Heading abroad for a long trip or work assignment? Whether you’re leaving for a few months or a longer stretch, it’s important to make sure your car is taken care of while you’re away. After all, the last thing you want is to come back to a vehicle that’s not roadworthy or in need of expensive repairs. 

Let’s dive into some simple steps for keeping your car in tip-top shape while you are abroad.

1. Get a Thorough Vehicle Inspection

Before leaving, it’s a great idea to have your car inspected by a professional. A full vehicle inspection covers everything from the engine and brakes to tires and the exhaust system. This ensures there are no hidden issues that could become a problem while you’re away.

Ask your mechanic to check for any small issues that may have been creeping up but haven’t yet affected performance. Fixing them now, before you leave, will save you from having to deal with them later. Plus, it’ll give you peace of mind knowing your car is good to go.

2. Make Sure Your Car Is Roadworthy

In some countries, you might be required to get a roadworthy certificate before your car can be left unused for a long period. If you’re planning to store your car while you’re abroad, it’s a good idea to have it checked to ensure it’s still roadworthy. This could save you from any legal or registration hassles if you plan on driving it once you return.

If you don’t need to drive the car while you’re away, make sure it’s stored in a safe, dry place so it doesn’t develop any issues. If it’s going to be in storage for a while, you might also want to consider disconnecting the battery to prevent it from draining.

3. Insurance: Don’t Forget This One

Before you leave, make sure your car’s insurance is up to date. Depending on where you’re going, you may need to adjust your coverage or inform your insurer about your absence. Some insurance policies offer “storage coverage,” which might be useful if you’re leaving the car in a garage or driveway for an extended period.

Also, check if your policy covers things like theft, fire, or vandalism while you’re away. If you’ll be leaving your car with a friend or family member, you may want to make sure they’re listed as a driver on your insurance as well.

4. Regular Checks While You’re Away

If possible, have a friend, family member, or neighbor check on your car every few weeks while you’re away. They can start the engine to ensure it’s running smoothly and even take it for a short drive to keep the battery charged and everything in working order. If you have a car alarm, it’s a good idea to ensure it’s working properly so your car stays secure.

You could also ask them to check the tire pressure, as tires can lose air when left idle for too long. This simple check can save you from flat tires or other issues down the road.

5. Consider a Car Care Service

If you’re really looking for peace of mind, you can consider a car care service that specializes in looking after vehicles while their owners are away. These services often include regular checks, battery maintenance, and even washing and detailing the car to keep it in prime condition.Taking a little extra time to maintain your car before heading abroad can save you from unnecessary headaches when you return. But don’t worry – Casa e Casa can help make this process even easier. We offer a range of services to ensure your car stays in perfect condition while you’re away. From scheduling a full vehicle inspection to ensure everything is running smoothly to checking that your car is roadworthy before you leave, Casa e Casa can take care of the details.