Your Subaru Outback or Forester isn't just transportation, it's your ticket to adventure. Whether you're heading to the Smoky Mountains for a weekend of hiking, exploring the trails around Land Between the Lakes, or road-tripping to the coast, your Subaru is built to take you there with confidence. But before you load up the gear and hit the road, a thorough pre-trip inspection ensures your adventure stays fun and doesn't turn into a roadside emergency.
Nashville drivers trust their Subarus for reliability, and these vehicles deserve that trust. However, even the most dependable car needs a quick checkup before a major trip. Spending 30 minutes on a pre-trip inspection can prevent hours of frustration and potentially save you from being stranded far from home.
Let's walk through the essential checks that keep your Outback or Forester adventure-ready, no matter where the road takes you.
Why Pre-Trip Inspections Matter 🚗
Your daily commute around Nashville is one thing—your Subaru handles stop-and-go traffic on I-24, the occasional pothole on West End Avenue, and trips to the grocery store without breaking a sweat. But road trips and adventures demand more from your vehicle.
Long highway miles generate more heat in your engine, transmission, and tires. Mountain driving stresses your cooling system on climbs and your brakes on descents. Unpaved roads and trails test your suspension and undercarriage. Loading your Subaru with camping gear, bikes, and passengers puts additional strain on every system.
A pre-trip inspection catches small issues before they become big problems. That slow tire leak you've been ignoring? It might leave you stranded in the middle of nowhere. The brake pads that are getting thin? They might not survive aggressive mountain descending. The coolant that's slightly low? Your engine could overheat on a long uphill grade.
Think of a pre-trip inspection as insurance for your adventure. The small investment of time now prevents much larger problems later.
Start With Tires: Your Connection to the Road 🛞
Tires are your Subaru's only contact with the road, making them the most critical safety component to inspect before any trip. Start here, and be thorough.
Check Tire Pressure: Use an accurate tire pressure gauge to check all four tires plus the spare when they're cold—before driving or after the vehicle's been parked for several hours. Compare readings to the recommended pressure listed on the driver's door jamb (not the maximum pressure stamped on the tire sidewall).
Proper inflation matters more on road trips than during daily driving. Underinflated tires generate excessive heat at highway speeds, increasing the risk of blowouts. They also reduce fuel economy, cost you money at the pump, and wear out faster. Overinflated tires provide less traction and make for an uncomfortable ride.
Inspect Tread Depth: Use the penny test—insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln's head upside down. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, your tread is below 2/32" and the tire needs replacement before your trip. For better all-weather performance, consider replacing tires when they reach 4/32" tread depth.
Check tread depth in multiple locations around each tire. Uneven wear indicates alignment problems or improper inflation that should be addressed.
Look for Damage: Carefully inspect each tire for cuts, bulges, cracks, or embedded objects. Run your hand around the entire tire surface feeling for irregularities. A bulge in the sidewall indicates internal damage and means the tire must be replaced immediately—it could fail catastrophically at any moment.
Look between treads for stones or debris that could work their way deeper and cause leaks. Remove anything embedded in the tread that hasn't already punctured through.
Don't Forget the Spare: Check your spare tire's pressure and condition. Many Subarus come with temporary "donut" spares that require higher pressure (often 60 PSI) than regular tires. Discovering a flat spare when you need it turns a minor inconvenience into a major problem. If you have a full-size spare, rotate it into your regular rotation to ensure even wear.
Fluid Levels: The Lifeblood of Your Subaru 💧
Your Subaru runs on more than just gasoline. Multiple fluids keep systems operating properly, and checking them before a trip prevents problems.
Engine Oil: Check your oil level with the engine cold or after it's been off for at least 10 minutes. Pull the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, then pull it again to check the level. Oil should be between the MIN and MAX marks.
Look at the oil's color and consistency. Fresh oil is amber and smooth, while old oil turns dark. Extremely dark or gritty oil suggests it's time for a change before your trip. If you're due for an oil change within the next 1,000 miles, get it done before leaving, fresh oil provides better protection during demanding driving.
