A tune-up is an important part of good vehicle car. This simple maintenance process involves getting a new set of spark plugs among other services. When you get a tune-up, you should notice better fuel economy, fewer emissions, and your engine should be easier to start. You may also notice that your vehicle has renewed power and much better performance. Many vehicle owners overlook the tune-up as part of their regular preventative maintenance, but this simple service can do wonders for your car. So, what is involved in a tune-up? Read on to find out more.
A Tune-Up Check
Before the tune-up begins, your mechanic should check a few important parts of your vehicle. The battery’s voltage should be checked along with any mechanical problems including worn out O-rings, hoses, head gaskets, and more. They should also scan your car’s onboard computer system for any fault codes to detect underlying problems. The engine’s emissions level should also be checked and verified. The ignition timing will be examined to determine if there are any sensor problems, and the mechanic will also verify your vehicle’s idle speed. All of these performance checks will help determine what your vehicle needs to run more smoothly.
The Tune-Up
After the initial inspection, your mechanic will begin performing the tune-up. They will replace the spark plugs with new ones so your engine can produce the proper level of combustion. The rotor or distributor cap may also be replaced if it’s required. The tune-up should also include replacing the fuel filter, air filter, PCV valve, and breather filter. You might also need to have your spark plug wires replaced depending on their condition. The mechanic will also check thoroughly for any leaks and confirm that all belts and hoses are in good condition. Your ignition timing and O2 sensors will also be checked and adjusted as needed.
When to Have One Done
At minimum, your spark plugs should be replaced periodically for best performance. The minimum recommended time frame is around 45,000 miles of continuous operation. Over time, the spark plugs begin to wear down, so it’s important to make sure they are operating correctly for your vehicle to run its best. Choose long-life plugs whenever you can since they will last a lot longer, up to 100,000 miles in many cases. They may cost more upfront, but they’ll save you in the long run.
For all your vehicle repair and maintenance needs, contact the pros at Autobahn Automotive in Sea Girt, NJ, today!
