You can think of your vehicle’s engine as the heartbeat of your car. It keeps your car moving and working well for you. That is why it is essential to have an engine that is working in great condition. If it has been a while since anyone has taken a look at your car, it might be time for an engine tune-up for your vehicle. 

At Skip’s Garage, we provide people with custom exhaust and auto repair. Our expert staff can take a look at your vehicle and make sure it is operating the best that it can be for you. Below, you can check out a little bit about how your engine works and what an engine tune-up involves. If you have any questions or you would like to schedule an appointment, reach out to Skip’s Garage today. 

How Your Car’s Engine Works

You have probably heard the term “internal combustion engine” as it relates to your vehicle. This means that your vehicle creates movement by converting gasoline inside your vehicle through an engine. How does this engine work? Let’s take a closer look below. 

Unless you are a mechanic, you do not need to know the specifics of how each part of your vehicle operates, but it is a good idea to have some general knowledge of how your vehicle works so that you can be aware of what is going on in terms of problems or needed repairs. 

In your vehicle, the fuel ignites (combustion), and the heat and gases from this ignition move the pistons in your engine. The pistons move up and down inside the cylinders of your engine. These pistons in your vehicle are connected to the crankshaft. The crankshaft converts energy from the pistons into rotational motion that moves the wheels. There is also the exhaust system in your vehicle that allows the combustion gases to get pushed out of the engine. Then, the whole combustion process starts over again. 

Those are the basics of how your engine works, but there are a lot of little details and processes within the engine. That is why it is important to have your vehicle’s engine looked at regularly by a knowledgeable mechanic. 

You can get your engine checked out with a simple engine tune-up. It is recommended that you get your engine looked at or tuned-up about every year to make sure it is operating properly for you. Learn more about all of this below. 

What is an Engine Tune-Up?

Above, we discussed a little bit about how the engine of your car works. Now, we are going to talk a little bit more specifically about getting an engine tune-up. If your vehicle hasn’t been checked out in a while, it could be time to take it in for a tune-up. 

An engine tune-up will involve looking at your engine and inspecting all the parts of the system to make sure it is operating properly for you. If there are parts that need replacement, the mechanic can replace those parts at that time. Below, you can check out what is looked at and checked out during an engine tune-up. 

Engine Tune-Up Checklist: 

• Spark Plugs – During an engine tune-up, it is important to check out the spark plugs. They should be visually examined to see if they are worn out or still in good condition. They should also be tested to see if the spark is properly igniting the fuel. It is also important to check the spark plug wires to be sure they are in good condition and not cracked at all.  
• Fuel Filter – The fuel filter will also need to be checked to make sure it is clean. If it is dirty or clogged, it will need to be replaced. 
• Fuel Pump – The mechanic will also need to check the fuel pump to be sure that it is functioning efficiently so that your vehicle can function efficiently. 
• Fuel Injector – The fuel injector will also need to be inspected. You do not want the fuel injector to be faulty, dirty, clogged, or leaking because it could restrict fuel from reaching the engine. This could lead to poor vehicle performance, failed emissions, increased fuel consumption, or other issues. 
• Air Filter – Your engine air filter will also need to be checked during a tune-up. The air filter is located in front of the engine compartment, and it traps dirt, debris, and other particles before they flow into your engine. This filter makes sure that only clean air flows into your engine, and your engine is not filled with debris. 
• Oil and Coolant Levels – Also, engine oil levels and engine coolant levels will be checked during an engine tune-up. Oil in your vehicle helps keep the engine lubricated, and it helps reduce friction and remove debris from your engine to keep it running smoothly. Coolant in your engine helps to transfer heat and prevent engine damage by helping to prevent extreme temperature issues like overheating or freezing in the engine. It is essential to have enough coolant in your vehicle, and it is important to regularly flush and change the coolant in your vehicle. 
• Emissions – Your mechanic may also take a look at the emissions your vehicle is producing to see if it is operating correctly and even to try to reduce the amount of pollutants that your vehicle produces. 

Those are just a few of the things that will be looked at during an engine tune-up. The truth is, every vehicle is slightly different in terms of vehicle history and age, so your mechanic may take extra time to look at specific things or other components. However, when you choose a mechanic you trust, you know that they can get the job done for you. 

Signs You May Need an Engine Tune-Up Right Away:

• The check engine light comes on when your vehicle is running. This can tell you that something is not operating as it should. 
• Your vehicle is having consistent issues with stalling. This could be an issue with your spark plugs. 
• There is a significant decrease in gas mileage or overall fuel economy from what is normal for your vehicle. This could mean that you are having fuel injection issues. 
• You are having trouble starting your car. This could be an issue with a battery, but it could also be an issue with your ignition system. 
• There are knocking sounds with your engine when you are accelerating. This could be a sign of some of your spark plugs failing to ignite. 

The signs listed above may show that you need to get your engine checked out right away. Otherwise, it is something that should be done every year or so. If you need to schedule an engine tune-up, you can do so with Skip’s Garage. 

Schedule Your Engine Tune-Up with Skip’s Garage

As you can see, we know a lot about your vehicle’s engine. We can help you with repairs or just regular maintenance. Reach out to us when you need your vehicle checked out. We have an online booking system where you can schedule your next appointment online. Click here to learn more. 

Why Choose Skip’s Garage for Vehicle Maintenance? 

You can find great vehicle maintenance at Skip’s Garage in Plaistow, New Hampshire. The automotive repair that we provide is customer-focused and convenient. Our expert staff works hard to keep your vehicle in top shape. We are known for providing customers with custom exhaust for their vehicles, but we can also help with other repairs and routine maintenance. Ultimately, we are focused on making our customers happy by providing great service at a fair price. 

If you are having trouble with your vehicle, or you simply want to check that your vehicle is in good shape, you can reach out to us at Skip’s Garage. Our expert staff is happy to help you today. 

Note: Please keep in mind different vehicles may have different items we cover in a Tune Up.  Please call Skip’s and one of our experts will go over your specific vehicle needs to determine what items should be covered in the tune up.