I’m finding it hard to except that summer is almost over and it’s time to get back into a “normal” routine!  It is only a week away from Labor Day and that, for the majority of us,  signals the official end of summer.  This seems to be the time of the year that we try to collect ourselves, get our head back in the game and make a mental or physical list of the things that need to be accomplished before we can finally ” settle in” to our every day lives.  One of the first things I have put on my list is an engine tune-up!  Maybe that’s because I run an auto repair shop, but I’d  like to think that it’s because I realize the value of my engine and I want to keep it in peak condition.  The best way, I believe, to do that is by having regular oil changes and service checks and by having an engine tune-up performed on my vehicle at least once a year.

Although engine “tune-up” is considered by some an outdated term, we still know and understand what it means.   Our engines need to be inspected carefully and checked out to make sure they are running properly.  Most of today’s  cars  are equipped with an electronic ignition and at least one, on-board computer that automatically adjusts the fuel mixture, ignition timing and the idle speed.  All of these components need a thorough inspection to make sure they are working correctly.  This is the best way to maintain peak engine performance or to restore the engine to its original operating efficiency.

During a tune-up, your engine goes through a process of inspecting, diagnosing and testing.  As well as having parts adjusted or replaced depending on whatever is necessary.  A tune-up also includes removing and checking the spark plugs, cleaning or replacing them and installing them in the engine.  The car’s distributor cap and rotors are checked for wear and cracks.  If there are any cracks, moisture is allowed to seep in and can cause corrosion of the metal, which can cause the car to misfire.  It’s important that these parts are replaced at regular intervals or if they show excessive wear.  The idle speed will also be set to your vehicle’s specifications.  Each of these procedures are included in an engine tune-up, but now would be the perfect time to have the other systems in your car checked out as well, such as brakes, clutch, fuel lines, belts and hoses.  That would make your ” To-do” list a little bit shorter!

Come in and see us or give us a call at 303-691-2760 and let us help you take care of your car.