We all want our vehicles to perform at their best, and a car tune-up is one of the ways to keep
them in good condition. But what is a tune-up? When do we need to get one? In this blog post, we’ll discuss what a tune-up is, how often you should get one, and why it’s essential for your car’s longevity.
What is a Tune-Up?
Decades ago, a tune-up was quite involved and took hours to complete, even including aspects like an engine rebuild sometimes. But today’s cars are built to a higher standard and require much less invasive maintenance. Today, a tune-up is a comprehensive maintenance check-up for your car. The aim of a tune-up is to take a holistic look at the car’s engine and all of its components to ensure that they are functioning optimally. During a typical tune-up service, the technician will check the spark plugs and wires, fuel filter, air filters, and the ignition system, among other things of your vehicle.
When Do I Need It?
The frequency of tune-ups varies depending on the car type, model, and make. While modern
cars require less frequent tune-ups than older ones, getting a thorough checkup every year or every 12,000 to 15,000 miles is a good rule of thumb. Your owner’s manual may provide a more specific maintenance schedule, particularly for replacing components like spark plugs or having the fuel injectors clean. However, if you notice any changes in your car’s performance, such as struggling to start, losing power, or unusual engine noises, you should take your car in for a tune-up as soon as possible.
Why is it Important?
Getting a tune-up for your car is crucial for maintaining its longevity, improving its fuel efficiency and performance, and, most importantly, ensuring that you and your passengers are safe. For instance, a technician can optimize engine power and fuel economy by servicing tune-up-related components. A well-maintained car is also less likely to break down, which is particularly important for long trips or bad weather.
What Happens During a Tune-Up?
When you take your car for a tune-up, our mechanics will start by performing a visual inspection of the engine and its components. They also test drive your car and hook it up to a computer diagnostic system to identify any underlying issues. Based on their findings, the technician will then make the necessary adjustments, recommendations, and repairs to ensure your car runs well. Rest assured, we always ask for your authorization before completing any repairs or services. To keep your car in good condition, a tune-up is essential. Not only does it ensure that your car runs efficiently, but it also extends its lifespan, makes sure that you stay safe, and saves you money in the long run. By regularly maintaining your vehicle, you can prevent costly repairs, improve your gas mileage, and get the most out of your car. So, don’t skip your next tune-up appointment with Xavier’s Auto Center – your car will thank you for it!