Quick Facts About a Car Tuneup
- A typical tuneup includes an oil change, tire rotation, and inspection of components, including spark plugs, belts, hoses, and more.
- Look for service centers and dealerships that provide competitive prices for tuneups, costing $500 or less for a minimal job.
Preventive maintenance is a smart way to keep your car in good working order. But on most modern vehicles, a “tuneup” isn’t a once-a-year, one-size-fits-all service anymore. Instead, maintenance is based on time and mileage intervals listed in your manufacturer’s schedule and what any inspections find.
Keep reading for information on how to tell when service is needed, what a “tuneup” typically includes today, costs, and timing.
- What a “Tuneup” Is on Modern Cars
- Common Signs Your Car Needs Service
- What a Typical Car Tuneup Service Includes
- How to Know Your Car Needs a Tuneup
- What Does a Tuneup Cost?
- Should I Get a Tuneup?
What a “Tuneup” Is on Modern Cars
Because of electronic ignition, long-life spark plugs, and onboard diagnostics, the traditional tuneup — adjusting timing, replacing ignition components on a schedule, etc. — is mostly a thing of the past.
Today, a “tuneup” usually means one of two things.
- A scheduled maintenance visit (based on mileage/time in the owner’s manual or maintenance indicators in the instrument cluster)
- An inspection and replacement of wear items that affect performance, safety, or efficiency (filters, fluids, brakes, belts/hoses, tires, battery health).
Note: While many suspension and steering components are sealed, they’re not “maintenance-free forever.” They still need inspection for play, torn boots, and leaks.
Common Signs Your Car Needs Service
Your vehicle may be due for service if you notice:
- Check engine light on (or flashing — don’t ignore that)
- Reduced performance/rough idle
- Misfires/hard starts/stalling
- Worse fuel economy
- Knocking/pinging
- Vibrations or pulling while driving
Pro Tip: Pulling mainly during braking can be a brake issue; pulling while cruising straight can point to alignment/tires.
What a Typical Car Tuneup Service Includes
Here are services that may happen as part of a tuneup. Not every item happens on every visit. The recommended service for your vehicle depends on its mileage, age, and symptoms.
Many modern cars can go longer than the outdated 3,000- to 5,000-mile rule, especially when using synthetic oil, which is engineered to last 7,500 to 15,000 miles or more. Hard driving in severe conditions can shorten intervals. Follow the owner’s manual or the “maintenance minder” in some vehicles’ instrument cluster.
MORE: How Often Should I Change My Oil?
Spark plug life depends heavily on plug type and engine:
- Copper plugs typically have a shorter life.
- Platinum/iridium varieties often last much longer, although longevity varies widely by application and conditions.
When changing the plugs, it may be appropriate to also replace the oxygen sensor, spark plug wires, PCV valve, and fuel filter.
Dirty air filters can reduce airflow for the engine. HVAC/climate control performance is better with a clean cabin air filter. These are common inspect-and-replace items.
Accessory/serpentine belts and coolant hoses should be inspected for cracking, glazing, leaks, bulges, or softness.
Some engines use a timing belt, which requires a scheduled replacement. Others use a chain, which is often inspected rather than replaced on a schedule. Timing belt replacement intervals are in the 60,000- to 100,000-mile range, although the owner’s manual is the authority.
When dashboard warning lights or other symptoms appear, an onboard diagnostic scan can help pinpoint problems. Modern tuneups often involve reading codes and live data instead of replacing parts on a hunch or “just because.”
Not all fluids are “annual,” but they’re also not “forever.” Inspect, test, and service when they’re due. Check the manual for intervals. Common examples:
- Brake fluid: A common recommendation is to change every 2–3 years, or at a mileage interval specified by the manufacturer.
- Engine coolant and transmission service recommendations vary widely by vehicle.
A weak battery can mimic other issues. Have a technician test the battery before winter/summer extremes.
Inspect brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, leaks, and brake fluid condition.
Tires: Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), remaining tread, tire rotation, and balancing. Rotation is recommended at a specific interval, usually 5,000-7,500 miles, to promote even tread wear.
RELATED: Do My Tires Need to Be Replaced?
If you notice uneven wear patterns, the steering wheel is off-center, or the car drifts on a flat road, it is worth checking the alignment.
What Does a Tuneup Cost?
Cost depends on what you mean by “tuneup”:
- A very basic “tuneup-style” service can be relatively low if it’s mostly inspection and minor replacements.
- A more comprehensive service (plugs, filters, fluids, more labor) can run hundreds, and in some cases $800+ depending on the vehicle and scope.
- According to Kelley Blue Book data, the estimated total cost for an oil change ranges from $145 to $173.
Ask for an itemized estimate that lists parts and labor and which items are “due by schedule” vs “recommended based on inspection.” Check Kelley Blue Book’s Service Advisor to see what you should pay for common repairs and services.
How Long Does a Tuneup Take?
A light service can be quick. Other jobs, such as spark plugs in a tight engine bay, multiple filters and fluids, and tire work, can take longer.
Should I Get a Tuneup?
Yes, if you define it correctly. Consider it a form of preventive maintenance to ensure your vehicle maintains its value and remains reliable. For most newer vehicles, the best approach is:
- Follow the factory maintenance schedule
- Get periodic inspections to catch wear items early
- Use diagnostics when symptoms appear
When you’re ready, find a repair shop that can tune up your vehicle.
Editor’s Note: We have updated this article since its initial publication. Renee Valdes contributed to the report.
