What does a tune up include?
The tasks involved in a tune-up vary depending on your vehicle’s age. Older vehicles required detailed inspections and manual adjustments to parts like the carburetor. However, modern engines are mostly controlled by electronics, leaving fewer components to adjust manually, such as spark plugs. The definition of a “tune-up” has changed with advancing technology.
At Monty’s Automotive, a typical tune-up for a modern vehicle includes:
- Replacing spark plugs
- Inspecting filters and fluids
- Checking the timing chain (newer models) or timing belt (older models)
- Testing the battery
- Performing Monty’s Complete Vehicle Inspection
If your vehicle is vintage, we can also handle carburetor tuning, ignition points, distributor (cap, rotor, and spark plug wires), timing belt, and fuel filter replacements.
how often should I get a tune up?
The frequency of engine tune-ups varies based on your vehicle and driving conditions. Typically, older vehicles require a tune-up every 10,000 to 12,000 miles or every two years. In contrast, modern vehicles equipped with electronic engines and fuel injection systems may have tune-up intervals that can extend to 100,000 miles or more. To find the specific tune-up schedule for your make and model, check your vehicle owner’s manual.
how long does a tune up take?
The duration of a tune-up can vary based on your vehicle, typically taking about two to four hours. Modern, computerized vehicles tend to require less time and usually fall on the quicker end of that range. In contrast, older vehicles with more mechanical parts that need adjustment will take longer to tune up.
signs my car needs a tune up
Signs that your vehicle requires a tune-up include unusual noises and odors, exhaust smoke, warning lights on the dashboard, difficulty starting, and decreased mileage or acceleration.
is a tune up necessary?
Traditional tune-ups are an important part of preventive maintenance on older vehicles — their mechanical engine parts must be manually adjusted from time to time. Modern vehicles with computer-controlled engines do not need this kind of tune-up — but they do need every service that’s now commonly included with spark plug service in modern tune-up packages.
Depending on your location, these services may include oil changes, tire service, battery service, timing chain service, and fluid and filter service. A tune-up package can be a convenient way to follow your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.