Auto Tune-Up Checklist

Keeping you car tuned is important to make it last longer and save you money.  Every 30,000 miles you should get a basic tune-up on your vehicle.  This will help costs down in the long run because it will prevent large repairs in the future.

• Replace the spark plugs.  As part of your tune-up every 30,000 miles, the spark plugs should be replaced.  Check the wires while you change the spark plugs to see if they need to be replaced also.  The plugs should be light brown or a tan color.  If they are not, there could be problems with your engine.  Have this checked as soon as possible.


• Replace the distributor cap and rotor.  They are plastic and can crack or are worn over time.  When you replace the spark plugs, replace these items also.  A problem you can have if the distributor cap is bad is that your car may misfire.


• Replace the oil, air and fuel filter.  The oil and oil filter on your car should be changed every 3,000 to 6,000 miles, do not wait 30,000 miles.  Check the air and fuel filters when you change the oil filter.  These filters protect your engine from dirt getting into it.  A clogged fuel filter can cause you to get bad gas mileage so be sure you check it every 3,000 to 6,000 miles when you take care of the oil.


• Check the oxygen sensor.  This regulates fuel and keeps gases that are harmful from entering the air.  A bad oxygen can allow build up inside your car’s converter and thus not allow the converter to last as long as it should.