Your vehicle is your trusted sidekick that gets you where you need to go around Indianapolis each day, so it makes sense that you want to keep it in top condition. The mechanics at Joe’s Service Department offer car tune-ups for all types of vehicles so they can keep running like a well-oiled machine. But what’s included in a tune-up? Here’s a quick reference guide with car tune-up basics.
What Does a Car Tune-Up Include?
A car tune-up is a preventive and corrective maintenance routine designed to help your car perform efficiently and extend its life. While your vehicle’s needs may vary based on make, model, and mileage, a standard tune-up typically involves the following six services:
1. Spark Plug TLC
Spark plugs are vital for your engine’s ignition. Over time, they can wear out or get fouled. Inspecting and replacing them at the right intervals ensures a smooth start and optimal fuel economy.
2. An Air Filter Change
Just like lungs need clean air, so does your car’s engine. A new air filter can prevent harmful debris from entering the engine and improve performance.
3. Brakes Check-Up
For safety’s sake, a comprehensive inspection of brake pads, rotors, and other components is a non-negotiable step in a regular tune-up.
4. Tire Care
Regular rotation of tires balances wear and extends their life while safeguarding your alignment.
5. Changing Oil
Fresh oil and a new filter keep the heart of your car—the engine—lubricated and cool.
6. Fluid Dynamics
From coolant to brake fluid, power steering fluid to transmission fluid, they all need to be checked and replenished to prevent mechanical issues down the road.
A Tune-Up Timeline
We always suggest referring to your vehicle manual for specific upkeep and tune-up recommendations. With that in mind, here’s a general maintenance schedule based on mileage milestones:
Every 3,000 Miles
At this point, the mechanic will stick to a basic oil and filter change. It’s good to check and top off fluids, rotate tires, and perform a wheel alignment if needed.
Every 15,000 to 30,000 Miles
Whoever is servicing your car will give your air filter a fresh start. Fluids should be checked and changed, as well as your brakes. We’ll take a look to see if the battery is faring well. We also check the HVAC system to see if there are any issues that need to be addressed.
Every 35,000 to 50,000 Miles
This is a good time to check to see if the battery needs to be changed. We’ll also take a look at your ignition system and inspect your spark plugs to see if they’re ready to be replaced.
Every 60,000 miles
Once your mileage starts creeping up there, it’s good for the pros to replace all of your fluids. We’ll check the timing belt and inspect the differential and transfer case since they’re pivotal in your vehicle’s power distribution.
Pro Tip: To simplify the process, we created a handy checklist as a reference for what you should do regularly to help maintain your car.
As your trusted Indianapolis auto shop, at Joe’s Service Department, we don’t just provide a service—we offer the possibility of a long life for your vehicle. Along with car tune-ups, we do car repair, brake repair, and more. So, are you ready for a smooth ride? Contact the car mechanics at Joe’s Service Department at (317) 405-8456 for a tune-up today. Your car will thank you.
