Posted under Engine

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:

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.

FEEL FREE TO BRING CAR CARE QUESTIONS TO JIFFY LUBE®

You came here to find out “how much is a tune up” and you got answers. Any time you want to know something about automotive maintenance, you can come back to Tips in a Jiffy or call your local Jiffy Lube as the trained technicians are ready to help. 

Jiffy Lube technician talking with a woman about her engine tune up

READ MORE ABOUT IT.

Spark plugs are a big part of any tune up. Click here to learn how often they should be changed.

Jiffy Lube® offers a variety of filter replacement services. Check them out here.

Please note: Not all services are offered at each Jiffy Lube location. Please check with your local Jiffy Lube service center or visit jiffylube.com for specific services offered.