Ok, since I got my daily drive a year ago (89 4x4 Toyota Truck ) I put minimal miles on my R but drive it at least once a week. I’ve only put about 2,0000 or 3,000 miles in the last year and I do an oil change at the dealer every 3-4 months, they top off the fluids and use the oil I bring, Mobil 1 Syn. I also rotated the tires and did an alignment, which I plan to do once a year if I drive less than 4,000 miles a year. I try to wash it once a week, detail the inside once a year, and buff and put a paint sealer once a year. What other things would you guys suggested to keep the engine in good shape? It has about 70,XXX miles on it and I did the 60K about 1.5 years ago.

 

if you dont drive it that much, dont worry about it.. just give it to me and ill take care of it

 

Ok 97civicEXVTEC, I'll give you the R if you give me a 4WD QX56.

 

Nobody has any suggestions?

 

Assuming that the engine is started when you go to wash or detail it, you'll really be fine. Just keep in mind that the wear mileage on items like belts, some fluids, etc. is really based on wear over time rather than use wear.

 

Thanks gtiger. I drive it once a weeks so it gets driven a few miles until it hits the operate temp. I've had some belts replaced already, can't remember which ones off the top of my head but it wasn't the timing. I take it to the dealer to make sure the other fluids are filled every 4 months. Anyone else with suggestions?

 

You got all the basic preventive maintenance listed. Only other thing is to make sure you use fuel stabilizer if you store your car without running for over 60 days-but with your schedule, don't worry about it.

I would recommend changing your own oil-your old oil will teach you a lot about your engine. After you drain the pan, run an old magnet through - see if you pick up any metals. Also buy an oil filter cutter and inspect your old filter the same.

Make sure when you run your engine every once in a while, don't just idle it. An engine with nothing but idle time will build up lots of carbon deposits and wear at seals and gaskets. Smoothly take your engine through the RPM range (At least 7k for you :-) ).

Thanks for taking care of it-I wish the guy I bought mine from did the same...

Enjoy

 

Thanks wildcarditr102.

 

I would keep using the Mobil 1. If you have been using it since you've had it, the engine should be clean.

You need to let the engine run for at least 2 minutes everytime you crank it to make sure you are getting oil pumped to the top before touching the throttle.

Replace the coolant every 18 months or so, along with brake fluid, power steering fluid, and do the transmission every 2 years or so.

Try to put atleast 20 miles on your car during your "weekly" drive. Keep the rubber seals and such wiped down with silicone.