Best Routine Services
Oil Changes
There's no single service that has more impact on the health of your engine over time than simple, regular oil changes. Luckily, oil changes are generally quick and relatively inexpensive compared to the good they do, making it easier to keep up with regular service visits. Fresh oil and a new filter ensure precision engine components stay clean and lubricated, lowering engine temperatures and reducing fuel consumption. You'll want to have them done every 5,000 miles or so unless you're using your vehicle for towing or hauling frequently around South Lake Tahoe.
Brake Service
Stop-and-go traffic is the real culprit in brake pads wearing down quickly, although pulling a trailer or your particular driving style can also influence how quickly brakes wear down. While such an individual rate is difficult to predict, brake pads generally need changing every 30,000 miles. Another common brake service is replacing brake fluid, which is usually necessary every two years or so.
Tire Service
Tires will smooth your ride through Minden and provide plenty of grip for turns or slippery road conditions with proper maintenance. You can monitor your tire pressure manually or through dashboard readouts, and it's good to check it regularly to ensure your tires stay within their ideal range. Every six months or so, a tire rotation will ensure you avoid uneven wear patches that shorten tire lifespan by leaving them vulnerable to punctures.
Routine Engine Inspections
Something as complex as your engine needs a routine inspection to catch small issues before they develop into something larger and more expensive to fix. Having your technician look under the hood at least once yearly will give you trained eyes ready to spot strange leaks, cracked hoses, split belts, failing gaskets, and exposed wires before they unexpectedly end your trip.
Long-Term Services
Timing and Serpentine Belt Change
You'll have many happy years of driving your Subaru around Gardnerville before it becomes necessary to have these belts replaced. They usually last for 70,000 or more miles, making them a once-in-a-vehicle lifetime repair. It's not one you can put off or ignore; however, if either fails, it will lead to catastrophic damage, so make sure you follow your technician's advice on the repair schedule.
Transmission Service
Your Subaru will need to have its transmission cleaned, inspected, and its fluid replaced every 50,000 or so miles in order to continue providing reliable performance as you're driving through Truckee.
Coolant System Flush
Your radiator keeps your engine from overheating, protecting certain components that can be damaged when temperatures climb too high. While the system is as airtight as possible, no seal can hold out forever. Moisture and other contaminants can infiltrate your coolant, lowering its effectiveness. A thorough cleaning of the system and replacing spent fluid with fresh coolant every five years or so will help to ensure optimal performance and avoid corrosion of radiator parts.
Inspections
Your exhaust, differentials, suspension, and fuel systems must be regularly checked and maintained to ensure they function properly.
