Auto Repair: What Should a Tune Up Include?

The best auto repair you can invest in is preventative maintenance. And while many clueless drivers swear by regular oil changes to keep your car smoothly running, that simply isn’t enough. As your car ages, parts begin to loosen and deteriorate. Fluids run dry, causing friction that can put tension on the engine. A simple oil change involves only the most basic onceover of the vehicle for any obvious signs of damage, or more often than not, ways the mechanic can make a quick buck like changing an air filter. So how do you keep your car running at top performance? A good tune up performed in accordance with your car manufacturer’s instructions can help stop small problems from getting out of hand.

Dealers and mechanics often have very different views on auto repair. It’s their business to get you in as often as possible. So how do you know when it is time for a tune up? Refer to your owner’s manual. Too often people leave it to collect dust in the glove compartment, but it holds a wealth of information that can help save you some serious coin. For some cars, it may be recommended to get a tune up every 30,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first, while others may suggest the first after 50,000 and then every 30,000 following. Older cars can do with tune ups much more often, and at least once a year is always a safe bet. If you are planning on a long trip, then a tune up is absolutely necessary before you hit the road so you don’t end up stranded on the shoulder. 

So what should you get when you pay for a tune up? There will be some variation among shops and dealers, but for the most part, you should expect a very thorough inspection of all the parts and overall performance levels. Certain parts should be replaced such as the fuel filter, spark plugs, serpentine belts, and air filter if needed. All fluid levels should be checked and topped off with the proper products (a poorly run shop will simply use the cheapest product for every model, regardless of the manufacturer’s directions). Brake pads, steering, tires, and every other safety aspect should also be inspected for faults. Any unusual noises should be investigated as well. 

While most tune ups will include some basic auto repair in the price, such as spark plug replacement, if you need a new fan belt, tires, or brake pads, expect to pay extra. The mechanic should inform you of any problems before beginning the job as they need your approval. Keep your records of all past repairs, oil changes, and tune ups so you can make an accurate judgment. If you just had your brake pads changed less than a few months ago and find the mechanic is telling you they need to be replaced again, be wary. Some mechanics count on your ignorance to put more money in their pocket.