How Much Does an Engine Tune-Up Cost?

A standard engine tune-up costs between $40 and $150 for lower-mileage vehicles in good working condition. A full tune-up may cost between $200 and $800.

Expect to pay between $500 and $1,200 for older vehicles with higher mileage (around 120,000 miles).

What Does an Engine Tune-Up Include?

A tune-up involves inspecting and replacing different components that are causing poor engine performance. The service requires in-depth knowledge of the vehicle’s engine components, so hire a mechanic for help.

Here’s what’s included in a standard and full tune-up:

A. Standard Tune-Up

During a standard tune-up, a mechanic inspects the ignition system and, if necessary, replaces the spark plugs.

The ignition system ignites the air-fuel mixture in the engine. It includes the spark plugs, ignition coil, ignition switch, and related wiring. 

To ensure the ignition system works properly, the mechanic will check that the connections are tight and all wires are corrosion-free. They’ll also:

• Replace the distributor cap and rotor: In older vehicles with manual ignition systems, a distributor cap and rotor evenly distribute electrical charge to the spark plugs. However, they wear out with age, so the mechanic will replace them to ensure proper combustion.

• Change faulty spark plug wires: The spark plug wires transfer charge from the ignition coil to the spark plugs, helping create the electric spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture for combustion. Replacing them ensures optimal engine functioning and increased fuel efficiency.

B. Full Tune-Up

In addition to an ignition system inspection, a complete engine tune-up will address other vital issues. Here are the auto repair services the mechanic will perform:

• Set the ignition timing: The mechanic will adjust the distributor and check the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors to ensure the correct timing. Ignition timing refers to the precise moment the spark plug fires relative to the piston’s position in the combustion cycle. The ECU (Engine Control Unit) automatically controls the ignition timing in modern cars, so the mechanic only performs this service on an older vehicle. 

• Check the idle speed and idle fuel mixture: They’ll fix any issues related to the fuel system, spark plugs, and air intake components to ensure proper combustion and a stable idle speed (600 to 1000 revolutions per minute).   

• Replace the engine air and fuel filter: The mechanic will clean or replace the clogged fuel filter and air filter that may affect the flow of gas or oxygen for combustion. 

• Perform a fuel system inspection: They’ll check the fuel injection parts, such as the injectors, fuel pump, and pressure regulator, to make sure they’re in good condition and replace them if damaged. In addition, they’ll perform fuel system cleaning to unclog any blocked components.  

• Change the oil: The mechanic will check the condition of your engine oil and change it if necessary. An oil change service ensures proper lubrication of engine components, adequate heat dissipation, and protection against corrosion. 

• Replace the PCV valve (Positive Crankcase Ventilation Valve): A functioning PCV valve is necessary to regulate and recirculate crankcase gasses. But if it’s clogged, it’ll increase emissions and affect engine performance. So, the mechanic will replace the clogged PCV valve with a new one to prevent trouble. 

• Replace or clean the throttle body: The throttle body controls how much air enters the engine, but if it accumulates dirt, the engine won’t receive sufficient oxygen for combustion. To prevent issues like engine stalling and rough idling, the mechanic will clean the throttle body or replace it, depending on whether it’s clogged or worn out.

• Inspect the oxygen sensor: The mechanic will assess the oxygen sensor to ensure the engine maintains the correct air-fuel mixture for efficient combustion. They’ll measure its voltage signals using a multimeter and look for any active diagnostic trouble codes with an OBD-II scanner.

