Auto Train discussion 2025

[pennyk]

From January 4, 2025 forward, please post comments discussing the Auto Train here. For previous posts regarding the Auto Train, please refer to this thread, which is currently locked:

https://www.amtraktrains.com/threads/auto-train-discussion-2023-q4-2024.86128/page-10

 

[JWM]

Can anyone tell me if Amtrak has completed the upgrades and refurbishments of ALL the cars on the Auto Train per the link below? Also, are all the Superliners going through some kind of car wash either or both in Sanford and Lorton. I assume the track is still "rock and roll" in certain areas. My wife can't fly right now, and I want my car in New England, so this is the choice. https://media.amtrak.com/2025/01/image-gallery-auto-train-improvements/

 

[OBS]

No car wash in Lorton, just window washing.

 

[JWM]

No car wash in Lorton, just window washing.

At least they're washing windows! Thanks for the post.

 

[BlackDiamond]

According to this video by Danny Harmon (Distant Signal) the cars go through the wash at Sanford as part of the switching of the train. This video was from 3 years ago so things may have changed. It's a pretty impressive operation.

Switching the Auto Train

 

[b243923]

According to this video by Danny Harmon (Distant Signal) the cars go through the wash at Sanford as part of the switching of the train. This video was from 3 years ago so things may have changed. It's a pretty impressive operation.

Switching the Auto Train

Thank you for posting this very interesting video very informative.

 

[glensfallsse]

How do they work the car situation at Sanford or Lorton when the AutoTrain is excessively late? The Amtrak twitter account says they extended the drop-off time for today's northbound train until 5 p.m., but the southbound train didn't get there until 6:30. Do they have anyplace to hold all those vehicles for the next train, or does everybody sit in a line waiting to get in?
Also, I assume there's no dinner on a train that leaves at 11:30 p.m. Do they save the food and make it tomorrow's lunch?
I'm taking this train round-trip at the end of February.