What Does an Engine Tune-Up Consist Of?

For older vehicles, a regular tune-up was required to check and adjust things like ignition timing, idle speed and fuel mixture, which ensure that your car is running at peak performance. In today’s cars, these things are controlled electronically by the engine computer, so a tune-up is not necessary to adjust them.

However, the meaning of an engine tune-up has changed to signify a series of inspections of your engine to make sure it is running smoothly, including both preventative and restorative maintenance procedures. Getting a regular tune-up is an important part of routine car maintenance in Chino Hills, CA, both for newer and older car models.

What services does a tune-up include?

Tune-ups will be different for every car, because maintenance procedures will vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle as well as its age and mileage. There are some general procedures, though, that will likely be done whenever you take your car in for an engine tune-up. Good car maintenance in Chino Hills, CA will include checking the following engine components:

• Spark plugs: Mechanics will first do a visual inspection of your spark plugs to make sure they are not too old or worn out. They will check the color of the plugs, which can indicate engine problems. Then, they will check the plugs’ performance to see if they are igniting fuel properly and replace them as needed.
• Fuel filters and injectors: They will do a visual inspection of your fuel filters and injectors to make sure that the system is clean and free of clogs and deposits, and that no damage has been caused due to a clogged filter.
• Air filters: Your engine and cabin air filters will be checked and replaced if they are dirty.
• PCV valve: They will check the PCV valve to make sure it isn’t clogged or leaking, and replace or clean it if necessary.
• Fluids: Your major vehicle fluids such as oil and coolant will be checked, topped off or replaced as needed. Other fluids may be checked, such as automatic transmission, power steering and brake fluid.
• Ignition timing and idle: Although the ignition timing and idle speeds are controlled electronically in most cars today, the mechanic may check these speeds to make sure they are meeting factory specifications.
• Exhaust emissions: Sometimes a tune-up will include a check of your car’s exhaust emissions to make sure that your car will pass local emissions testing requirements, and to detect any emissions problems.

How often do you need a tune-up?

How often you need a tune-up will vary based on the model, age and mileage of your vehicle. Check your vehicle owner’s manual for a recommended tune-up and car maintenance schedule or speak to a professional for their maintenance recommendations.

Trust the experts to tune up your car

If you are in need of car maintenance in Chino Hills, CA, visit the automotive experts at Gabriel’s Automotive & Towing! We’ve offered full service automotive repair and maintenance to our community for over 25 years. Call us today for a free quote!

Categorised in: Car Maintenance

This post was written by Writer