Top 5 Signs Your Car Needs a Tune-Up ASAP

5 Signs Your Car Needs a Tune-Up

Strange Noises From the Engine

Engines shouldn’t make unusual sounds. If you start hearing rattling, knocking, or pinging when your car is running, it’s a sure sign that something is off. These noises can happen for different reasons. Knocking, for example, can be caused by worn-out spark plugs, which ignite the fuel in your engine. If the plugs don’t fire correctly, it affects how your engine works and can cause misfires. As you may imagine, this sets off a catastrophic chain of events.

During a tune-up, mechanics check and replace your spark plugs if needed. This small fix can go a long way in preventing engine damage. If you hear your engine complaining through odd sounds, don’t ignore it—get your car checked out right away.

Poor Fuel Efficiency

Does it feel like you’re making more trips to the gas station lately? If your car is burning through fuel faster than usual, it could be a sign that it needs fixing. Fuel efficiency is affected by many parts of your vehicle. Dirty air filters, old spark plugs, or clogged fuel injectors can all make your engine work harder, causing it to use more gas than it should.

Visiting a mechanic can help identify what’s causing your car to guzzle more gas. By replacing worn-out parts and adjusting the engine’s settings, your car will run smoother and use fuel more efficiently. In short, you will save your car, money, and the environment – three birds with 1 stone!

Your Car Shakes or Vibrates While Driving

If you notice your car shaking or vibrating while driving, especially when you’re idling or at low speeds, it’s a sign that something isn’t right. Shaking can be caused by bad spark plugs, worn-out tires, or problems with the suspension.

Vibrations could also point to issues with the engine mounts or the driveshaft. These are crucial parts that help your engine and wheels work together to move the car. If they’re worn out, it can affect how your car handles and feels on the road.

Stalling or Trouble Starting

Is your car stalling when you stop, or struggling to start when you turn the key? That is your car’s way of screaming for help. Stalling is often caused by a problem with the engine’s fuel delivery system. This could mean that the fuel injectors are clogged, the spark plugs are misfiring, or the air filters are dirty. When your car stalls, it’s not getting the right mixture of air and fuel to keep it running smoothly.

Trouble starting your car might be related to the battery, but it could also be due to a failing alternator or worn-out ignition parts. During a visit, the mechanic will inspect all these parts to make sure they’re working properly and replace any that are worn out or damaged. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent you from getting stranded.

Dashboard Warning Lights

The good news is, modern cars come equipped with sensors that alert you when something is wrong. If you see a warning light on your dashboard, don’t ignore it. The most common light you’ll see is the “Check Engine” light. This can be triggered by many issues, ranging from something minor, like a loose gas cap, to more serious engine problems.

Other warning lights might signal problems with your brakes, tire pressure, or oil levels. When you bring your car in for some attention, the mechanic can use a diagnostic tool to read these warning signals and find the exact problem. It’s important to get any warning light checked out immediately, as waiting too long could lead to more costly repairs down the line.

Why Regular Tune-Ups Are Important

A full inspection ensures your car is running efficiently and safely. Over time, regular visits to a service station can save you a lot of money by catching small problems before they become big ones. They can also extend the life of your car and help you avoid breakdowns or expensive repairs.

During a typical tune-up, a mechanic will:

• Replace spark plugs
• Inspect and clean air filters
• Check and replace fuel filters if necessary
• Inspect belts and hoses for wear
• Check fluid levels and top them up if needed
• Test the battery and charging system
• Examine the brakes and tires

When Should You Take Your Car to a Mechanic?

Most manufacturers recommend you service your car every 30,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. However, you should also pay attention to how your car feels. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, it’s time to book an appointment at Tower Service Station.

If your car is an older model, it may need more frequent tune-ups, as older engines tend to wear out faster. Keeping up with regular maintenance is essential to avoid major problems down the road.

Weird Car Noises – Contact Tower Service Station

Worried about your car? Contact us at Tower Service Station in Hamilton to perform a thorough inspection to get your car back in top shape. Don’t wait until small issues become big problems—schedule your tune-up today and drive with confidence.