The tune-up - an age-old term that is still around today. Back in the day, cars needed be tuned regularly. There weren't sophisticated computers in cars to monitor things likes fuel mixture, idle speed control, and timing. A tune-up was needed to replace spark plugs, distributor points, and fuel/air filters. There were also adjustments that needed to be done to the ignition timing and idle mixture.
Back in the day, a tune-up was recommended every 20,000 miles or so. However, today's cars run on complex computer system. So the questions becomes, do I still need to have a tune-up performed? If you look at a tune-up as preventative maintenance, then yes - a tune-up is still needed. It may not be the same services as performed when a tune-up was first used in auto repair, but certain maintenance items are still very much required.
So, considering a tune-up as a check up of your vehicle's major systems and taking care of important maintenance items - a tune-up is still needed today. Many manufacturers and auto repair shops alike will now refer to tune-ups as 30k,60k,90k mile services, which are major services. In your vehicle's owner's manual, these major services will be outlined and you'll understand what exactly your vehicle may need during these service intervals.
A major service or tune-up will not only ensure that your vehicle is in proper working order, but it was also help catch any problems early on. Additionally, it will increase your car's overall performance and fuel efficiency significantly.
A typical tune up service may include one or more of the following services:
- Check belts & hoses
- Computer diagnostics
- Engine filter replacement
- Engine & fuel system inspection
- Spark plug replacement
- Timing & Idle adjustment
If your vehicle is due for a tune-up or it has been a while since you’ve had your vehicle tuned, don’t hesitate to bring your vehicle into our shop here at Nerger's Auto Express or give us a call today to make an appointment!