How Do I Know My Car Needs a Tune-Up?

car mechanic diagnostic

Maintain Your Car

California is known for its strict laws when it comes to emissions, and with regularly scheduled car tune-up services, you can keep your car in top condition, and safe for the roads in and around Inglewood, California. 

What services are included in a tune-up?

During car tune-up services, a professional will inspect the car engine for any defective or worn parts, replacing them as needed. They will clean the intake region which improves fuel, making the emissions clean in accordance with California law. Other steps taken during car tune-up services include: 

  • Replace spark plugs, wires, and coil boots. 
  • Adjust the engine timing if needed. 
  • Replace the air filter and fuel filter. 
  • Clean the fuel system with a fuel cleaner poured into the gas tank. 
  • Inspect and replace the distributor cap and rotor if needed. 
  • Inspect and replace the PCV valve if needed. 

These things can vary with different makes and models of cars. The technicians performing the car tune-up services will be well-versed in what details should be adhered to that keep the car within the state regulations and requirements. 

Are tune-ups necessary to keep my car running in top condition?

Absolutely!  Without regular car tune-ups services, as we discussed above, fuel economy and performance begin to decrease. The drivability of the car can be compromised. d performance and fuel economy. You may even begin to experience drivability issues, which could lead to extensive damage to the motor, or worse, leave you stranded on the side of the road.

Is there a difference between car maintenance and car tune-up services?

With cars today, car tune-up services are considered ‘scheduled maintenance’ and are a preventive step, not a reactive action. A service call by a mechanic is for making any repairs, installing replacements, or installing new components.

What are the benefits of regular tune-ups?

Regular car tune-up services will keep your car in line with California’s emission standards, which is perhaps the number one benefit. Other benefits include: 

  • Helps avoid major breakdowns.
  • Reduces possible major repair bills.
  • Helps keep your vehicle resale value.
  • Keeps your car performing at an optimal level.
  • Helps with fuel efficiency, saving you money at the gas pump. 
  • Maintains your car’s reliability in starting and running.
filling in car coolant

How often are car tune-up services recommended?  

The car tune-up services schedule can vary based on the make, model, and year. Every owner’s manual will have recommendations that should be followed for manufacturer warranty and lifespan of the car. Newer cars have a fuel injection system and electronic ignition. The recommended service schedule is between 25,000 miles and 100,000 miles. This will eliminate the need for more serious repairs. 

With older cars, the ignition is non-electric and the recommended car tune-up services have a more frequent schedule recommendation. The schedule recommended is between 10,000 miles and 12,000 miles, or once a year, whichever comes first.

What should I look for when choosing a car tune-up service? 

Well of course, your first concern will probably be the cost of car tune-up services, but keep in mind, the cost of that is much cheaper than replacing the engine! The next thing you want to check is that the mechanic performing the service is certified and trained with the make of your car. A BMW or Mercedes car tune-up services are different from a Chevrolet or Ford. 

Next, depending on your vehicle’s needs, the time it will take for the car tune-up services could make a difference. If you can spare your car for a week, then an estimate of 3 to 4 days to complete the service won’t be a problem. And last but not least, make sure the garage is fully insured!

What kind of warranty is offered on car tune-up services?

This can vary between mechanic shops. Due to publicity today like social media, you have a better chance of a shop making good on any issue you have with their car tune-up services. In the years past, the warranty pretty much expired once you drove off their property.  

How much does a tune-up typically cost? 

Again, there are several factors that have an effect on the cost of car tune-up services, like the make, model, and year of the car. Pricing isn’t one set price across the board either. Every car mechanic shop will have its own rate plans and what is included in its service package.

Keep Your Money! 

Instead of paying for professional car tune-up services, you may wonder, why can’t I do a tune-up on my own? Well, you can if you have the ability, equipment, tools, space, and time to do this. Back before cars were computerized and had electronics installed, a car tune-up on a Saturday afternoon was normal for many car owners. 

Today, cars are more complicated, but there are still the basics like changing the oil and spark plugs. With multitudes of YouTube videos, you can probably walk yourself through most of the steps that professional car tune-up services would cover.

L.A. NTX Transmissions provides professional car tune-up services in Inglewood, CA. Call __PHONE__ to get scheduled.