What is a common problem mechanics find when doing a tune up?

Question

What is a common problem mechanics find when doing a tune up?

Answer 1

The most common problems occur from lack of owner's understanding of how engines function at their best. Using "regular" oil always clogs up the PCV system and deceases performance of the entire engine, and especially, the idle air control system. Engines run the best when they are clean on the outside (use a quarter car wash) and clean on the inside (use synthetic oil) To get optimum performance and MPG's use a platinum or iridium tipped spark plug.  Use a special intake manifold and metering box cleaner first, to dispose of all the carbon and dirty roadside buildup inherently sucked into the combustion chambers.  When you are certain everything else is clean as showroom, THEN install new plugs!!

Answer 2

I have to agree with Rudy....

Most common thing is a customers misconception on what todays "tuneup" consists of which really no longer exists.

Todays cars no longer have a cap, rotor or carburetor and most don't have spark plug wires or fuel filters...So whats left to do on a "tune-up"? Spark plugs, oil change and a air filter. Will that solve any kind of specific complaint you brought the vehicle in for? Not very likely.

Most complaints today involve a "check engine light" which means that some computer controlled device on the engine is malfunctioning and increasing the vehicles emissions. Most people THINK that when this light comes on they need a "tune-up" but in reality they need a shop to do advanced computer diagnostics to find the cause and determine what computerized part needs to be replaced.

This is not your grandpa's Oldsmobile any more :)

btw, how do hybrids/electric vehicles have "tune-ups" ?!

Answer 3

none really....it used to be distributer timming/dwell angle,but thats not really a problem either....most cars these days are all electronic  

Answer 4

Ignorant customers. Just kidding...sort of. I would say deferred or non existent maintenance of the vehicle prior to bringing it in for a "tune up".