Tune-Ups
Most people think that when their car does not run properly in some way that it must need a tune up. It could be idling rough, it could be hard to start, it could lack power, it could be getting poor mileage or have many other possible symptoms. While a tune up solves many of the problems above, there can be other underlying factors that cause the vehicle to behave in certain ways that a tune up will not fix. Besides, modern cars do not require tune ups and poor performance almost always means the car needs a repair.
The expression “Tune Up” is from a time when automobiles were not computer controlled and an auto mechanic could actually adjust the timing, idle speed, fuel mixture and other things to “Tune Up” the operation of the Engine, very much the same way a guitar player tunes up his/her instrument to bring it to proper pitch and operation by adjusting the tension on the strings. A present-day tune up involves replacing and servicing the wear items in the ignition and fuel systems by replacing air and fuel filters as well as spark plug electrodes.
After a tune up is performed, there will be a need to do some cleaning or decarbonizing of the throttle body and fuel system from the oil vapors produced by the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) System. In general there are no adjustments needed (or possible) for the most part, because the engine computer controls all the functions of the Ignition and Fuel System.
A tune up is often part of a large 30,000/60,000/90,000 mile service that includes inspections, fluid and filter changes, and these services are part of the manufacturer’s recommended scheduled maintenance detailed in the vehicles owner’s manual. Newer cars should not exhibit any performance problems by the time a tune up is due. If there are any performance problems, usually a check engine light turns on.
Questions & Answers
1. What’s involved in a car engine tune-up besides changing spark plugs?
2. What if the service engine light comes back on shortly after a tune up has been performed?
3. How often should I get my car tuned up?
4. How do I know when my car needs a tune up?
5. Do I need to make an appointment?
1. What’s involved in a car engine tune-up besides changing spark plugs?
In addition to changing the spark plugs themselves, when a tune up is performed, the air filter as well as distributor cap are changed. A tune up may include changing plug wires, PVC valves, fuel filters, and the O2 sensor. A tune up is a good opportunity to check for other repairs that may be needed.
2. What if the service engine light comes back on shortly after a tune up has been performed?
In many cases this can be attributed to a faulty fuse but if does come on after a tune up service we recommend you bring it back to us to inspect.
3. How often should I get my car tuned up?
If your car is typical in terms of mileage, you probably don’t need a tune-up. Each car manufacturer will have different recommendations as far as how often you need a tune up. You can grab your car manual and it should state at what mileage you need new spark plugs, tune up, …etc.
4. How do I know when my car needs a tune up?
You may see your gas mileage decrease. Your vehicle may start running rough. If your check engine light comes on that could also be an indicator that your vehicle needs a tune up. Again, as stated above, the owners manual that came with your vehicle may suggest a tune up at a certain mileage.
5. Do I need to make an appointment?
Yes you can call us at 425.774.4646 or click here to email us. We pride ourselves in being the top auto mechanic shop in the Lynnwood, Seattle area.