We all know our cars need tune-ups…but what does a tune-up include? And why is it important to keep your car running? Your mechanic completes all of these steps during a tune-up:
- Replace the fuel filter
- Clean and/or replace the spark plug
- Inspect and/or replace spark plug wires
- Replace rotor and distributor cap
- Adjust valves as needed
- Check and/or replace all belts
- Check and replenish all fluids (washer, brake, transmission, etc)
- Change oil and oil filter if it’s time
- Replace the air filter
- Adjust the clutch in manual transmission cars
- Inspect, clean, and add water to the battery if needed
- Replace the PCV valve
- Change the points and condenser on cars made in 1978 or earlier
- Check and/or adjust ignition timing for cars made in 1980 or earlier
Most cars need a tune-up every two years or every 30,000 miles, whichever comes first. You may be tempted to skip your tune-up if your car seems to be running fine, but it’s an indispensible step in car maintenance. During a tune-up, your mechanic has the opportunity to inspect all the systems of your car and catch small mechanical problems before they cause serious damage.
Meanwhile, the repairs made during a tune-up ensure that your car runs at its best. Think of a tune-up as a way to improve gas mileage—which translates into significant savings when gas prices rise this summer! A tune-up keeps your car from working harder than it should, so it then requires less fuel to run.
Regular tune-ups are a vital part of preventative maintenance. They increase your vehicle’s efficiency and extend the life of your car.
