The Car Tune-up Checklist
A Car tune up, also referred to as a maintenance service, is essentially an inspection of the components of the engine, an analysis of the way it runs, and adjustments made to improve performance. Because vehicles will differ in age, mileage, and manufacturer recommendations, the requirements for a tune up will vary. There is not a one-size fits all tune-up. However, the basic tune up for all vehicles should include an assessment and then a recommendation for both preventative and restorative measures that will improve engine performance.
The following are some typical components inspected during a tune up service:
- Spark plugs --
- An engine in good condition should have spark plugs with light tan or gray insulator firing noses. Any other color could be the sign of an engine problem.
- What color is the spark and is it properly igniting the fuel?
- Check the wires to make sure they are not hard or cracked.
- Fuel --
- The fuel filter will be inspected to make sure it isn’t clogged or dirty.
- The fuel pump will be checked to make sure it is functioning properly.
- The fuel injectors will be checked to make sure dirt or other deposits are not restricting the amount of fuel delivered to the engine, or how the spark plugs fire.
- Timing – The timing and idle will be adjusted as necessary.
- PCV Valve – This valve will be checked to make sure it isn’t clogged or leaking.
- Points and Condenser – Points and condensers are mostly found in older vehicles. They should be doing their job of igniting the air/fuel mixture in the cylinders.
Remember: The age of the vehicle, the number of miles driven, and the maintenance history all uniquely affect a vehicle’s service needs.
Need a professional car tune up? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive by calling (308) 381-2295 or go on-line at https://www.garysautoinc.com/ for more information about a tune up service. Our auto center proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.
A Car tune up, also referred to as a maintenance service, is essentially an inspection of the components of the engine, an analysis of the way it runs, and adjustments made to improve performance. Because vehicles will differ in age, mileage, and manufacturer recommendations, the requirements for a tune up will vary. There is not a one-size fits all tune-up. However, the basic tune up for all vehicles should include an assessment and then a recommendation for both preventative and restorative measures that will improve engine performance.
The following are some typical components inspected during a tune up service:
- Spark plugs --
- An engine in good condition should have spark plugs with light tan or gray insulator firing noses. Any other color could be the sign of an engine problem.
- What color is the spark and is it properly igniting the fuel?
- Check the wires to make sure they are not hard or cracked.
- Fuel --
- The fuel filter will be inspected to make sure it isn’t clogged or dirty.
- The fuel pump will be checked to make sure it is functioning properly.
- The fuel injectors will be checked to make sure dirt or other deposits are not restricting the amount of fuel delivered to the engine, or how the spark plugs fire.
- Timing – The timing and idle will be adjusted as necessary.
- PCV Valve – This valve will be checked to make sure it isn’t clogged or leaking.
- Points and Condenser – Points and condensers are mostly found in older vehicles. They should be doing their job of igniting the air/fuel mixture in the cylinders.
Remember: The age of the vehicle, the number of miles driven, and the maintenance history all uniquely affect a vehicle’s service needs.
Need a professional car tune up? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive by calling (308) 381-2295 or go on-line at https://www.garysautoinc.com/ for more information about a tune up service. Our auto center proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.
