Your 2025 Post-Vacation Vehicle Checklist
As the holiday season comes to an end and we prepare to get back to work and school, it's essential to ensure your vehicle is ready for the demands of the new year. Long road trips, varied terrains, and summer heat can take a toll on your car, which is why a post-vacation vehicle checklist is a must. To save you some time, we've compiled a list of things you can check after you return from vacation and before the hustle and bustle of the new year takes up all your time. If your to-do list is already too long, why not book a DEKRA Condition Report and let us check your vehicle out instead? Contact us today!
Here is Your Post-Vacation Vehicle Checklist
1. Inspect Your Tyres
Check for wear, punctures, or uneven tread. South Africa's various road conditions can take a toll on tyres, so look out for any signs of damage.
2. Check the Engine Oil and Fluids
After clocking up those kilometres, your car's fluids might need a top-up or replacement. This includes engine oil, brake fluid, and coolants. If you encounter any unusual smells or discoloured fluids, rather be safe and have it checked out.
3. Examine Your Brakes
Long drives, especially on winding or hilly routes, can overwork your brakes. Listen for squeaking or grinding noises and have them inspected if needed.
4. Clean and Check Your Air Filter
Dusty backroads and coastal drives can clog your car's air filter. A clean filter helps maintain fuel efficiency and engine performance.
5. Test Your Lights
As drivers, most of the time we don't know when our lights aren't working unless somebody tells us about it. Grab a friend or family member and check your headlights, brake lights, indicators, and hazard lights. Replace any bulbs that are dim or not working. It's a small fix with a big safety payoff.
6. Inspect Wiper Blades and Top Up Washer Fluid
Summer rain and coastal salt spray can wear out your wiper blades. Replace worn blades and refill the washer fluid for clear visibility. Learn more about preparing for summer rain.
7. Check for Suspension Issues
Bumpy holiday roads can strain your suspension. Look for signs like uneven tyre wear, a bouncy ride, or strange noises when turning.
8. Deep Clean Your Car
Giving your car a deep clean can make it feel like you're driving a brand-new vehicle. As a part of your post-vacation vehicle checklist, take the time to get rid of the sand, spills, and crumbs that accumulated during your holiday travels. Give your car a thorough clean inside and out to preserve its value and keep it feeling fresh and new.
What To Do If the Checks Above Aren't Quite Within Your Wheelhouse
The answer is pretty simple. Book a DEKRA Condition Report and we'll check all of this and more for you!
Start the new year on the right foot by ensuring your vehicle is in top shape. A DERKA Condition Report checks key components like brakes, tyres, and the overall performance of your car. This is especially important after long vacation road trips with the family and as you get ready for the new school year.
Why a DEKRA Condition Report is the Smart Addition To Your Post-Vacation Vehicle Checklist
Thoroughness You Can Trust
We are known for our meticulous inspections that leave no detail overlooked. Our reports cover critical components like brakes, tyres, suspension, and overall vehicle performance. Whether it's a family sedan, an SUV, or a holiday-packed bakkie, our experts ensure your car is in peak condition.
A Trusted Name and Reputation
DEKRA has been a name South Africans rely on for vehicle safety and roadworthiness. Our rigorous standards and unbiased assessments make us the go-to for drivers looking to maintain their cars' longevity and safety.
Convenient Locations Across South Africa
Whether you spent your holiday exploring the Kruger National Park, soaking up the sun in Durban, or navigating the scenic Garden Route, there's likely a DEKRA branch nearby. We're conveniently located near major travel hubs and in cities, making it easy to stop by for a quick and professional assessment before you head home or back to work.
Save Time and Effort
Why stress over individual vehicle checks when DEKRA can handle them for you? Our Condition report covers everything you need to know about the state of your vehicle, and it's a hassle-free way to start the new year.
Plan Ahead for the New School Year
If you still have kids in school, a DEKRA Condition Report ensures your car is ready for the daily grind of school runs and commutes. Take care of potential issues before they catch you off guard and disrupt your day.
Start 2025 safely and confidently by making vehicle maintenance a priority with your post-vacation vehicle checklist. A DEKRA Condition Report takes the guesswork out of car care, offering a thorough inspection of all key components. Whether it's a daily school run or your commute to work, ensure your vehicle is road-ready and reliable. Contact DEKRA today to book your Condition Report and tick vehicle safety off your to-do list before life gets busy again!