What Is an Engine Tune-Up? The Power of Preventive Maintenance
Keep your vehicle running smoother, longer, and more efficiently with regular engine care.
The Evolution of the Tune-Up
The term “tune-up” has evolved significantly over the years. In older vehicles, it meant adjusting the carburetor and ignition points. Today, with modern fuel injection and computer-controlled systems, a tune-up focuses on inspecting and replacing wear-and-tear components that affect your engine’s combustion process. It is the ultimate form of preventive maintenance, designed to catch small issues before they become major repairs.
Signs Your Vehicle Needs Attention:
- Rough Idling: If your car shakes or vibrates while stopped at a red light, it could indicate a misfire caused by worn spark plugs or dirty fuel injectors.
- Hard Starting: Struggling to get the engine to turn over, especially on cold mornings, can be a sign of a weak ignition system or fuel delivery issue.
- Poor Fuel Economy: A sudden drop in MPG is a classic sign that your engine isn’t burning fuel efficiently, often due to old plugs or a clogged air filter.
- Loss of Power: Sluggish acceleration or hesitation when you step on the gas usually points to a need for a system refresh.
Why Preventive Maintenance Matters
Ignoring these signs doesn’t just make for an uncomfortable ride; it can lead to long-term damage. For example, a single misfiring spark plug can dump unburned fuel into your exhaust system, potentially overheating and destroying your catalytic converter—a repair that costs significantly more than a tune-up.
Regular maintenance ensures your engine breathes clean air, receives clean fuel, and fires at the precise moment required for maximum power. This “health check” for your car extends its lifespan and maintains its resale value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What exactly is included in a modern engine tune-up?
A: A standard tune-up typically involves replacing spark plugs and inspecting ignition coils, wires, and filters (air and fuel). It also includes checking engine timing and idle settings to ensure the vehicle is running at peak efficiency.
Q: How do I know if my car needs a tune-up?
A: Common signs include a rough idle (shaking when stopped), stalling, difficulty starting, decreased gas mileage, or a noticeable lack of power during acceleration.
Q: Will a tune-up improve my gas mileage?
A: Yes! Worn spark plugs or clogged filters can significantly reduce fuel efficiency. A proper tune-up restores the engine’s ability to burn fuel cleanly, which can help you get more miles per gallon.
Revitalize Your Ride.
Is your engine feeling sluggish? Schedule a tune-up service today to restore power and performance.
Find a Location & Schedule Service
