VW Offers Free Maintenance in North America

SEE ALSO: Volkswagen Specs, Prices and Pics - Volkswagen Buyers Guide

Washington DC APRIL 28, 2008; The AIADA newsletter reported that Volkswagen Group of America trying to boost sales and shed its image of poor quality and costly repairs, will offer free maintenance beginning with the 2009 model year.

Automotive News reports that VW's new Carefree Maintenance Program will give VW brand owners free scheduled maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles. The intervals are every 10,000 miles for 2009 models and every 6,000 miles for the new Routan Chrysler-based minivan that debuts this fall.

VW also is offering a free checkup after 90 days or 6,000 miles. COO Mark Barnes, says the program will build owner loyalty and put VW on more buyers' consideration lists.

He says it also is a way to differentiate VW from the competition "by allowing us to be the only automaker among our key competitors to offer a no-charge maintenance program."