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The Tune Up

Posted by: Earl Brubacher Posted On: August 30th 2011 12:00:00 AM Tuesday

​ Tune Ups   One of the biggest myths in the auto repair industry is “The Tune Up”. The term actually harks back to the dark ages of mechanical ignition systems. A standard tune up in 1969 consisted of replacing breaker points, condenser, distributor cap, rotor, spark plugs and spark plug wires. In the twenty first century, computers and solid state ignition have replaced those bulky, unreliable mechanical systems. Better engineering and materials have greatly reduced the maintenance intervals required to keep a car running in top condition. I have concluded that the average driver is sadly misinformed about the standard maintenance required on a vehicle. Let’s explore the tune up myths together and separate fact from fiction.   Myth #1 A “check engine” light means it is time for a tune up. Fact: An MIL, or malfunction indicator lamp, means that an error code has been generated by the ECM, or engine control module. The ECM is the computer that monitors and controls the internal combustion process in an engine. A MIL code must be read by a diagnostic computer that communicates with the ECM. Error codes generally indicate the system where a failure has occurred. However, just downloading the error code may not pin point the entire problem. Take, for example, a misfire code. A misfire may be caused by three or four different conditions. A diagnostic technician must troubleshoot various systems to discover the actual cause of a misfire.   At Uptown Auto Service in Alliance OH, we take the mysteries out of car repair and maintenance. We utilize the latest computer diagnostic equipment. Our technicians are trained and certified in most brands of automobiles, mini-vans and light trucks. We take the time to explain the problem in a manner that is easy to understand. We give you a complete description of parts and labor costs with no hidden fees. And, last but not least, we “guarantee the best price in town”.   Myth #2 Tune ups must be done every 30,000 miles. Fact: Today’s computerized ignition systems should last the life of the vehicle. Advances in design and materials, such as platinum and iridium, provide most spark plugs with a life span of 100,000 miles. The fuel delivery system actually needs more maintenance than the ignition system. Fuel injectors are exposed to the high stress environment of the combustion chamber. This causes deposits to form on the injector nozzle. A cleaner should be run through the fuel delivery system periodically to remove these deposits.   Myth #3 Anyone can perform a tune up. Fact: Since the advent of computerized engine controls in the late 1970s and early 1980s, cars have become increasingly complex. Regular maintenance such as fluid changes, tires, and other wearable parts replacement is very important for the longevity of the vehicle. However, the ignition and fuel delivery system needs very little maintenance for the first 100,000 miles. If the MIL is illuminated, it indicates a problem that must be diagnosed by a qualified technician.          

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