Today we’re all looking for ways to save money and stick within a budget, so “how much is a tune up?” is a natural question. But before we talk about the cost of tune up, let’s look at what the service is, and why it’s so important.
“TUNE UP SERVICES” IS A CATCH-ALL TERM
Generally speaking, a tune up includes inspecting and then completing preventive maintenance on the engine performance-related components that are likely to require service. But that’s vague, isn’t it? When you call around to get estimates, remember these factors can influence the cost of tune up:
- Exactly what services are included
- Your vehicle make, and model, since older cars tend to have more components and subsystems
WHAT SHOULD A TUNE UP INCLUDE?
You can get a very basic tune up or a full one. (Or maybe something in between.) Let’s look at what is usually included in each.
Very basic. A mechanic will inspect the ignition system and, if necessary, replace the spark plugs.
- Older vehicles typically need the spark plugs replaced more often than today’s newer cars. If you’re driving an older car, consider having this service performed every 12,000 miles or once per year.
- More modern cars, with more modern spark plugs, may be able to go 100,000 miles between tune ups.
- Be sure to check your vehicle owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. If you can’t find your manual, just call Jiffy Lube®. A trained technician will be happy to access this information for you.
A very basic tune up typically costs between $40 and $150. Although, how much is a tune up can vary, based on the cost of parts and labor where you live.
Full tune up. This service usually includes the same attention to the ignition system and spark plugs, plus the inspection/replacement of:
- Air filter
- Distributor cap
- Distributor rotor
- PCV valve
- Fuel filter
A full tune up can run you between $200 and $800. As noted above, the cost of tune up varies depending on the cost of parts and labor where you live.
DIY for the mechanically inclined. Some drivers like to roll up their sleeves and perform basic tune ups themselves. They find they can maintain their own spark plugs and replace their own air filters for a fraction of the cost.
Modern cars have an onboard diagnostic system that can be checked for misfire codes. These codes can alert drivers that spark plugs are worn out or fouled. To handle this yourself, a scan tool is required.
Of course, if you’re too busy or just not comfortable doing it yourself, you can always turn to Jiffy Lube for a tune up.
YES, A TUNE UP IS WORTH IT. HERE’S WHY.
A professional tune up is a smart investment. Spending money on preventive maintenance today may help you avoid costly repairs tomorrow. Tune ups offer the benefit of better fuel economy, too. Who doesn’t want to travel further on a tank of gas?
To illustrate why the cost of tune up is money well spent, let’s look at air filters. This inexpensive component is generally included in a full tune up, and attention to it can help optimize the performance and longevity of your engine.
Usually made of pleated paper, the air filter captures airborne contaminants like dirt and dust before they can enter the engine and possibly cause damage. A clogged air filter limits the amount of clean air that reaches the engine. The result? A reduction in acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Manufacturers recommend air filters be inspected and replaced regularly, and the tune up is the ideal time for this to happen. The trained Jiffy Lube technicians who perform the tune up will examine the filter and replace it as necessary, using a new filter that meets or exceeds OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) recommendations.
HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN YOUR CAR NEEDS A TUNE UP?
You should refer to your owner’s manual for a recommended maintenance schedule. However, the calendar is not the only way of determining when your vehicle could use preventive maintenance. If you notice any of these warning signs, don’t hesitate to bring your car to Jiffy Lube® for a tune up. Acting quickly may help prevent a more costly repair. Watch out for:
- Reduction in engine performance or fuel economy
- Illuminated Check Engine Light (CEL), aka Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL)
- Frequent stalling
- Knocking noises coming from engine
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU BRING YOUR CAR TO JIFFY LUBE
Conversation. The trained Jiffy Lube technician will ask about your driving style. Knowing how you drive (are you often stuck in stop-and-go traffic?) and where you drive (do you often travel through construction, which can kick up a lot of dirt and debris?) can help indicate potential trouble areas.
Inspection. Your car’s tune up components will be checked.
More conversation! The Jiffy Lube technician will explain what was discovered during the inspection. Your questions are welcome, and no work will be done without your consent.
FAQs
A very basic tune up typically costs between $40 and $150. Although, how much is a tune up can vary, based on the cost of parts and labor where you live.
What is a good price for a tune up? ›
A tune-up tends to cost between $40 and $150, but in some cases the cost could be $800 or more, depending on what a tune-up consists of. Understanding what a tune-up exactly is and the proper cost of a tune-up is important. What is a Tune-Up?
