07/25/2021
AUTO TUNE-UPS: There is a difference in auto tune-ups today than in the past. Many consumers still think of a tune-up as the "points, plugs, condenser, and rotor." check. These were recommended every 12,000 miles, or so.
But Tune-ups today are not what they used to be. Two primary technological advances — electronic ignition and fuel injection — have not only nearly eliminated the need for an engine tune-up, they have eliminated most of the items that tune-ups involved.
Today, the fuel ignition portion of a tune-up (as well as the parts associated with it), at least as a standard item in the preventive maintenance schedule, is a thing of the past. Fuel injection provides far more accurate fuel/air mixture calibration, and does not require regular adjustment. The result is more complete and clean combustion and better fuel mileage.
These days, a "tune-up" is a major service that includes an oil change, replacement of an engine air filter, spark plugs and possibly a few additional items.
Signs that a car needs a tune-up:
– Engine doesn't start as easily as before
– Running rough, especially when started
– Occasional misfiring, especially in humid weather
– Rough unstable idle, stalling
– Lack of power
– Poor gas mileage
Tip: If you want us to do a tune-up, let us know what concerns (if any) you have with your car, so the tune-up will be tailored to address those concerns.