When it comes to preventing breakdowns and unexpected repair bills, every dollar you put into regular auto maintenance is money well spent. Regular tune-ups, in particular, keep your engine in like-new condition, reducing wear and tear on your motor that causes reduced performance and premature failures. During a tune-up, your mechanic will check a variety of components that often go overlooked, ensuring that your vehicle is running at peak efficiency.

5 Things Included in a Tune-Up

1. Performance Checks

Most elements of modern vehicles are controlled by the car's central computer, and can't be manually adjusted. During a tune-up, your mechanic should check to make sure the idle speed, ignition vacuum, and fuel mixtures are within factory specs, along with the engine vacuum and compression.

2. New Spark Plugs

Every time the spark plugs fire wears down the electrodes, which require increasingly higher voltages to function. Spark plugs should be replaced every 45,000 miles to prevent misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting.

3. O₂ Sensor Replacement

The O₂ sensor monitors the amount of oxygen in the fuel exhaust, allowing the computer to fine-tune the fuel mixture for maximum efficiency. Slow or burned-out oxygen sensors can cause a variety of problems, including failed emissions testing, stalling, and rough idling.

4. Cleaning Fuel Injectors & Intake System

Over time, deposits build up in the injectors, which throws off the fuel mixture and cause potentially serious engine responsiveness issues. If your engine has been sluggish or misfiring, your tune-up should include cleaning the fuel injectors, as well as the backs of the air intake valves.

5. Replacing Fluids

During a tune-up, your mechanic will check the levels of your oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. If you’re running low, they may just top off the reservoir, or change any fluids that are old and dirty.

At the Car Care Clinic at Gateway Transmissions in Oak Harbor, WA, drivers can expect expert auto repair technicians who pride themselves on providing excellent, guaranteed services at affordable prices. To make an appointment for your tune-up, visit their website or call (360) 679-0700 today, and follow their Facebook for regular updates and automotive news.