While millions of Filipinos have opted to leave the capital region and visit their home provinces to get some R&R this Holy Week, many city folks have decided to stay home rather than brave the massive traffic heading out of Manila.
In so doing, they have three to four days of traffic-less driving in the metro, a miracle of sorts, as they ponder the significance of Christ’s resurrection.
While we do not suggest Christians should use the Holy Week to get a break, there is some value in taking time to give our most trusted mobility steeds some tender loving care as well during this period.
Here are some ways you can give back to your cars while at the same time enjoying the extended vacation the Holy Week affords.
Have the car washed
If you’ve been too busy shuttling back and forth work to find time to clean your car, you have today and tomorrow to complete this.
Some car wash joints have opened this weekend, and it would be good to have your ride freshened up inside and out, ready to return to work on Tuesday. Don’t forget the engine bay, as dust and oily residue may have built up over time. Schedule an engine wash if you can.
And if you just came back from your long drive, don’t forget to drop by the neighborhood car wash to give your car that clean and fresh feeling for the week ahead.
It’s all in the details
While a typical car wash will remove the obvious dirt, grime, and mess in your car, there are areas that the boys may have overlooked in the name of expediency.
Check out the air vents for accumulated dust and lint. Use a wet cotton swab to give those slits a good rub down. The air you breathe does come out from those vents.
Look into the crevices between seats and panels for dirt, crumbs, or other loose materials which may have fallen in. Take advantage of the vacuum service of the car wash to direct some attention to these areas as well.
Inspect your car
It’s a good time to do a walkaround of your ride during the holidays.
Check the panels for new dings, paint scrapes, or misalignment that may eventually need repair.
Inspect the tires for any embedded nails or other damage that may affect their performance and your safety.
Turn on the lights to see if they are all in working order. Adjust tire pressures if necessary at your local tire shop or gas station.
And finally, open the hood and check the condition of the engine hoses, fluid levels, and general cleanliness.
While ensuring your car is in optimal working order is given, there are other ways to spend time with your vehicle during the holidays that let you return the favor of keeping you and your family safe on the road.
Go for a photoshoot
While most cars are still out of the metro, why not drive yours to a scenic cityscape and take some photos?
Having memories of where your car has been and where it has taken you can be a good conversation piece for your family in the future.
Do a breakfast run
Take your ride out for a breakfast date. Now you can bring the family along or make it a solo affair. Just remember, the important thing is to bond with the car.
If you’re a car enthusiast, nothing beats sitting in front of your ride as you sip that hot cup of coffee and grab a bite of that tasty morning meal.
Give it a treat
If you’ve been saving up for a new accessory or mod for your car, today and tomorrow can be the perfect time to have them installed.
New wheels? Windshield tint? A new horn? I suggest upgrading the lights and installing new seat covers. Whatever it is, your car deserves it.
The Easter holiday is supposed to signify a new beginning as well. An add-on can give your car new looks or unlock its performance potential.
Drive
Now that you and your car have the roads for yourselves, go out and take a stroll. Visit places in the city you wouldn’t even dare drive to on a typical day. This is your chance, so make the most of it and explore Metro Manila for all it’s worth.
As you return for work this week, make sure your car is ready to join you. Spending a little time with your ride during the holidays can ensure your safety and comfort during each commute.
Happy Easter, everyone!
