Happy Thanksgiving from the Thelen Volkswagen Team
Thelen Volkswagen Wishes All of Mid-Michigan a Happy Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is one of our favorite holidays here at Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City, MI. The focus on family and spending time with those we love is so important to us. To celebrate this joyous holiday, we will be closed on Thursday to allow our staff the chance to enjoy the time with their loved ones. Thelen VW would also like to thank everyone in mid-Michigan who has come to us for their new and pre-owned Volkswagen purchases. Your business means a lot to us, and we couldn’t fulfill our mission of providing exceptional customer service without you.
So, from everyone at Thelen VW, Happy Thanksgiving mid-Michigan!
Trust Thelen VW to Help You Get the Financing You Deserve
Owning a new or new-to-you Volkswagen is a great way to experience vehicle ownership in mid-Michigan. However, we understand that trusting the ability to get financing that fits your needs can be a daunting experience. At Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City, MI, we are committed to ensuring you have monthly payments you can easily incorporate into your budget. This also means making sure you get into a Volkswagen that you will love driving around mid-Michigan in for years to come after your purchase. See why local customers choose Thelen for their new VW purchases today!
How Does Thelen Volkswagen Help You Financially?
Flexible Payment Options – Thelen VW understands that trying to fit a new or gently preowned VW vehicle into your budget can be a challenge if the monthly payments can’t be seamlessly incorporated. This is why when you start your shopping journey with us, our sales team will make sure we understand what you can and can’t afford, to get you into the vehicle that best fits your needs. Thanks to our excellent connections with lenders and other local financial institutions, we are confident that we can cater a payment plan to meet your current credit and budget situation.
Online Resources – Browse our website when you are starting to consider your finances to find various financial resources we have available. These include a Payment Calculator where you can input various monthly terms or your projected monthly payments on a specific vehicle in our inventory. Looking to get pre-approved before you visit our Bay City dealership? Use the convenient Pre-Approval form on our website and fill it out before you stop by. This will greatly help speed up the process to get you into the dream Volkswagen vehicle that you have been looking to purchase!
(Photo Credit: Pexels)
Dominate Winter Conditions with a 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
Before you know it, the chilly temperatures and snow-covered roads of winter will be arriving in mid-Michigan. As such, having a vehicle that can effortlessly handle these conditions is a worthwhile investment. Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City, MI, is pleased to provide our local customers with quality VW models such as the 2023 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport SE w/ Technology. This compact SUV offers plenty of benefits that are ideal for making cruising around the Great Lakes Bay Region a satisfying experience all year long. By choosing Thelen as your preferred VW dealer, you also get to shop with a team dedicated to creating a personalized shopping process for you.
Benefits of the 2023 VW Atlas Cross Sport
AWD Handling – Winter driving means tackling roads covered in slippery conditions such as snow and ice. With AWD maneuverability at the core of the 2023 Atlas Cross Sport, you can be confident that the vehicle is actively working with you to provide substantial handling capability. Even if the roads are clear and the weather is great, you will appreciate having the increased overall handling that you get with a full-time AWD platform.
Dependable Performance – The 3.6L V6 engine that is housed under the hood of the 2023 Atlas Cross Sport is a dependable powertrain for everyday cruising in Michigan. Coupled with the Tiptronic eight-speed automatic transmission, the acceleration in the vehicle is responsive and smooth. This gives the Volkswagen SUV an ideal blend of precision and consistency that drivers need to enjoy their cruising sessions.
Heated Comfort – Not only does the 2023 VW Atlas Cross Sport SE w/ Technology offer you a dependable vehicle while driving during winter, but the interior ensures you are comfortable while doing so. The front seating in the SUV features heated functionality to provide optimal comfort when the weather gets chilly outside. Every seat in the vehicle is upholstered in quality Perforated V-Tex Leatherette giving them both a welcome level of comfort, as well as increased visual appeal.
Gorgeous 2022 VW Arteon for Sale in Bay City, MI
If you are in the market for a different style of a sporty car, why not consider a premium sedan like the 2022 Volkswagen Arteon? Nimble and modern, the Arteon is a vehicle that you and your family will love taking all across the Great Lakes Bay Region. The 2022 VW Arteon SE R-Line that we have available at Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City, MI, is ready to be driven away by a lucky mid-Michigan customer. When you choose Thelen as your go-to destination for new VW sales, you are getting a level of customer service that is unmatched in the region.
