Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Subaru

Lighten Your Keychain

Does your car key share a chain with numerous other keys? This added weight can strain the ignition switch, leading to premature wear and potential failure. To avoid this, use a lightweight keychain that allows you to separate your ignition key from the others. If your ignition key starts to "stick," it's a warning sign that the ignition switch may soon fail. Address this issue promptly to avoid getting stranded.

Park in the Shade

Parking in a garage is ideal, but if that's not an option, always try to park in the shade. This minimizes interior damage from UV sunlight and heat. If no shade is available, consider using a car shade to protect your vehicle's interior. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the dashboard and seats to fade and crack.

Touch Up Nicks Immediately

Rust can form quickly on exposed metal. Keep some matching touch-up paint on hand to address minor nicks and scratches, especially around door edges. This prevents rust from forming and spreading, which can lead to more significant damage over time.

Lubricate Your Lug Nuts

Lug nuts can seize or "freeze" to the studs due to corrosion, making tire changes difficult and expensive. Use anti-seize lubricant on the stud threads to prevent this issue. If a lug nut does freeze, try using WD-40 or Liquid Wrench, and apply heat with a heat gun before attempting to remove it with a ratchet wrench.

Dilute Your Coolant

Your cooling system requires a 50-50 mix of coolant and water. Using undiluted coolant or straight water can lead to overheating or freezing issues. The coolant prevents corrosion and freezing, while water ensures efficient heat transfer.

Change Oil Frequently

Frequent oil changes are crucial for flushing out abrasive dirt and metal particles from the engine. While modern cars recommend longer intervals between oil changes, following the "severe conditions" interval in your owner's manual can help maximize engine life, especially if you drive in stop-and-go traffic.

Check Power-Steering Fluid

Check the power-steering fluid monthly with the car warmed up. Low fluid levels can make steering difficult and damage the power-steering pump. Use the recommended power-steering fluid for your vehicle and inspect hoses and pumps for leaks if the fluid level is low.

Ensure Proper Wheel Alignment

Have your car's wheel alignment checked every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as recommended in your owner's manual. Misalignment can shorten tire life and cause poor handling. If your steering feels stiffer than usual or the vehicle pulls to one side, you likely have an alignment issue.

Maintain Anti-Lock Brakes

Anti-lock brake systems (ABS) are sensitive to moisture, which can damage the ABS pump and corrode brake lines. Brake fluid attracts moisture, so it should be bled or purged at least every three years, or as specified in your owner's manual.

Interesting Stats

• Vehicle Longevity: According to a study by IHS Markit, the average age of vehicles on the road in the U.S. reached 12.1 years in 2021, indicating that cars are lasting longer than ever before (source).
• Oil Change Frequency: A survey by AAA found that 35% of drivers delay oil changes, which can significantly reduce engine life (source).
• Coolant Mixture: The correct 50-50 coolant mixture can lower the freezing point of the coolant to -34°F (-37°C) and raise the boiling point to 265°F (129°C) (source).

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your Subaru remains reliable and efficient for many years to come. Regular maintenance and attention to detail can make a significant difference in the longevity of your vehicle.