Piston Slap: In Praise of the 2005 Honda CR-V

Chris writes:

Dear Sajeev,

Back in 2005 I purchased a new Honda CR-V. It recently rolled over 200,000 miles. It has never given me any trouble or needed anything but normally scheduled service and the usual wear items (tires, brakes, battery). It has survived the New England winters rust free. Most importantly, it's paid for.

Is there anything proactive I should do to keep it on the road, maybe even for another 100K? I don't mind investing now if it will save me major repairs later. As trouble-free as it's been I can't see replacing it (nor am I in a position to right now), but given the mileage I feel like I should be waiting for that other shoe to drop!

Sajeev answers:

Wow…recanting Monday's Piston Slap kinda sounds like a good idea now. The CR-V laughs at our Rust Belt Woes!

Probably the best things you can do (outside of regular servicing) is keeping your ride as pretty (wax/detail at the minimum) and as nice to drive (new shocks/springs) as possible.

The former is obvious: you want a vehicle with decent curb appeal, otherwise you're driving a mere winter beater year 'round.  Even if that doesn't bother you, why let it get worse when you don't have to? Pride in your Ride…Son!

The latter can keep the suspension at its ideal geometry, preventing excess wear as its bones get older.  And new shocks make sure those old bones don't cycle up/down unnecessarily, in theory.  Plus, it'll ride and handle like new again. Which is the textbook definition of an "added perk."  So what else is left that you may never notice until it's too late?

• Replace all rubber hoses at your next coolant flush. (even the ones to the heater!)
• Replace engine serpentine belt.
• Inspect all vacuum lines for cracks/brittleness/gooey-ness.
• Upgrade your speakers (with the cheaper side of the aftermarket) so you can hear what you've missed, or shall miss.
• Replace headlight bulbs, odds are the filaments are far from their original efficiency.
• Lubricate weatherstripping with silicone spray lubricant, slick up door hinges/latches with something the factory recommends.
• Shampoo carpets.

I've probably left plenty on the table for the Best and Brightest…so off we go!

 

Send your queries to sajeev@thetruthaboutcars.com. Spare no details and ask for a speedy resolution if you're in a hurry…but be realistic, and use your make/model specific forums instead of TTAC for more timely advice.

from The Truth About Cars http://ift.tt/Jh8LjA

Put the internet to work for you.

via Personal Recipe 680102