2022 VW Arteon Details
Powertrain & Drivetrain Information – How does cruising around mid-Michigan with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine sound? Well with the 2022 Arteon, you get to experience this vibrant engine with its accompanying seven-speed Tiptronic DSG transmission for remarkable smoothness.
Well-Equipped Interior – The interior of this 2022 VW Arteon is equipped to appeal to any modern mid-Michigan family. Perforated V-Tex Leatherette is upholstered on every seat for both impeccable comfort and visual appeal. As for the front seating, both the driver and front passenger get to have all-season comfort with the inclusion of heated functionality. Infotainment capabilities are vast in the VW sedan as well. Through the MIB3 Discover Media system, entertainment and convenience is a simple press away. This includes premium options such as SiriusXM radio, HD Radio, and built-in navigation. Passengers with compatible smartphones can even connect to the system through mediums such as Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. As such, the 2022 VW Arteon SE R-Line is the perfect sporty vehicle for those who appreciate having plenty of modern convenience in their daily drive as well.
Preparing Your Volkswagen for Winter Weather Driving
As 2022 starts to wind down, winter weather will be arriving before we know it here in mid-Michigan. As such, you will want to be ready to handle whatever driving conditions might come your way. Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City, MI, would like to share with you our favorite tips to ensure that our experiences driving around mid-Michigan are as safe and hassle-free as possible. Our goal is to help our customers stay safe in winter by providing services to keep your Volkswagen functioning at its best even when the roads start becoming less than ideal.
Things to Do Before Winter Weather Driving Arrives
Be Well-Equipped – You never know if and when you might find yourself pulled over at the side of the road for a length of time because of terrible weather. To be prepared for this event if it should occur, make sure you carry several items in the vehicle. This includes blankets and warm clothing such as gloves or socks. Having bottled water and non-perishable food items is also a good idea to keep stored in an easily accessible location for emergencies. If you need to contact emergency services or family members, having a spare smartphone charger to keep your phone charged is advised.
Check Tire Health / Consider Winter Tires – The tires on your Volkswagen are key to ensuring proper grip when the roads start becoming covered in snow. If you haven’t had your tires checked in a while for tread depth or general wear, Thelen VW will be happy to assist you! We can evaluate whether or not your tires will safely handle snow-covered driving surfaces, and suggest tires to replace them with if they are not safe. Additionally, we would like to have you consider special winter tires. The special pattern and increased tread depth that these tires boast is designed to maximize the amount of snow that is displaced from underneath the vehicle for maximum handling performance.
(Photo Credit: Pexels)
A Message From Our Service Department
At Thelen VW, we strive to make your service experience the best we can.
So, our Thelen service and parts teams want to be completely transparent with our customers about the struggles the vehicle repair industry is facing with the ongoing vehicle parts supply chain shortages and the how it is affecting us and our customers. During this time, we completely understand your frustrations and we thank you for your patience and understanding. We will do everything we can to get your vehicle serviced and/or repaired as quickly as possible.
Why is there a parts supply chain shortage?
Part manufacturers have a shortage of raw materials they need to make the parts that are in demand. Plus, there are labor shortages at the factories making the parts. Together these are causing a massive vehicle parts supply chain disruption and shortage.
What does this mean for the vehicle repair/service industry?
This is affecting wait times on repairs drastically. Repairs that would have been done within a day or two, are now taking weeks, some even months, because dealerships can’t keep the parts in stock or get them fast enough.
Can’t the parts just be bought online and not from the manufacturer?
Yes and no. Yes, parts can be bought online. However, if a part isn’t made by your vehicle’s part manufacturer it most likely won’t be covered under your warranty in the future. If the part breaks later on, that could be more costly in the long run. Also, many car repair shops are now buying this way and there are only so many parts to go around.
What does this mean for me if I need my vehicle repaired?
Patience and understanding are appreciated when parts are ordered for your vehicle repair. As soon as the parts arrive for your vehicle we will contact you right away and get your vehicle in as soon as our schedule allows.
Why are service appointments being scheduled weeks out?
