Good rod care can be as simple as just visually checking the rod. Rods have no moving or working parts, other than the hood on the reel seat, and the roller guides on offshore rods.
Problems start when the reels are left on the rod, especially after being used in salt water.
Ideally, rods should be washed after each fishing trip. This will break down the salt deposits. For a very dirty rod, scrub with a light brush the areas around the guides, guide feet and the reel seat. To keep the reel seat working, screw the movable hood from one end to the other, and scrub the threads. Cork and foam handles can be cleaned and brightened-up easily.