There is no doubt the worldwide chip shortage is causing headaches for car manufacturers. The popular high-tech features consumers look forward to and expect are still hard to come by. It makes sense, then, that Volkswagen
is making the difficult decision to omit certain features on some models to increase production. Removing certain features isn't ideal, but it is helping to fill dealer lots that now have limited inventory of available new cars. The chip shortage is responsible for pushing up prices in the general marketplace, and as a result, used car prices have also soared to all-time highs. Making sure you get the best prices on your car insurance
can help the bottom line, but car shopping still looks bleak at the moment. How the chip shortage is affecting Volkswagen
Reserving microchips by removing or delaying the use of certain features is becoming more commonplace across the industry. Audi recently announced its plans to remove popular features like its blind-spot monitoring and tire pressure display across all its model lines.
Unlike Audi, Volkswagen's feature exclusions will only be felt by drivers who purchase the lower to mid-trim versions. Volkswagen continues to include most of its previous features in its higher-end models, but the chip shortage and supply bottlenecks are forcing companies across the globe to employ production adaptations. Volkswagen is no exception.
The German carmaker doesn't expect the chip shortage to end anytime soon, according to Reuters
citing an interview with Automobilwoche. Volkswagen, like others in the industry, has no choice but to get creative to boost production and sell cars. Which Volkswagen models are most affected?
Drivers shopping for a new Volkswagen need to be aware that some of their favorite features might be missing from the popular trims. Almost every model has lost one or more features and knowing in advance can save buyer disappointment. Edmunds
notes that, for now, the Arteon, Jetta GLI, Passat, and ID.4 will see no production changes. If you are purchasing a Volkswagen Atlas, expect to see changes in the SE and other SEL models. They may no longer have the popular factory-installed trailer hitch or hands-free liftgate. Drivers of the Golf GTI and Golf R can expect a seven-speaker sound system instead of the nine-speaker Harman Kardon system other buyers once enjoyed.
Other models including the Jetta Sport and Taos S and SE will likely see some changes to features. The good news is Volkswagen does give monetary credit for the missing features, which helps the bottom line.
MORE: The Chip Shortage May Affect New Cars Until 2023
How to determine which features are missing from a Volkswagen
It is always a good idea to check the dealer or manufacturer's website before you shop for a new car. Even though sales staff should be able to inform buyers about available features, doing some research ahead of time is smart.
The Monroney label or window sticker displays a full list of the features each vehicle has. The mandatory information on the label is one of the best tools buyers have. Since the feature exclusions come directly from the manufacturer, it will be listed on the window sticker along with the credit to the selling price. The salesperson should be able to confirm the information before you sign.
Drivers can decide which features are most important to them before buying and then shop accordingly. It is difficult to predict when the chip shortage will end. Volkswagen, like other automakers, is looking forward to getting back to business as usual.
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