audi49

I recently acquired a '88 944 based with only 63000 miles. Overall car is in great condition. I've done a lot of research already and so basically know what to expect going forward (timing belt, fluids, sunroof gear...).

But... what is the short list of 'must checks' or 'must replace' to make this a reliable car (to take on longer trips)? I'm thinking of things that would cause the car to be stranded, e.g., and not nice-to-do's. Thanks for the input.

SloMo228

Well, you know about the timing belt already, that's probably the biggest show-stopper.

IMO, any rubber items on a 25+ year old car are suspect. Failure of some of them is not a big deal, but others can cause big problems.

I'd definitely recommend replacing all of the coolant hoses and the heater valve. A burst coolant hose will definitely interrupt a trip.

I'd also do the oil cooler seals, you don't want your oil and coolant mixing.

Vacuum hoses won't be a show-stopper but replacing them will help ensure proper running.

Cleaning up all the grounds and battery connections helps solve and prevent a lot of annoying electrical gremlins.

You can do a compression test to help determine the health of the engine as well.

Otherwise, change the belts, rollers and water pump if you don't know the last time it was done, replace all the fluids, and enjoy!

AlphaOmegaPower

As previous poster said replace all rubber. LR has a good kit for this.
944 online has a good water pump, belt and seal kit.
Check your brakes and change the pads when you flush the brake fluids.

AlphaOmegaPower

Buy a DME relay and put it in the glove box. Check your fuses first when your have an issue.

911lnv87

one thing not to forget which is an easy one is the 3 fuel line the 2 long one and the short one.

As you do not want to see your car in fire!

AlphaOmegaPower

+944

plumbum

Yup!