Oct 7, 2023

It’s no secret that Subaru owners love their vehicles for their reliability, performance, and safety. If you want to keep your Subaru in great shape, you should stay on top of proper car maintenance. Here are some tips from your Subaru dealer on how to keep your Subie running smoothly.

From Your Subaru Dealer: 5 Car Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Subaru in Great Shape

1. Check and Top Up Fluids Regularly

Engine oil and coolant are crucial to the functioning of your engine, so they should be checked regularly. Engine oil lubricates the engine, while coolant regulates engine temperatures to prevent overheating. Check the levels regularly and top up as needed to maintain optimal engine performance.

Don’t forget to check other fluids in your Subaru, like transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Flush the systems regularly to get rid of pollutants and check for leaks. After flushing and cleaning the system, refill the fluids to keep the vehicle in tip-top shape.

2. Inspect and Rotate Tires Regularly

Proper tire maintenance is essential for proper handling of your Subaru. You should inspect the tire tread regularly to check for uneven wear. Rotate the tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to ensure even wear across the two sets of tires. This improves traction, enhances handling, and boosts braking performance.

3. Service Your Subaru Annually

One of the best ways to maintain your Subaru for the long haul is to have your yearly service done by a certified Subaru technician. An annual service includes the following:

  • Oil change and fluid top-up
  • Engine and cabin air filter replacement
  • Fuel filter replacement
  • Brake inspection
  • Battery tests
  • Transmission inspection
  • Visual inspection for leaks and damage

This comprehensive service catches small issues before they balloon into major repairs. It prevents premature wear and tear and gives you peace of mind that your Subaru is running optimally.

4. Pay Attention to Dashboard Warning Lights

Dashboard warning lights provide vital clues about your Subaru’s health, so don’t ignore them. Lights indicating low oil, abnormal engine temperature, check engine lights, and issues with ABS or other systems should be investigated immediately. Even minor issues can escalate into major repairs. Visit your dealer immediately, so their technicians can carry out a diagnostic test to unearth the underlying faults.

5. Take Care of the Exterior and Undercarriage

As you maintain the engine, tires, and other mechanical components, don’t neglect the exterior and undercarriage. Wash the exterior frequently and wax the body yearly to protect the paint from UV damage and maintain your Subie’s shiny look.

Don’t forget to clean the undercarriage, as salt and chemicals can cause it to rust. After cleaning, apply a rust-inhibiting sealant to protect the metals from corrosion. Inspect the undercarriage regularly and address any concerns like dents, rust spots, and leaks.

Follow these tips to keep your Subie running smoothly for years to come. Contact Jim Keras Subaru to schedule a comprehensive service for your vehicle.