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This passage was adapted from How to Tune-up a Car by
Donna Theobald. <http://ca.essortment.com/howtotuneaca_revt.htm>
Retrieved February 10th, 2004.
How to Tune-up a Car
A tune-up is an auto-care procedure by which parts that wear
out through usage are maintained or replaced. All cars need regular tune-ups at about every
30,000 miles. Although there are various opinions about what should be done during a tune-up,
some of the things a regular tune-up should include are:
Replace the air filter. If you drive on dirt roads, you should consider changing the
air filter more often.
Replace the fuel filter or filters to protect your car’s fuel system. You can
also put in a fuel injector cleaner every so often as recommended by the manufacturer
or use a premium gasoline, especially if you drive on dusty roads.
Change old spark plugs. Your car will start poorly, get sluggish, and get poor gas mileage
with old spark plugs. You should also consider replacing the spark plug wires because
they often get old and need replacement.
Cars without electronic ignition need to have the points and condenser changed. Those
with electronic ignition should have the ignition timing checked.
Have the fluids under the hood checked during a tune-up and on a regular basis.
The battery should also be checked. The battery terminals and cable ends should be cleaned.
Corroded terminals can keep your car from starting.
The positive crankcase ventilation valve should be replaced because a clogged PCV valve
causes your car to stall or run poorly.
Keeping your car in top tune-up condition will ensure a longer
life, better gas mileage and better performance.
