Maintenance questions

[lynnb325]

I am getting ready to drive my 1996 V6 Camry on a long trip. My car has 83,000 miles on it and it has been very reliable. I am worried about getting stranded on the highway somewhere so I want to get the car in tip top shape before I leave. The car has new brakes, tires, CV boots and timing belt. The cooling system and transmission system were flushed at 50,000 miles. I have all of the original hoses and belts (other than the timing belt). Nothing else has been replaced on the car. Should I have any of the belts and hoses replaced? I also wasn't sure if I needed to flush the cooling system and transmission system again since it hasn't been done in a while.

What preventative maintenance should I do before my trip (other than change the oil & check the tire pressure)? Any advice would be appreciated.

[Gary_602Z]

Take it in to your Toyota dealer for an oil change and tell them you are going on a trip. They will come up with something! Tranny fluid and coolant should be okay just make sure they check the levels.

Gary

[acitydweller]

prep work for a long road trip:
1. check the tires, condition, pressure, etc
2. check your spare tire and tools
3. replace the spark plugs... only a $1 each.. .worth it if its over due.
4. motor oil... if youre driving long distance, consider synthetic
5. Transmission fluid and filter. The camry has a metal filter inside that is changed during this service. also remember to get a new gasket.
6. check radiator hoses. hardness, cracking... leaks spell disaster on the road.
7. check brake and steering fluid. If its dark or black.. change it immediately.

As preventive maintenance, look at the Drive and accessory belts... should change them if they are due.