Why You Should Wash Your Vehicle Before And After Road Trips
Everyone remembers those long spring break or summer road trips, whether it be to a favorite campground, a cottage or visiting one of the hundreds of national parks in our neighboring states. The open road ahead of you, windows down and bugs on your bumper. Wait. Bugs on your bumper? Yes. Despite the excitement, road trips often inundate your vehicle with all sorts of elements that can affect its appearance and state of cleanliness. That’s where a trip to Xpress Car Wash comes in handy, both before and after your journey.
Make A Car Wash Part Of Your Pre-Trip Checklist
Having a clean car (inside and outside) is a great way to start your road trip. No one wants to sit in a car filled with crumbs and trash. Passengers are more comfortable when they ride in a fresh vehicle. There’s no doubt that dirt and debris will accumulate yet again when you return from a trip. Using the free high-powered vacuums at Xpress Car Wash is a great way to start your road trip on a fresh note. Clean your car mats, and vacuum the seats. Unload any garbage into the garbage bins available at our spacious vacuum stations.
Having a clean car also makes your pre-trip checks easier. A clean undercarriage allows you to spot leaks and damage more readily. If your paint is clean, scratches or chips that you may want to protect are easier to spot. Giving your vehicle a thorough inspection and addressing problems before you leave is a great way to keep you from being stranded on your vacation. Before you hit the road, take the time to top off fluids. Check the oil level and tire pressures. Inspect your vehicle thoroughly. A clean surface helps you carry out these checks without dealing with layers of dirt. A run-through at an Xpress Car Wash makes the process quick and easy.
Start Your Road Trip Safely
Driving safely is always important, and having a clean car plays a big role. Visibility on long trips is key. It starts with a clean windshield and clean mirrors. Making yourself visible to others on the road is also important. Ensuring that your headlights are clean and operating properly helps improve nighttime visibility. It also helps other drivers on the road see you. Xpress Car Wash makes cleaning your windows, mirrors and headlights a breeze. With one pass through our automatic car wash tunnel, you can check off cleanliness. Then, you’re ready to move on to functional checks.
Beyond a clean vehicle, there are a few more safety items to consider before your road trip. Having an emergency kit on hand that contains items like a first aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight and reflective triangles is always a good idea. Having these items can make a big difference if you encounter unexpected problems, helping you stay visible and potentially getting you to a repair shop without needing a tow. Check your spare tire, and make sure you have the correct tools to change a flat tire. Sometimes, the tools provided with your car may not be sufficient. Taking a set of common and reliable tools is always a good plan. It is also good practice to make sure you have a phone charger that works in your vehicle and that someone knows your travel plans.
Post-Trip Cleaning And Inspection
After racking up the miles, your road trip will have made its mark on your car literally. That won’t last long though. With Xpress Car Wash, you can quickly erase those travel blemishes. Your car takes a beating on a road trip with the elements you encounter, leaving lasting marks. Common issues like sap from trees or bird droppings (especially if you spend time in wooded areas or campgrounds) can be difficult to remove. They can damage your paint if left for too long. Xpress Car Wash’s efficient yet gentle cleaning system works hard to remove tough, baked-on dirt and grime. It leaves your vehicle’s paint protected and looking great.
Oils from the road also accumulate on the underside of your vehicle, creating a layer that helps dirt and debris stick. If your trip took you down dirt roads, mud and dust are likely clinging to the underside of your vehicle. This can trap moisture against the steel and iron components of your car. These substances continue to attract and hold moisture over time. It can cause damage and corrosion if left to sit for a long time. A post-trip wash at Xpress Car Wash removes all of those contaminants, protecting your car’s finish. It’s not just about looks. It’s also about maintaining the integrity of your vehicle, keeping the underside of your vehicle clean, allowing it to dry and helping to prevent corrosion.
By making a visit to Xpress Car Wash a part of your pre-trip and post-trip routine, you’re not just cleaning your car. You’re also protecting your investment and ensuring that it’s ready for next time. Before leaving for your next adventure and after you return, give your vehicle the care it deserves with a thorough cleaning and vacuum at Xpress Car Wash.
