I’ll soon be acquiring a 97 altima (145k miles) that has been sitting for two years. Aside from the oil change what should I do as far as maintenance.
This post has been moved to the new Car Talk Discussion Area, by a Car Talk Lackey. The original poster is Jonbonjamie.
Check the tires and ALL the fluids. It will need a new battery. Todays gasoline is NOT a stable product. I would siphon some out of the tank and look at it in a small glass container. It should be almost water-clear with a SLIGHT green or pink tint. If it has a deeper color and a nasty smell (like old paint thinner) siphon it all out and replace it BEFORE you attempt to start the car.
I don’t think I’d even chance using the gasoline. Replace it before you try to start the engine. I’d also suggest removing the spark plugs and squirting a small amount of oil into each cylinder, then turning the engine over a few times before reinserting the spark plugs, just to lube the rings a bit. They’ve been sitting stationary for two years and a dry start could cause quite a bit of wear before the oil circulates fully.
Also check all belts, hoses, and engine seals. Depending on environment the rubber could be cracked. Also take a look at the CV boots to make sure they are not cracked.
Have your tires checked for age or you verify it( http://www.carbibles.com/tyre_bible.html )
Dependant where you live tires have a life in years besides wear(6 years - 10 years). You or a trusty garage have them checked.
The original post is 8 months old…It must have been lost in the Car Talk Shuffle…