According to some automotive blogs, not to mention mechanics and many do-it-yourselfers, older cars, trucks, and SUVs with non-electric ignitions should receive a tune-up every 10,000 to 12,000 miles or annually. Meanwhile, newer cars, trucks, and SUVs with a fuel injection system and an electronic ignition can go 25,000 to 100,000 miles before needing one. Either way, not getting a tune-up when you're supposed to do so is a pretty good way to find yourself stranded on the side of the road.
Signs That Suggest Your Vehicle Might Be In Need of a Tune-up
Whether you drive an old or new vehicle, it will let you know when it's due for a tune-up. Some of the signs to look out for include:
- Poor fuel efficiency - Before breaking down and leaving you stranded on the roadside, most vehicles lose power and consume more fuel when they require a tune-up.
- Unusual noises - Most new and older vehicles will serenade their owner with new and peculiar sounds when they're due for a tune-up. Most of them will come from the engine bay and usually comprise coughing, knocking, and pinging sounds.
- Weak braking - When a vehicle needs a tune-up, it has less power to maintain rotors, calipers, the master cylinder, and other parts that enable it to come to a safe and complete stop.
- Warning lights - When the check engine light comes on, especially if it's in addition to unusual sounds, poor braking, and other issues discussed in this article, it could indicate you're due for a tune-up.
- Vehicle refusing to start - When spark plugs stop working, which can happen if someone never bothers to get a tune-up, most vehicles will not start, no matter how many times the owner cranks the ignition.
In summary, vehicles provide drivers with many warning signs to signal when it's time for a tune-up. Taking heed when it comes to those warning signs is a surefire way to avoid finding yourself stranded on the road, not to mention costly repairs. Bearing that in mind, if you have noticed any of the signs discussed in this article, consider having your vehicle serviced by one of our automotive technicians at Rocky Mountain Car Care today.