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Engine Tune-Ups & Repairs in St. George, UT

A tune-up is a type of preventative maintenance that helps a vehicle continue to run its best. However, there is a lot of confusion surrounding what a tune-up consists of because a lot can fit under the "preventative maintenance" umbrella, and as automotive technology has evolved, so has the meaning of the "tune-up." Nowadays, you might hear the word "tune-up" used to incorrectly describe any routine car maintenance. You can perform a lot of maintenance on a car, but a tune-up is a specific service related to the health of your engine.

Below, the experts at Stephen Wade Auto Center discuss what a tune-up consists of and a brief history of this essential part of automotive maintenance. We’re happy to offer complete automotive repairs at our service center in St. George, UT. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Are Tune-Ups Necessary?

Traditional tune-ups are an essential part of preventive maintenance on older vehicles. Vintage engine parts must be manually adjusted occasionally to ensure smooth and safe driving. Modern vehicles with computer-controlled engines don't require this type of tune-up. However, they need every service that's now commonly included with spark plug services in modern tune-up packages. Depending on your location and specific vehicle needs, these services may include oil changes, tire services, battery services, timing chain services, and fluid and filter services. Tune-up services can be a convenient way to follow your vehicle's regular maintenance schedule.

Auto technician observing vehicle engine

What Does a Tune-Up Involve?

The tasks involved in a tune-up depend on the age of the vehicle. A traditional tune-up involves several time-consuming inspections and adjustments to essential engine parts, such as the carburetor. This type of tune-up applies to vehicles made decades ago. Today, most engine parts are controlled and monitored electronically, leaving little room to manually adjust anything other than the spark plugs. As technology evolves, so does the meaning of an automotive "tune-up." At Stephen Wade Auto Center, a typical tune-up on a modern vehicle includes the following inspections and services:

  • Install new spark plugs
  • Check filters and fluids
  • Check the timing chain (newer vehicles) or timing belt (older vintage)
  • Check the battery
  • Perform a complete vehicle inspection

If your vehicle is a vintage model, we'll tune up your ignition points, carburetor, distributor, cap, rotor, fuel filter, spark plug wires, and timing belt.

How Long Does a Typical Tune-Up Take?

Engine tune-ups usually take two to four hours, depending on your vehicle. Tuning a modern, computerized vehicle would be faster while tuning an older vehicle (with many mechanical parts to adjust) would take longer.

What Are the Signs My Car Needs a Tune-Up?

Exhaust smoke, unusual smells, warning lights, problems with starting the vehicle, and reduced mileage are all signs that it's time for a tune-up.

Schedule Your Next Engine Tune-Up Today

The technicians at Stephen Wade Auto Center are up to date on the latest recalls, service bulletins, warranty issues, parts changes, and service processes—a claim other repair shops can't make. Our waiting rooms feature comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, drinks, snacks, and just about anything else you can imagine ensuring you're comfortable while you wait for your car. If your repairs are more extensive, or you don't feel like waiting around, we offer a shuttle service to take you home and pick you up after your vehicle repairs are complete. There is no more convenient place to have your vehicle serviced than Stephen Wade Auto Center in St. George, UT. We look forward to assisting you.

Schedule Your Service Appointment Today!

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