The average yearly cost of new car maintenance and repairs is about $0.09 per mile. This can be even higher for a used car or if you let issues slide and develop into larger ones before visiting a mechanic.
If you want your vehicle to serve you well for a long time to come, you should make sure to visit a maintenance shop and get a tune-up when necessary. It’s important to keep your eyes open and take note of any issues that come up.
Fortunately, we’re here to guide you. Here are 7 signs that you need to get a car tune up.
1. Engine Noises
One of the signs that your car needs a tune-up is if it has been making strange noises recently. Many sounds that you might hear coming from your vehicle are signs that you need to get it checked out.
Squealing, clunking sounds, and other odd noises may indicate that some parts of your vehicle are loose or damaged.
2. Starting Problems
If you’re having a hard time starting your car’s engine, it might also be a sign that you need a tune-up.
There are many reasons why you might have difficulty starting up your car. Taking your car to a professional for a tune-up can help you identify the issue.
3. Stalling Issues
If your car has been stalling recently, it’s a clear sign that you need to get a car tune-up.
Stalling can potentially be very dangerous and could lead to accidents. Be sure that you see a mechanic who can get to the root of the issue and get it fixed ASAP.
4. Poor Steering
If your car fails to drive straight when you let go of the steering wheel, you could need a vehicle tune up. This might mean that your wheels are misaligned.
Misaligned wheels can lead to bad fuel efficiency and can make handling your car more difficult. Be sure to get your car checked out if your steering isn’t working as it should be.
5. Unresponsive Brakes
Another issue that you’ll want to take notice of is a change in the effectiveness of your brakes. If they seem to have become less functional and responsive then it could be a sign that you need to get a tune-up.
Brakes that don’t work correctly can be very dangerous, so you should make sure that you get them fixed quickly.
6. Poor Fuel Efficiency
If you’ve started to notice that a gallon of gas isn’t taking you as far as it used to, it could mean that there’s an issue with your vehicle.
A drop in fuel efficiency can be due to a number of different issues. This includes the function of your engine, the emissions system, and wheel alignment.
7. Check Engine Light
One of the clearest signs that you need a car tune up is if your “check engine” light is on.
Even if you don’t notice an issue, chances are that something is wrong with your vehicle and you need to see a mechanic. Be sure to stop by an auto repair shop to get to the bottom of the issue.
Deciding Whether You Need a Car Tune Up
If you’re not sure whether you need to get a car tune up, be sure to look for the signs listed in this article. Strange engine noises, difficulty starting your engine, and poor fuel efficiency are all signs that you need to see a mechanic.
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