5 Elements of a Basic Car Tune-Up

Giving your car basic care tune-ups can give it a much longer life. Of course, if you don't know what a basic car care tune-up is, then the first thing you need to do is learn more about it and how often it needs to be done. Putting in an affordable amount of maintenance on a regular basis can save you hefty amounts of pricey repairs in the future.

What is a Car Care Tune-Up?

Taking care of your car is a combination of things you and a professional can do. There are a five elements involved that you should definitely be looking at and doing regularly. Your list should include:

• #1: Follow your car's maintenance schedule – This is essential. You car has recommendations for a reason.  Edmunds.com has a handy maintenance guide. Simply put in your car's year, make, model, etc, and it will let you know all the information you'll need—including if there are any recalls. Once you have the manufacturer's recommendations, you can add them to your calendar. There are even apps that can help keep you on top of your car's needs.
• #2: Check fluids and tires regularly – Once a month, schedule a time to do a 15-minute check of your car. It may take you less, or a little more time when you are first learning, but it can save you some headaches in the future. Your circuit should include checking the tire pressure (use a tire pressure gauge), oil level, engine fluid, power steering fluid, radiator overflow reservoir and transmission fluid (this one is checked after the car is warmed up).
• #3: Invest in other regular tune-ups – Other things to look out for or have done are fuel injector flushes, battery replacement, timing and drive belt replacements and air filter replacement.
• #4: Know the signs that it's time for a tune-up – If you haven't stuck to your car care schedule, or your car is a little older, you can keep an eye out for signs it may need a tune-up. Things to watch/evaluate include:

                        -Your gas mileage is poor

                        -Your car is losing power

                        -Your car is misfiring

                        -Engine isn't starting easily

                        -Your car is running rough

                        -Your car is making odd noises that you don't recognize

• #5: Take some preventative measures – The way you drive has an impact on your vehicle. Drive smoothly, without a lot of heavy acceleration or braking, and try to avoid jerky maneuvers.  Give some time for your engine to warm up before you drive off. Usually, 30 seconds works, but your car may need longer to warm up in cold weather or if it's been sitting for 24 hours or more. The more proactive you are, the better your car will do, especially as your mileage gets higher.

Professional Tune-ups and DIY

If you're confident in your skills, go ahead and do some of your own tune-ups. If you feel you need help, or something is beyond your capabilities, a trusted auto mechanic is an excellent solution. Houston has some great choices.

Joseph Auto Service – Joseph takes his business seriously, and he makes sure the time you spend waiting for your car's tune-up is not wasted. Trust that your car is in good hands. The shop is conveniently located at 9903 Honeywell Street, Houston.

Auto Central – This fast and friendly service shop does it all. They will do a complete electric diagnosis, and check to make sure they cover all the things that will keep your car running strong. They are located at 2526 5th Street, Stafford.

Houston Auto Repair – Houston Auto Repair prides itself on affordable pricing for all your care care and tune-up needs. They believe in diagnosing issues and fixing them so your car can last a long time. Find them at 9420 West Bellfort Street, Houston.

Ed's Car Care – Ed's services are ASE certified, and they are a trusted service and repair shop in Houston. They have been in business for over 15 years, and are ready to take good care of your vehicle. Visit Ed's at 9535 Richmond Avenue, Houston.

Cars are a lot like people, they need upkeep to stay efficient. Cars are often used frequently, and require some regular check-ups. Think of your tune-up appointments as physical exams. The better you are about getting them, the more likely you'll avoid large repairs—and the longer your car will be around.