Routine Checklist for car. You thoughts.
 

I purchased a 2004 Camry I am driving down to my kids college and she will be using it down here(156k). Car is good and checked out but want him to check car regularly to advert problems.
None of kids work on cars like me when I was young but will show than what to check. Car will be in a warm climate with virtually no snow but summers may be hot/humid.

Here is my list -

1.Locate a good , reliable mechanic. BBB, Yelp, Advice from friends.

2. Listen for any unusual sounds, smell any unusual odors or shacks and pulls. Watch for any leaks as you leave the parking spot or any locations. This is the most important step since you preempt issues and minimize you and the car being stranded..

3. Always use regular unleaded gas not the 85% Ethanol gas (has a yellow gas handle).

4. Never let gas tank go empty. Fill at ¼ of tank. Fuel pump is in gas tank and needs gas as lubrication. Low gas can create a failure due to lack of lubrication.

Do monthly

5. Check fluids monthly. Windshield Washer Fluid, Oil, Power steering fluid, Brake fluid, and trans fluid. . Monitor for anything you have to add which may indicate a leak or failure. For the most part only oil may go a little low due to use. I will show you.

6. Check left blinker, right blinker, headlights, bright lights, emergency lights, brake lights at night so you can see them light up ( monthly).

7. Check tires air.

7. Park in nice spots to prevent damage to car.

8. Go through car wash once a month.

Supplied him with all the fluids, goggles, wipes, 12 v air pump.

Great list.

One thing for Dad is to make sure the trans and PS fluid condition is kept up to date. Fluid life is proportional to the temp it operates at. The higher the temp, the shorter the life and clean fluid reduces part wear.

The 4-cylinder engine has had issues with head bolt failure and plugged piston oil ring return holes. The symptoms are needing to add coolant and excess oil consumption.

Tell child when shifting from P to R and R to and a forward gear to make sure the car is completely stopped or over time trans damage can occur.

Might consider a road assistance/towing rider added to auto insurance. It's typically dirt cheap.

Excellent feedback and did add towing already. Will convey that information. Thank You.