After a long road trip, the first thing that we’ll do is to rest. Of course, road trips can be really exhausting especially for the driver. But after a long trip, we often forgot to take a look in our trusty vehicle. The car used in the long trip should still be checked the same way it was checked before the trip.
More often, we only do check-ups in our vehicle before we hit the road, however, after the long trip, the vehicle is also used up and needs further checking. Philkotse.com has prepared a short checklist for your car after the road trip.
1. Interior/Cabin
After a lengthy journey, check your car’s interior. Most probably. There will be dirt and clutter in the car’s carpeting, seats and cargo area. Clean the car’s interior by removing trash and unnecessary things in your car. Then remove any liquid spills and stains from the carpeting and seats to avoid any odor built-up inside your car.
>>> Read more: Must-have equipment to keep your car interior clean & organized
A foul odor can be an effect of a spilled milk or any liquid absorbed by your car's upholstery and it will be harder to remove if it deeply sits in. Vacuum the carpeting and upholstery to remove dirt and dust. Wipe clean the smooth surfaces of the interior and windows with cleaning spray and a clean cloth. Spray some air freshener too if you like.
Also, check the cargo part of your car if there are things that are left. Remove unnecessary things that add weight to the car. Doing so will save you from fuel consumption and cargo space.
Clean the car’s interior by removing trash and unnecessary things in your car
2. Car fluids
You might have checked the car fluids of your vehicle before you went on the trip but you still need to check it after. Ensure those car fluids are still in the right levels. Car fluids include coolant, oil, brake fluids, and windscreen wash. This is to avoid unnecessary breakdowns for the next time you use your car.
3. Tires
The car tires are our main contact with the road. It is one of the most important car parts that should be checked after the long journey. There could be any particles stuck on the tire markings which can cause a flat tire on your next use. You also need to check the car's air pressure if it is still on the right level, if not, then have it fully aired. Check for irregular tire wears as well.
The car tires are our main contact with the road and one of the most important car parts that should be checked after the long journey
4. Car lights and signals
Ensure that all the car lights and signals are still functioning properly. Some light bulbs might have already been used up during the long drive. Car lights and signals include the headlights, reverse lights, indicators, and tail lights. If one of them is not working properly, it is advisable to have it replaced in pairs.
5. Car battery
Check on the battery as well. Pay attention to the sound of the starter, if you notice that is already sound sluggish, then it can be an indication that your car battery is corroded or in need of charge or change. If you haven’t changed your car’s battery for years, consider changing it, so that you’ll not have problems the next time you use it.
Pay attention to the sound of the starter, if you notice that is already sound sluggish, then it can be an indication that your car battery is corroded or in need of charge or change
6. Emergency kit
Before the long trip, you might have already prepared your emergency kit. But if you used some of it during the road trip, replace them. So, the next time you'll need the emergency kit that you’ve prepared.
7. The breakdown during the trip
If you happen to experience a breakdown during the long trip, then have it repaired and checked again as soon as you get back so that the same breakdown won’t happen in the future. You might have resolved during the road trip but it is still advisable to have it doublechecked.
8. Exterior
Finally, your car exterior needs a clean-up too. Just like before the road trip, a car wash is needed to get rid of the mud, dirt, and dust that clings in your car's finish. When not removed immediately, it can ruin your car’s paint. So, get that buckets of cleaning water and cleaning mixture ready, together with a sponge and microfiber towels.
Use only car shampoo or car cleaning products to make sure you’re not harming your car’s paint. Start from the top down to the bottom part of the vehicle. Make sure you remove all the dirt particles at the same time, protecting the car’s finish from scratches.
Don’t forget the wheels also need cleaning too. Use separate cleaning materials that are designated for the wheels and tires.
Your car exterior needs a clean-up too
Your car windows should also be cleaned too for better visibility. If you notice scratches or you think your car’s paint isn't shiny anymore, then you can also wax or polish it. This will give your car a brand-new look and the shine it deserves from the tiring drive.
If you don’t have time for cleaning it yourself, you can bring your car to a local car wash. A piece of advice, it is not preferable to have your car washed in an automatic car wash since dirt and grime might be lurking in its cleaning fibers. It is always preferable to have your car manually washed.
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9. Overall maintenance
You might have checked the car fluids, battery tires and car lights, however, there are still lots of things that are needed to be checked by a car mechanic. The car’s engine is complex and not all car owners know its workings. To be safe, give your car complete maintenance it deserves after the long journey.
It will help fix any problems you might be unaware of. It is also very helpful in improving the safety of your vehicle and also saves you from expensive car repairs that can possibly occur.
To be safe, give your car complete maintenance it deserves after the long journey
Checking your car before a road trip is necessary and a must. But checking it after the long drive is equally important. After a long ride, your car is as drained as you are, so having it checked, cleaned and undergo maintenance is important. So, remember this short car checklist every time you come home after a fun and tiring road trip.
>>> Click to get more helpful tips and advice for your car maintenance
