Are you planning a long-term trip soon? Perhaps a business assignment, personal vacation, or an extended visit with family? Whatever the case, you know how much preparation it takes to ensure a successful extended stay. You may become so preoccupied with packing your bags, arranging accommodations, and gathering all the appropriate travel documents that you overlook one important task: preparing your vehicle for the time it will spend parked and unused.
Leaving your car unattended for days or weeks without proper care can result in unexpected issues, from battery drain to interior damage. This is the last thing you want to deal with when you’re tired and jet lagged. The good news is, Valet Connections takes the stress out of the process by offering add-on services that can prepare your vehicle while you’re away. From oil top-offs to exterior cleaning, the convenience is undeniable.
But beyond these smaller offerings, there are five key vehicle services you shouldn’t skip before hitting the road.
1. Tire Inspection and Pressure Adjustment
Don’t neglect your car’s tire health before heading out for an extended trip. Properly inflated tires are necessary for safety when you leave but also for protecting your tires while your car is parked in one spot for a while.
Why? Tires naturally lose pressure over time, with extended periods of inactivity leading to flat spots or uneven wear. When you check your tires before your trip, you’ll know they’re in good shape for when you return.
Inspect tires for:
- Tread depth
- Sidewall cracks
- Embedded debris
If they’re due for a rotation, get this done before your trip.
2. Fluid Top-Offs and Oil Checks
Your vehicle needs certain fluids to run smoothly. These include:
- Engine oil
- Transmission fluid
- Brake fluid
- Coolant
- Windshield washer fluid
Parking your car for an extended stay with low fluid levels can cause problems later. That’s because fluid levels affect engine performance and longevity. For example, low oil or coolant levels can cause corrosion or mechanical issues.
Be sure tocheck all essential fluids and top them off as needed before your trip. Don’t have time to handle this beforehand? Ask us to take care of it for you for an added charge.
3. Battery Maintenance
No one ever wants to return to a car that has a dead battery. But the reality is, cars left unused for weeks at a time are at risk of battery drain. When the battery dies, it may need a jump-start or replacement. Checking the battery before you leave is a quick task but can prevent a lot of headaches upon your return.
Test your battery’s voltage and ensure all terminals are clean. You may also want to disconnect electronics or use a battery maintainer if you’ll be gone for an extended period.
4. Interior Cleaning and Protection
While exterior cleanliness makes your car look good to others, the interior of your vehicle can suffer during long-term parking. Dust, food crumbs, and moisture can leave behind unpleasant odors, mold, or wear on upholstery. You don’t want to return to a smelly or messy car!
A clean interior prevents stains and damage, especially for long-term trips that can leave your car idle for weeks. Safeguard against dust accumulation, pet hair, and other debris by having your car fully cleaned and detailed before you leave.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstery
- Wipe down surfaces
- Leave moisture-absorbing packets inside to prevent musty odors
Don’t need interior cleaning services? What about the exterior? With our full washes and details, we can make sure your car remains spotless and well-maintained while you’re away.
5. Securing Your Vehicle and Parking Spot
Knowing where and how your car will be parked during your absence is important. Parking security, sun protection, and proper placement can prevent damage and give you peace of mind while away.
Did you know yourcar can suffer paint damage or interior fading when left in direct sunlight for a long time? Plus, your car is also at high risk of minor dings, scratches, or theft. This is why you should park in a shaded or covered area if possible. Be sure to lock all doors and remove valuables. It’s also wise to use wheel locks or other anti-theft devices for added security.
Valet Connections has you covered with our DTW airport parking, making sure your car is professionally secured in a designated lot.
Why Professional Vehicle Services Make Sense
You may assume your car will be fine when sitting idle for days or weeks. However, even minor issues like low oil or underinflated tires can morph into expensive problems if left unchecked. By partnering with a trusted service like Valet Connections, you can get peace of mind knowing your vehicle is in professional hands while you are away.
Valet Connections isn’t just an airport parking and valet service. For an additional fee, we can:
- Top off engine fluids
- Detail your exterior
- Fully wash your exterior
These services are priced accordingly whether you have a sedan, SUV, truck or van. There’s no doubt that the combination of parking convenience and vehicle maintenance ensures that when you return, your car feels as good as the day you left it.
Protect Your Investment and Ensure a Smooth Return
Long-term trips don’t have to result in car-related stress. Prioritize the above main vehicle services (tire checks, fluid top-offs, battery maintenance, interior cleaning, and proper parking) to protect your investment and ensure a smooth return.
And when you’re tight on time, let Valet Connections take care of many of these tasks to reduce your stress and make your return pickup easy as pie.
Contact Valet Connections
Be proactive and call Valet Connections DTW Parking at (734) 992-4946. Scheduling your airport parking and vehicle services with Valet Connections means you can focus on your trip, and come home to a car that’s ready for the road.