People frequently mention how Volkswagen vehicles are more stylish and of higher quality than other cars. It is, however, an expensive car with correspondingly high maintenance requirements, particularly for oil changes.
While Volkswagen oil changes are costly, the question remains, “Why are they so expensive?” Here’s what I found!
Why Are Volkswagen Oil Changes So Expensive?
Volkswagen oil changes are expensive because they are a service provided by Volkswagen, a company known for producing expensive automobiles. Due to the labor-intensive nature of the service, Volkswagen oil changes incur substantial labor expenses. Furthermore, Volkswagen oil changes require synthetic oil as well as the replacement of other components.
Keep reading to learn more about what makes Volkswagen oil changes so pricey!
1. Volkswagen’s Image Determines Its Oil Change Prices
Volkswagen is a luxury automotive company; thus, people can expect to pay an arm and a leg to own an iconic Volkswagen vehicle.
Since owning a Volkswagen is expensive, aftercare and other services for the vehicle are also quite costly.
As a result, Volkswagen oil changes cost more than a hundred dollars—significantly more than what a more affordable vehicle would cost.
2. Volkswagen’s Engine Health Depends On Oil Changes
In addition to the Volkswagen name, oil changes are a crucial service for vehicles to stay in good health and operate smoothly.
For example, one of the benefits of an oil change is that it provides lubrication for the engine and its parts, ideal for temperature regulation and keeping the engine running like new.
Also, oil changes usually entail cleaning debris and build-up from the engine’s lubricated parts before replacing the oil and filter.
As a result of the time and resources required to complete the procedure, Volkswagen oil changes are pricey.
3. Volkswagen Gas Mileage Improves With Oil Changes
In addition to preserving engine health, oil changes also have the added benefit of improving gas mileage.
For example, fresh engine oil provides lubrication that then aids in the engine’s performance, which further helps it run more efficiently.
Ultimately, oil changes result in less work for the engine and less fuel consumption overall.
While oil changes are expensive, better gas mileage on a Volkswagen is something people are willing to pay a premium for.
4. Volkswagens Prefer A Specific Type Of Engine Oil
Volkswagen oil changes cost more because of the engine oil that can be used.
That said, most Volkswagen models perform best when synthetic oil compliant with VW 502 00 or VW 507 00 standards is used.
In turn, using synthetic oil that meets Volkswagen standards costs more upfront but is also more stable and lasts longer than traditional motor oil.
As such, this results in Volkswagen oil changes costing more money.
5. The Oil Filter Needs To Be Changed
In addition to replacing the engine oil, the oil filter also needs to be replaced.
That said, the oil filter removes contaminants and blocks debris from getting into the engine, preventing damage to the engine from these particles.
So, while there are cheaper oil filters available for just a few dollars, pricier oil filters are preferred because they are made of sturdier components that make them more durable.
Volkswagen provides a costly oil filter during oil changes, which results in a higher price for oil changes.
6. Labor Charges Influence Volkswagen Oil Change Prices
In addition to the expensive materials and parts, labor costs make up a large amount of the cost of an oil change, as they do with other services.
For example, oil changes are time-consuming and laborious, especially if the engine has accumulated a large quantity of build-up over time.
Furthermore, oil changes are usually conducted by mechanics or specialists with extensive experience.
As a result, labor expenses influence the price of Volkswagen oil changes.
7. Volkswagens Can Go Longer Periods Between Oil Changes
Another reason for the high cost of Volkswagen oil changes is that, compared to more affordable vehicles, you may go a long period between oil changes.
Typically, Volkswagen recommends getting an oil change every 10,000 miles for their vehicles. On the other hand, most mass-produced cars require oil changes after 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
So, while Volkswagen oil changes are more expensive, the ability to go longer between oil changes offers considerable value that many people are willing to pay for.
8. Courtesy Checks Are Performed During Oil Changes
Volkswagen oil changes are costly because courtesy inspections are performed at the same time as the oil change.
During an oil change, the Volkswagen technician will inspect all other components and write a report detailing any parts that may need to be repaired or replaced.
As you can imagine, this increases the value of Volkswagen’s oil changes, contributing to the company’s high pricing.
9. Regional Differences Impact Oil Change Prices
An oil change may be more expensive depending on where you live.
For example, obtaining an oil change at a Volkswagen dealership in a densely populated city like Chicago will cost more than getting one in a less densely populated place like Oklahoma City.
Furthermore, the expense of importing engine oil and other oil change components frequently contributes to the high cost of a Volkswagen oil change.
Conclusion
Volkswagen oil changes are expensive for various reasons, the most important of which is Volkswagen’s brand reputation and the pricey materials and parts required.
Furthermore, oil changes are labor-intensive, with labor expenses in more expensive urban locations being greater.
As a result, Volkswagen oil changes are unavoidably pricey.