How to Give a Car a Tuneup

Tuneups

A tuneup is an adjustment to a car's components to increase performance. Tuneups are an important part of vehicle maintenance. A tuneup can extend the life of a vehicle, improve engine performance and increase gas mileage. Most manufacturers recommend tuning up your car every 35,000-65,000 miles for optimal performance. While performing a car tuneup may sound complicated, anyone with the right tools can complete the job.

Things You'll Need

• Socket
• Ratchet
• Spark plug gap tool
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Change the spark plugs by pulling the rubber spark plug wire from the end of the spark plug. Remove the spark plug with a socket and ratchet. Turn the plugs counterclockwise to remove them. Check the gap on the new spark plugs by using a gap tool. Install the new plugs by turning them clockwise to tighten.

2. Replace the distributor cap, which is at the opposite end of the spark plug wires. Remove the small screws holding the cap in place. Remove the distributor cap by lifting it from the vehicle with the spark plug wires attached. Install the new distributor cap by tightening the screws in a clockwise direction. Install the spark plug wires onto the new cap.

3. Install new spark plug wires by pulling the old wires from the end of the distributor cap. Remove and replace one wire at a time to avoid mixing the wires in the wrong sequence. Press the new wires onto the ignition coil contact and the spark plug contact. Snap the wires in place to secure them.

4. Locate the air filter cover on the vehicle. Remove the screws on the air filter cover or detach the small plastic fasteners by lifting the lock mechanism. Remove the cover when the screws and fasteners have been detached by lifting it from the vehicle. Remove the air filter by lifting it. Install the new filter in the same direction as the old, and attach the air filter cover to keep it in place.

5. Replace the fuel filter, which is under the car. Remove the fuel filter's screws by turning them counterclockwise. Pull the line from the filter when all bolts are loose, and remove the filter. Insert the line into the ends of the new filter. Tighten the screws in a clockwise direction to complete the installation.

6. Inspect the vehicle's belt system. Look for wear marks, and replace any damaged or worn belts. Loosen the belt tension bar to remove the belt, and install the new belt in the same pattern as the old. Tighten the belt tension bar to complete the belt installation.

7. Inspect the rubber hoses. Look for cracks or tear marks. Replace any damaged hoses by unscrewing the retainer clip at the ends. Install the new hoses by inserting the small clip on the ends, and then maneuver the hose ends onto the car parts. Tighten the clamp screws by turning them clockwise.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear gloves to prevent dirt and grease from staining your hands.

• Only replace the fuel filter in a well-ventilated area.

References

• 2CarPros: How to Tune up a Car