In the past, a car tune up simply meant having your vehicle serviced occasionally to keep it running. Now, the term “tune up” is used to refer to the preventive maintenance recommended by the manufacturer for your vehicle to ensure that it continues to perform well.
Here are three common signs that your car needs a tune up:
- The car stalls frequently.
- The engine runs rough when idling or when accelerating.
- Your car is hard to start.
If you notice any of the symptoms above, the spark plugs may be corroded or worn, the gap between the electrodes may need adjusting, or an electronic sensing device may need to be adjusted. There are three factors that determine the type of tune up needed for your vehicle– its age, the number of miles driven, and its maintenance history.
Here are the things that should be checked out during a car tune-up:
- Spark plugs
- Fuel pump and filter
- Fuel injectors
- Engine timing and idle
- PCV valve
- Points and condenser.
Even if a tune up isn’t required very often, it’s a good idea to have the components of your ignition system checked on a regular basis so that any necessary adjustments can be made to keep it running efficiently. If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving or pull heavy loads (like a trailer or boat), your ignition system may need to be tuned more often.
Wondering how often does my car need a tune up? Call our ASE Certified technicians at Dependable Car Care for more information about our tune up service and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of Ventura, CA, and the surrounding area.
