Keeping your car in good condition doesn’t just happen with oil changes alone. Regular maintenance helps extend your vehicle’s lifespan, improve performance, and prevent costly repairs. If you’ve been noticing changes in how your car drives, like rough idling, weak acceleration, or declining mileage, it might be time to schedule a tune-up. Many of the issues drivers experience are tied to delayed or missed vehicle maintenance.

Let’s go over what a tune-up actually involves, followed by the most common signs your car might need one.

What Is a Tune-Up on a Car?

A tune-up is a routine maintenance service designed to keep your engine and other key systems operating efficiently. It typically includes inspecting, cleaning, repairing, or replacing parts that affect engine performance and fuel economy. For modern vehicles, tune-ups go beyond spark plugs and may also involve checking onboard diagnostics, fluid levels, filters, ignition components, and more.

The goal of a tune-up is to fix small issues before they lead to bigger, more expensive problems. It’s especially helpful when you’re dealing with poor fuel efficiency, difficulty starting, or an illuminated check engine light. Most car repair shops recommend a tune-up every 30,000 to 100,000 miles depending on the make and model of your car.

Signs Your Car Needs a Tune-Up and What to Expect

Poor Fuel Efficiency

If your car shows a drop in fuel economy, then it’s time for a tune-up. If you fill up your tank more often than usual with no apparent change in driving habits, your engine may not be running efficiently. Worn spark plugs and dirty air filters increase fuel consumption and reduce mileage per tank.

Rough Idling or Stalling

If your car idles roughly or stalls, that’s a sure sign that there’s something wrong with your engine. Rough idling might be a result of dirty fuel injectors or an ignition system malfunction. If your vehicle stalls, this activity strongly points toward the motor being on its last legs and in dire need of tune-up services.

Difficulty Starting

Another warning sign that your car needs a tune-up is when it’s harder to start. A weak battery, failing starter, or ignition system problems may lead to the engine failing to start. A tune-up fixes the problem so the car starts reliably.

Unusual Noises

Knocking, pinging, or rattling emanating from the engine bay are red flags to tend to your vehicle. These issues indicate improper timing, misfiring, or problems with the exhaust system. A professional mechanic takes these noises into account during inspection, locating the source of the problem.

Warning Lights on the Dashboard

Modern-day cars come equipped with sensors that monitor a multitude of vehicle systems. If the check engine light illuminates on the dash, it’s indicative of something wrong with the vehicle’s motor. Newer cars often indicate when routine maintenance is needed.

Poor Acceleration or Performance

If the vehicle feels sluggish during acceleration it’s an indication that the engine is underperforming. Problems causing the issue include:

  • Dirty fuel injectors
  • Clogged air filter
  • Faulty ignition system

A tune-up restores engine performance, making the vehicle responsive and efficient.

What to Expect from a Tune-Up

A tune-up involves a thorough check of your car’s engine and other key components. It’s a good idea to check your owner’s manual to determine the suggested time frame for routine maintenance. These small steps can save you from costly repairs later on.

The following list includes work you might expect to be done during a tune-up.

  • Spark Plugs – The plugs ignite the fuel inside the engine. They wear out over time, resulting in misfiring and decreased performance. Checking and replacing spark plugs is a routine procedure in tune-ups.
  • PCV Valve- The valve can be looked at for clogs or leaks. If the valve is bad, it can affect the performance and emissions of your vehicle. A sign of this is abnormal exhaust smoke.
  • Air and Fuel Filter Replacement – The air and fuel filters keep contaminants from entering the engine. Clogged filters reduce engine efficiency and are replaced during a tune-up.
  • Ignition System Check – Examination of the ignition coils and distributor cap for proper functioning and wear. Replacement of damaged parts to ensure normal engine operation.
  • Fluid Check and Top-Off – All fluids are checked and topped off as necessary. This list includes engine oil, coolants, and transmission fluids.
  • Battery Inspection – The technician checks the battery. They fill up the battery cells with distilled water or install a new battery if it’s dead. Batteries should be checked every 12 months or 12,000 miles.
  • Belt and Hose Check – The mechanic inspects belts and hoses for signs of wear or damage like cracks, leaks, or frays. Replacement of these components prevents a more serious mechanical failure in the future.

At 100,000 miles, there are a few more items that may need to be addressed due to wear and tear, especially in older cars. This can include timing belts and hoses, fluid replacement, and engine coolant change.

Final Tips

Before scheduling a tune-up, ask for a detailed quote so you know what’s included. Keeping up with regular maintenance helps reduce the risk of emergency repairs, especially during Omaha’s temperature extremes. Always refer to your car’s owner’s manual for service intervals and never ignore a dashboard alert. Staying proactive about your car’s health can improve resale value and reduce long-term maintenance costs. Trusting a local Omaha car repair expert ensures your vehicle gets the right care, right when it’s needed.

Dave & Rays Automotive Repair Shop in Omaha, NE

Before the summer heat peaks, consider taking your car to a professional mechanic to ensure it is in optimal condition for the hot months ahead. Addressing these issues early can help ensure a safe and smooth driving experience throughout the season. Our team has learned one thing: automotive problems are as varied and unique as the customers who bring them to us. Fortunately, our decades of experience in auto service and repair also mean that our skilled network of professionals is ready to accommodate an impressive scope of automotive issues. Contact us today.