Is a Car Tune Up Necessary?

"Car tune up" is probably the most misused and misunderstood all automotive terms. Merriam-Webster defines "tune-up" as a "general adjustment to insure operation at peak efficiency."

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    * Yesterday's vehicles -- Older model vehicles have a simple ignition system--one ignition coil for each spark plug. The coils are adjusted so that they each provide equal spark intensity, resulting in better idling and acceleration. These coils make a buzzing sound as they work. If they are adjusted properly, they all buzz in tune. Thus, the term "tune-up," applied to the service of replacing spark plugs, distributor points, inspecting or replacing the cap and rotor and possibly replacing the fuel and air filters. It also included several adjustments--point gap, ignition timing and idle mixture.

* Today's vehicles – On newer model vehicle, distributors are gone and even spark plug wires may be missing. An onboard computer adjusts fuel mixture, timing and idle speed control. Just spark plugs, fuel and air filters, and the PCV valve remain of the items that were considered part of a "tune up." Spark plugs may also disappear someday.

What is the purpose of a tune up?

Because the term "car tune up" can mean so many different things, manufactures don't list it in their maintenance schedule, but they list the individual items at specific miles or duration of time. Every auto repair shop determines what their particular meaning of a "tune-up" consists of--what parts are replaced and what type of tests are performed. While one shop may consider a "tune-up" as just replacing a set of spark plugs; another shop may replace spark plugs and other ignition components, fuel and air filters, PCV valve and include testing to verify the electronic system is doing its job.

Should you request a tune up?

If you request a car tune-up, ask what is being included. Don't expect it to cure your performance problems. A tune-up is a maintenance procedure and if it makes your car run better, you waited too long for the service. Performance problems on today's cars are usually caused by something that is not normally replaced during a maintenance tune-up. Many of the performance problems are caused by a malfunction sensor or control unit. If the spark plugs or fuel filter are overdue, get them replaced to see if it helps, but if they're not, have a qualified technician with the correct testing equipment diagnose the performance problem.

Is it time for a tune up? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at an Excel Auto & Tire Service center. We will be happy to help you with any of your vehicle maintenance issues. Check our website at www.excelautoandtire.com for the location closest to you. Our 3 auto shops in the Twin Cities area are conveniently located in Eagan, MN, Spring Lake Park, MN, and Rochester, MN.