When we are in the shop at Heath’s Auto Service in Cottonwood and great question we hear from customers all the time is: “So, how much is a tune-up these days?” The answer can depend on a few factors. Read on to learn more.
What Happens at a Tune Up?
In past decades a tune-up included things like setting the timing of the ignition, checking the state of carburetors and/or trading out spark plugs. But modern cars do most of this automatically. In today’s parlance when folks ask for tune-up they are often really asking for a “general refresher” and to ensure the car is running in a smooth manner and not likely to breakdown on you on 89A!
Cost Breakdown
Here in Cottonwood, you’re usually looking at:
- Basic Tune-Up: $100–$150 (think spark plugs and a fresh air filter).
- Full Tune-Up: $250–$500 (add in filters, fluids, and a deeper inspection).
- Major Tune-Up: $500–$1,000+ (for older, high-mileage vehicles that may need ignition coils, belts, or more extensive work).
The spread really comes down to the make and model of your car and what kind of shape it’s in. A late-model Toyota Corolla will need a lot less than a high-mileage pickup that’s been working hard in the Arizona heat.
Why Get A Tune-Up?
When you go to your doctor you may get a regular wellness check. A tune up is a wellness check for your car. Prevention now can help minimize the chances of breakdowns, get optimum gas mileage and give your engine its maximum life. And if you are on a day trip to Jerome, Sedona or even the grocery store in town, you can be confident your car is fully roadworthy.
What Cars Need A Tune Up More Often?
We get asked this a lot: “Do some cars really need tune-ups more often than others?” The short answer: absolutely. Let’s dive into who’s more high-maintenance and who can cruise along a little longer.
Older Cars = More Attention
If you’re driving something built before the early 2000s, chances are it needs tune-ups more often. Back then, cars relied on carburetors, distributors, and ignition parts that simply wear out faster. These vehicles usually do best with a tune-up every 15,000–30,000 miles. Think of it like your classic car needing a little more TLC to keep up with modern traffic on 89A.
High-Mileage Vehicles
Once your odometer rolls past that magic 100,000-mile mark, parts don’t age quite gracefully. Sensors, ignition coils, and belts have all put in a lot of work, and they can start failing sooner. That’s when a little more frequent service pays off in reliability.
Hard-Working Rigs
Here in Arizona, plenty of folks use their trucks and SUVs for towing, hauling, or just battling summer heat. Those engines work harder than most, and that means they need tune-ups a little more often. Same goes if you’re driving up to Jerome or Sedona regularly, those hills aren’t easy on your motor!
Cars That Have Been “Forgotten”
Missed an oil change (or two)? Skipped a filter swap? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. But neglected maintenance catches up with a car fast. If your engine feels sluggish or rough, it might be time for a tune-up just to get things back on track.
The Easygoing Types
On the flip side, modern cars (say, 2005 and newer) with computer-controlled ignition and long-life spark plugs can usually go 60,000–100,000 miles before they need a full tune-up. Until then, just keep up with basics like oil, filters, and fluids, and you’re good to go.
Final Word from Heath’s
So who needs tune-ups more often? Older cars, high-mileage rides, workhorses, and neglected vehicles. But every car is different, and your owner’s manual will always have the final say.
At Heath’s Auto Service, we’ll check what your specific car needs, not just hand you a cookie-cutter plan. That way, you know you’re only paying for the work that matters.
Swing by our Cottonwood shop anytime and let us take a look. Whether you’re driving an old classic or a fresh-off-the-lot ride, we’ll keep it running smooth and worry-free.
Heath’s Auto Service In Cottonwood, AZ
At Heath’s Auto Service, our comprehensive range of services covers everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs. Our certified technicians are skilled in handling oil changes, brake inspections, engine diagnostics, tire rotations, and much more. Whether it’s a minor tune-up or a major overhaul, trust us to get you back on the road with confidence. Contact our team at Heath’s Auto Service today!