Coolant: Check coolant level when the engine is completely cold. The reservoir should have fluid between the MIN and MAX marks. Never open the radiator cap when the engine is warm—pressurized hot coolant can cause severe burns.
If coolant level is low, add a 50/50 mixture of coolant and water to bring it to the proper level. If you're consistently adding coolant, you have a leak that needs diagnosis before taking a long trip.
Brake Fluid: Check the brake fluid reservoir under the hood. Level should be between MIN and MAX marks. If it's significantly low, this could indicate worn brake pads (as pads wear, caliper pistons extend further, taking up more fluid) or a leak in the brake system. Either situation needs attention before your trip.
Windshield Washer Fluid: Fill the washer fluid reservoir completely. You'll use more than you expect on a road trip dealing with bug splatter, road grime, and dirt. Running out of washer fluid when you need visibility is frustrating and potentially dangerous.
Power Steering Fluid: Most modern Subarus have electric power steering and don't use hydraulic fluid, but if you have an older model with hydraulic steering, check that the fluid level is between MIN and MAX marks.
Lights and Visibility: See and Be Seen 💡
Proper lighting is critical for safety, especially if you'll be driving at dawn, dusk, or night.
Test All Lights: Turn on your headlights and verify both low beams and high beams work. Have someone walk around your vehicle to confirm all lights function: headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals (front and rear), reverse lights, and license plate lights.
Don't forget to check your third brake light (the center high-mounted light on the rear window or tailgate). This light is at eye level for following drivers and significantly improves visibility.
If any bulbs are out, replace them before your trip. Having someone follow you or using a reflective surface (like a garage door or storefront window) can help you verify rear lights if you're checking alone.
Inspect Wiper Blades: Turn on your wipers and watch their operation. They should sweep smoothly without streaking, skipping, or making noise. If they're leaving streaks or chattering across the windshield, replace them before your trip.
Test your windshield washers too. Verify they spray properly and cover the windshield. Clogged washer nozzles can often be cleared with a pin or compressed air.
For rear wiper-equipped models (like the Outback), test the rear wiper and washer as well. Rear visibility matters, especially when backing up at campsites or trailheads.
Clean All Glass: Clean all windows, mirrors, and lights inside and out. Bug splatter, road film, and interior haze reduce visibility. You want maximum visibility for safe driving, especially if you encounter rain, fog, or challenging conditions.
Brakes: Your Most Important Safety System 🛑
Brakes are critical for safe driving, and even more so when you're loaded with gear, towing a trailer, or descending mountain grades.
Listen and Feel: Take your Subaru for a short test drive before your trip. Pay attention to how the brakes feel and sound. The brake pedal should feel firm and responsive, not spongy or requiring excessive pressure.
Listen for any unusual noises—squealing, grinding, or scraping. Squealing often indicates brake pads are getting thin and have hit their wear indicators. Grinding means pads are gone and metal is contacting rotors, causing damage. Either sound means your brakes need immediate attention.
Feel for vibrations through the brake pedal or steering wheel when braking. Vibration usually indicates warped rotors that should be addressed before your trip, especially if you'll be doing mountain driving.
Visual Inspection: Through your wheel spokes (if visible), look at your brake pads. You should see at least 3-4 millimeters of pad material. If pads look thin or you're unsure, have them inspected by a technician.
Check your brake fluid level (mentioned earlier) and look at its color. Brake fluid should be relatively clear or light amber. Dark brown or black fluid indicates contamination and should be flushed before your trip.
Under the Hood: Belt, Hoses, and Battery 🔧
Open your hood and take a closer look at critical components that could cause problems if they fail.
Inspect the Serpentine Belt: The serpentine belt drives your alternator, water pump, and other accessories. Look for cracks, fraying, glazing (shiny appearance), or missing sections. A failed serpentine belt can leave you stranded—the engine will overheat, the battery won't charge, and power steering may fail.
