Posted on 8/28/2026
The term tune-up has changed quite a bit over the years. Older cars needed regular adjustments to ignition timing, carburetors, points, and other mechanical components. Modern vehicles rely on electronic fuel injection, computer-controlled ignition, and onboard sensors, so there usually isn't a single service called a tune-up anymore. Today, a tune-up is better thought of as a group of maintenance and repair items that help the engine start, idle, accelerate, and use fuel properly. The exact work depends on mileage, vehicle age, service history, and the symptoms you are experiencing. Your Engine Is Running Rough A healthy engine should idle at a fairly steady speed. If the vehicle shakes noticeably at a stop, the engine speed rises and falls, or the car feels uneven during acceleration, something needs attention. Worn spark plugs are one possible cause, but they are not the only one. Ignition coils, vacuum leaks, dirty fuel injectors, fuel pressure problems, ai ... read more