Tune-ups are literally in our name. Vick’s Expertune Automotive opened in 1987, back when a tune-up meant points, plugs, and a carburetor adjustment. We’ve been tuning Austin engines through every generation of vehicle since. Today’s tune-up looks different, but the goal hasn’t changed: an engine that starts easily, idles smoothly, pulls strongly, and burns every drop of fuel it’s given.
If your engine feels tired (rough idle, sluggish acceleration, worse gas mileage than you remember), a tune-up is usually the most cost-effective fix there is. We’ll check what your engine actually needs, show you what we find, and quote you before we touch a wrench.
What’s Included in a Tune-Up
- Spark Plug Replacement
- Ignition System Maintenance & Repair
- Engine Air Filter & Filter Replacements
- Fuel Injection Service & Fuel System Cleaning
- Computer Diagnostics
- Engine Performance Check
- Belt & Hose Inspection & Replacement
- Battery & Charging System Check
The Modern Tune-Up (It’s Not 1987 Anymore)
Modern engines don’t have points to set or carburetors to adjust: computers handle the timing and fuel mixture. What still wears out is the hardware the computer depends on: spark plugs erode, ignition coils weaken, filters clog, and fuel injectors gum up. When those parts drift out of spec, the computer compensates until it can’t, and that’s when you feel the rough idle and see the gas mileage slip.
That’s why our tune-ups start with computer diagnostics and an engine performance check rather than a one-size-fits-all parts list. We replace what’s actually worn, service what’s actually dirty, and follow your manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, not a menu from 1987.
Signs Your Engine Is Due for a Tune-Up
- Rough idle: The engine shakes, surges, or feels uneven at a stoplight. Worn plugs and dirty injectors are the usual suspects.
- Hesitation or stumbling on acceleration: The engine bogs down when you press the pedal, especially merging onto I-35 or MoPac.
- Hard starting: Long cranking before the engine catches, hot or cold.
- Falling fuel economy: If you’re filling up noticeably more often, worn plugs or a dirty fuel system may be burning your money.
- Misfires or a check engine light: Misfire codes are one of the most common check engine triggers. A flashing light means stop driving and get it checked immediately.
How Often Should You Get a Tune-Up?
Follow your spark plugs. Conventional copper plugs typically last around 30,000 miles; platinum and iridium plugs can go 60,000–100,000 miles. Your owner’s manual lists the interval for your engine, and Austin’s heat and stop-and-go traffic put most local vehicles on the severe service schedule, which shortens it.
The easiest approach: bundle tune-up items into your 30/60/90/120K mile services so nothing gets missed. Toyota and Honda owners can see what the big milestone looks like in our 100,000-mile service guide. If you’re not sure what’s been done on your vehicle, we can pull the maintenance schedule and tell you exactly where you stand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in a tune-up at Vick’s Expertune?
A tune-up is tailored to what your engine actually needs: spark plugs and ignition system service, engine air filter and other filter replacements, fuel injection and fuel system cleaning, computer diagnostics with an engine performance check, and an inspection of belts, hoses, and fluid levels. We follow your manufacturer’s maintenance schedule rather than a one-size-fits-all package.
How often does my car need a tune-up?
It depends on your spark plugs and your driving. Conventional copper plugs typically last around 30,000 miles, while platinum and iridium plugs can go 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Austin’s heat and stop-and-go traffic count as severe service, so check the severe schedule in your owner’s manual. It often lines up with 30/60/90K mile services.
What are the signs my car needs a tune-up?
Rough idle, hesitation or stumbling when you accelerate, hard starting, a drop in fuel economy, and misfires or a check engine light are the most common signs. If the check engine light is flashing, stop driving and have it checked immediately. A flashing light means an active misfire that can damage the catalytic converter.
How much does a tune-up cost in Austin?
It depends on your engine and what it needs. Spark plug type is the biggest factor (iridium plugs cost more than copper), along with how many cylinders you have and how accessible they are, plus whatever filters and fuel system service are due. We inspect first and give you a clear price before any work begins.
Will a tune-up help me pass the Texas emissions test?
Often, yes. Your vehicle cannot pass the emissions test with the check engine light on, and worn plugs and misfires are common triggers. A well-tuned engine burns fuel cleaner and keeps the emissions monitors happy. If your light is already on, we can diagnose the code and fix the cause before you test.