One of the most over-used phases I hear is "I need a tune-up." What is a tune-up? Up through the 70's a tune up consisted of replacing ignition points, spark plugs, distributor cap and rotor. It also meant that ignition timing was set, idle speed was adjusted and finally the carburetor was adjusted. Today's cars and trucks do not need most of these items.

Cars today are fuel injected. Distributors disappeared and direct ignition systems arrived. Timing, idle and fuel mixture are computer controlled and no adjustments are possible. The only "tune-up" item left is to replace spark plugs. Copper spark plugs have now turned into platinum and iridium tipped spark plugs that do not need replacement until a vehicle reaches 100,000 miles or more. So if there is no need for a tune-up, what do you as an owner need to do?

The answer is scheduled maintenance. Your vehicle's owner manual will give you the breakdown of when certain items such as oil changes, transmission fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacements, etc. will need to be done. It is important to follow this schedule to keep your vehicle's warranty valid.

It becomes confusing when there is a "normal driving" schedule and a "severe driving" schedule. Which one to follow? Too many shops will tell you to follow the severe schedule so they can make extra money on a vehicle that does not need the extra service. The severe schedule should be followed if you tow a trailer or if you live in a very dusty region, such a Las Vegas. Most drivers do not need this schedule. Sitting in rush hour traffic may be "severe" for the driver, but it is not "severe" for your vehicle, just follow the normal schedule in this scenario.

If you are unsure of what your vehicle requires for service, contact us and we can let you know what needs to be done for your car to keep it running its best. And if your car is not running well, schedule an appointment to diagnose the cause of what is ailing your car.

Labels: What is a tune-up?