Manufacturers recommend giving older cars a tuneup every 10,000 to 12,000 miles, and newer cars with many electrical components should have one about every 25,000 miles. This keeps them running efficiently and allows you to sort out small problems before they become major engine repair issues. The problem is, manufacturers are vague on what a tuneup should include, and the exact list of services varies from one auto repair shop to another. Here are a few of the services you’re most likely to encounter as part of a tuneup and what they do for your car.

What Auto Repair Providers Usually Include in a Tuneup

1. Ignition Systems

A thorough check of the ignition system and replacement of any worn-out parts is item one on most tuneup checklists. Your mechanic will check over the spark plugs, ignition wires, coils, and, if your car has them, the distributor cap and rotor.

Worn out ignition components can cause engine misfires that make your car perform less efficiently, as well as noticeably rough idling. Replacing them helps your engine run smoothly—indicating efficient performance.

2. Fluids

Your car relies on reservoirs of motor oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid to run smoothly. These fluids keep the different systems lubricated so that components don’t damage each other due to friction, and also help prevent overheating by drawing heat away from vital systems.

They tend to break down, burn up, or fill with debris over time, so your mechanic will check the color, viscosity, and purity of these engine fluids as well as the quantity, and top up or replace any that need it.

3. Filters

Your car has two main kinds of filters: air filters that keep debris and impurities out of the engine so it can burn cleanly, and fluid filters that reduce the amount of solid matter cycling through your oil and fuel systems. They do this by catching and holding the debris, so over time the filters become full and clogged, and air and liquid stop flowing easily.

This decreases performance. Also, as air or fluid diverts around the filters, it isn’t purified, so more debris gets into your engine system. This causes extra friction and incomplete fuel burning, hurting efficiency even more. Changing the filters brings your car’s performance back and prevents engine damage.

If your car is due for a tune-up, take it in to the auto repair shop at Cheatwood's Service Station in Heflin, AL. They provide Cleburne County with skilled repairs and convenient towing, as well as being one of the area’s most trusted gas stations. They have over 28 years of experience and offer free diagnostics. Call (256) 463-7968 or visit the website for any questions.