You can help speed up the diagnostics by giving a detailed description of the sounds you hear or what your car feels when you drive it. Here are some signs that your vehicle needs a tune-up.
Check-Engine Light Turns On
When you see the check engine light turned on, it usually means that there’s something wrong with the emissions control system. However, depending on what the cause of the problem is, it may affect performance or fuel economy. Thus, it’s best not to ignore it.
Clogged or Dirty Engine Air Filter
Having a clogged or dirty engine air filter may cause reduced speed or acceleration. Since air filters can get clogged up or dirty over time, you may not notice a gradual loss of performance until your car accelerates like a turtle. Thus if you haven’t changed the air filter in years, that could be among the causes of the problem.
Engine Deposits
Engine deposits affect the quality of the gasoline, thereby causing problems. The cure for this is to clean the fuel system using a gas-tank additive, or you can let the mechanic do it for you.
Faulty or Old Oxygen Sensor
A faulty oxygen sensor may affect how the engine computer sets the air-fuel mixture. This results in poor fuel economy. An old oxygen sensor, on the other hand, can affect your car’s performance. This may be due to serious internal problems of the valves or worn piston or even restricted exhaust system.
Misfiring Engine
A misfiring engine happens when the spark plugs don’t ignite at the right time. Bad spark plugs can cause it. They affect fuel economy, engine starting, as well as acceleration. The good news though is that most plugs can last for 100,000 miles or more. In fact, engine computers may perform a remarkable job of compensating bad spark plugs. Thus, they may not be the only cause.
Although the same signs may suggest different problems and several causes and cures, it would be wise if you consult your trusted mechanic first. Instead of asking immediately for a tune-up, let your mechanic diagnose the problem and suggest a course of action.
Having your car repaired immediately is like choosing the right car insurance because it can be a matter of life or death. Here at Sungate Insurance, we offer several reliable car insurance products that you can choose from. Talk to one of our agents and know what policy is right for your needs. Call us at (407) 878-7979 or visit us today. You may also get a free quote from us by clicking here.
