Regular auto inspections can help you spot potential problems with your engine or other vehicle systems before they get bigger, while preventative maintenance will keep your car running longer. That’s why it’s important to take your car to a licensed mechanic for regular tune-ups.
Though the price depends on your vehicle, mileage, and even where you live, tune-ups can cost $200 – $800. Here’s a look at what the service may include, cost details, and both where and when to take your car for a tune-up.
What is a tune-up?
A car tune-up is a set of auto maintenance services, ideally conducted at regular intervals, often as part of a manufacturer’s recommended schedule. It’s designed to keep your vehicle running smoothly, prevent problems, and can help you identify issues before they become bigger or more costly.
A tune-up or scheduled service of an older vehicle or one with more miles will usually be more in-depth than on a brand new car or one with fewer miles. The most basic tune-ups include an ignition and spark plug inspection, replacing the plugs as needed.
While the specific services needed will vary, a car tune-up may include any of the following (click or tap):
- Visual engine inspection
- Oil change
- Tire inspection and rotation
- Brade pad replacement
- Spark plug replacement
- Cabin and engine air filter replacement
- Fuel filter replacement
- Transmission fluid flush
- Brake fluid flush
- Fuel system flush
- Coolant line check
- A/C system check
- Wiper replacement
- Timing belt inspection and/or replacement
- PCV valve inspection and/or replacement
- Distributor cap and rotor check
- Fluid checks and top-offs
Sample cost ranges for a car tune-up
There are many factors affecting your car tune-up cost. Of course, you could always call your local dealership or auto mechanic to get an exact quote based on your specific vehicle and location, but here are some typical price ranges for different types of services:
| Service | Price range |
| Oil change | $50 to $150+ |
| Tire rotation | $50+ |
| Air filter change | $40 to $100+ |
| Basic tune-up: Spark plug and ignition inspection | $40 to $180 |
| Spark plug change | $150 to $450+ |
| Brake fluid change | $90 to $130+ |
| Comprehensive tune-up | Between $200 and $800 |
Factors that influence the cost of a car tune-up
Your cost for a tune-up depends on a few key factors. Expect to pay more if you have a luxury vehicle, specialty vehicle, or even a large truck or SUV. If you request higher-end materials like full synthetic oil, for example, or visit the dealership to get OEM spark plugs and air filters, you’ll pay more than when using a chain shop or aftermarket materials.
Make and model of your car
The type of car you own will dictate what your tune-up needs to include.
- Older vehicles may have additional systems that need tuning which newer models don’t include, though newer vehicles often have more expensive technology or specialized parts.
- A newer vehicle may require fewer checks and system replacements, compared to a car with more miles.
- Different car models have different features, so tune-up requirements will still vary even for two cars of comparable age and mileage.
- Parts and labor costs on luxury vehicles are often notably higher than on economy cars.
Location
Where you live can influence the cost of your tune-up. As with oil changes and other vehicle maintenance costs, you might pay more in a metropolitan area than you do for a rural tune-up, and certain regions of the country might charge more or less than others.
Additionally, where your vehicle is driven can affect what’s included in your tune-up and how much it costs. Drivers in dusty areas may need to replace air filters more often, for example, while vehicles in coastal areas tend to have more issues with rust, electrical wiring, and metal corrosion.
Type of service provider
Deciding where to get a tune-up can also impact your price tag. While not always the case, you can usually expect to pay more for a tune-up when you go to a dealership service center than at an independent mechanic or service chain.
In some cases, this is because of a higher standard of care at a dealership or specialized services based on your vehicle manufacturer’s requirements and recommendations. Additionally, most dealerships will only use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and fluids, which can further impact price.
Level of service
Your tune-up costs will also vary based on the services your vehicle needs. For example, a Honda 15,000-mile service is just a tire rotation and oil change, but the 20,000-mile service includes those plus a visual inspection of most major systems, lubrication of multiple systems, and a fuel injection service.
Put simply, you can expect to pay less for a tune-up with fewer services. Of course, if the mechanic finds that you need repairs or replacements, those will come at an extra charge.
When should you get a tune-up?
How often you should get a tune up depends on your vehicle and even how you drive it. Some general rules of thumb, though, include:
- At recommended intervals — Read your manual to see exactly when tune-ups (and oil changes/tire rotations) are recommended for your specific vehicle; failing to take your car in for an inspection could cause damage or, in some cases, even void your manufacturer’s warranty.
- When something’s wrong — Take your car in for a tune-up anytime you notice an issue. If you’re experiencing poor fuel efficiency, rough idling, engine misfires, uneven pulling or rough ride, unsuccessful or rough starts, delayed acceleration, increased emissions, odd sounds or smells, or even the appearance of your dreaded “check engine” light, it’s time for a checkup.
- Before a big trip — Planning a cross-country drive? A pre-trip tune-up can identify potential issues and get your car running great before you leave home.
How to save money on car tune-ups
You can usually save money on your tune-up if you do a little research beforehand.
- Look for discounts and coupons. Many dealerships and mechanics offer deals online, print coupons in local papers, send out mailers, or offer special pricing with service loyalty programs. If you’re a student or active duty military, you can ask if there are discounts for you, too. Companies like Jiffy Lube, Firestone, and Midas, for example, list their specials online and even offer printable coupons.
- Get multiple quotes. Shopping around can save money anytime you need to make repairs or service your vehicle. Call around to ask how much a tune-up is for your specific vehicle, if an estimator tool isn’t available online. If you know of specific services your car needs, you can usually get a quote for these over the phone, too.
- Stay on top of regular maintenance. While you can’t avoid all car costs, you can help prevent more expensive tune-ups and repairs by getting consistent maintenance and inspections.