If your belt shows signs of wear or is more than five years old or 60,000 miles, consider replacing it before your trip. Belts are inexpensive compared to being stranded.
Check Hoses: Inspect all hoses—radiator hoses, heater hoses, and any others you can see. Look for cracks, bulges, soft spots, or signs of leaking. Squeeze hoses gently—they should feel firm but pliable, not mushy or rock-hard.
Pay special attention to hose connections where they attach to the engine or radiator. Look for signs of seepage or dried coolant residue indicating past leaks.
Battery Condition: Check your battery terminals for corrosion—that white, blue, or green crusty buildup. Corrosion increases resistance and can prevent proper starting or charging. Clean terminals with a wire brush and baking soda solution if needed.
Check that battery connections are tight. Loose connections cause starting problems and charging issues.
If your battery is three years old or older, consider having it load-tested before your trip. A battery that struggles to start your Subaru on cool Nashville mornings might fail completely in colder mountain temperatures or after sitting overnight at a remote trailhead.
Air Filter: Pull out your engine air filter and inspect it. Hold it up to sunlight—if you can't see light through it, it's too dirty and should be replaced. A clogged air filter reduces power and fuel economy, which you'll notice more on a loaded road trip.
Suspension and Steering: Handling the Road Ahead
Your suspension keeps your Subaru comfortable and stable, while steering keeps you pointed in the right direction. Both deserve attention before a trip.
Visual Suspension Inspection: Look under your Subaru for any signs of leaking shock absorbers or struts (wet, oily appearance). Walk around your vehicle and push down firmly on each corner, then release. Your Subaru should bounce once and settle—multiple bounces indicate worn shocks or struts.
Check that your vehicle sits level. If one corner sits lower than others, you might have a suspension problem that needs attention.
Steering Check: With your Subaru parked, turn the steering wheel and feel for any looseness, binding, or unusual resistance. While driving your test loop, notice if the vehicle pulls to one side or if the steering wheel sits off-center when driving straight.
These symptoms indicate alignment problems or suspension issues that should be addressed before your trip, especially if you'll be driving long distances or on challenging roads.
Safety Equipment and Emergency Supplies 🎒
Before any adventure, verify you have essential safety equipment and supplies.
Emergency Kit Essentials:
- Spare tire, jack, and lug wrench (verify they're all present and in good condition)
- Jumper cables or portable jump starter
- Flashlight with fresh batteries
- First aid kit
- Basic tools (screwdriver, pliers, adjustable wrench)
- Tire pressure gauge
- Duct tape and zip ties (for temporary repairs)
- Emergency flares or reflective triangles
- Work gloves
Additional Supplies for Remote Adventures:
- Extra water and non-perishable snacks
- Blanket or emergency sleeping bag
- Rain gear
- Fire extinguisher
- Tow strap or recovery rope
- Shovel (for mud or snow)
- Multi-tool or knife
Store these items in your cargo area where they're easily accessible but won't shift around during driving.
Verify Your Spare Tire Equipment: Make sure you have the jack, lug wrench, and any special locking lug nut key your Subaru requires. Familiarize yourself with how your jack works before you're stuck on the roadside trying to figure it out. Subaru jacks have specific jacking points—make sure you know where they are.
Technology and Documentation 📱
Modern Subarus come with technology that needs checking, and you'll want certain documentation on hand.
GPS and Navigation: If you're using your Subaru's built-in navigation, verify it has current map updates. Outdated maps might route you incorrectly or miss newly constructed roads.
If you use smartphone navigation, make sure your phone is fully charged and you have a car charger. Download offline maps for your destination area in case you lose cell service in remote locations.
Emergency Contacts: Program important numbers into your phone: roadside assistance, your insurance company, and trusted friends or family. Make sure your phone's emergency contact information is accessible even from the lock screen.
Vehicle Documentation: Keep your registration and insurance card in your Subaru. Bring a copy of your owner's manual for reference, especially if you're driving in unfamiliar conditions. Your manual contains important information about warning lights, capacities, and specifications.
