Driving from NJ to NC with a new e30 (help)

[Julien]

Because of some deep psychological issues I'm finding it completely reasonable to drive this sight-unseen 325ix from NJ to NC tomorrow:

(rust isn't a thing over here so I'm not worrying about that )
Here is my route (I think I may go the longer route through Philly/DC/etc)


If anyone who lives along the way would PM me their info in case I need help, that would be awesome. I'll be traveling with limited tools.

Thanks!

[itsonlygeorge]

How is it snowing in NJ right now?

[Ether-D]

It'll be fine. Baby it, listen to it, and if it ain't broke, don't fuck with it. It's only 700 miles.

[Mad Chemist]

Just take it easy and don't push the car hard until you really look over the car. Also, DON'T go through DC. Lots of tolls and traffic. Stop and go traffic can be brutal on the car.

[Reichart12]

Theres a car show at Knoebels on Sunday (Elysburg PA) in case you want a detour at the beginning of your drive.

[101]

"It'll be fine. Baby it, listen to it, and if it ain't broke, don't fuck with it."

"Just take it easy and don't push the car hard until you really look over the car."

Both good advice!

I did something similar years ago when I got my Spider. I flew to Cedar Rapids Iowa and drove it back sight unseen.

- Watch the temperature gauge. Drive like your grandma.

- Don't believe the fuel gauge. Start with a full tank and fill up every 200 miles or so.

- Check the tire condition, air pressure in the spare tire, lug nut torque, and all fluid levels before taking off. Carry a gallon or two of coolant and a few quarts of oil and ATF (for auto trans and power steering) with you in case you are faced with a leak. Check fluids at every fuel stop. Don't rely on the check panel.

- Make sure the wipers and lights work at an acceptable level.

- A few spare fuses would be a good investment.

- If the car doesn't have its tool kit, carrying a few screwdrivers, pliers and wrenches might just save your butt.

- I didn't turn on the radio the entire way - just so I could hear everything that the car might have been trying to tell me.

- A change of clothes, toiletries and hotel money would also be a real good idea.

Take these precautions and enjoy the ride home! Welcome to the IX club!

[mbonder]

For the love of god, DO NOT GO THE ROUTE THROUGH PHILLY/DELAWARE/DC you will regret it every second of the way. Major tolls and major traffic. The proper way to go is out into PA and then south as you have highlighted.

If the car was checked out by Levent at Guten you should have no problems making it back.

[Bbruins72]

Another person here to tell you to avoid DC at all costs. Nevermind the expenses of that route, the torture on a car due to the traffic is not good. I lived there for over 3 years and hated every second of it while in a car and trying to get around that place. My brand new 04 sti transmission did not like the stop and go traffic. If you choose the DC route you better do it on a Sunday. Enjoy the trip and take lots of pics, good luck.

[Julien]

Thanks for the advice guys. Made it to Raleigh, NC sans problems... The car is def. not a looker but the drive train is peachey af.

Few more hours tomorrow and home

[Julien]

About the dc route, I think my timing + waze helped me avoid any major traffic

[rcsoundn1]

Much better ways then Philly

[berlow94]

Glad the car was as reliable for you as it has been for me. Keep me posted on her new life!
Congrats!

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