Pre-trip recommendations before taking long trip

So I'll be taking my 2015 SR5 across 3 states for the first time. When I purchased it in Nov. I had my mechanic conduct a complete inspection and found nothing concerning. So I'll assume it'll do fine, but would like to know how some of you go about doing pre-trip inspections. I know to do the usual checking of all fluids, tire pressure (not needed with sensors), inspect the belts, making sure all the fluid housing bolts are tight, etc. Anything else to check for? Thanks in advance.

 

Make a good playlist

 

Haha! That I always do.

 

I am leaving for TX from FL this Sunday. I have a small air compressor, tire plug kit, Kimber 45 acp, 7" AR pistol, extra ratchet straps in various sizes, 550 cord and a new 8X10 heavy duty tarp in the event I bring back stuff from TX that wont fit under the tonneau cover. Also a small medic bag, prior paramedic so I always have one in my car. I will most likely take the cargo carrier that goes into the hitch and leave that in the bed too. I have yet to take this truck on a long trip so I too am breaking it in, 900 miles each way. Oh, and I just received the radar/laser detector today so that will be installed under the rear view tomorrow to help with the smokies.

 

Not sure when the spark plugs were last changed. Thought about changing those out along with the wires, just to know that those are fresh. Then what is the MAF sensor?

 

What is the mileage on your truck?? Do you have the prior maintenance records on your truck? If not your list of things to do will be a little longer. First need to know total mileage.

 

I took mine into the shop, told em I was going on a trip, and had em look it over with an alignment. easy peasy

would highly suggest getting some seat spacers for the back end of the seat, made a huge difference for me in long term driving comfort. Would also suggest checking/removing your mudflaps...mine were the old factory ones, one came loose at around midnight driving through Panguitch in the middle of nowhere Utah, and made such a noticeable slapping sound I thought my engine was about to blow. Most stressful 30 mins of my driving life.

 

I'm at around 105K and I did see the Carfax before purchasing. Everything looked good there.

 

Get the latest maps for the GPS.

 

4.0 or 2.7?

MAF mass airflow sensor. Very easy to damage so be very careful. I removed mine to clean, but some guys leave it in and clean it in place because they're so fragile. Damage it, engine probably won't start and definitely won’t run right if it does start. I picked up some crc maf sensor cleaner for the task, carb cleaner MIGHT work. If you don't have new plugs to put in you could regap them. Coil over plug systems don't have plug wires to change. How to info can be found by searching, for both plugs and cleaning the throttle body and maf. Something I like to do when going on a long drive is to dump in some Jectron with a full tank of premium, or whatever cleaner is your favorite.

If you have a jump starter box you could bring that unless you're certain the battery is very good. Sounds like you have the armed encounter scenario covered. I guess the right to bear arms is interpreted differently depending where you live. Common things to forget to bring are cell phone charger and clean skivies.

 

You are in the window for front wheel bearings if they haven't been touched yet. Disc pads if you haven't inspected.

 

You're crossing three states, I don't think anything crazy is needed, just the basics you mentioned. Could check the differentials and transmission are full and the lug nuts are tight but that's about as extra as I'd go. It's a Toyota, basic maintenance will get you far. What everyone else has listed is stuff you should consider doing at this point of your trucks life, but isn't probably going to ruin your trip.

 

Check the condition of the Serp belt. Its cheap to just replace it.

Any signs of glazing or cracks or wear.......

 

Aw hell no. Those aren’t maintenance items until symptoms show. Just drive and enjoy the legendary Toyota reliability

 

I’m thinking you only have a little time before hitting the road so yes, don’t tackle some major preventative maintenance. You’ve got the basics covered with fluids and tire pressure. You’ll be fine. Again, don’t forget clean underwear.