5 Other Factors That Affect Your Engine Tune-Up Cost

The cost of a tune-up will vary based on:

1. Your car’s make and model: Replacing components on luxury and high-performance vehicles tends to be more expensive than on standard cars.
2. Local labor charges: Repair shops and dealerships in urban areas tend to have higher labor charges due to increased business operation costs.
3. Your vehicle’s age: An older car typically needs specialized parts that are difficult to source. Due to their limited availability, these parts may be costly, increasing your expenses.
4. Your vehicle’s mileage: An older vehicle with higher mileage requires more cleaning and replacement procedures than a newer vehicle.
5. Replacement parts cost: If vital components (like the fuel injector) need replacing during the engine repair, the charge could reach up to $2,000+. Here are some repair estimates:

• • Air filter replacement: $40 to $85
  • PCV valve replacement:  $80 to $220
  • Spark plug replacement: $50 to $750
  • Distributor replacement: $190 to $915
  • Fuel filter replacement: $190 to $280
  • Fuel pump replacement: $1,100 to $1,300
  • Fuel injector replacement: $335 to $2,000
  • Throttle body replacement: $520 to $710

What Are the Benefits of an Engine Tune-Up?

A regular tune-up will: 

• Improve fuel efficiency
• Restore engine performance
• Prolong lifespan of the engine components 
• Offer consistent starting from a well-maintained ignition system
• Reduce emissions
• Prevent costly repairs 
• Maintain resale value
• Ensure compliance with manufacturer recommendations
• Increase driving safety

How Urgent Is an Engine Tune-Up?

Even though you can continue to drive your car without an engine tune-up, you shouldn’t delay this preventative maintenance service. 

An engine tune-up fixes problematic vehicle components before they become a full-blown issue that could endanger you and your car. For example, ignition system problems like misfiring can cause sudden power loss, which is especially dangerous in heavy traffic. 

Moreover, driving continuously with faulty ignition parts can affect the fuel economy and lead to expensive engine repair services in the future.  

So, for reliable and consistent engine performance, follow your vehicle’s routine maintenance schedule as per the owner’s manual.

8 Critical Signs You Need an Engine Tune-Up

If you experience poor engine performance or observe any of these signs, it’s time to book an engine tune-up service:

1. An illuminated check engine light
2. Knocking noises when the engine runs
3. A burning smell or excessive exhaust smoke
4. Difficulty starting your car
5. Engine stalling
6. Engine misfires
7. Rough idling
8. Reduced gas mileage and acceleration

3 FAQs on Engine Tune-Ups

Here’s everything else you need to know about engine tune-ups:

1. How Often Does a Car Engine Need a Tune-Up?

You should get a regular tune-up every 20,000 to 30,000 miles or as per the manufacturer recommendations. 

For older vehicles, you should get it sooner, at around 10,000 to 12,000 miles, to ensure better fuel economy. Modern vehicles with an electronic fuel injection system can go longer, only needing a car tune-up every 100,000 miles.  

That said, the frequency of engine tune-ups and automotive maintenance will vary based on your vehicle’s gas mileage, driving habits,  and engine age. 

2. How Long Does a Tune-Up Take?

An engine tune-up usually takes two to four hours. 

Tune-ups on modern vehicles with an ECU take less time, as the car’s computer helps diagnose the issue faster. On the other hand, the mechanic will need more time to identify the problem manually on older engines. 

The exact duration will ultimately depend on your car’s condition and the tune-up service required.

3. Is an Engine Tune-Up the Same as a Car Tune-Up?

No, an engine tune-up and a car tune-up are not the same. 

An engine tune-up involves inspecting your vehicle’s engine and ignition system and fixing any malfunctioning parts. 

A car tune-up includes checking multiple vehicle systems and performing services like a tire rotation or wheel alignment. 

Here are some auto repair services a car tune-up will cover:

• Battery maintenance: An auto repair mechanic will test the battery’s voltage and look for corrosion, leakage, or loose cables. 

• Brake repair service: This includes changing the rotors, brake pads, hoses, bleeding brakes, and topping up the brake fluid. 

• Belts and hoses inspection: A mechanic will inspect and replace the drive belt or serpentine belt. They’ll also inspect the radiator or vacuum hose for leaks. 

• Fluid refill: Your mechanic may change the engine oil and oil filter, transmission fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid to prevent excessive wear of internal components.

• Cabin air filter change: This entails changing the cabin air filter to prevent clogging, which restricts airflow to the vehicle and inhibits the air conditioning from working correctly.

• Tire services: The mechanic will perform a tire rotation and wheel alignment to ensure a smooth and safe ride.