Before the parts supply shortage, parts were normally on hand or one to two days away, when a vehicle needed repaired. This resulted in only one appointment needed to get the vehicle fixed. Now, since most parts aren’t in-stock, two appointments are needed. The first appointment, to access the issue to find what needs repaired and what parts are needed and the second after the parts arrive to make the needed repairs. This is causing a bottleneck with many repair shops. Thus, many repair shops are scheduling appointments weeks out. Some other dealers in the area have even stopped taking new customer altogether.
Here at Thelen Auto Group we will always make sure to get you in at the earliest appointment and as soon as we are able to have adequate time needed to make the repairs your vehicle needs.
Why am I not updated about my parts and when they are expected to arrive?
Simply put, the ETA we receive from the manufacturer is only an Estimated Time of Arrival, which in today’s atmosphere is incorrect. The shipping times are sporadically changing on a day-to-day basis. So, that same part ordered today stating that it will be here next week, could change tomorrow stating 2-3 weeks out or more. We contact the customer upon the part arrival at the dealership, because that is the only date we can be 100% accurate on at this time.
As soon as parts arrive at Thelen we contact the customer to let them know and to get them scheduled in for repairs at the earliest appointment time. Thank you for your patience!
Checking Oil in Your Vehicle is Easy!
Know How to Check Your Oil in Mid-Michigan
With something as vital to the performance and longevity of your Volkswagen as engine oil, you need to be able to confidently check it regularly. This way, you can make sure you are getting your vehicle in for an oil change before it becomes an issue. Thelen VW in Bay City, MI, would like to share with you how you can easily check your vehicle’s oil levels at home. All you need is a lint-free towel and the knowledge of where your vehicle’s dipstick is located under the hood.
Checking Your Engine Oil
Pre-Check Routine – If you are planning on checking your oil at home, make sure that the engine is warm before you start. A warm engine will give you an accurate gauge of your current oil levels. Before you pop open the hood of your vehicle to start checking the oil, shut off the engine and have your lint-free towel or cloth ready.
Locate The Oil Dipstick – After you have popped the hood of your vehicle, start looking for the handle of the oil dipstick. Generally, the handle will be either yellow or orange in color and is fairly small. Oftentimes, it will also feature a symbol of an oil can on it or near it to help you find it easier.
Check The Oil – Once you have found the dipstick, pull it out and give it a wipe with your cloth. Any oil on the dipstick after its initial pull will not be an accurate representation of your vehicle’s current levels. After you have wiped it off, insert it all the way back into its slot and wait a few seconds. Then, pull it back out and take a look at the stick. There will be etchings denoting various levels from low to high, and your goal is to see where the oil line falls in that range.
Taking Action Based on Results – If you notice the line is leaning towards the low notch, has surpassed the low end, or is non-existent, schedule an appointment with Thelen VW immediately to get your vehicle’s oil serviced.
(Photo Credit: iStock)
Pay Attention to the Battery in Your Family Volkswagen
Your vehicle’s battery is vital to the successful operation of your vehicle. From the powertrain to all the electrical components in your cabin, a properly functioning battery keeps everything running without a hitch. If you haven’t had your battery checked recently or are noticing certain signs that the battery might be failing, make Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City, MI, your mid-Michigan choice for quality battery testing and replacement. Are you uncertain about the situations where you should consider replacing your battery? We would like to share with you some certain telltale signs to look out for.
Signs Your Battery Might Need to Be Replaced
Starting Struggles – Have you noticed that it is taking a while for your Volkswagen to start up? This is a fairly significant sign that your battery is struggling to supply your vehicle with appropriate levels of power. While this could also be a problem with the alternator, you should contact Thelen VW as soon as possible if you are finding it takes a longer time than usual for your vehicle to get running. This is especially true if your vehicle routinely fails to start up without a jump start.
Struggles to Keep Interior Functional – While you are out and about in mid-Michigan, you count on the various comfort and entertainment features in your vehicle to make your travels enjoyable. When your battery starts struggling to supply proper power to the cabin, you may find that your air conditioning struggles to keep you cool during hot summer days. Alternatively, you may notice the lights begin to flicker occasionally. If any of these things start happening, get your vehicle in immediately for a battery test and possible replacement.
