What is the difference in "Tune-ups"

Question

What is the difference between a "small" tune-up and a "major" tune-up. I need to get my car a check up, but i don't know what would be best.

Answer 1

If you have a car built in this decade chances are it doesn't have a distributor so you probably don't need a distributor cap or a rotor. If you have platinum plugs (which most cars now do) then the change interval for them is 100k miles. I usually change mine out around 80-90k miles. Have your plug wires inspected for damage when you replace your plugs. If there is no damage to them and you don't have any ignition issues they should be fine to keep using.

Inspect your belts and hoses every 10-15k miles and if there is any glazing or cracking in the belts replace them. If your hoses are soft and mushy then have them replaced with new clamps for them as well. If you have an external fuel filter (not in the gas tank) that should be replaced every 30k miles. If your filter is in the tank then it doesn't have to be replaced. Most coolant is 100k miles before it needs to be flushed and replaced. Air filters should be replaced every 30k miles or if they are dirty then sooner than that. I usually check my air filter every other oil change.

I would suggest that you take the easy way out and follow your recommended service schedule by your manufacturer. If your car was made after 2000 and has a distributor less ignition it needs very little maintenance. Just make sure to change your oil frequently and replace the few filters and fluids that you have on time! New vehicles are much more reliable than even the ones a decade ago!

Answer 2

Tune up is an obsolete term on a modern vehicle since there is no longer anything to adjust - its all computerizeed.  No tweaking carburator jetting, no setting points and timing, etc.  These days for most cars a "tune up" consists of simply replacing the spark plus every 100k miles.

Answer 3

Depends on what year what Engine and make. More Details please.

Answer 4

minor tune up is usually plugs,cap and rotor,major tune up involves a lot of testing.----plugs,cap,rotor,wires,check compression,fuel pressure,timeing,sensors,belts&hoses and all fuel levels,it is well worth it if you will be keeping the car.hope this helps.