Vehicles throughout Minnesota encounter a lot on a day-to-day basis. Not only are you driving in a variety of different weather patterns throughout the year, but you may also be putting 10,000 miles or more on it as you travel around the state and beyond. A vehicle tune-up is a necessary way to ensure your vehicle is performing properly. After all, you don’t want to wait until there’s a problem that can leave you stranded on the side of the road. Tune-ups allow you to be proactive and keep your vehicle in peak condition.
What Is a Vehicle Tune-Up?
A vehicle tune-up is a comprehensive service that includes some of your basic preventative maintenance tasks while also replacing some parts that have experienced excessive wear and tear. When needed, other parts can be cleaned so that the various systems can be as productive as possible.
Various systems will also be thoroughly inspected, including brakes, transmission, exhaust, steering, electrical, and more. This allows any issues to be identified early so that they can be addressed before they turn into bigger problems. Air filters, fuel filters, and oil filters are likely to be replaced during a tune-up. Other components that will be inspected include belts, hoses, and spark plugs.
While many of the components of a vehicle tune-up are visual inspections, it requires the trained eye of a certified technician to know what is good and what requires attention. All of the fluids will be topped off, and distributor caps will be inspected to ensure that gaskets are in good condition and that caps are properly tightened.
A tune-up will typically take between two and four hours, depending on the year, make, and model of your car. Many newer cars require less time because there are sensors that will provide certain details. Additionally, more time may be required if additional parts need to be replaced.
How to Know When Your Vehicle Needs a Tune-Up
While oil changes and other preventative maintenance services are performed on a set schedule, a tune-up is based on mileage and overall wear and tear. As such, you have to pay attention to the way your vehicle is performing to determine when it’s time to schedule a tune-up. If you’re visiting the mechanic on a regular basis, a tune-up may even be recommended. Some of the warning signs to tell you it’s time for this service include:
- Reduced gas mileage
- Various warning lights
- Difficulty starting the vehicle
- Poor acceleration
- Rough idling
- Strange noises
If anything out of the ordinary happens with your vehicle, it’s best to get an appointment so that a technician can run some tests. You should plan on a tune-up at least once a year. If you’re driving your vehicle more than 12k miles a year, it may even be necessary to up the frequency. One of our certified technicians can provide personalized recommendations based on what we see during the inspection.
Why You Should Schedule Your Tune-Up with Auto Works Automotive Service Center
At Auto Works Automotive Service Center, we have a talented team of certified mechanics who can perform vehicle tune-ups in Woodbury. Our extensive background with the many makes and models of cars and trucks allows us to work confidently on any vehicle that you may have.
We have a wide array of certifications, too, including being ASE Certified and an AAA-approved auto repair center. This makes it easier for you to trust us with your vehicle, knowing that it is in good hands every step of the way.
Scheduling a vehicle tune-up can ensure that you’re getting the performance you demand out of your vehicle. At Auto Works Automotive Service Center, our certified technicians can complete a full checklist of services on your vehicle. Call or text us at 651-578-1500 today to get your appointment scheduled and to find out how we can help you with all of your vehicle’s service needs.
