Routine car maintenance is the best way to prolong the life of your vehicle and protect your investment. Also routine checks will help keep you safe out on the road. Tune-ups are especially important if you want to improve the performance of your vehicle.
What is Involved in a Tune-Up Service?
Generally a tune-up includes small adjustments to your vehicle to keep it in top working order and efficiency. Before on-board computers, the mechanics needed to adjust fuel mixture, timing, and idling speeds. That is why older vehicles still need tune-ups, especially if they are not operating as well as they should. But what about newer vehicles, with on-board computers that manage all those things? Even these cars still need routine inspections and minor repairs.
When Should I Get a Tune-Up?
The timing and terms of a tune-up service will vary from vehicle to vehicle. It can also change based on age, mileage, and driving style. Because of new technologies most vehicles can go anywhere from 30,000 to 60,000 miles before needing attention. Your owner’s manual will give you a schedule for routine car care. However, there are also a few things to watch for that will indicate when you need to get your car back into the shop.
5 Signs You Need to Get Tune-Up Service
Here is what you need to watch for:
- Lights
This is obvious, and usually your first indicator that something is about to go wrong. The lights on your dash will illuminate for any number of reasons. Maybe your tire pressure is low, or you need new engine oil. Fortunately, with the help of the on-board computer, technicians can efficiently diagnose the problem and get you the right repair to get you back on the road. Pay attention to your warning lights. If it comes on consistently, you should get your car to an auto shop to have it checked out.
- Poor Gas Mileage
Is your car not performing as efficiently as it once was? If you find yourself at the gas pumps more often, then your car is not burning fuel as it should. This could mean a problem with fuel injectors or faulty, dirty spark plugs. Get your car in for a tune-up service and your gas mileage should get back on track.
- Difficult or Rough Starts
Another big indicator is a rough start when you try and turn your engine over. Your car should start easily. But if you have to hold on the ignition, or it takes several tries before the engine catches—you probably have an issue with the batter, starter, or fuel system.
- Rough Idling or Acceleration
Have you ever noticed a vibration when your car idles? Or what about a knocking sound when you climb a hill? This usually means one or more of the sparkplugs is failing to ignite.
- Frequent Stalling
Nothing is as inconvenient as a car that stalls in the middle of your morning commute. Not only is this frustrating, but also dangerous. Usually this type of issue means the spark plugs are faulty or worn out. Does the car stall while it is hot or cold? Or does it only cut out when you turn on the air conditioner? The technician might ask you these questions to better diagnose the issue.
When was the last time you took your car tune up Philadelphia, PA? service. If it has been a while you should give Schafer’s Auto Center a call at 215-755-1270. We have been servicing vehciles for the drivers of Philadephia since 1964. All of our technicians are ASE certified and are ready to diagnose, explain, and repair any car problem you might have. If you want to stop by, we are located at 1924 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19148.
