingertips with the advanced features the Arteon boasts. The 8-inch color touchscreen display is simple and intuitive to navigate, putting navigation, music, messages, and more all at your command. Remote connectivity also lets you start your Arteon, lock or unlock the doors, locate your vehicle, and more all through a convenient mobile app interface.

Whether you are looking to buy a new or used Volkswagen, it's a great idea to find more about VW maintenance habits. A good way to keep your car running smoothly is by taking your car in for a VW oil change at the right time. How often should oil changes take place? There are a few factors to consider, courtesy of your Jacksonville, FL VW Dealer. more What Volkswagen Says According to Volkswagen's official website, the recommended time to get an oil change is either once every year or once every 10,000 miles, whichever milestone comes first. The company openly states that the exception to this rule is the VW Routan, which requires an oil change every 6,000 miles. For the typical Routan driver, an oil change may be required twice per year. Is it Different for Used VWs in Jacksonville, FL? While Volkswagen has its own recommendations for changing oil, the VW car in question might need more frequent oil changes if it's ten years old or more. Because older cars require more care to keep running at their best, you should schedule an oil change one every six months or every 5,000 miles. It may seem like a nuisance to change the oil more often, but it's a fair trade-off for those buying a used VW that still runs well! What Else is Important to Know? Regardless of newer or older VWs, the need to change the car's oil will come more frequently if the car is used for racing, off-road driving, and more. While VWs are made with great care, that doesn't mean they are wear-and-tear-proof. The speed and pressure from these activities will stress out the car's inner parts much faster than from normal driving. Thus, VWs that are used in more physically demanding situations may have to have their oil changed 2,500 miles sooner than normal. How to Know When You Are Due for a VW Oil Change As it can be easy to forget when your VW will need an oil change, it's crucial that when you do take your VW for an oil change to record both the oil change date and your car's mileage and keep it somewhere accessible. You can buy oil change stickers to record this information, or your dealership will provide you with one to place on the corner of your windshield. If you are looking to purchase a used VW, it's important to find out when its oil was last changed. VW takes pride in assembling cars for drivers to cherish, with a few of them even becoming iconic. But it's also important to note that VWs require proper maintenance and a routine oil change to continue running smoothly. To browse an inventory of new and used VWs or inquire about service for your VW, visit Tom Bush Volkswagen in Jacksonville.

Your battery provides the power to start your vehicle and also powers the lights and all the accessories. When your battery is failing, you will experience electrical issues and find it hard to start your vehicle. The following signs will warn you that it's time for a new car battery before it's too late and you get stranded next to the road. more Top 8 Signs Your Volkswagen Needs a New Car Battery 1. The Engine Light is On When your battery is weak, the engine light will come on.  A weak battery won't send the correct amount of energy to the computer, which will cause the engine light to come on. Don't ignore the engine light. Schedule a service appointment immediately. 2. Electrical Problems Your vehicle's battery powers the electronics. When the battery is weak, you will notice that the headlights are dimmer. The electric windows and the windshield wipers will also operate slower than usual. 3. Trouble Starting A battery that's in good condition ensures that your vehicle starts every time you turn the key in the ignition. When you hear clicking sounds when you turn the key and notice it takes longer for your car to start, it's a sign that your battery needs to be replaced. 4. Corroded Terminals When you see a white substance on the metal connections on top of the battery, it can lead to voltage issues that can make it hard to start your vehicle.  If it's not too bad, you can clean it off. When the corrosion is eating away at the metal, you need a new battery urgently. 5. Horrible Odor When the battery is damaged or overcharged, it releases hydrogen sulfide that smells like rotten eggs. When you smell this awful odor when you open the hood or in the cabin, get it checked out by your technician as soon as possible. If you don't attend to the problem, this acidic gas will eventually cause corrosion that will damage engine components. 6. A Damaged and Misshapen Battery Case Exposure to extreme temperatures can cause the battery case to swell and crack. If the battery case is swollen or misshapen in any way, it's time for a new battery. 7. The Battery Is Old Car batteries deteriorate over time until they can't provide enough power to start the engine. A good quality battery should last three to five years. The temperature, your driving habits, and the quality of the battery also influence how long your battery will last. When your battery is three years old, get it tested annually to see if it is still in good working order and if it needs to be replaced. 8. You Need to Jump-Start It Often If you have to jump-start your car often, it doesn't matter for what reason, you have battery problems. Especially if you have to jump-start your car more than once or twice a week. If this is the case, you definitely need a new battery. If you don't replace your battery when you notice any of these signs, you might not be able to start your vehicle at all. Visit Tom Bush Volkswagen today, and our qualified technicians will perform a battery test to determine the condition of your vehicle's battery and if a replacement is necessary.