Are you firing on all cylinders??

Maybe you are, but your car may not be! Is it time for a “tune-up”?

Are you noticing any of the following?

Decreased gas mileage
Noticeable loss of power
Engine running rough, hesitating or stalling
Engine noise upon acceleration
Hard starting at any time
Any engine noise that goes up or down with engine speed
Indicator warning lights (Check Engine Light on)
Drips or puddles of fluid under your car
Adding oil between oil changes (leakage or usage)

Or maybe you just want your car to run better. We can help!

The performance of your car can always be improved with regular maintenance and attention. If you notice any of the above symptoms, it may be time to have an oil change service and, while you’re at it, have an inspection of your vehicle’s engine systems.

What does a “tune-up” consist of? “Tune Ups” used to include changing spark plugs, adjusting the carburetor, and setting the timing on the distributor. Since most modern vehicles do not have a carburetor or distributor any longer, these tasks are no longer required.

However, spark plugs still require periodic replacement and your engine’s valves need to be reset to factory specifications for your car’s engine to run smoothly and efficiently.  

Check your Owner’s Manual for recommended intervals for spark plug replacement on your particular vehicle. There is a wide range in recommendations. Copper or nickel core spark plugs should be changed every 30,000 miles, platinum plugs should be changed every 60-100,000 miles, and iridium plugs can last 100-120,000 miles.

With time and mileage, the spark plug gap (where the spark occurs) erodes until the gap widens beyond its capability to fire your engine’s air/gas mixture efficiently.

Today’s vehicles have on-board computers can create some of the above symptoms as well, when they malfunction. The computers control several of the electrical systems in your car. Although the computers cannot be “tuned up”, these Electronic Control Units (ECU’s) may require replacement if they are not working properly.

The problem could also be as simple as your car needing a new engine air filter. The engine needs air gas combustion, and if the filter is clogged, your car may be losing power and fuel economy.

We want to save you money and make sure your car is working at its highest level, so we always look for the simplest solutions FIRST. The best insurance against being stranded on the side of the road is to be proactive, and listen to your car’s warning signs…it has a lot to tell you if you just listen carefully (just like listening to your wife or husband!).