Visible Damage – If you have been monitoring the state of your vehicle’s mechanics and see visible signs of damage on the battery, you need to get the battery replaced immediately. Types of damage you should be looking out for include cracking, denting, or corrosion. If you see acid oozing from the battery, it is highly advised to contact a tow truck or some other assistance to safely transport your vehicle to our Service Center for your battery replacement appointment.
(Photo Credit: iStock)
The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI Makes Mid-Michigan Driving Energetic
For a sporty and modern hatchback that you and your family will love cruising around in, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI meets your expectations and more. A reliable powertrain and nimble drivetrain make the Volkswagen a premier choice for thrilling drives all across mid-Michigan. Other passengers will appreciate the interior features that accentuate their experience in the hatchback. At Thelen VW in Bay City, MI, we are ready to help you get behind the wheel of this vibrant vehicle as soon as possible!
Driving Around Mid-Michigan in the Sporty Golf GTI
Elite & Accessible Performance – The 2.0L four-cylinder engine under the hood of the 2022 VW Golf GTI makes getting around town a scintillating sensation. Accompanied by a seven-speed automatic transmission by Tiptronic, the ride inside the hatchback is exceptionally smooth for maximum enjoyment. The lightweight nature of the Golf GTI and its FWD platform make the hatchback incredibly nimble for confident handling all over mid-Michigan.
Efficiency – Even with a robust engine at its command, the 2022 Golf GTI is an efficient hatchback. Sporting an EPA-estimated 25 MPG city / 34 MPG highway fuel economy, the Volkswagen keeps you on the road far longer before you have to stop for fuel. This makes the hatchback an ideal blend of performance and efficiency that modern mid-Michigan drivers are looking for.
Complimentary Interior – Not only is the 2022 VW Golf GTI a thrilling option to drive, but the interior invites you and your family to enjoy every moment in the hatchback. You and your front passenger will adore the heated functionality in your seats for premium all-weather comfort. From the 10-inch touchscreen of the MIB3 Pro multimedia system, a wide array of supplementary infotainment applications accentuates any ride. A 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot makes the Golf GTI a mobile entertainment vehicle for compatible gaming systems and laptops. Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay make connecting smartphones to the system quick and easy. HD Radio & SiriusXM radio add a significant amount of diverse media content to the Golf GTI.
Choose Thelen Volkswagen in Bay City, MI for Premier Vehicle Financing Options in Mid-Michigan
Financing a New Volkswagen with Thelen VW
When you visit Thelen VW in Bay City, MI, you can be confident that you are getting a comprehensive shopping experience from start to finish. This includes when it comes to getting you flexible, competitive financing on your new or pre-owned Volkswagen purchase. Our goal is to ensure that you are confident in your purchase, and this means ensuring that you get the financing you deserve. Mid-Michigan customers trust us with their Volkswagen purchasing needs because of our focus on providing an experience that is catered to them.
Why Choose Thelen Volkswagen for Mid-Michigan Financing
Friendly & Knowledgeable Staff– Giving you a premier vehicle shopping experience is our mission when you choose Thelen VW for your mid-Michigan shopping needs. We understand that the financial process can be a stressful experience, especially if you are a first-time vehicle buyer or are concerned about your financial strength. Our finance team is dedicated to ensuring that when you visit us, you are given friendly and informative attention to detail for your needs.
Diverse Lender Options – Being a trusted member of the mid-Michigan community, Thelen Volkswagen is pleased to work with many local banks and credit unions. If you are already a member of any financial institution that we work with, you can be confident that we will be able to find a financing plan to fit your needs. Our flexibility is what makes us a proven leader in providing local Volkswagen drivers with the competitive terms that they can count on to easily fit their budgets.
Multiple Convenient Online Tools – We want to make sure you are as well-informed as possible during your shopping process so that you get exactly what you are looking for. This includes giving you plenty of online resources to take advantage of before you visit our dealership. Starting with our Payment Calculator, you can determine either your overall purchasing power or what estimated monthly payments will be based on a variety of terms. We also make getting pre-approved quick and easy. Use our online form and bring your accepted application with you when you start shopping to help get you behind the wheel of your dream Volkswagen sooner!
(Photo Credit: Pexels)
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