As you may know, keeping your vehicle in top shape is crucial for ensuring both safety and performance on the road. A regular tune-up is a key part of vehicle maintenance, helping to catch potential issues before they become major problems. That said, you might be wondering how to know when it’s time for a tune-up. Here are three clear signs that you should visit your local auto repair specialists soon.

1. Decreased Fuel Efficiency

In our experience, one of the first signs that your car might need a tune-up is a noticeable drop in fuel efficiency. If you find yourself making more frequent stops at the gas station or your fuel gauge seems to drop faster than usual, it could indicate that your engine is not running as efficiently as it should. Regular maintenance, such as changing the spark plugs, checking the air filters, and ensuring the fuel system is clean, can help restore your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. According to reports from AAA, you should get your oil changed every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to keep your engine running smoothly, which is also a crucial part of maintaining fuel efficiency.

2. Rough Engine Performance

If your engine is running roughly, experiencing misfires, or making unusual noises, it’s a strong signal that a tune-up is due. Rough idling or hesitation during acceleration can be symptoms of worn-out spark plugs, dirty fuel injectors, or a clogged air filter. Auto repair specialists are skilled at diagnosing these issues and can perform necessary adjustments or replacements to smooth out your engine’s performance. Regular tune-ups can prevent these problems from escalating and help maintain the engine’s overall health.

3. Warning Lights on the Dashboard

Modern vehicles are equipped with various sensors that monitor engine performance and other critical systems. When something is amiss, these sensors trigger warning lights on your dashboard. Common indicators such as the check engine light or maintenance required light are often the first signs that a tune-up or inspection is needed. Ignoring these warnings can lead to more severe issues down the line, so it’s wise to have an auto repair specialist check out your vehicle as soon as a warning light appears.

If you notice any of these signs, don’t hesitate to contact your auto repair specialists to schedule a tune-up and keep your car running at its best. If you're in the Harbor City, CA area, give our team at LexService a call today! We're the Japanese auto repair specialist our community relies on.