Need some input on driving Camry cross-country...

[96ToyoCam164K]

Its that time in my life again. I want to explore beyond the state Im living in and go elsewhere. Like yesterday.

Long story short, I have 96 camry with 185,XXX miles. I am considering doing a 1,478 mile trip, and then returning. This would not be my 1st cross country trip in this car. I did a 1,300+ trip (not including city mileage) at 145,XXX miles and another at 162,XXX miles.

I've had the timing belt changed, all fluids (oops, meant to get to the power steering and brake fluid) motor mounts, belts, plugs, sparks...and I use High Mileage oil. My car has broken down like a 100 times, which is good because I've been able to fix 100 different things

Im just not too sure about taking it on such a long trip again though. I occasionally do 3-4 hour trips throughout the month, but when you're talking about running the engine for 18-24 hours...things tend to just, break...at some point after. Like my timing belt did shortly after the 2nd 2,600+ mile trip.

So, any input? I guess I'm not wanting a straight yes or no answer, but more of...what things should I be cautious about at this 'age?' I've heard stories of people's motors dying after long trips, would hate for that to happen.

Anyone know of any breakdown insurance as well? I try not to be too skeptical, but its always good to know.

I dont want to fly because its gonna be California, and plus I want more flexibilty...and renting a car under 25 gets expensive. I want to go for like 2 weeks.

Would you consider me crazy for taking such a long trip? Part of me feels a bit crazy LOL.

[PhatRoyale]

If you've kept up with scheduled maintenance religiously, then you should have no problems with a trip of that length assuming that there are no pre-existing problems on the car.

Just make sure you're tires are in good condition and properly inflated, all fluids are topped off, and go for it.

[96ToyoCam164K]

Originally Posted by PhatRoyale

If you've kept up with scheduled maintenance religiously.

As far as I know I have. I go for the 5,000 oil changes recommended by Toyota rather than the 3,000 though. 3,000 just comes around so fast

There's still something weird going on with the car though. Im not sure if its attributed to an issue I had on the road one time, where the plug wires popped out, causing the car to lose power. Turns out the gasket was leaking oil into cylinders. Well the wires are firmly in, but the car seems like it wants to lose power and shut off when I let go of the gas. At one point, I went in reverse and the car shut off. Then it never happend again. Does it sound like a fuel pump issue?