The term “tune-up” is something you’ve probably heard before when thinking about vehicle maintenance. It’s a phrase that’s been used for decades, but when it comes to modern vehicles, tune-ups aren’t quite what they used to be. While people still search for “tune-up” and “vehicle repair near me” when their vehicle is acting up, understanding what today’s tune-ups entail is crucial for keeping your car running smoothly.
What Was a Tune-Up?
The traditional tune-up involved adjusting various engine components like the carburetor and ignition timing and replacing parts such as spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributor caps, and rotors. These were critical to ensure your vehicle ran well, especially back when cars had simpler systems. However, modern vehicles have advanced technology, including computers that now handle most adjustments automatically.
The Modern Approach: Scheduled Maintenance
In today’s world, the correct term for what used to be called a “tune-up” is scheduled maintenance. Instead of the old manual adjustments, your vehicle’s computer does all the work. That’s why you don’t have to worry about replacing or adjusting many of the parts mentioned earlier. The only significant part related to those tune-ups is the spark plugs, which generally last around 100,000 miles in most vehicles.
At Maxi Auto Repair, we find that many clients call asking for a tune-up when what they really need is help to diagnose a drivability issue. When your car isn’t performing as expected, it’s important to bring it to a professional who can use advanced vehicle diagnostics to find the root cause.
Common Maintenance Tasks Related to a “Tune-Up”
One of the most neglected services related to old-style tune-ups is the oil change. Though it might seem simple, regular oil changes are one of the most critical services you can perform to keep your engine running smoothly. We recommend changing your oil every 5,000 miles, regardless of the type of oil you’re using. Maxi Auto Repair uses high-quality Castrol motor oils to ensure your engine stays in top condition.
Another essential maintenance item is intake and fuel system service. This service should be performed every 15,000 miles to help prevent carbon buildup and sludge, which can cause your engine to run rough or even shorten its lifespan. At Maxi Auto Repair, we use BG Products’ fuel system cleaners, which help keep your fuel system clean and your engine running efficiently.
How Do You Know When It’s Time for Maintenance?
Since the term “tune-up” is outdated, the best approach is to follow your vehicle’s manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule. These recommendations vary depending on the make and model of your car, but your vehicle’s manual will include a schedule for things like oil changes, spark plug replacements, and fuel system services.
If you notice any signs of poor performance, such as rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, or decreased fuel efficiency, it’s time to bring your vehicle in for an inspection. Our experienced ASE-certified technicians at Maxi Auto Repair are skilled in diagnosing these issues using advanced vehicle diagnostics.
Schedule Your Vehicle Maintenance in Jacksonville, FL
In short, while the concept of a “tune-up” might have evolved, the importance of regular vehicle maintenance has not. To keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid costly repairs, it’s essential to stay on top of services like oil changes and fuel system cleaning. Maxi Auto Repair is your trusted partner for all your vehicle repair needs, from scheduled maintenance to complex diagnostic issues.
Maxi Auto Repair is located at 591 Oak St., Jacksonville, FL 32204, with additional Beach Blvd. and Hodges locations. When you’re searching for “auto repair in Riverside,” “mechanic in Riverside,” or a “modern auto repair shop,” you can count on us. Give us a call at (904) 992-6868 or visit www.maxiautorepair.com to schedule your next tune-up. Experience top-quality service and expert care for your vehicle today!