Is a tune up worth it? ›
Your car will operate better, be safer, and use less gas when it has been serviced. Regular tune ups are an investment in your car's long-term health, and they should save you time and money in the long run.
What is included in a full tune up? ›
What is Included In a Tune-Up?
- Replace spark plugs and wires/coil boots.
- Set ignition timing -if applicable.
- Replace engine air filter.
- Replace fuel filter - if applicable.
- Clean the throttle body - if applicable.
- Perform a fuel system cleaning.
Older vehicles and classic cars usually cost more to tune up because they contain more mechanical parts. High mileage can also lead to more expensive tune-ups: a car with more than 120,000 miles can cost up to $1,200 to tune up depending on the services involved.
How to tell if a car needs a tune up? ›
What Are Some Signs Your Car Needs a Tune-Up
- Your Engine Light Turns On. ...
- Pulling to One Side. ...
- Your Engine Doesn't Start First Time. ...
- Poor Gas Mileage. ...
- Increased Exhaust Emissions. ...
- Unusual Noises. ...
- Reduced Braking Ability. ...
- Rough Idling.
A very basic tune up typically costs between $40 and $150. Although, how much is a tune up can vary, based on the cost of parts and labor where you live. Full tune up.
How long can a car go without a tune up? ›
Most older vehicles with non-electronic ignitions should be tuned every 10,000 to 12,000 miles or every year, whichever comes first. Newer cars with electronic ignition and fuel injection systems are scheduled to go from 25,000 miles to as many as 100,000 miles without needing a major tune-up.
Will my car run better after a tune up? ›
A vehicle tune-up can also improve the performance of your car. Over time, components such as the air filter and spark plugs can become clogged or worn, which can lead to reduced engine power and acceleration.
At what mileage should a car get a tune up? ›
Typically older vehicles with non-electric ignitions should be serviced at least every 10,000 to 12,000 miles or yearly. Vehicles that are newer with fuel injection systems and electronic ignition can be serviced every 25,000 to 100,000 miles without needing a serious tune-up.
Anywhere from two to four hours. The time depends on the make, model, and age of the vehicle. Newer cars with a lot of sensors may need less time for a tune-up compared to older vehicles.
Is an oil change included in a tune-up? ›
A typical tune-up includes an oil change, tire rotation, and inspection of things like spark plugs, belts, hoses, and more. Look for service centers and dealerships that provide competitive prices for tune-ups, ranging from $40 to $150 for a minimal job that replaces spark plugs and spark plug wires.
How often do spark plugs need to be replaced? ›
If none of the previous issues are forcing you to replace your spark plugs, you can typically change them every 30,000 to 90,000 miles depending on the make and model of your car. Your owner's manual reveals the schedule of your vehicle.
What is the average cost of a full tune-up? ›
On average, a car tuneup can cost between roughly $130 and $340, but that will depend on the make and model of your vehicle, the service provider's location and the maintenance services included.
How much does it cost to replace spark plugs and coils? ›
Labor charges vary depending on the complexity of each engine, with V6 and V8 engines costing more than four-cylinder engines. The average labor cost ranges between $40 and $350. Factoring in parts and labor, the cheapest spark plug replacement costs between $100 and $250, and the highest is between $250 and $500.
Will AutoZone change my spark plugs? ›
But if you're inexperienced and hesitant to try the job yourself, it could be safer to have a repair shop, like AutoZone's Preferred Shops, do it for you. Rather than take a chance on damaging something and adding to the repair cost, it'll get done in a timely fashion by a professional.
How often should a car get a tune up? ›
Typically older vehicles with non-electric ignitions should be serviced at least every 10,000 to 12,000 miles or yearly. Vehicles that are newer with fuel injection systems and electronic ignition can be serviced every 25,000 to 100,000 miles without needing a serious tune-up.
Will a tune up make my car run better? ›
In conclusion, regular vehicle tune-ups are an essential aspect of maintaining the health and performance of your car. By improving fuel efficiency, extending the lifespan of your vehicle, improving performance, and reducing emissions, a tune-up can ensure that your car is operating at its best.
How do you know when spark plugs need changing? ›
The most common signs of bad spark plugs include start-up trouble, rough idling, sluggish acceleration, declining fuel economy, engine misfiring, and engine knocking.
