How To Do Just About Everything
By eHow Cars Editor
Save money and tune up your car yourself, if you're handy enough, that is.
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Your car should receive a tune-up (often referred to as a "major service") every two years or 30,000 miles, whichever comes first. During this tune-up your car will receive some new parts that will hopefully keep it out of the shop for a while. Here's what needs to be done.
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Comments
gravity said
on 2/5/2008 i need a step by step on how to tune up a lexus IS 300, 2002 model any suggestions for a hands on approach this is my first time
stelee said
on 3/29/2007 I'm doing a tune up for my dads 97 astro chevy van, and i tell you, its a hassle. Ofcourse, i'm new in the whole automotive scene since i'm a teen and i'm doing this for auto class in school... but before you start doing a tune up on your own, seek some advice and see if your car will be a pain in the ass to do and instead of saving your self money by doing it on your own and spending a whole day to do it, consider perhaps saving your time instead and part with the money. however, this is a great learning experience for me, so i find that its worth it.
stelee said
on 3/29/2007 I'm doing a tune up for my dads 97 astro chevy van, and i tell you, its a hassle. Ofcourse, i'm new in the whole automotive scene since i'm 17 and i'm doing this for auto class in school... but before you start doing a tune up on your own, seek some advice and see if your car will be a pain in the ass to do and instead of saving your self by doing it on your own and spending a whole day to do it, consider perhaps saving your time instead and part with the money. however, this is a great learning experience for me.
Anonymous said
on 6/30/2006 Do your research before purchasing a K&N air filter. I have had three ASE & GM certified mechanics tell me that they can cause a lot of problems. The oil used to coat the filter can drip/coat the mass air flow sensor in some vehicles (like my 1996 Trans AM WS6), causing the computer to do all sorts of funky things trying to compensate for the incorrect readings coming from the soiled sensor. Now, because of this thing, I need a full tune-up and my catalytic converters have been cooked, needing replacement. Some vehicles may be safer than others, but do your homework and talk to someone knowledgeable.
Anonymous said
on 3/15/2006 When getting a tune up it is a smart thing to buy the parts you need ahead of time on your own, then pay someone to have them install the parts for you. That will save you money and you get what you want. Some tips for getting better mileage is to remove any excess weight from inside the car you can. Only leave the things you need in the car. A good investment would be a high quailty air filter (K&N, etc.) Correct tire pressure, quality spark plugs and wires, using the a/c only when you need it, using cruise control, accelerating more gradually, and using the brake less and allowing your car to slow down by rolling (be careful though). A fuel system cleaner every now and then is good as well. Another thing to consider is the kind of tires you buy, if you spend all your time on the highway, do you really need the all-terrains? Or could you use a good street tire or allseason radial. The difference could mean 1-4 miles per gallon. But hey if you want them because they look cool, that's fine, but don't be surprised to see a slight dip in mpg.