The Golden Rule

Treat Your Car the Way You Want It to Treat You

If you want your car to run reliably for a long time, perhaps your best strategy is to take good care of it–sort of like the Golden Rule principle we all learned as children. One of the best ways to do this is by getting a tune-up at the proper time because this addresses a lot of the routine service and maintenance points your vehicle needs to perform well. When your car is ready for its next tune-up, visit the ASE certified technicians at Jeff’s Auto Care in Seattle, Washington. They’ll leave your car–and you–feeling golden.

A Typical Tune-Up

Although some people interchange the terms “oil change” and “tune-up,” one is a bit more extensive than the other. An oil change is what it implies. A tune-up, however, involves servicing the ignition system, filters, belts and hoses, and fluids. Because metal spark plug tips change shape over time (wear down or stretch out the gap), technicians replace the spark plugs in a true tune-up. They also examine the ignition wires, distributor cap, coils, etc. This prevents misfires and poor starting (or not starting). Also, the vehicle will run better in general if any worn wires are replaced with new ones. Filters catch dirt, debris, and other foreign particles from entering your vehicle’s systems. Through use, they can become clogged and ineffective. Therefore, these should be periodically replaced. In addition, a mechanic will check belts and hoses, replacing them if necessary if they are worn or have weakened. Belts can fray or crack over time and dilapidated hoses can more easily develop leaks. Finally, all fluids should be topped off or changed (dependent upon the fluid). This applies to power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid. Keeping these various points attended as needed will help your car. It will then be more likely to provide you with reliable transportation for a long time.

Scheduling

While tune-ups should be performed on a regular basis, they do not need to be done often. Older cars–those predating electronic ignition–usually need tuning up every 10,000-12,000 miles or annually. Newer cars are designed to go much longer between tune-ups, often between 65,000 and 100,000 miles. Your owner’s manual will give you a recommendation. To schedule a tune-up or other maintenance, service, or repair, contact the staff at Jeff’s Auto Repair in Seattle, Washington.