Does Your Car Need a Tune-up?
A couple of years have passed since you had your Subaru tuned up. But is it really running smoothly? As you drive each day, observe any changes in its performance. There may be good reasons to get a tune-up sooner than you think.
If you are used to do-it-yourself maintenance, some of today’s computerized controls may not make possible problems as obvious to you as they were in the past. That’s why preventative diagnosis is so important to keep your Subaru running trouble-free for years.
If you detect a change in your car’s performance, however, call your Subaru technician right away!
- Hard Starting. The most common car trouble, usually due to neglected maintenance. If the starter cranks the engine, the electrical system is probably okay. The problem could be as simple as a starting sensor (or the choke mechanism if applicable).
- Knocking. A noise usually heard when the engine is “under load,” like during acceleration or climbing a hill. It can be caused by inferior fuel, but is often a sign your engine needs attention. Many cars now have knock sensors built in to correct minor problems, but they can’t compensate for larger malfunctions that could result in engine damage.
- Rough Running. This can be caused by a problem in the fuel or ignition system, or by a troubled valve or piston. Tell your technician when it occurs: When idling? During acceleration? At all speeds?
- Poor Gas Mileage. Keep track of your mileage. Changes may be due to underinflated tires, engine running too cold, transmission malfunction, dragging brakes or misaligned wheels.
- Stalling. Causes can include incorrect idle speed, adjustments, malfunctioning sensor or switch, dirty fuel system parts, worn spark plugs or other engine deficiencies. Take note: Does the engine stall when hot? Cold? With air conditioning on?
- Dieseling. Also known as “after-run.” The engine keeps chugging and coughing for a few seconds after you shut off the ignition. Causes can range from inferior gasoline and high idle speed to carbon in the combustion chamber.
- Power Loss. A dirty fuel filter commonly causes power loss. Preventative maintenance can help.
Don’t Ignore Small Warning Signs! Take preventative measures before there are problems … call your Subaru technician when it’s tune-up time.
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