Tune-ups extend the life of your car
Preventative Maintenance
A regular car tune-up can prevent a wide range of common – and expensive – vehicle problems. Though a regular tune-up might not seem like a necessary routine to follow, if you make it a part of a regular maintenance schedule, it can save you a lot of money in the long run. Make sure you take in your car for a thorough checkup every two years or 30,000 miles (whichever comes first). Why is this maintenance check so important and what happens during one? Read on to find out, and check out our auto tune-up services for more details on AAMCO Colorado auto repair total car care.
What are some of the things that get “tuned up” or checked?
Fuel Filter
When you bring your vehicle in for a car tune-up, one of the first things checked and probably replaced is your fuel filter. After thousands of miles, the filter is likely clogged and replacing it is a must. Your spark plugs are then replaced (unless they’re platinum), and the spark plug wires are examined and may be replaced. If your car is older, the distributor cap and rotor may be replaced. Another tune-up for older cars (those without electronic ignition) would be changing out your points and condenser, but few cars made after the eighties will require this.
Related: Car Maintenance for Better Fuel Efficiency
Valves
Next, your car’s valves will be adjusted as needed. The valve-cover gasket will also be replaced. One of the main things your mechanic will be sure to do is check the belts in your car and replace them if they’re worn out. Belts can cause serious engine damage as well as a host of other problems if they are loose, worn out, or break while in operation.
Related: Signs Your Timing Belt is Failing
Oil, Fluids and Filters
If it’s been 3,000 miles or more since your last oil change, your oil and oil filter will also be replaced. The air filter will also be changed out if it’s about 15,000 miles old. Other key fluids such as radiator coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and the all-important windshield wiper fluid are checked, with any low levels being topped off and noted for a further Vehicle Courtesy Check. Any accompanying filters will also be checked and replaced as necessary.
Clutch Adjustment
If your car has a manual transmission, the clutch may be adjusted. In addition, an automatic transmission will be checked for performance, leaks and any signs of trouble.
Battery and Electrical
The battery will also be checked and cleaned. Fuses will be checked and replaced if necessary, and the electrical system will be given a Vehicle Courtesy Check with voltmeter and computer diagnostics.
Related: AAMCO Electrical System Service
Spark Plugs, PVC Valve
Finally, installation of new spark plugs and replacement of the positive crankcase ventilation (PVC) valve will be done. When clogged, the PVC can make your car run poorly or have trouble starting. We’ll also run a comprehensive performance check to verify that no drivability or computer system trouble codes exist. If we come across anything we think might cause you problems down the road, we’ll note it and make you aware of the situation, as well as your options for repair.
AAMCO can help with a regular maintenance schedule
Taking your car in for regular tune-ups is more than just running through a laundry list of potential problems. It can mean the difference between a prohibitively expensive breakdown or your car running smoothly for years to come. While this regular maintenance check isn’t a cure-all for major car problems, it makes it much more likely that your mechanic will see a potential problem before it causes permanent damage. Contact your nearest AAMCO Colorado service center for tune-up details.