The Day Before: Final Checks
Even if you completed your full inspection a few days before your trip, do a quick final check the day before departure:
- Re-check tire pressures (including spare)
- Verify all lights still work
- Confirm fluid levels haven't dropped
- Top off fuel tank
- Clean windows and mirrors
- Remove unnecessary items to reduce weight
- Plan your route and identify service stations along the way
Loading Your Subaru Properly 🎒
How you load your Outback or Forester affects handling, fuel economy, and safety.
Weight Distribution: Place heavier items low and toward the center of the vehicle. Keep the center of gravity low for better handling. Don't exceed your Subaru's maximum payload capacity—check your owner's manual for specifics.
Secure Everything: Use cargo nets, bungee cords, or tie-downs to secure items. Loose cargo becomes dangerous projectiles in an accident or even during hard braking. If you're using a roof rack, make sure everything is properly secured and weight is distributed evenly.
Roof Loading Considerations: If you're carrying bikes, kayaks, or cargo boxes on your roof, remember this adds weight up high, affecting handling and reducing fuel economy. Drive more conservatively—increased wind resistance and higher center of gravity mean you need to adjust your driving.
Check roof rack and crossbar tightness before departure and periodically during your trip. Vibration can loosen connections over time.
Local Expert Insight 💡
"We see a lot of Outbacks and Foresters in our service bays getting ready for adventures, and the customers who have the smoothest trips are the ones who take pre-trip inspections seriously," says Amanda Foster, a Subaru-certified master technician at our Brick Church Pike location. "Just last month, we had a customer come in for a pre-trip check before heading to the Smokies. We found brake pads that were almost gone—they wouldn't have made it through a weekend of mountain driving. A simple inspection saved them from a potentially dangerous situation and an expensive rescue. Your Subaru is incredibly capable, but you need to make sure everything's in good shape before you head out."
Special Considerations for Off-Road Adventures
If your trip includes unpaved roads or trails, additional preparation helps:
Underbody Protection: Consider adding skid plates if you'll be tackling rougher terrain. At minimum, inspect your existing underbody protection for damage.
Tire Selection: All-terrain tires provide better traction on unpaved surfaces than standard highway tires. If you frequently venture off-road, investing in all-terrain tires makes sense.
Ground Clearance: Know your Subaru's ground clearance (typically 8.7" for Outback, 8.7"-9.2" for Forester depending on model). Approach and departure angles matter on rough terrain—understand your vehicle's limitations.
Recovery Equipment: Bring recovery equipment appropriate for your adventure: tow straps, recovery boards for mud or sand, and know how to use your Subaru's tow hooks.
After Your Adventure: Post-Trip Inspection
When you return from your adventure, give your Subaru a post-trip once-over:
- Wash undercarriage to remove mud, salt, or debris
- Check for any new fluid leaks
- Inspect tires for damage from rough roads
- Look under the vehicle for any obvious damage
- Top off any fluids that got low during the trip
- Address any issues you noticed during the trip before they become problems
Your Adventure Awaits ✨
Your Subaru Outback or Forester is engineered for adventure, built to take you from Nashville to wherever your wanderlust leads. But even the most capable vehicle needs proper preparation before tackling long trips, challenging terrain, or remote destinations.
A thorough pre-trip inspection takes less than an hour but provides peace of mind for your entire journey. You'll drive confidently knowing your Subaru is ready for whatever you encounter. You'll avoid the frustration and expense of preventable breakdowns. Most importantly, you'll keep yourself and your passengers safe.
The mountains, forests, beaches, and backroads are calling. Make sure your Subaru is ready to answer.
Planning an adventure and want professional peace of mind? Visit us at 1406 Brick Church Pike in Nashville, give us a call, or schedule a pre-trip inspection online. Our Subaru-certified technicians will thoroughly check your Outback or Forester and ensure it's adventure-ready. Let's make sure your next trip is memorable for all the right reasons—not because of vehicle problems! 🎯