Summer time is travel time. And the car is still the number one means of transport for vacations: Around 20 million Germans over the age of 14 traveled by car in 2021. Only: A vacation trip is not relaxing for cars, but often maximum stress. The combination of long distances, heat, traffic jams and heavy loads sometimes push the technology to its limits.
It can become critical if technical defects are not recognized before the start of the journey. Then there is a risk of annoying defects such as air conditioning not working, breakdowns or, in the worst case, even accidents!
Especially for owners of older cars that are often not serviced according to the checkbook without a mobility guarantee, a professional holiday check is recommended before the long journey. The holiday review has established itself under various names as a classic in the motor vehicle trade. But: The checklists vary from provider to provider. Likewise the costs, they vary between zero and 50 euros.
Holiday check does not replace the regular inspection
In general, holiday checks do not replace a regular inspection appointment. In essence, it is more about the fact that safety-relevant parts and assemblies are checked using a point-by-point list.
Industry size ATU distinguishes between “Basic”, “Plus” and “Premium” in its mobility checks. In the smallest package, only the electrics, battery and electronics are checked. This includes reading out the error memory as well as a light, battery and alternator test.
Mobility Guarantee may be included
If you opt for the largest package, you can even get a six-month mobility guarantee. Since a number of car insurance policies now also include breakdown protection, you may be unnecessarily double insured on the road.
How does the business model work with the cheaply priced check offers from the workshops? Additional work or consumables can quickly incur additional costs. The offer from Euromaster makes a positive impression: After all, the filling up of up to one liter of oil, wiper and cooling water is included.
Holiday check providers at a glance
1a garage
ATU
Bosch service
drivers
Euromaster
first stop
pitstop
Premium
And if serious defects are discovered on stage? Then the elimination through repair orders usually flushes a lot of money into the workshop coffers. In general, it is advisable with all providers not to make an appointment just before departure. If the holiday check shows that there is a greater need for repairs, it is still possible to obtain alternative and cheaper offers.
It’s also worth packing light bulbs, fuses, a liter of engine oil and a breakdown kit with basic tools. This way you are well prepared for smaller car challenges on vacation.
