The 21st Century Tuneup
Times are changing...cars are changing. One of the biggest changes in today's automotive industry is the perception of a "tune-up." Ask 10 vehicle owners their definition of a tune-up and chances are there'll be 10 different answers. The classic "tune-up" was once the heart of the automotive business and contrary to some beliefs, today's modern vehicles still need tune-ups to keep them performing at the most efficient levels.
The tune-up was historically associated with the routine replacement of key ignition system parts like spark plugs and ignition points, along with some basic adjustments to help "tune" the engine. As the pace of technology quickened, the procedures required to perform a traditional tune-up changed dramatically. Highly sophisticated ignition and fuel systems are now the norm, using one or more onboard computers to control critical engine and transmission management functions. Things that were once handled mechanically are now controlled electronically through the widespread use of onboard computer technology.
"There is a misconception that today's modern vehicles don't need tune-ups because they never break down, but that simply is not true," said Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council. "If you're at work and your computer goes down, you can't get any more work done. It's the same with your vehicle. If the vehicle isn't being properly maintained, you're not going to get where you want to go."
As part of the 21st Century Tune-up on today's modern vehicles, the following systems should be inspected:
- battery, charging and starting
- engine mechanical
- powertrain control (including onboard diagnostic checks)
- fuel
- ignition
- emissions
Tune-ups should be performed for improved performance, maintaining reliability, planning a vacation and preparing for winter/summer.
"The 'Be Car Care Aware' campaign is about helping motorists make informed decisions about their vehicles' care and maintenance," said White. "With the 21St Century Tune-up, we will continue to help vehicle owners make great strides in reducing vehicle neglect."