At ECU Repairs, we often get asked what’s included in a standard tune up. The answer will vary from garage to garage, but generally. This is a type of preventative and proactive maintenance that targets problem areas and resolves small issues so they don’t increase in size. Most tune ups include a thorough engine check to make sure there are no leaks. And that the vehicle sounds and feels right when it is running. For a closer look at some of the other ways, a tune up can improve your vehicle, check out our list of tune up benefits.

Better Mileage

A tune up can fix all the little things going on in your vehicle. That you may not have noticed are causing you to shell out more on gas. For example, if your brakes are sticking, it could be causing your vehicle to guzzle more than usual. During the tune up, your brakes will be inspected, and brake pads might be replaced. Poor fuel mileage could also mean that your tires aren’t properly aligned. Which is causing them to rotate at an odd angle and increase friction on axles and against the road. A tire rotation and alignment can easily fix this issue and help reduce the amount of gas your car uses to drive from home to work and back.

Fix a Rough Ride

Let’s face it, as your vehicle ages, it just doesn’t run as smoothly as it used to. Maybe you’ve noticed it shaking a little bit or having a bit of difficulty getting started in the morning. Especially when it’s cold. A power and energy check by your mechanic can diagnose both problems. And determine what’s causing the rattling and why your vehicle isn’t holding power the way that it should. From the starter to the exhaust, there are hundreds of internal components that could be the cause. A certified mechanic can find the problem and fix it so that you don’t have to ride uncomfortably from point A to point B.

Glowing Lights on the Dash

Each of the warning lights on your car is designed to tell you something; unfortunately, not every driver is bilingual in car diagnostics. For this reason, our professional team of mechanics will work to uncover what the warning lights mean, why they’re on, and how to fix them quickly and effectively.

A Thorough Check-Up

Think of a tune up for your car the way you would a medical check-up for your body. It thoroughly inspects working components, finds problems, and allows them to be healed. Just as your physician might prescribe medicine to fix an ailment, your mechanic will suggest having something serviced to improve handling, decrease the chance of a breakdown, and give you an overall better ride.

A proper car tune up is a powerful maintenance procedure that can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance, fuel efficiency, and overall reliability. While modern vehicles require fewer tune ups due to advancements in technology, performing this essential maintenance task at regular intervals remains critical for several reasons:

Optimized Performance 

During a tune up, the various components of your vehicle’s engine and related systems are inspected, adjusted, and cleaned. This process ensures that your engine operates at its peak performance, resulting in smoother acceleration, improved throttle response, and better overall drivability.

Enhanced Fuel Efficiency

When your car’s engine is properly tuned, it operates more efficiently, consuming fuel in a more controlled and economical manner. This can lead to improved gas mileage and reduced fuel costs over time, benefiting both your wallet and the environment.

Prevention of Major Issues

Regular tune ups allow mechanics to identify potential problems early on. Addressing issues such as worn spark plugs, faulty ignition coils, or clogged filters before they escalate can prevent more significant and costly repairs down the road.

Extended Engine Life

 A well-maintained engine is less likely to suffer from premature wear and tear. By keeping the engine in top condition, a proper tune up can help extend the life of your vehicle’s powerplant, allowing you to enjoy years of reliable service.

Emission Reduction

A properly tuned engine produces fewer harmful emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment. This is particularly important for meeting emission standards and reducing your carbon footprint.

Improved Safety

During a tune up, various safety-related components, such as brakes, suspension, and steering, are inspected to ensure they are functioning correctly. A well-maintained vehicle is safer to drive, reducing the risk of accidents caused by mechanical failures.

Smoother Idle and Reduced Vibrations

A car that is correctly tuned runs more smoothly, resulting in smoother idle and reduced vibrations while driving. This provides a more enjoyable and comfortable driving experience.

Preserving Warranty Coverage

For newer vehicles, adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended tune up schedule is essential to maintaining warranty coverage. Failing to follow the maintenance guidelines could void the warranty, leaving you responsible for any costly repairs.

Boosting Resale Value

Regular tune ups and maintenance create a documented history of care for your vehicle. This can boost its resale value, as potential buyers are more likely to pay a premium for a well-maintained car.

Power of a proper car tune up – Summary

The power of a proper car tune up lies in its ability to optimise performance, improve fuel efficiency, prevent major issues, extend engine life, and promote safety and environmental responsibility. By scheduling regular tune ups and adhering to your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule, you can enjoy a smoother, more efficient, and reliable driving experience for years to come.

During a tune up, your mechanic will perform a code scan to check for ignition troubles or exhaust leaks. He or she will also take this time to check everything. From valves, rings, and gaskets to battery voltage and engine leaks. Your mechanic may not always find an issue during a tune up, which is great news for those who love their vehicles, but in most cases, there will be one or two things to fix before you’ll want to drive again. The important thing to remember following a tune up is that your mechanic is allowing you to fix small ant hills before they turn into molehills. We’d much rather help you repair a small part now than need to perform a major overhaul later.

Read more: 6 Preventative Maintenance Tips For Maintaining Your Car’s Engine

Our top priority at ECU Repairs is to provide you with high-quality service every time we work on your vehicle. To help keep you safe while you drive, and to keep you from overspending in the future. Our team of experienced staff is always happy to meet new and existing customers and will work with you to schedule an appointment with our mechanics at your convenience.