As automobiles have evolved over the years, so has the type of maintenance that is required to keep a vehicle functioning at its best. There will always be the core maintenance tasks that never change. For example, the periodic oil and filter changes, brake inspections, or tire rotations. But one maintenance function, the tune up, has changed alongside the mechanical and technology advances over the years.
In this month’s blog post, we look at the modern tune up for your vehicle. We discuss why they are important and what you should expect when you have your vehicle serviced with a tune up.
The Tune Up
At the core of every tune up is a check of your ignition system. The ignition system is the mechanism that starts the internal combustion process when you turn the key or push the start button.
Your vehicle’s spark plugs play the role of creating an electrical current that travels through the engine to create a spark, ignite the fuel, and begin the process.
Any tune up should include:
- A check of the spark plugs for damage or wear. Spark plugs can become loose, damaged, or worn and not send the proper current needed to start your engine.
- If you notice issues with starting the vehicle, stalling frequently, or misfiring, then you may have a spark plug issue. Fouled spark plugs can also affect your vehicle’s gas mileage.
- Any damaged or worn spark plugs will be replaced to ensure your ignition system is working effectively.
- A check of the wires connected to the plugs and your ignition system. If the wires that carry the electrical current are damaged, this will impact your ignition system.
- An adjustment to the timing of your spark plugs. Proper timing is important to ensure that your plugs are firing when necessary
A Full Tune Up
In addition to the spark plugs, a thorough tune up should include a look at the onboard diagnostics. Most modern vehicles have a computerized monitoring system for major systems within the vehicle. Service professionals can use a device to connect to and read the diagnostics. By reading the error codes, they can determine if there are any signs or potential problems within the engine. The diagnostic codes are just an indication for the service professional to inspect further.
Depending on where you take your vehicle, a full tune up may also include the inspection and/or replacement of important engine filters (engine and fuel). These filters help to keep the air clean that is entering the vehicle. This may also include an inspection of the PCV (positive crankcase valve) for any carbon or dirt buildup.
If you think a tune up is what you need, contact the service professionals at Campus Repair to schedule an appointment. We will go over what is included in our tune ups and explain any necessary repairs or replacements.
Keep your vehicle in top performance mode and schedule your tune up today.