How to Perform Routine Maintenance on an Aircooled VW (Volkswagen) Beetle

This article provides the maintenance schedule for an aircooled VW (Volkswagen) Beetle

Steps

1. 1
   Every 250 miles or weekly, whichever comes first.

   
   

   • Check the engine oil level
   • Check the windshield washer fluid level.
   • Check the brake fluid level
   • Check the tires and tire pressures
2. 2
   Every 3000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first
   • Check the automatic stick shift fluid level.
   • Lubricate the chassis
   • Change the engine oil.
   • Check and adjust the engine drive belt(s), if necessary
   • Check and service the battery
3. 3
   Every 6000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first
   • Inspect the windshield wiper blades and replace them if needed.
   • Check the clutch pedal for proper free play and adjust if needed.
   • Look over all under hood hoses and replace if needed.
   • Rotate all tires.
   • Check the valve clearance and adjust if needed.
   • Inspect the brake system.
   • Check the drive axle boots and CV joints.
   • On an automatic stick shift only, check the starter safety switch check.
4. 4
   Every 12,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
   • Service the air filter.
   • Look over the fuel system
   • Service the fuel filter
   • Check the compression
   • Replace your spark plugs
   • Look over the spark plug wires, distributor cap and rotor, and replace if needed.
   • Replace the spark plugs
   • Replace the ignition points and condenser.
   • Check the engine idle speed and adjust if needed.
   • Check the ignition timing and adjust if needed.
   • Check the valve clearance and adjust if needed.
   • Check the transaxle lubricant level.
   • Look over the suspension and steering components.
   • Look over the emission control system (if equipped)
   • Inspect the exhaust system
   • Service the automatic stick shift
   • Rotate the tires.
5. 5
   Every 30,000 miles or 24 months, whichever comes first.
   • Check and repack the wheel bearings
   • Change the transaxle lubricant*
   • Replace the catalytic converter
   • Service the EGR system

   
   

Warnings

• Safety should always be your #1 focus when working on a vehicle. ABSOLUTELY NOTHING in this world is so important, that you should EVER practice unsafe maintenance on your vehicles. Always use the proper tools for the job at hand. Common sense is a VERY IMPORTANT. I try to ensure the pages I add are error-free; however, I am human and make mistakes.

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