Does Your Toyota Need a Tune-up?

Nov 20, 2014

It used to be common maintenance to get a regular tune-up for your vehicle. It’s harder to know if your new vehicle needs to be brought in for a common tune-up though, isn’t it? If you have a Toyota, these are the things to get checked out on a regular basis.

With electronic ignitions, your wheels don’t have the same issues they used to. But there are a few things to keep an eye on. Sure, you don’t have to putz with the carburetor like you used to, but that doesn’t mean your vehicle is maintenance free.

Computer Diagnostics Tell the Tale

Late model Toyotas have a computer that runs a constant diagnostic test on your vehicle. When something goes awry, a light shows up on the dash and you know it’s time to take it in. The frustration, however, is many cars have a general Engine Needs Service light and the problem can be anything from transmission trouble to a sensor fail.

Spark Plugs Still Need Spark

With all the advances in car engines, spark plugs still need to work properly and they do need to be replaced. Your battery is probably sealed, but it needs to be checked for power loss. Other mechanical pieces will fail and need replacement as well.

You may be able to go as long as 100,000 miles without a tune up. Check your owner’s manual to see what is recommended for your model. Even though you need to go less often, it doesn’t mean you never go at all.