Most responsible vehicle owners understand the importance of regular maintenance to keep a car running smoothly and efficiently. Routine tasks like oil changes and tire rotations are essential for safety and to prevent major problems.
However, keeping up with regular maintenance services won’t keep your car running forever. Vehicles are mechanical machines, and mechanical parts wear out. Consequently, you should look out for signs indicating your vehicle might be due for a tune-up. A well-timed tune-up can help catch a problem early and prevent more significant issues later.
While Ford’s signature “The Works” oil change service involves several checks on your car, it does not include a complete diagnosis of potential problems. In contrast, a tune-up focuses on your vehicle’s specific performance and efficiency aspects and addresses these performance-related issues. Neglecting the signs that your car needs a tune-up can result in more severe and costly problems down the road, including engine damage or complete breakdowns.
With a tune-up at Mike White Ford, our service department can help you rectify car problems and help keep your Ford in top condition. Here are some of the most common signs that indicate your vehicle needs a tune-up.
Decreased Fuel Efficiency
One of the first signs that your vehicle may need a tune-up is a noticeable decrease in fuel efficiency. If you find yourself making more frequent stops at the gas pump or your miles per gallon, as noted on your trip computer, have taken a noticeable nosedive, it’s time to pay attention. Various issues, including clogged air filters, worn-out spark plugs, or a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, can cause a drop in fuel efficiency.
Rough Idling or Stalling
When your vehicle starts to idle roughly or stall when you come to a stop, it clearly indicates that something isn’t right under the hood. Such issues may be attributable to worn-out spark plugs, dirty fuel injectors, or problems with the ignition system.
Difficulty Starting
Experiencing difficulties starting your vehicle can indicate that your ignition system needs attention. This sign can include delayed or hesitant ignition, possibly due to issues with spark plugs, ignition coils, or the battery. Ignoring these symptoms could lead to your car failing to start altogether.
Unusual Noises
Strange and unusual noises from your vehicle can manifest in various ways, such as squealing, knocking, or clunking. Squealing noises might indicate issues with the drive belts while knocking and clunking could be related to problems with the suspension or the exhaust system.
Poor Acceleration
If you’ve noticed that your Ford is sluggish to respond when you press the gas pedal, it’s time for a service call. Poor acceleration can result from several factors, including a clogged fuel filter, a dirty air filter, or problems with the fuel injectors.
Decreased Power and Performance
A drop in your Ford’s power and performance can be particularly frustrating when driving. It might manifest as a lack of responsiveness when overtaking another vehicle or difficulty climbing steep hills. Such issues can be related to various factors, including a malfunctioning fuel system, a dirty air filter, or a clogged exhaust system.
Check Engine Light
The check engine light on your dashboard clearly indicates that something is amiss within your vehicle’s engine or emissions system. While the light might be triggered by easy-to-fix issues ranging from a loose gas cap to a faulty sensor, it may also indicate something more serious, so it is crucial not to ignore it. When the check engine light illuminates, schedule a tune-up immediately.
Call Mike White Ford When You Need Service
You count on your Ford vehicle to be a reliable companion, getting you where you need to go day after day. But it can only serve that purpose for you and your family with adequate care. Recognizing the signs that your car needs a tune-up and addressing them promptly can save you money in the long run and keep your vehicle running reliably and at its best.
If you’ve noticed any of the above signs, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Mike White Ford’s service department. Our experienced technicians are here to provide the expert care your Ford needs to keep you on the road with confidence. Take action when you have a minor issue before it becomes a significant problem. Contact Mike White Ford today and enjoy worry-free driving.