What is a Tune-Up?

What is a tune-up, and when should you schedule one? Today, “tune-up” is essentially shorthand for comprehensive basic maintenance: a range of checks and part replacements that can offer assurance and peace of mind. In what follows, we’ll cover everything you need to know about car tune-up costs and expectations before you schedule service.

What’s Included with an Automotive Tune-Up?

Gone are the days when the meaning of an automotive “tune-up” was restricted to the engine and its components. Modern tune-ups don’t just look at the engine or focus exclusively on power output; they look at a variety of systems and components in order to ensure that a vehicle is ready for anything the Painesville and Willoughby roads can throw your way.

Here’s what you can expect from every Honda tune-up:

• Battery voltage check to ensure that all electronic systems are functioning
• Dynamic compression assessment to detect mechanical problems related to poor performance
• Engine vacuum test to detect air leaks and broken seals
• Exhaust emissions check to find issues that were not uncovered in baseline assessments
• Inspection/replacement of spark plugs, caps, filters, and other components as needed
• Inspection/replacement of belts, hoses, fluids, and connections
• Scanning for fault codes with advanced diagnostic tools

Car Tune-Up Costs: What to Expect

So, how much does a car tune-up cost? Expect to pay between $50 and $150 at our authorized Honda service center, depending on the services or replacements that your vehicle actually requires—and don’t forget to check out our rotating service specials and coupons before you make your appointment.

When Should You Schedule a Honda Tune-Up?

Scheduling regular tune-ups in addition to basic maintenance can help to extend the life of your vehicle, and drivers who want to maximize the value of their investment can benefit from annual tune-up appointments.

With that said, as long as you’re already taking care of everything in your vehicle’s maintenance schedule, you only need to schedule a Honda tune-up before big trips or when something seems amiss.

If you’ve noticed any of the following, you could benefit from a comprehensive Honda tune-up:

• Check engine light that remains on
• Decreased gas mileage or slower acceleration
• Trouble starting the vehicle, or using electronic devices
• Strange noises from under the hood

As we noted earlier, it’s a good idea to schedule a tune-up before any long-distance road trips. We also recommend seasonal tune-ups, especially before winter, so you can make sure that your car is ready for the cold!

Schedule Your Tune-Ups at Honda of Mentor!

No one knows your Honda vehicle better than the trained and certified technicians at Honda of Mentor—and we’re easy to reach from anywhere near Painesville or Eastlake! If you’d like to learn more about caring for your vehicle, take a moment to browse through our top service tips and tricks before you stop in.