Although possibly not the largest investment you can make, a vehicle is a significant one. With that being said, you want to do everything in your power to maintain your vehicle so it will continue to get you from Point A to Point B for years to come. Most experienced car owners know exactly when their vehicle needs a tune-up, which is necessary periodically and can prevent serious, costly problems from developing.
How do I know if my car needs a tune-up? Don’t worry. Below, we will share some of the most common signs that alert you that a vehicle tune-up is necessary sooner rather than later.
What Are the Signs That Your Car Needs a Tune Up?
Whether you have a brand-new vehicle or an older model, the signs of a tune-up being needed are the same.
Illuminated Dashboard Warning Lights
When the warning lights on your dashboard illuminate, it means something is going on with your vehicle that isn’t quite right. Depending on the warning light, it may not be serious at the moment and could only turn serious if the issue is ignored. Therefore, when a warning light illuminates on the dashboard, check the owner’s manual to identify the cause of the light. Then, more often than not, it will be time to schedule a tune-up.
Strange Noises
When you hear a loud or strange noise coming from your vehicle, you immediately panic. There are numerous reasons your vehicle may start to make a weird noise, but the most effective way to determine the cause of the unusual sounds is to visit an auto mechanic in your area. Not only will a professional be able to identify the problem, but this is likely to prevent a much larger problem later on.
Stalling
Stalls tend to happen with a manual transmission, especially if you’re a newbie stick driver. However, stalls may be a sign of a much larger issue if you are familiar with how to drive a stick or drive an automatic vehicle. Stalling can be scary, and some reasons for this to happen includes ignition issues, a faulty fuel pump, or a dead battery, all of which need to be addressed immediately by a professional.
Difficulty Starting the Engine
You have probably experienced the difficulty of starting your vehicle during the winter. However, if you are consistently experiencing engine troubles like this, a tune-up should be able to fix the problem. Often, the spark plugs are worn out or misfiring, keeping you from properly starting your engine. While spark plugs can be replaced, a full tune-up is always recommended to identify and fix the root cause of the problem.
Reduced Fuel Economy
If you have noticed that your fuel mileage isn’t as great as it has been, a tune-up may be necessary. There could be an underlying issue that is resulting in reduced fuel economy. Several potential issues can cause a decline in miles per gallon, including poor wheel alignment, engine problems, and an inefficient emissions system. The good news is the problem can be identified and addressed during a tune-up.
If you have noticed any of the above signs with your vehicle, it is time to schedule a vehicle tune-up with a local auto shop like Qwest Automotive Service in Las Vegas, NV.