Difference Between a Major & Minor Tune Up

The electrical components replaced in a minor tuneup usually consist of spark plugs only. The new spark plugs are gapped to manufacturer's specifications and installed in the vehicle. As a rudimentary inspection, the mechanic will check the timing, and make visual inspections of the air filter, cap, rotor and plug wires. Depending upon the shop practice, older vehicles might receive the installation of points and condenser as part of a minor tuneup. Some manufactures claim that their vehicles do not require a spark plug change until after 100,000 miles.

An oil change (with filter), on rare occasions, can be added to a minor tuneup, as well as a suspension lubrication. If the minor tuneup falls within a period of time that permits an oil change, filter change and lubrication, then it can be included on the service ticket. Ordinarily, vehicles receive oil changes as frequently as every 3,000 to 10,000 miles, and many vehicle owners perform their own oil and filter changes. All fluid levels, including transmission, power steering, radiator and brake fluids receive visual checks, and get a topping-off if the reservoir requires less than a quart.

A major tuneup for electrical components consists of the replacement of all spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributor cap, rotor, and points and condenser, if applicable for an older vehicle. The mechanic will check the timing and adjust it to specifications. Sometimes a voltage check is performed on the charging system, as well as a battery check for proper electrolyte level. All electrical vacuum switching valves and electrical sensors receive a visual inspection.

Fuel systems in a major tuneup include the changing of the main fuel filter, and sometimes the in-line carburetor fuel filter or screen. The mechanic will adjust a carburetor-type vehicle, setting the idle mixture screws, idle speed, fast idle or choke. Some repair facilities add a fuel system cleaning for fuel injected-engines, which most often entails an additive.

A major tune up will include an oil and filter change, as well as a complete suspension and drive line grease lubrication. A mechanic will check the CV (constant velocity) joint boots and other suspension components. The rear-end differential oil will be checked and filled to capacity, as well as any gear oil needed for a manual transmission. Another fluid might involve the windshield washer soap and water. The difference in the major versus the minor tuneup, as far as fluids, will be that the cost of fluid additions in the major tuneup will be absorbed into the cost.

Some optional services occur when the repair facility includes them in their major tuneup. Not all repair facilities include extra service procedures. Some major tuneup additions you might see will be the checking and filling of tires, a brake inspection and brake adjustment. A solid lifter valve adjustment will most likely appear on a major tuneup ticket, since it is acknowledged as a major tuneup item. There could be a shop that charges extra for a valve adjustment, depending upon the model and complexity of the job.