While we all know that regular car maintenance is important, the reality is that many of us will try and save costs by avoiding taking our vehicle to the shop unless it’s in need of serious auto repair. This in itself can be a double-edged sword, however, as an unmaintained vehicle is more likely to break down faster and need more expensive repairs than one that religiously follows its preventive maintenance schedule. Here’s why you might need a tune-up today.
What Does a Car Tune-Up Include?
A car tune-up means a general inspection of the vehicle by a qualified auto repair specialist who will then perform any necessary corrective or preventive maintenance on wear-and-tear parts. Depending on your vehicle’s condition, here’s what your next car tune-up might look like:
General Inspection
The auto repair mechanic will thoroughly inspect your vehicle, checking for any damage or deterioration. Your engine will be checked for any components that might need to be cleaned, replaced, or fixed. Additionally, any other important wiring and fuel delivery system parts will also be checked.
Replacing Worn Parts
To improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and overall performance, your auto repair specialist might replace your spark plugs and wires, coil boots, or clean the throttle body.
Fluids
Depending on the condition of the fluids in your vehicle, you might also want to get them flushed out or topped off. These include your engine oil, windshield wiper fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and brake fluid.
Filter Replacements
Over time, your vehicle’s air and fuel filtration systems will collect debris and other contaminants that can negatively impact your vehicle’s performance if left unresolved. These include your fuel filter, engine air filter, oil filter, and cabin filter. Regular filter replacements must be performed on these important components, so it generally helps to check on them every so often.
Rotations, Alignments, and Adjustments
Unbalanced tires and poor alignment can lead to uneven wear on your tires. A tire rotation ensures that the wear on your tires is spread out evenly, while a wheel alignment involves adjusting your vehicle’s suspension to point your wheels at a correct angle.
When to Get a Tune-Up
It’s recommended that all vehicles should be brought in for a tune-up every 10,000 miles or yearly, whichever comes first. However, you should bring your vehicle in for a professional auto repair service if you notice any of these signs:
- Strange noises coming from your vehicle
- Warning lights on your dashboard
- Decreased fuel mileage
- Steering issues
- Braking issues
- The vehicle is slow to accelerate
In this case, your vehicle may need more comprehensive work than just a simple tune-up service.
Talk to an Auto Repair Specialist in San Jose, CA
For trustworthy and professional auto repair in San Jose, CA, come see us at GIC Car Clinic. Whether it’s a tune-up service you need or a more in-depth diagnostic of your vehicle, we’ve got you covered. Contact our shop today to learn more about our full range of auto repair services in San Jose, CA.