Car Tune Up: What’s Covered In a Tune Up?

We all know that a regular car tune up and engine maintenance services are investments that pay off with improved fuel economy, longer engine life, and cleaner air. The following is a list of engine components that are inspected, serviced or replaced during a tune up:

• Various Hoses - Vacuum and cooling hoses are typically inspected during a tune up. Over time hoses deteriorate, crack and begin to leak fluids or air. When this happens the engine can overheat or run poorly.
• Multiple Belts - Most later-model vehicles have a serpentine-belt system. A spring-loaded tension device automatically adjusts the single belt. In the case of a failed or broken belt, all vehicle accessories will be disabled. Regularly inspect the belt for missing ribs and frayed plies.
• Air Filter Element - Paper-style air filter elements should be replaced according to the owner's manual recommendation—more often in dusty conditions. Some vehicles have a foam element inside the air-cleaner housing where the valve cover hose attaches to the air cleaner and is typically replaced at the same time.
• PCV Valve -The positive-crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve, which filters gasses from the engine, are also routinely checked during a tune up. The PCV is a 90-degree piece of plastic that connects the air-cleaner return hose to the engine's valve cover.
• EGR Valve - The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve, which uses exhaust to reduce cylinder temperature, is checked and replaced as necessary during a tune up. The valve is checked with an external vacuum pump to assure it functions properly.
• Cap & Rotor - The distributor cap and rotor degrade over time and need to be replaced during a tune up.
• Plugs & Wires - Plug wires that have external cracks will be replaced. Faulty wires will also show visible sparks in the dark with the engine running.
• O2 Sensor - The oxygen sensor monitors emissions and "tells" the vehicle's computer how to adjust the air/fuel ratio for optimal efficiency. These get clogged with deposits and need to be replaced.
• Fuel Filter - This is another engine component that requires attention, inspection, and replacement during a typical car tune up.
• Timing Belt - Vehicles with a timing belt need to be inspected at recommended intervals. A broken belt can inflict expensive major engine damage if left unattended.

As you can tell, there are many components of an engine that require attention and maintenance. Having a quality tune up performed by a certified auto service center restore new life into your tired car.

Need a car tune up? Contact the ASE-certified technicians at Gary's Quality Automotive by calling (308) 381-2295 or go online at https://www.garysautoinc.com/ for more information. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.