WHAT IS A TUNE-UP?
The term “tune-up” has drastically changed since the phrase was coined during the dawn of automobiles. For over 50 years, a tune-up meant that the vehicle’s ignition system – breaker points and condenser, were replaced and/or adjusted, a new distributor cap, rotor, and spark plugs were installed, ignition timing was set, and the vehicles carburetor was adjusted and “tuned” (hence the term) for optimal performance. The process was as intricate as tuning a musical instrument – ignition and fueling had to work in perfect tune with each other for optimal performance, thus the term.

With vehicles of old, this was a regular occurrence. As electronic ignition replaced points-style systems, the need was still there for plugs, cap, rotor, and carb adjustments, but ultimately, even that became extinct once DIS (distributorless) ignition systems and computer-based fuel injection became the norm. Today, the vehicle’s engine computer and engine components constantly keep these systems running right where they should.

Today, at its simplest, a tune-up is a bit of a misnomer – simply a carry-over word of old to describe any time a host of basic routine maintenance is performed on your vehicle. Regular tune-ups can extend the life of a vehicle and help ensure it is operating at its full performance potential. Typically, when to do a tune-up is included in the regular maintenance section of owner’s manuals.

Tuning-up your car today can mean a lot of things. It’s a good idea to check the car’s filters, belts, hoses, and fluids. Also, it’s a good idea if you don’t know the last time you replaced your spark plugs and/or wires/coil boots, now could be a good time. Many may not need to be replaced, but it will give you a chance to stop small issues that could develop into big problems if left unchecked. If you want to learn how to do some of the repairs listed below, consult one of our How-To articles. If you need more detailed vehicle-specific information, check out our Repair Help guides and diagrams.

Check out the list below to find the parts and systems that you should check in a tune-up. You don’t need to do all of these things every time, but it’s always a good idea to make sure these are working correctly.