Posted under Car Engine

There’s nothing quite like loving the drive. It’s great to get behind the wheel and sail along smoothly in a vehicle you know you can count on. But what happens when you notice that your vehicle really isn’t running well? Is it time for a tune up?

WHAT IS A TUNE UP TODAY, ANYWAY? 

Years ago, getting a tune up meant having a long list of wear-and-tear items checked and often replaced. But with advancements in automotive technology, many of those vehicle parts (like the rotor or PCV valve) have been phased out. 

A more up-to-date car tune up checklist should include, but isn’t limited to, inspecting these items:

  • Ignition system
  • Spark plugs
  • Air filter
  • Belts/hoses
  • Fuel pump.
  • Fluid levels

After a comprehensive tune up, you should enjoy improved engine performance and gas mileage. Isn’t that what every driver wants?

We know the “what”. What about the “when”? We’ve answered “what is a tune up” and looked at what’s commonly included. Now you may be asking …

“HOW OFTEN SHOULD I GET A TUNE UP?” 

In the olden days, it was accepted practice for drivers to regularly schedule tune ups every 12,000 miles. Today, many manufacturers recommend tune ups — typically just a spark plug replacement — at 100,000 mile intervals. When you’re wondering if it’s time to get a tune up, you should always refer to your vehicle owner’s manual. If you can’t locate your manual, just give Jiffy Lube® a call. A technician will be able to locate your vehicle  information for you.

Have you seen the light? Your dashboard can let you know when it’s time for a tune up. 

  • Check Engine Light (CEL) are found on vehicles with model years up to 1995
  • Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is used on vehicles from 1996 on

 

When one of these lights comes on, don’t panic. It doesn’t necessarily mean that anything serious is wrong with your vehicle. On the other hand, don’t ignore the light, either. Catching a problem early can help keep a small fix from becoming a major, costly repair. So pay attention to the CEL or MIL and bring your vehicle to Jiffy Lube to have it checked out. With 2,000 locations across North America, there’s sure to be a service center near you.

Count on conversation. When you come to Jiffy Lube for a tune up, the technician will ask you about your driving style. Nothing complicated, and there are no wrong answers. It’s just that knowing how you drive (are you often stuck in stop-and-go traffic?) and where you drive (do you travel on hilly or mountainous roads or through construction that can kick up a lot of dirt and debris?) can help indicate potential trouble under the hood. 

The conversation will continue after the tune up. The technician will present the results to you, and your questions are welcome. Rest assured, no work will be done or parts replaced without your approval.

jiffy lube employee smiling
Get a Service Estimate in a Jiffy!Enter Info for Pricing

Feel free to bring your vehicle questions to Jiffy Lube. You asked, “What is a tune up?” and you found the answer here. At Jiffy Lube, preventive maintenance is a priority. Jiffy Lube technicians have been trained, use quality products, and will help keep your vehicle out of the shop and on the road where it belongs!

READ MORE ABOUT IT

Spark plugs belong on any car tune up checklist. Find out about the Jiffy Lube® spark plug replacement service here.

Be sure to come back to Tips in a Jiffy. Content is added regularly. 

Please note: Not all services are offered at all Jiffy Lube® locations. Please call ahead or visit jiffylube.com to ensure the service is available at a service center near you.