I’m about to drive my 2005 Subaru Outback from Idaho to Illinois(24 Hour Drive). What type of preventative maintenance should I do to my vehicle before leaving. Already planning for an oil change and putting air in the tires, but how can I go above and beyond?
Assuming it's the 2.5 4-cylinder engine - how long since the timing belt was changed? Also make sure your had gaskets aren't leaking. You don't want to find out the hard way on the road. (They'll usually drip externally before failing internally.) If fuel and air filters are old or of unknown vintage now would be a good time to change them. Ditto for the spark plugs.
Check your other fluids: Coolant, brake, power steering… and top off if necessary.
Check your brakes and replace if necessary.
Double check your battery, that it is in good health.
I agree with @kaizen about the battery; that is what is most likely to strand you. Otherwise, just make sure normal maintenance is up to date.
In general, don’t sweat it. Highway miles in springtime temperatures is not too taxing on a car.
- Agree with everybody else just wanted to add that you should check your serpentine belt
In addition to the advice from others, check the condition of the windshield wiper blades and replace if needed. Also fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir. And while you’re at it, give the windshield and other windows a thorough cleaning inside and out.😉
It doesn't hurt to check all of your lights before you hit the road, and clean your headlights good.
It is amazing the difference in your night vision when you have dirty vs clear headlights. I know my 2005 Matrix had pretty bad headlights until I really did a cleaning on them, starting with sandpaper and ending with Plexus.
you can search the forum, because this question has been asked several times before.
You can search Scotty's youtube channel, and find videos like this
Always make sure your emergency gear is in good working order.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AzVPnIoFybY
