BMW recommends to get an Annual Vehicle Check done once a year to ensure everything is in order. While this is a good idea, it is not compulsory. In addition, since we have WOFs in New Zealand, it makes this check somewhat obsolete, given that the WOF covers many of the same checks. Given that being the case, unless you have a special reason to get the car inspected in addition to the WOF and your regular servicing, the annual service check is not required. What Is the BMW Annual Service Check? The BMW annual service check is a check over of the car recommended by BMW to ensure everything is ..read more

Your vehicle will inform you when it requires a service. Volkswagens are fitted with a smart service indicator that alerts you based on kilometres driven or time since the previous service. It keeps track of oil changes, air filter replacements, and tyre rotations. However, if you hear odd sounds, see dashboard warning lights, or notice a decrease in fuel economy, these could indicate problems. In cases like these, you should get the car inspected. Key Takeaways Keep an eye on your car’s smart service indicator, which flags up alerts based on kilometres travelled or time since the previous s ..read more

While not overly costly to service and maintain, Volkswagens rank 22nd out of 30 in terms of upkeep expenditure, making them more cost-effective than many similar vehicles. On average, yearly maintenance on a modern Volkswagen works out to be approximately $946. Due to being very popular, the high availability of parts in New Zealand helps cuts down waiting times and expenses. These vehicles also come with robust warranties and maintenance plans, further lowering your out-of-pocket costs. Certain models may even further reduce expenses. However, bear in mind, these figures can fluctuate based ..read more

For most Volkswagens, the engine service interval is 16,000 kms, and the transmission service interval is 60,000 kms. Adhering to these service intervals is crucial to ensure both your car’s performance and lifespan is maintained. Keep reading to find out more about servicing for your VW and what you need to know. VW Engine Service Intervals Regularly servicing your engine according to manufacturer recommendations is crucial to ensure it remains in top condition. The recommended engine service interval for most modern Volkswagens is 16,000kms. This ensures engine always has fresh oil and a ne ..read more

For the best performance and lifespan of your Tiptronic transmission, have it serviced every 60,000 kilometres. This servicing timetable helps keep your car running smoothly, maintains your car’s performance, and extends the lifetime of the transmission. Be alert for any warning signs of transmission problems, such as grinding noises, delayed gear changes, or leaks. Regular servicing results in lower running costs over time. If you’re interested in learning more about what to know regarding servicing your VW, keep reading. Key Takeaways A Tiptronic Volkswagen should be serviced every 60,000 ..read more

The idea of ‘lifetime’ transmission oil might sound appealing, but is it really accurate? You may have heard that the transmission fluid in your BMW never needs changing, but is that the full story? When you realise that other companies have set service intervals for their automatic transmissions, it makes you wonder – what does ‘lifetime’ truly mean? While there isn’t a clear-cut answer, this issue deserves further investigation to ensure your car’s long life and top-notch performance. Understanding BMW’s ‘Lifetime’ Transmission Oil It’s important to note what a car manufacturer means by “li ..read more

At Dodson Performance Service Centre, we understand that the process of changing automatic transmission oil requires precision, care, and a thorough understanding of your vehicle’s specific needs. This operation, while not as frequently undertaken as an oil change, is crucial for the longevity and optimal performance of your vehicle’s transmission system. Gathering Necessary Tools Having the correct tools on hand before you begin the task of changing your automatic transmission oil is crucial. These essential tools include a collection pan, a socket or spanner, a funnel, a clean bucket, and f ..read more

If you’ve noticed a coolant leak on your Volkswagen Golf  6 and 7, odds are you have a fault water pump. Many of these cars left the factory with a faulty water pump, which actually prompted VW to issue a recall on the water pump in 2023 in some parts of the world. This issues leads to the failure of the water pump, resulting in a coolant leak. Left unattended, this problem could escalate into engine overheating and subsequent damage. A coolant leak might be dismissed as a minor inconvenience, but its effects on the overall functionality and longevity of the vehicle are noteworthy. As a ..read more

BMW 3 Series are well renowned for being excellent sports cars. Whether you have a 320i, 335i or even an M3, no doubt you want to ensure it remains in good condition and in peak performance. Servicing your 3 Series at the correct intervals is crucial to ensure it continues to operate reliably and in good health. In this article we will cover how often you should service your 3 Series along with other important factors you need to know. BMW 3 Series Service Intervals BMW recommends servicing your 3 Series every 15,000 kms or at least once a year, whichever comes first. This ensures optimum per ..read more

The VW Golf GTI MK6 is a popular and beloved vehicle known for its performance and reliability. To keep your GTI running smoothly, it is crucial to follow a regular service schedule. In this article, we will cover the recommended maintenance intervals for your MK6 GTI. Recommended Oil Change Intervals For the Mk6 GTI Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining the performance and longevity of your vehicle. Volkswagen recommends changing the oil every 15,000 kilometres or every 12 months, whichever comes first. This interval ensures that the engine is consistently supplied with clean oil ..read more