New Year’s Eve in the Philippines is chaotic.
Fireworks go off early, smoke settles everywhere, streets that were open an hour ago suddenly aren’t. And at some point before midnight, someone nearby will rev their engine like it’s part of the program.
While most of us are focused on food, family, and the countdown, our cars are usually left to fend for themselves. But a few small decisions on New Year’s Eve can save you from scratches, smells, and unnecessary stress on January 1.
Here’s how to look after your car while the rest of the neighborhood celebrates.
Cover Your Car to Protect It from Fireworks Dust and Ash
Fireworks leave behind more than just noise. Ash and fine dust settle on painted surfaces and sit there overnight. If you wipe them off dry, you risk scratching your paint without even realizing it.
If you have a car cover, now’s the time to use it. Don’t have one? A clean tarp or cloth works just fine. The goal is simple: don’t let the fallout land directly on your paint.
If you do need to drive while ash is still in the air, resist the urge to use your wipers—washer fluid included. Fireworks ash is abrasive, and spraying washer fluid can turn it into a gritty film that gets dragged across the windshield. If visibility drops, slow down or pull over if possible. Ideally, rinse the glass with clean water before using the wipers.
And if your car ends up uncovered overnight, don’t wipe it down right after midnight. Dry wiping ash is one of the easiest ways to damage paint. Leave it alone and wash it properly with water the next day.
Close All Vents and Windows
Smoke has a way of finding gaps you didn’t know existed. Leaving windows or vents slightly open might seem harmless, but it’s an easy way to trap that fireworks smell inside your car for days.
Close all windows properly, and if your AC is on, switch it to recirculation. This limits how much smoky air gets pulled in from outside and helps keep the cabin air cleaner.
Do this especially if you’re parked near fireworks or driving through smokey areas. Your car should start the new year smelling like a car, not New Year’s Eve.
Move Your Vehicle Away From the Street
Parking in front of your house feels safe, but on New Year’s Eve, it’s still a gamble. Firecrackers don’t always go where they’re supposed to, and falling debris can land in places you don’t expect.
If you don’t have a garage, try to position your car away from where fireworks are usually set off, under cover if possible, or at least a little farther from the street. Even small adjustments can reduce the risk of damage.
Do Not Drink and Drive
This one is non-negotiable. New Year’s Eve already comes with low visibility, unpredictable roads, and distracted drivers.
If you plan to drink, park your car and leave it there. Your safety and everyone else’s matter more than getting behind the wheel.
Don’t Rev Your Engine for the Countdown
Revving your engine at midnight might feel festive, but let’s be honest—it’s mostly just annoying. More importantly, it’s not great for your car, bike, and it doesn’t do your neighbors any favors either.
High revs, especially when the engine is cold, put unnecessary stress on internal components. Do it often enough, or do it aggressively, and you’re increasing the risk of real damage.
Unless you want to start the new year with a blown engine or an engine overhaul, keep your foot off the throttle. Let the fireworks handle the noise.
Check for Pets Inside or Underneath Your Car
Loud fireworks can scare pets into hiding inside or under parked vehicles. Before starting your car, take a moment to check.
A quick look can prevent accidents and save lives.
Avoid Driving Between 11:30 PM and 12:30 AM
This is peak chaos hour. Smoke, people lighting fireworks on the street, poor visibility, and heavy foot traffic make driving especially dangerous.
Unless it’s an emergency, stay parked and enjoy the countdown safely. Even with free toll periods on expressways like SLEX, it’s still smarter to wait until after the peak of the celebrations before heading out. A quieter road a little later is safer and far less stressful.
Expect Street Closures and Delays
Sudden street closures and reroutes are part of the New Year’s Eve experience. If you need to go out, plan ahead, or head out earlier than usual.
Trying to rush on this night rarely works in your favor.
Let Your Car Start the Year Right
New Year’s resolutions are usually for us, but they can apply to our cars, too. A little care tonight means fewer repairs tomorrow.
So while fireworks light up the streets, let your car relax—covered, safely parked, and ready to roll into the new year with you.
A quiet engine, flawless paint, and no issues.
Now, that’s a solid way to start the year.